St Kilda

The beachside suburb of St Kilda has long been Melbourne's favourite playground, from its days as a genteel seaside resort to the storied hedonism of the 1960s and 1970s and the fiercely independent neighbourhood oozing with cosmopolitan cool it is today. Melburnians and visitors from around the world flock to St Kilda's foreshore to walk, cycle and skate, or to take advantage of a windy day and dive into Port Phillip Bay to sail, windsurf or kitesurf. More refined aquatic activity can be had in the heated seawater pools at the historic St Kilda Sea Baths. Generations of kids and adults alike have been thrilled by the rides and amusements at Luna Park. The Scenic Railway rollercoaster has some of the best views of the Bay. Little penguins can be spotted from the breakwater at the end of the iconic St Kilda Pier. Away from the foreshore, much of St Kilda's activity is concentrated in the cafes, restaurants and bars of Fitzroy and Acland streets. By day the streets are lined with people meeting over coffee; at night they're buzzing with clubbers and night owls making the most of the pubs, bars and clubs often featuring international bands or DJs. St Kilda has long been treasured for its independent vibe. Don't miss the independent music and book stores, as well as second-hand furniture and an expanding collection of fashion boutiques, particularly clustered around Barkly and Carlisle streets. Celebrate St Kilda at February's St Kilda Festival, a week of music and comedy performances culminating in Festival Sunday. The twilight market runs on Thursday evenings during summer, and the St Kilda Film Festival screens in May. St Kilda is 7.5 kilometres from the CBD. Catch tram number 16 from Swanston Street, number 96 from Bourke Street, or number 112 from Collins Street.