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 Good waves |
Black Rock Road Melbourne, VIC 3227 Australia +61 3 5275 5797 (Visitor Information Centre) / +1 800 620 888 (Toll Free Australia Only) http://www.surfshop.com.au/ |
13th Beach has a range of left and right hander breaks with powerful and popular waves. As it is only a short drive from Melbourne and Victoria's second largest city, Geelong, quite a crowd gathers here in summer. One section, known as The Hole can be quite dangerous on low tide when rocks become a problem, while The Beacon has less power but is safer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: tony prysten |
 Photo: tony prysten |
 Aquatic fun for people of all ages |
139-153 Williamsons Road Doncaster Melbourne, VIC 3108 Australia +61 3 9848 1300 |
If you are looking for somewhere to escape Melbourne's searing summer heat, Aquarena is the perfect venue to cool off. With a 50-metre pool, waterslide and diving board, you can get wet any way you want. The slide is usually overrun with children, so if you want to use it, get ready to line up for a while. Admission: Adults AUD3.60; children AUD2.40. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A busy leisure and fitness centre |
Corner Epsom and Langs Roads Ascot Vale Melbourne, VIC 3032 Australia +61 3 9375 3411 |
Places where you can workout without feeling uncomfortable can be hard to find, but at the Ascot Vale Sports and Fitness Centre, you will feel right at home. Equipped with a large gymnasium (including a dizzying array of free weights), 25-metre indoor pool, spa, sauna, squash and tennis courts, basketball court and volleyball area, it lives up to its claim to meet all requirements for all people. Watch out for Australian Rules footballers over summer too, because the centre is a favoured venue for pre-season fitness training. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Place for children and your own work-out |
8 Warner Avenue Ashburton Melbourne, VIC 3147 Australia +61 3 9885 0333 |
Melbourne's eastern suburbs certainly have no shortage of places to work out. The Ashburton Pool and Recreation Centre is another name on a long list. Open 364 days a year (closed on Christmas Day) the centre features a gymnasium, two-court sports stadium and activity rooms, as well as several indoor and outdoor pools. The adjustable floor of the multi-purpose pool can be raised to 0.9 metres for children's parties. The kids will also love the aqua playground with its wheels, levers and ropes, which give them control over water flows and directions. Admission: Casual visit around AUD3.50 for adults. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Surfing heaven |
Bells Boulevarde Melbourne, VIC 3228 Australia +61 3 5275 5797 (Visitor Information Centre) / +1 800 620 888 (Toll Free Australia Only) http://www.greatoceanrd.org.au/ |
Bells Beach conjures up almost mystical images to the members of the Australian surfing scene. It is a long right-hand point break which just keeps on going. Best conditions can be found with a south-westerly swell and north west wind on mid-high tide. During Easter the normally quiet town of Torquay comes alive as the Bells Beach Easter Classic is held. This event is the world's longest running pro-surfing competition. It attracts the top surfers from around the globe and thousands of spectators. Also located in Torquay is the world's largest surfing museum, Surfworld. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Inner city fitness and leisure centre |
14 Dawson Street Brunswick Melbourne, VIC 3056 Australia +61 3 9381 1840 |
No matter what level your fitness, or desire to carve out a magnificent physique, the Brunswick City Baths has the facilities to look after your needs. There is a 50 metre outdoor pool, along with a 25 metre indoor pool. The outdoor pool's opening hours are extended in the hot Australian summers. For the weights buffs, well-equipped gymnasium and cardiovascular rooms are the place to head before relaxing in the steam room and spa. Regular swimming, aerobics and fitness classes are also held, while lessons in the pool cater for children as young as six months old. Admission: Adults AUD3; concession AUD2.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fitness needs 365 days a year |
Corner Heatherton Road & Cleeland Street Dandenong Melbourne, VIC 3175 Australia +61 3 9706 9299 http://www.dandenongoasis.com.au/ |
There is something for everyone seeking to fulfil their fitness needs 365 days a year at this outer suburban leisure centre. The main attractions are the aquatic facilities, including a 50-metre, 10 lane pool, hydrotherapy pool, toddlers pool, 25-metre fun pool with slide, spa and sauna. Those after a more intense workout can exhaust themselves in the gymnasium, equipped with a range of free weights, pin loaded machines and computerised cardiovascular equipment. Aerobics and circuit classes are also held regularly throughout the day. Once you have finished working up a sweat you can relax at the café within the complex. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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More suited to experienced surfers |
Truemans Road Melbourne, VIC 3939 Australia +61 3 5987 3078 (Mornington Peninsula Tourism) |
Gunnamatta is one of the closest surf beaches to Melbourne, but it is not for the novice surfer. It can sometimes be treacherous, so make sure you ask around in the area and check the conditions thoroughly if you are unsure about going in. While best conditions come with a southwesterly swell and northeast wind, rips here can be dangerous. A kiosk is open during school holiday periods to help restore your energy after a solid session in the water. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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All pool activities covered |
Corner High Street and Edgar Street Glen Iris Melbourne, VIC 3146 Australia +61 3 9824 8800 |
Somewhat incongruously - or perhaps perfectly congruously - named after a former Australian prime minister who died by drowning, the Harold Holt Centre offers pretty much everything for keen swimmers. There is a 50 metre outdoor pool and a 25 metre indoor pool. The indoor section also includes a spa, hydrotherapy pool and learners' pool. During the summer months, the outdoor spa is opened, along with the toddlers' and dive pools. Yoga, massage and self-defence courses are also offered. Admission: Adults AUD3.40; children and students AUD2.20; families AUD8.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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One-stop fitness shop that caters for anything |
170 Waterdale Road Ivanhoe Melbourne, VIC 3079 Australia +61 3 9499 7166 |
This is virtually a one-stop fitness shop that caters for anything. There is a 25 metre indoor pool, fully equipped gymnasium, martial arts facilities, and sauna and spa. Regular classes are held in the various activities. Admission: (Swim) Adults AUD2.70; children and students AUD1.70; families AUD6.50. If you are planning on visiting more than once, multi-visit saver cards are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Soak up the sun, hit the surf |
Carnarvon Avenue Melbourne, VIC 3228 Australia +61 3 5261 2971 (Visitor Information Centre) / +1 800 620 888 (Toll Free in Australia only) http://www.greatoceanrd.org.au/ |
Jan Juc Beach is quite easy on the eye, and is a great spot for swimming, surfing and fishing. The quality of the waves is up and down, but you can be assured of a crowd on weekends and public holidays. Prime conditions occur with a south-westerly swell and north-westerly wind. If you do not feel like surfing, sit back and soak up this scenic spot because it is a beautiful beach to enjoy in its own right. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: SHEAHAN DRIVE |
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Enjoy Albert Park Lake from the water |
Aquatic Drive South Melbourne Melbourne, VIC 3205 Australia +61 3 9690 5862 http://www.jollyrogersailing.c... |
One of the best ways to see Albert Park Lake is on the water. Choose the type of conveyance (aqua bike, rowboat or canoe) to suit your abilities and energy levels. Best still, sit back and relax in the aqua bike and let your enthusiastic youngster do the hard work! On weekends the Lake hosts water craft of all sizes from radio-controlled model boats to yachts. The Park itself has some great playgrounds and picnic areas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Not one, but two, indoor heated swimming pools |
383 High Street Kew Melbourne, VIC 3101 Australia +61 3 9853 6177 |
This recreation centre comes with not one, but two, indoor heated swimming pools. Apart from the regular lap pool, there is a children's facility with nautical mural and big water slide. You can ease sore muscles in the spa, or work out in the gym, which has an extensive range of free weights and pin machines. Televisions are also provided, to ease the monotony of some aerobic exercise on the steppers, treadmills or bikes. The centre also runs rhythm and movement workshops, tai chi and yoga classes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Swim Center and More |
1 Aquatic Drive PO Box 196 Melbourne, VIC 3032 Australia +61 3 9317 0250 http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov... |
Perfect your stroke or learn to swim in this three-pool aquatics center. The Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre offers something for swimmers of all levels, with separate pools for lap swim, leisure, and warm water swimming. Programs for first time swimmers provide helpful guidance to those who desire to get their feet wet in the area of aquatics, while the veterans of the sport can showcase their abilities in the 50 meter pool equipped with stadium seating. The Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre also has a spa, sauna, and gymnasium with state of the art workout equipment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Challenge yourself on the waters of Port Phillip Bay |
46 Balmoral Drive Parkdale Melbourne, VIC 3195 Australia +61 3 9587 8517 http://www.melbsailing.com.au |
Fancy exploring Melbourne's Port Phillip Bay by boat? Even better, how about exploring and learning to sail at the same time? Melbourne Sailing School has operated out of the St Kilda Marina for the past 20 years, offering courses seven days a week, catering for sailors of varying ability. Admission:Sessions are made up of four three-hour training runs at a cost of AUD345. Less for bookings of up to four people learning together. Navigation lessons are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Melbourne's premier fitness centre |
Aughtie Drive Albert Park Melbourne, VIC 3206 Australia +61 3 9926 1554 |
Melbourne's newest sports and aquatic centre is also its best. The MSAC houses state of the art training and recreation facilities for a range of sports from swimming and basketball to table tennis and badminton. Squash and volleyball facilities are also available for hire. It does tend to become quite busy in the pool area, mainly due to the fact there is a 75 metre competition pool, diving area, 25 metre pool, wave pool and toddlers pool, definitely something for everyone looking to cool off. Admission: Around AUD5 adults for casual use of the aquatic facilities; other prices vary widely. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Skipper your own yacht! |
Parsons Marina, 34 The Strand Williamstown Melbourne, VIC 3016 Australia +61 3 9397 7312 |
Sailing in Hobsons Bay provides one of the most beautiful and relaxing views of Melbourne possible. Providing you have adequate sailing experience, you can hire a yacht for a half-day, full-day or overnight cruise. Laze away the day with up to five friends as skipper of your own boat. All vessels are fully approved by The Marine Board of Victoria and all safety gear is supplied. You just need to bring food and refreshments and suitable shoes, hat and sunscreen. Admission is from AUD110 for a half day during the week to AUD350 for a full weekend. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Well equipped quality place to exercise |
Fraser Place Forest Hill Melbourne, VIC 3131 Australia http://www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au |
The eastern suburbs of Melbourne are well equipped to cater for people looking for quality places to exercise, and the Nunawading Fitness & Aquatic Centre is no exception. There is a 50 metre indoor heated pool, steam room and spa, along with a 20 metre outdoor learners' pool. Other facilities include a skateboard ramp and disabled hoist. A range of alternative exercise options is also available, including aqua aerobics, tai chi, triathlon club and specialised programs for those aged over 40. Admission:Prices start from AUD3.50 for adults seeking a swim only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For beginners and malibu riders |
Fishers Lane (off Blackgate Road) Melbourne, VIC 3228 Australia +61 3 5261 4219 (Visitor Information Centre) / +1 800 620 888 (Toll Free in Australia only) http://www.greatoceanrd.org.au/ |
Learning to surf can be very intimidating (especially if you are over 18 years of age!). However, Point Impossible, despite its name, is a good place to start out in the sport, mainly because of the right hand reef break that offers a gentle ride to learn the finer points. There are two breaks here--Insides, which is the learner friendly wave, and Outsides, which is a little bigger. Best conditions can be found with a south-westerly swell and north-westerly wind on a low tide. Beware of the crowds during the summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A range of waves for different abilities |
Frankston-Flinders Road Melbourne, VIC 3934 Australia +61 3 5987 3078 (Mornington Peninsula Tourism) |
Over the summer months you might have to pay AUD3 to get to the beach at Point Leo, but it is worth it to preserve the natural surrounds. Once there, you will find a decent right hand reef break that really works when the swell is big. It can also work when conditions are not entirely perfect. Those defined as perfect are a southwesterly swell with a west-north westerly wind on the incoming tide. It can be a little shallow at times while the paddle out can sometimes be difficult. Crowds are not usually a problem. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A long expanse of picturesque sand |
Back Beach Road Melbourne, VIC 3944 Australia +61 3 5987 3078 (Mornington Peninsula Tourism) |
The best waves are often found to the west of the surf lifesaving club. Beware though, the rips here are very dangerous, as former Australian Prime Minister Harold Holt found out in the 1960s, when he disappeared while taking a dip. If you can get there on mid-tide and there is a south-westerly swell with a north-easterly wind, you will find yourself in some pretty good conditions. The beach is quite long, but also very popular with holiday-makers and groups of teenagers. If the area near the surf club is too busy, a short walk will bring you to a less crowded spot. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex Hallatt |
 Photo: Jess Johannessen |
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Clean breaks |
Sandy Drive Melbourne, VIC 3941 Australia +61 3 5987 3078 (Mornington Peninsula Tourism) http://www.surfshop.com.au/ |
This Mornington Peninsula surf beach is as good as it gets! When you arrive, park your car, face the ocean and head for the right hand side of the car park. It is here that the best break can be found. It is a right hander that breaks off the sand, but you will need a south-westerly swell and north east wind on the low tide to get it cranking. One thing to bear in mind is that locals run regular competitions, so you may be forced to wait until they are finished before getting into the sections that you want. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alan Lam |
 Photo: Simon Skevington |
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Workout without attitude |
97 Alma Road St Kilda Melbourne, VIC 3182 Australia +61 3 9510 9409 |
For a workout without the attitude of many gyms, seek out the St Kilda Sports and Fitness Centre. You will not find too many Lycra-clad bodies paying more attention to the mirror than the task they have at hand. Most people come here for a solid work out and little more. There is a fully-equipped gymnasium, 25 metre pool, five tennis courts and an indoor cricket complex. Admission: Casual visit AUD7; three months membership AUD199; one year membership AUD399. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Watery fun in Geelong |
Corner Cox and Melbourne Roads Norlane Melbourne, VIC 3214 Australia +61 3 5275 1909 |
You can see the giant water slides and hear the shrieks of delight as you drive into Geelong from Melbourne along the Princes Highway. If it is a hot day and you cannot resist the temptation, Waterworld is certainly worth a visit. The two slides only operate from November to March but the centre also has an indoor pool, spa, pools suitable for toddlers and babies and an outdoor diving pool. When the kids have dried off they can play in the outdoor playground and garden. Admission: Adult swim AUD3.50; children (4-16 years) AUD2.50 swim; concession AUD2.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Home to Melbourne's biggest indoor wave pool |
111 Chesterville Road Highett Melbourne, VIC 3190 Australia +61 3 9559 7111 |
Waves Leisure Centre claims to be home to Melbourne's biggest indoor wave pool and, for that reason alone, it is worth packing the kids in the car and heading to the south-eastern suburbs for the day. The centre has a sub-tropical feel, complete with beach-style entry. There is also a state of the art gymnasium overlooking the wave pool, offering the latest in cardiovascular exercise equipment. Admission: Pool: adults AUD4; children (three to 15 years) AUD2.60; under threes free. Spa and sauna: adults AUD6.50; concession AUD4.50. Multi-visit cards are also available as a convenient way of saving money. Review © 2007, Wcities |