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Suburb of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Photo: Donaldytong, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
St Kilda is a vibrant beachside suburb of Port Phillip, in south-eastern inner Melbourne, Australia. St. Kilda is famous for its beach life and the bar and restaurant scene along Fitzroy Street. It used to be seedy and run down, but there has been a revival in the 21st century as young professionals and travellers have increased in numbers.
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An engaging museum that depicts the story of the Jewish community in Melbourne and Australia, in addition to the history of the strong local congregation within St Kilda and Caulfield. Houses a number of artefacts from around the world. Guided tours available on request.
One of Melbourne's most famous and popular beaches, it is an enjoyable place to spend an afternoon. Apart from the omnipresent swimming, popular activities include sunbathing, sailing, beach volleyball, sandcastle-building, jetskiing and kitesurfing. The beach is regularly patrolled in the Summer by surf lifesavers.
St Kilda's own botanical gardens were established in the 1800s and are an oasis of tranquility amongst the area's bustling surrounds. A short five minute walk down a side street from St Kilda's main hub, its features include a large conservatory, glasshouses, a gazebo, playground, a giant chess board and an ornamental lake. Detailed information about the plants and wildlife are available on the council's website.
Home of St Kilda's Little Penguin colony
The long, wooden pier is a popular spot for walking and fishing. Many of the fishermen along the pier will be happy to show you their catch if politely asked. At the end of the pier sits the historic kiosk, now a restaurant, which was rebuilt to the original plans in 2006 after an earlier arson attack. At the far end of the pier is the St Kilda breakwater, which is home to native water rats and the popular little penguins. The colony has existed since the 1950s, nestled amongst the rocks of the breakwater. As it's not an official tourist development, you could see the penguins for free most days at sunset in the publicly accessible area of the breakwater. Due to Corona the St. Kilda colony got closed in 2020 reopened in April 2021. It is still for free to watch the little blue penguins but guided only. A ticket is mandatory and must be booked in advance. Just three slots are available in the evening 50 people for each tour only. Respect the penguins by not touching them, feeding them or using flash photography. Alternatively, boat tours are available through Parks Victoria via their website.
Modern building that provides meeting spaces for LGBTQIA+ groups and communities as well as activism.
1920s theatre that frequently hosts live music, comedy and ballet acts.
This St Kilda icon's famous mouth entrance continues to grace Melbourne's postcards and for good reason. Built in 1912, the historic amusement park is free to enter, with a number of rides to keep the young and young at heart entertained. The fabled Scenic Railway is the oldest continually operating wooden-framed rollercoaster in the world, and gives panoramic views over the nearby bay. Other rides include all the usual favourites, such as a Ferris wheel, dodgem cars and a ghost train. A great day out for kids and families. In poor weather, some rides may close, including the historic rollercoaster.
An old Melbourne institution perched on the St Kilda foreshore, the Sea Baths building now has a variety of different functions, including a gymnasium, a spa, a sea water pool and countless restaurants, bars and cafés.
La Roche in Acland Street has $5 pizzas and $6 pastas on some nights as well as cheap drinks. Favoured by younger locals and students.
Opposite Luna Park, for the budget traveller.
Excellent quality food. Pizza and pasta. Sit inside near the fire in winter or on Acland St.
Opposite the beach and evening sunsets. An Age 2-Hat restaurant. Superb food at a pricey cost.
Almost next door to Donovans. An Age 1-Hat restaurant. Posh place for chilling and excellent food.
Superb elegant Italian food.
Many big local and international bands and DJs play here when in Melbourne.
The Espy
Open since 1878, for over 100 years the Esplanade Hotel has been one of Melbourne's and indeed Australia's premier live music venues. Since the early days of string performances in the late 1800s the Espy's hallowed stages have been graced by many of Australia's and the world's major musicians, as well as other acts such as stand-up comedians. On an average week the pub plays host to over 50 bands across 3 stages, much of it free.
Renovated in 2025. Above the Elephant and Wheelbarrow hotel. Free breakfast daily and a great place to stay. You can park in the carpark behind the hotel overnight till 8AM, but you will probably get away with parking there a bit longer.
Very clean and tidy hostel with plenty of communal space. New building (2024)
Coffee Palace
Friendly staff. Magnificent old building built in 1871. One of Melbourne's largest and most popular backpackers with 4-,6-, 8-, and 10-bed dorms, some en suite. Free pancake breakfast, large kitchen/communal lounge area and social events every night.
This property consists of self-contained units each owned by individual investors. They are very neat and tidy if a little unexciting. No street noise. Reasonable value if you have a car as you can park for free in the Aldi car park which is down stairs. Book through internet booking sites
The high-end of St Kilda's hotels offers a heated pool, gym, 24-hour room service and rooms with a breathtaking view over the water. A number of different room configurations available, from a queen double to a high-class penthouse with one or two bedrooms.
By tram
The best way to reach St Kilda from the city centre is by tram. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes.
By train
St Kilda does not have a railway station: the former railway has been converted to the Route 96 light rail tram. St Kilda East is served by Balaclava Station on the Sandringham Line.
By bus
Buses are useful for accessing the more residential areas of St Kilda and its surrounds that lack tram services.
By bike
Melbourne's Blue Bike docked bike scheme extends down as far as St Kilda - and the ride between here and the city centre is very pleasant cycling.
By car
From the City Centre, St Kilda is best reached via St Kilda Road, the continuation of Swanston Street in the CBD. At St Kilda Junction, follow the signage for Fitzroy St.
By Ferry
St Kilda Ferries operates services to and from Williamstown Pier 6 times a day on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
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