12 Best Beaches in Melbourne
Melbourne's beaches offer something for everyone, from bustling foreshore strips to quieter coastal stretches. Whether you're after a swim, a walk, or just a place to watch the bay, here are the beaches worth visiting across the city.
1Beaches Melbourne CBD1. Middle Park Beach
A solid choice if you're after a well-established beach close to the city, with good access to facilities and a popular local crowd.
View venue4.5(905)· Google64Spot ScoreWorth a Look
2Beaches Melbourne CBD2. Elwood Beach
Equally popular to Middle Park, Elwood offers a similar experience with plenty of nearby cafes and shops along the foreshore.
View venue4.5(906)· Google64Spot ScoreWorth a Look
6Beaches Melbourne CBD6. Dendy Street Beach
A smaller, more sheltered option within easy reach of the city if you want fewer crowds than the main beaches.
View venue4.4(258)· Google59Spot ScoreWorth a Look
7Beaches Melbourne CBD7. Port Melbourne Beach
A working waterfront beach that's good for those who prefer industrial charm and a more local, less touristy vibe.
View venue4.5(1,359)· Google59Spot ScoreWorth a Look
8Beaches Melbourne CBD8. Altona Beach
A west-side option useful if you're exploring the outer suburbs and want beach access without heading to the inner beaches.
View venue4.4(1,808)· Google59Spot ScoreWorth a Look
9Beaches Melbourne CBD9. Dog Beach
The go-to spot if you're bringing a dog – it's specifically set up for swimming with your pet.
View venue4.5(389)· Google56Spot ScoreWorth a Look
10Beaches Collingwood10. Collingwood Beach
A local neighbourhood beach in Collingwood, worth visiting if you're exploring the inner north and want waterfront access.
View venue4.6(103)· Google53Spot ScoreWorth a Look
11Beaches Carlton11. Carlton Beach
A smaller beach in Carlton, useful as a quick waterfront stop if you're in the area, though quieter than the main beaches.
View venue4.8(46)· Google51Spot ScoreWorth a Look
12Beaches Richmond12. Sandridge Beach
A Richmond-side option for accessing the water without venturing to the more famous strips.
View venue4.3(117)· Google50Spot ScoreWorth a Look
At a glance
| Venue | Spot Score | Price | Suburb | Top feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Middle Park Beach | 64/100 | 4.5(905) | — | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Elwood Beach | 64/100 | 4.5(906) | — | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Brighton beach | 60/100 | 4.5(2,477) | — | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Williamstown beach | 60/100 | 4.6(986) | — | Melbourne CBD | — |
| St Kilda beach | 60/100 | 4.5(3,123) | — | South Yarra | — |
| Dendy Street Beach | 59/100 | 4.4(258) | — | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Port Melbourne Beach | 59/100 | 4.5(1,359) | — | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Altona Beach | 59/100 | 4.4(1,808) | — | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Dog Beach | 56/100 | 4.5(389) | — | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Collingwood Beach | 53/100 | 4.6(103) | — | Collingwood | — |
| Carlton Beach | 51/100 | 4.8(46) | — | Carlton | — |
| Sandridge Beach | 50/100 | 4.3(117) | — | Richmond | — |
Frequently asked questions
Which Melbourne beach is best for swimming?+
Middle Park and Elwood beaches are both well-established and popular for swimming. If you prefer quieter water, Williamstown or Dendy Street Beach offer calmer conditions.
Can I bring my dog to Melbourne beaches?+
Dog Beach is specifically designated for dogs and owners. For other beaches, check local council rules as they vary by location and season.
Are there cafes and facilities at these beaches?+
The main beaches like St Kilda, Middle Park, and Elwood have good cafe and facility access. Smaller and outer beaches like Carlton or Sandridge may have fewer options nearby.
Which beach is closest to the CBD?+
Several beaches including Middle Park, Elwood, and Brighton are all close to the Melbourne CBD, typically 10–20 minutes by tram or car.
What makes Brighton Beach special?+
Brighton Beach is famous for its coloured beach boxes, which are iconic to the area and make it visually distinctive.
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