Princes Pier

Princes Pier stretches out into Port Phillip Bay at Port Melbourne, a beautifully restored historic pier with genuine heritage significance. Once a major arrival point for migrants and troops, its weathered timber pylons and restored promenade now make it a much-loved spot for a waterside stroll, with lovely views across the bay and back to the city.

The appeal is that combination of history, atmosphere and scenery: walking out along the pier, taking in the dramatic rows of old pylons, and enjoying the open water and the sunset, which is especially spectacular here. It's a peaceful, photogenic spot that's become a favourite for walkers, photographers and anyone after a quiet moment by the bay.

With a 4.6 rating from more than 2,400 reviews, it's a well-loved landmark. The pier is free and open, but it's exposed to the weather and gets busy at sunset and on warm weekends, so it's worth checking conditions before you go — and taking a jacket, as it can be breezy out over the water, and timing your visit for sunset to see the pier at its most atmospheric.