Melbourne may not be known for its beaches in the same way other capital cities are, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t hidden gems around the city where residents can enjoy some quality surf and sun.
From the south to the west we’ve got you covered for the best spots to hit the beach around Melbourne.
30 minutes
Paid parking in parking lot and paid street parking available – check local signs.
Restricted access for some parts of the year – check local signs.
More: Here are Melbourne’s best dog beaches
A local kiosk is between the main carpark and the beach – as well as a plethora of dining options in the main strip just a 10 minute walk away.
As Melbourne’s first seaport, Williamstown‘s history hits you as soon as you wind your way through its streets towards the beach.
Locals and visitors alike flock here on a hot day to enjoy the water and then hit the high street to wander the shops and grab coffee.
Williamstown beach is a favourite local swimming spot for Melburnians. Picture: realestatate.com.au
1 hour 35 minutes
Plenty of parking next to the beach.
Restricted to evenings and early mornings for part of the year – check local signs.
Cafes and restaurants are a short 7-minute drive away.
Some of the world’s best surfers congregate here annually for the Rip Curl Easter Pro so be sure to check out all the tubular action.
Be sure to stop in surf suburb Torquay on your way through, for some great shopping and a burgeoning cafe scene.
Bells Beach is a favourite spot for some of the world’s top surfers. Picture: Getty
1 hour 35 minutes
Free parking available just off Thirteenth Beach Road.
Yes, check local signs.
Plenty of local shops and cafes in Barwon Heads.
Sitting almost at the mouth of Melbourne’s Port Philip Bay, Barwon Heads‘ 13th Beach is a picturesque spot with some great surf.
On any given weekend you’ll see local families here swimming, playing in the sand and flying the odd kite.
Thirteenth Beach is a long stretch of sand near Barwon Heads. Picture: Google Earth
30 minutes
Parking is often busy and not free, get in early and check local signs.
Have you ever wondered what’s inside the famous beach boxes? Meet the owners and step inside the iconic Brighton Beach Boxes here.
Pups are allowed at the nearby Brighton Dog Beach.
A plethora of eating options in nearby Brighton and Sandringham.
From its world-famous Bathing Boxes to its relaxed waves and family-friendly vibe, Brighton Beach is a must-visit on the list of beaches around Melbourne.
The view above Brighton Beach. Picture: Getty
1 hour 20 minutes
Plenty of local street parking.
Dogs need to be on leash at all times.
Geelong‘s waterfront precinct has come a long way from its industrial past.
It’s now a lovely spot to have a wander and take in the sights, old and new.
With a boardwalk that’s reminiscent of another time you’ll also get to take in the Baywalk Ballards, a historic carousel with lovely landscaped gardens and some great places to grab a snack as you enjoy some quality people-watching.
Geelong’s waterfront is a favourite for locals. Picture: Getty
1 hour 40 minutes
Street parking – check local signage.
Dogs need to be kept on a leash for most of the day in the main swimming section of Clifton Springs but there are nearby doggie beaches either side.
There are plenty of local eating spots around Jetty Road in Clifton Springs.
Looking for more hidden beach destinations? Read more here.
Clifton Spring is a favourite among residents on the Bellarine Peninsula near Geelong.
The sandy stretch of water along Port Philip Bay is named after the mineral springs found in the area around 1870.
Clifton Springs coastline consists of a mixture of steep cliffs, sandy beaches and rocky outcrops and attracts many water sport aficionados in the warmer months.
The famous Clifton Springs Jetty is a popular spot for locals to gather in the warmer months. Picture: Michaelbeckham / Creative Commons
1 hour
Plenty of paid local parking.
Dogs must be on leash during the day.
The James Squire pub is a few minutes walk away from the pier where you can take the family for a meal and watch the sunset over the water.
Frankston’s beach is a great place for people watching as swimmers come to enjoy the family friendly waters in the warmer months. Picture: NouvelleAuteur / Creative Commons
40 minutes
Limited street parking available – check local signs.
Dogs must be on leash during the day.
Great ice cream and fish and chips from the local kiosk, which is extremely busy in the warmer months.
Locals love to take a dip at Half Moon Bay Beach. Picture: Dpoirier / Creative Commons
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