St Kilda

St Kilda was once a seaside resort for genteel Melburnians. In the 1960s and '70s it took on a seedier edge, but today it exudes a heady dose of cosmopolitan cool and is treasured for its independent vibe.

Melbourne's favourite beachside suburb
Join locals who walk, cycle and skate along the foreshore or sail, windsurf or kitesurf in the water. You might see little penguins at the St Kilda Breakwater. Enjoy fine dining at Donovan's and fabulous seafood at the Stokehouse, and live music at venues such as the Palais Theatre, the Esplanade Hotel and the Prince Bandroom. Get a thrill on a ride at the iconic Luna Park and visit the Sunday St Kilda Esplanade Arts and Craft Market.

The St Kilda Sea Baths feature a 25-metre indoor seawater pool and Spa Dreamtime is the only spa in Australia using purified sea water.

Fitzroy Street, Acland Street and Carlisle Street
Fitzroy and Acland streets have cool cafes, restaurants and bars, and there's a selection of independent music and book stores, as well as a growing collection of fashion boutiques. Acland Street is home to Linden Centre for Contemporary Arts located in a Victorian mansion.

Hear the languages of many European cultures on Carlisle Street. Grab a bagel at Glick's Cakes and Bagels, a coffee at Wall Two 80, or lunch at The Local. And explore and share the Jewish experience at the Jewish Museum of Australia on Alma Road.

St Kilda Festival
Every January the festival starts with Yalukit Wilam Ngargee: People Place Gathering, celebrating Indigenous culture. Live N Local then runs for seven days featuring St Kilda's artists and performers, venues, restaurants, galleries and bars.

How to get there
By tram: Number 16 from Swanston Street, Number 96 from Bourke Street, or Number 112 from Collins Street (around 25 minutes) to St Kilda; Number 3 from Swanston Street to Carlisle Street (around 35 minutes) and Alma Road (around 40 minutes).