Attractions in St Kilda (Melbourne)

Luna Park

Opened in 1912, Luna Park is the most identifiable landmark of St. Kilda with generations of children walking wide eyed through the broad clown's mouth entrance. Although threatened by developers on numerous occasions, it has miraculously remained intact. The charm of Luna Park is its old world character. No comparison can be made to the special effects laden amusement parks around the world. Luna Park relies on spectacular views from the Scenic Railway, the glamor of its historic carousel, and the fact that children still love eating fairy floss! Hours vary seasonally, do check website for further details.

Port Melbourne Beach

Located at the end of the long strip of beaches that runs parallel with Beaconsfield Parade from St. Kilda, through Middle Park and Albert Park, Port Melbourne has traditionally been considered the poor cousin. Its location close to the landing docks and industrial sites of the area was once a liability, but as these have been converted into condominiums and increasingly desirable residential properties, it is becoming an advantage. The beach is narrow and the water shallow, but it is lined with pedestrian and bike paths and visitors can stroll along the historic Station Pier, once the arrival point for boatloads of immigrants and now the departure point for the Tasmanian ferry service. There is also a kiosk open year round, the Port Melbourne Yacht Club and a small boats jetty for anglers and boating enthusiasts.

Rippon Lea Estate

Melbourne may not be home to any royal palaces, but this lavish mansion is not far off. Built in 1868 in the Romanesque style, Rippon Lea was home to a succession of wealthy owners before being acquired by the National Trust and opened to the public. The house itself is located in the centre of a vast pleasure dome of lakes, bridges, orchards, ferneries and flower gardens. Tours are available, specialising either in the gardens or the house's restored interior. Hours of operation vary seasonally, check the website for details.

St. Kilda Beach

With its markets, funfairs and nightclubs, St. Kilda's actual beach is often overlooked. Just 20 minutes from the city by tram, it runs between the St. Kilda marina and the Royal Melbourne Yacht Club and is backed by parks and bike paths. It is a popular spot for a stroll, rollerblade or a sun-bake on a warm weekend, or to people watch, but swimming is somewhat less popular (not surprising so close to the city!) However, there is plenty more to keep you occupied. The historic St. Kilda pier is a favorite spot for a romantic evening stroll and the adjacent breakwater contains a small but growing colony of fairy penguins. And of course, the lively street life of Acland and Fitzroy Streets is just around the corner. The sand is raked daily by especially imported cleaning machines, and dogs are banned from the beach from Nov 1 to Apr 30, except for a small section north of the yacht club, where they are permitted year round.

St Kilda

In recent years, St Kilda has undergone a revamp. The trendies have moved in and the more unbecoming street life has moved out. St Kilda is Brunswick Street by the water; a tight-knit community of actors and other artistic types. In St Kilda, the breeze is gentle and the pace of life one or two steps slower. It is a pleasure to meander through its shops, a collection of hip clothing, gift and homeware stores and even a visit to its popular Esplanade Market; one of the best places for one-off craft creations. If you cannot be bothered shopping, throw back a beer or two. When you think of St Kilda, you think of beach, not the most beautiful of beaches in Australia but Melbourne's most famous. Locals, backpackers and transients call St Kilda Beach their ‘home' and, once you discover its sunny appeal, so will you.