Our apologies: your internet browser is not yet fully supported by our Schmap online guides. If you continue, pages in this guide may display or function incorrectly.

Would you like to continue anyway?continue anyway

Schmap.com supports the following browsers:

PC

MAC Melbourne - Lakes, Rivers & Beaches
Download the Schmap Melbourne Guide
With Schmap 2.0 you can:
Melbourne Home
Schmap Melbourne guide and map



13th Beach


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
13th Beach photo by tony prysten
Photo: tony prysten
13th Beach photo by tony prysten
Photo: tony prysten
 

 
Albert Park Beach


Popular inner city Melbourne beach
Beaconsfield Parade
Albert Park
Melbourne, VIC 3206
Australia
+51 3 9658 9658 (Melbourne Visitor Centre)
Albert Park is one of the most popular inner city beaches for swimming and sunbathing. Just 20 minutes by public transport from the city center, it is a narrow strip of sand easing gently into Port Phillip Bay's shallow and calm waters. Palm flanked Beaconsfield Parade frames the beach, which is lined with pedestrian and bike paths, popular with strollers and rollerbladers. There are kiosks, changing rooms and playground facilities that get very busy indeed on warm weekends.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Albert Park Beach photo by Ke Wang
Photo: Ke Wang
Albert Park Beach photo by presentedindoublevis
Photo: presentedindoublevis
Albert Park Beach photo by Justin Lee Stewart
Photo: Justin Lee Stewart
Albert Park Beach photo by drmark05
Photo: drmark05
Albert Park Beach photo by Jari Kurittu
Photo: Jari Kurittu
Albert Park Beach photo by James Caulfield
Photo: James Caulfield
Albert Park Beach photo by Manjuka Soysa
Photo: Manjuka Soysa
Albert Park Beach photo by Manjuka Soysa
Photo: Manjuka Soysa
Albert Park Beach photo by Paul Hocksenar
Photo: Paul Hocksenar
Albert Park Beach photo by Katrina Saunders
Photo: Katrina Saunders
Albert Park Beach photo by Chris Tse
Photo: Chris Tse
Albert Park Beach photo by Øyvind Tenden Øverbø
Photo: Øyvind Tenden Øverbø
Albert Park Beach photo by Oyvind Skilbrei
Photo: Oyvind Skilbrei
Albert Park Beach photo by Darren Stones
Photo: Darren Stones
Albert Park Beach photo by Absolute Ken
Photo: Absolute Ken
Albert Park Beach photo by Roberto Arias
Photo: Roberto Arias
Albert Park Beach photo by alanv
Photo: alanv
Albert Park Beach photo by Wilson Lim
Photo: Wilson Lim
Albert Park Beach photo by cognito
Photo: cognito
Albert Park Beach photo by Lela L.
Photo: Lela L.
Albert Park Beach photo by Maria Mitropoulos
Photo: Maria Mitropoulos
Albert Park Beach photo by Roger T :)
Photo: Roger T :)
Albert Park Beach photo by Adrian Boey
Photo: Adrian Boey
Albert Park Beach photo by Len Gibson
Photo: Len Gibson
Albert Park Beach photo by Chen Qiang
Photo: Chen Qiang
Albert Park Beach photo by Christopher Dore
Photo: Christopher Dore
 

 
Albert Park Lake


An oasis in the city center
Lakeside Drive
Melbourne, VIC 3206
Australia
http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au
Located just three kilometres from the city center, Albert Park Lake is a 45 hectare expanse of water, set in parkland. Originally a swampy lagoon, drainage works last century deepened and reshaped the lake, making it into a popular venue for boating. The lake boasts a variety of bird life including Australia's famous black swans, as well as an impressive fountain in the center. It is ringed by a five kilometer running track and surrounded by 11 separate picnic areas featuring shelter sheds, seating and barbeques, as well as playgrounds and a lookout tower. The surrounding parkland is also home to a par 72 golf course and driving range, while in March Albert Park is the venue of the Qantas Australian Formula One Grand Prix. There is also a brand new aquatic centre, ovals and other sporting facilities.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Albert Park Lake photo by Anthony Malloy
Photo: Anthony Malloy
Albert Park Lake photo by Pete Johns
Photo: Pete Johns
Albert Park Lake photo by Jamie Yeo
Photo: Jamie Yeo
Albert Park Lake photo by Dean Melissinos
Photo: Dean Melissinos
Albert Park Lake photo by John Shadbolt
Photo: John Shadbolt
Albert Park Lake photo by Cave Couple
Photo: Cave Couple
Albert Park Lake photo by Åsmund Heimark
Photo: Åsmund Heimark
Albert Park Lake photo by Mark Bolitho
Photo: Mark Bolitho
 

 
Alexandra Gardens


A park by the Yarra River
Off St. Kilda Road
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Australia
Providing a splash of green between busy Alexandra Avenue and the Yarra River, the Alexandra Gardens are a focal point for Melbourne's Moomba Waterfest and are a perfect vantage spot for the water sports, which are run during the festival. Elegant boat sheds dot the river bank, still routinely used by university rowing clubs. A walk along Capital City Trail leads to Southbank Promenade and the path is a popular spot for cyclists, joggers and inline skaters. During warmer months, Melbournians take advantage of the many barbecues dotting the riverbank.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Alexandra Gardens photo by Catherine O'Neil
Photo: Catherine O'Neil
Alexandra Gardens photo by James Burke
Photo: James Burke
Alexandra Gardens photo by Richard Rutter
Photo: Richard Rutter
 

 
Around the Bay


Circumnavigate the bay in a day
Port Phillip Bay
Melbourne, VIC 3182
Australia
+61 (0)3 132 842 (Tourist Information)
http://www.visitvictoria.com
Experience the beauty of Victoria's Port Phillip Bay with a day trip from the city. First head west to the charming port suburb of Williamstown, then follow the Princes Freeway to Geelong for a bite at the delightful waterfront area. The beautiful Bellarine Peninsula beckons you next with its first-class wineries and coastal panoramas. Then take the ferry from historic Queenscliff across the bay to chic Portsea on the Mornington Peninsula. The coast road continues through other seaside villages such as Sorrento, Rosebud and Mornington, back through Melbourne's beachside suburbs before ending in the heart of the city. Ferry times: Departs every two hours from Queenscliff between 7a-5p daily.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Around the Bay photo by joeyjo
Photo: joeyjo
Around the Bay photo by John Power
Photo: John Power
 

 
Bayside Ride Bike Path


Ride by the seaside
Port Phillip Bay
Port Melbourne
Melbourne, VIC 3016
Australia
+61 3 8636 8888 (Bicycle Victoria Office)
http://www.bayside.vic.gov.au/...
Linking Williamstown with the south-eastern bayside suburbs, this 69 kilometre path offers a rewarding challenge to both the serious cyclist and the weekend pedaller. From historic Williamstown take the punt across the Yarra River beneath the Westgate Bridge and then follow the path which runs along the beach right around to Mordialloc. Here it goes inland through parkland and the canals of Patterson Lakes to finish at Kananook train station. Highlights along the way include Westgate Park, Station Pier and St Kilda. The surface is mainly asphalt. The main hazards are dogs, roller-bladers and walkers especially in the popular section around St Kilda and Elwood.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Bells Beach


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
Bells Beach photo by xiaow3i :)
Photo: xiaow3i :)
Bells Beach photo by Romain Lavalaye
Photo: Romain Lavalaye
Bells Beach photo by awstarlet
Photo: awstarlet
Bells Beach photo by Kolja Koracak
Photo: Kolja Koracak
Bells Beach photo by ryan bailey
Photo: ryan bailey
Bells Beach photo by Nutley to Nagpur: cricket blog
Photo: Nutley to Nagpur: cricket blog
Bells Beach photo by Stephanie
Photo: Stephanie
Bells Beach photo by Jaye Loring
Photo: Jaye Loring
Bells Beach photo by Joseph Ross
Photo: Joseph Ross
Bells Beach photo by Yuri Awanohara
Photo: Yuri Awanohara
Bells Beach photo by Photoworx.com.au
Photo: Photoworx.com.au
Bells Beach photo by Photoworx.com.au
Photo: Photoworx.com.au
Bells Beach photo by Craig Pastro
Photo: Craig Pastro
Bells Beach photo by A Bronx Tale
Photo: A Bronx Tale
Bells Beach photo by Linda Nyberg
Photo: Linda Nyberg
Bells Beach photo by zogen
Photo: zogen
Bells Beach photo by Ana Da Costa
Photo: Ana Da Costa
Bells Beach photo by Robert Shedd
Photo: Robert Shedd
Bells Beach photo by Jeff Borenstein
Photo: Jeff Borenstein
Bells Beach photo by Julian Ogden
Photo: Julian Ogden
Bells Beach photo by Wen-Ni Chow
Photo: Wen-Ni Chow
Bells Beach photo by Inge Janssens
Photo: Inge Janssens
Bells Beach photo by luvjnx
Photo: luvjnx
Bells Beach photo by Sharon P. Pitt
Photo: Sharon P. Pitt
Bells Beach photo by Nelson e Thais Oz
Photo: Nelson e Thais Oz
Bells Beach photo by Jake Tracey
Photo: Jake Tracey
Bells Beach photo by Arielle H. Goldstein
Photo: Arielle H. Goldstein
Bells Beach photo by Kylie Malone
Photo: Kylie Malone
Bells Beach photo by Tyler Kieft
Photo: Tyler Kieft
Bells Beach photo by Meghan Arbour
Photo: Meghan Arbour
Bells Beach photo by Ori Tamuz
Photo: Ori Tamuz
Bells Beach photo by daisypop
Photo: daisypop
 

 
Brighton Beach


Picturesque, charming beach
The Esplanade
Middle Brighton
Melbourne, VIC 3186
Australia
+61 3 9658 9658 (Melbourne Visitor Centre)
Brighton Beach is famous for one of Melbourne's most picturesque sights, the colourful row of "bathing boxes" that runs along its shore. These vividly decorated little sheds are basically privately owned changing rooms, but can sell for as much as a house in some parts of the city! It is obvious, however, why those with the spare cash value this beach so highly. The sand is clean, the water blue and shallow and there is an appealing view of the city skyline. The beach is patrolled by surf lifesavers. Facilities include toilets, showers and all day parking.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Brighton Beach photo by Katrina Saunders
Photo: Katrina Saunders
Brighton Beach photo by Matt Adams
Photo: Matt Adams
Brighton Beach photo by polly.etienne
Photo: polly.etienne
Brighton Beach photo by Michelle Struss
Photo: Michelle Struss
Brighton Beach photo by Steven Findlay
Photo: Steven Findlay
Brighton Beach photo by Jim Warden
Photo: Jim Warden
Brighton Beach photo by kerstin c
Photo: kerstin c
Brighton Beach photo by Chris Dean
Photo: Chris Dean
Brighton Beach photo by punzy
Photo: punzy
Brighton Beach photo by dave and charlotte
Photo: dave and charlotte
Brighton Beach photo by francesca castelli
Photo: francesca castelli
Brighton Beach photo by Alex Irving
Photo: Alex Irving
Brighton Beach photo by Meagan Molloy
Photo: Meagan Molloy
Brighton Beach photo by Aaron Smith
Photo: Aaron Smith
Brighton Beach photo by ray31581
Photo: ray31581
Brighton Beach photo by charchar117
Photo: charchar117
Brighton Beach photo by eggfoodan
Photo: eggfoodan
Brighton Beach photo by Aaron Reiff-Zall
Photo: Aaron Reiff-Zall
Brighton Beach photo by Pete Trainor
Photo: Pete Trainor
Brighton Beach photo by Regent927
Photo: Regent927
Brighton Beach photo by Mat
Photo: Mat
Brighton Beach photo by Duc Vu Anh
Photo: Duc Vu Anh
Brighton Beach photo by howell.diane
Photo: howell.diane
Brighton Beach photo by sandrosamigos
Photo: sandrosamigos
Brighton Beach photo by Kristeen Lockett
Photo: Kristeen Lockett
Brighton Beach photo by Spinal_Matt
Photo: Spinal_Matt
Brighton Beach photo by alex rosen
Photo: alex rosen
Brighton Beach photo by hazel mair
Photo: hazel mair
Brighton Beach photo by Joe Wong
Photo: Joe Wong
Brighton Beach photo by bellnad
Photo: bellnad
Brighton Beach photo by Amy Cassim
Photo: Amy Cassim
Brighton Beach photo by J Tan
Photo: J Tan
Brighton Beach photo by CMR Lee
Photo: CMR Lee
Brighton Beach photo by Dozman
Photo: Dozman
Brighton Beach photo by Martha Edwards
Photo: Martha Edwards
Brighton Beach photo by Carl Blake
Photo: Carl Blake
Brighton Beach photo by Nicolo' Tiozzo
Photo: Nicolo' Tiozzo
 

 
Elwood Beach


Family beach
Ormond Esplanade
Elwood
Melbourne, VIC 3184
Australia
+61 3 9658 9658 (Melbourne Visitor Centre)
Backed by the leafy Elwood Park and Point Ormond Reserve, rather than the screeching traffic of Beaconsfield Parade that lines the beaches further to the North, Elwood is a popular beach for families to visit. The facilities in place include barbeque areas and playgrounds on the lawns, tennis courts, an angling club, lifesaving and boating clubs, and a no boating zone for swimmers. At the southern end of the beach an area has been set aside especially for water skiers.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Elwood Beach photo by Mondoni Chung
Photo: Mondoni Chung
Elwood Beach photo by Amy Calton
Photo: Amy Calton
Elwood Beach photo by Zoom Zoom
Photo: Zoom Zoom
Elwood Beach photo by Andy Bulka
Photo: Andy Bulka
Elwood Beach photo by Amy Calton
Photo: Amy Calton
Elwood Beach photo by jess kilby
Photo: jess kilby
 

 
Emerald Lake Park


A jewel in the hills
Emerald Lake Road
Emerald
Melbourne, VIC 3782
Australia
+61 3 5968 4667
A popular stop on the Puffing Billy Railway line or a destination in itself, Emerald Lake Park is a very pleasant day trip from Melbourne. There is plenty for children to do to burn off energy after the drive or train trip. Water activities include paddleboat rides, swimming in the children's pool (gated for safety) and a water slide in the warmer months. If you do not bring your own picnic or barbecue food you can get hot food or snacks from the tea rooms and kiosk. Admission: AUD4 per car per day; AUD1 per hour.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Emerald Lake Park photo by Nathan Jones
Photo: Nathan Jones
Emerald Lake Park photo by Philip Brookes
Photo: Philip Brookes
 

 
Green Point - Brighton Beach


Wild windsurfing beach
The Esplanade
Brighton
Melbourne, VIC 3188
Australia
+61 3 9658 9658 (Melbourne Visitor Centre)
This stretch of sand is a continuation of Brighton Beach to the south, but it has a very different character. The choppy, wind-exposed water is more suited to windsurfing than swimming and instead of the quaint bathing boxes on the main beach, the sand here is backed by wild scrub in the Jim Willis Reserve. The beach features a lawn and picnic area, with tables and barbeques, under the Norfolk pine trees. There is an ample parking.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Green Point - Brighton Beach photo by Boyd_
Photo: Boyd_
Green Point - Brighton Beach photo by Frank Maurer
Photo: Frank Maurer
Green Point - Brighton Beach photo by William Luu
Photo: William Luu
Green Point - Brighton Beach photo by Quan Nguyen
Photo: Quan Nguyen
Green Point - Brighton Beach photo by Kit
Photo: Kit
Green Point - Brighton Beach photo by Michael Verhoef
Photo: Michael Verhoef
Green Point - Brighton Beach photo by Patrick Chng
Photo: Patrick Chng
 

 
Gunnamatta Surf Beach


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
Gunnamatta Surf Beach photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Half Moon Bay Beach


Scenic Melbourne Beach
Beach Road
Black Rock
Melbourne, VIC 3193
Australia
+61 3 9658 9658 (Melbourne Visitor Centre)
Backed by craggy cliffs, this secluded little beach is a great place to spend your day. Access is via a path leading down from the clifftop parking lot. There is a kiosk and toilet facilities as well as a pier that has becoming quite a popular fishing spot. The water is shallow and the sand is cleaner than at many beaches. Dogs are prohibited during certain hours.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Half Moon Bay Beach photo by Adrian Tritschler
Photo: Adrian Tritschler
Half Moon Bay Beach photo by Michael Wilson
Photo: Michael Wilson
Half Moon Bay Beach photo by Dale Taylor
Photo: Dale Taylor
Half Moon Bay Beach photo by Liz Wearne
Photo: Liz Wearne
Half Moon Bay Beach photo by Margarita Haruspex
Photo: Margarita Haruspex
Half Moon Bay Beach photo by Rob Moss
Photo: Rob Moss
Half Moon Bay Beach photo by Allison C. Wolfe
Photo: Allison C. Wolfe
Half Moon Bay Beach photo by Allison C. Wolfe
Photo: Allison C. Wolfe
Half Moon Bay Beach photo by Kylie Hansen
Photo: Kylie Hansen
Half Moon Bay Beach photo by Silvester, KIM
Photo: Silvester, KIM
 

 
Jan Juc Beach


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
Jan Juc Beach photo by SHEAHAN DRIVE
Photo: SHEAHAN DRIVE
 

 
Jolly Roger Boat Hire at Albert Park Lake


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
 

 
Maribyrnong River Bike Path


Bushland a stone's throw from the city
Brimbank Park
Keilor
Melbourne, VIC 3033
Australia
+61 3 9688 0348
http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov...
Starting at the beautiful Brimbank Park bushland reserve, this bike path follows Melbourne's lesser known river, the Maribyrnong, 22 kilometres from the outer north-western suburbs into the city. Rated as suitable for beginners to intermediate level, the surface is mainly quartz, gravel and asphalt, with some unsurfaced spots. There are also a couple of fences, stairs and sand patches to negotiate. Watch out for snakes during summer. Highlights on the way include Flemington Racecourse and great city views.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Maribyrnong River Bike Path photo by Janet Skipper
Photo: Janet Skipper
Maribyrnong River Bike Path photo by Myles Tooher
Photo: Myles Tooher
 

 
Melbourne River Cruises


See Melbourne from the water
Office: Vault 11 Banana Alley,
Flinders Street
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Australia
+61 3 8610 2600
http://www.melbcruises.com.au/
Melbourne's once much-maligned Yarra River has been undergoing a facelift in recent years and is now an excellent way to get a different perspective on the city. Melbourne River Cruises is one of the tour operators now making the most of the waterway. Its fleet of six sleek vessels are specially designed for sightseeing with large windows and sundecks. They are also low enough to pass under the many bridges that straddle the Yarra. The captain provides a commentary on the sights you pass by and there are refreshments available on board. There are three cruises to choose from.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Melbourne River Cruises photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Middle Park Beach


Well equipped city beach
Beaconsfield Parade
Middle Park
Melbourne, VIC 3206
Australia
+61 3 9658 9658 (Melbourne Visitor Centre)
Really just a continuation of Albert Park Beach, which it seamlessly blends in to, Middle Park is perhaps the best equipped stretch of sand for bathers in the inner city. The Middle Park Surf Life-saving Club, at the end of Nimmo Street, offers toilets, changing rooms, showers and a kiosk, while the Surf Life Saving Association of Victoria is also based here. Between Fraser and Langridge Streets is an approved area for windsurfers and boaters only. These activities are banned within 200 meters of shore along other parts of the beach. There is also a section of foreshore at the St. Kilda end where dogs are allowed year round. In other areas of the city of Port Phillip (which encompasses all the main inner city beaches) dogs are banned from Nov to Apr and on the spot penalty apply.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Middle Park Beach photo by emmaustin
Photo: emmaustin
 

 
Mornington Peninsula


Melbourne's summer playground
Point Nepean Road, Dromana
P O Box 192
Melbourne, VIC 3936
Australia
+61 3 59873078 / +1 800 804 009 (Toll Free)
http://www.visitmorningtonpeni...
Named after Mornington in Ireland, this Peninsula is Melbourne's summer playground, being just over an hour's drive from the city suburbs. The greatest draw is the cluster of Peninsula's beaches-both safe family beaches (the front beaches on Port Phillip Bay) and wilder rugged beaches (the back beaches on the ocean side). The limestone lighthouse, rugged cliffs, secluded beaches and tea tree forests of the Mornington Peninsula National Park also tempt many people. Inland are the rural towns of Red Hill, Balnarring and Langwarrin, which herald quiet dairy farms and bustling country markets. The naval establishment at HMAS Cerberus is located at another sleepy hollow, Hastings. There are plenty of accommodation options in the seaside resort towns of Frankston, Mornington, Sorrento, Portsea, Rosebud and Dromana for those wanting more than a day trip.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mornington Peninsula photo by Palmou
Photo: Palmou
Mornington Peninsula photo by Glenn Patton
Photo: Glenn Patton
Mornington Peninsula photo by Kenny McColl
Photo: Kenny McColl
Mornington Peninsula photo by ippei + janine
Photo: ippei + janine
Mornington Peninsula photo by shewhoeats
Photo: shewhoeats
Mornington Peninsula photo by John Moody
Photo: John Moody
Mornington Peninsula photo by Wynnie Kwok
Photo: Wynnie Kwok
Mornington Peninsula photo by Olivia Loh
Photo: Olivia Loh
Mornington Peninsula photo by VotreX Tan
Photo: VotreX Tan
Mornington Peninsula photo by Lindy Neill
Photo: Lindy Neill
Mornington Peninsula photo by Frank Bazan
Photo: Frank Bazan
Mornington Peninsula photo by Amanda Ong
Photo: Amanda Ong
 

 
Mornington Pier


Wonderful shore based fishing
Schnapper Point
Mornington
Melbourne, VIC 3931
Australia
Mornington Pier is deservedly acknowledged as being amongst the very best places in Melbourne for shore based fishing. It is productive all year round and all day long, with the deep water usually rewarding the patient angler. Flat-head can be taken most of the time, but usually only if smaller seas prevail. Try near the rocky break wall for big snapper which come close to shore in big seas caused by west and south westerly winds. Barracouta can also be caught on lures, while leather-jackets, red mullet, whiting and parrot fish are usually around as well.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mornington Pier photo by Kevin Mak
Photo: Kevin Mak
Mornington Pier photo by Catherine O'Neil
Photo: Catherine O'Neil
Mornington Pier photo by John Doxey
Photo: John Doxey
Mornington Pier photo by John Doxey
Photo: John Doxey
Mornington Pier photo by Catherine O'Neil
Photo: Catherine O'Neil
 

 
Newport Lakes Parkland


Quarry transformed to parkland
Via Margaret Street
Newport
Melbourne, VIC 3015
Australia
+61 3 9932 1000
The only clue that this great park was once a quarry and landfill is the design of the picnic shelters. Built out of rough timber and corrugated iron to resemble the quarry workers' huts, the shelters provide protection from the elements and can be reserved by phone. The park is large enough to have its own full-time ranger and features a lake, fantastic adventure playground, amphitheatre, walking tracks and barbecues. A wetlands area planted with native flora is now home to many species of birds, amphibians and reptiles.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Point Impossible Surf Beach


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
 

 
Point Leo


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
 

 
Port Melbourne Beach


Up and coming beach district
Beach Street
Port Melbourne
Melbourne, VIC 3207
Australia
+61 3 9658 9658 (Melbourne Visitor Centre)
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.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Port Melbourne Beach photo by Alicia Lim Huay Tyng
Photo: Alicia Lim Huay Tyng
Port Melbourne Beach photo by matthew_tulett
Photo: matthew_tulett
Port Melbourne Beach photo by Krista Piper
Photo: Krista Piper
Port Melbourne Beach photo by DirtyPierre
Photo: DirtyPierre
Port Melbourne Beach photo by Munlee Liu
Photo: Munlee Liu
 

 
Portsea Back Beach


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
Portsea Back Beach photo by Alex Hallatt
Photo: Alex Hallatt
Portsea Back Beach photo by Jess Johannessen
Photo: Jess Johannessen
 

 
St. Kilda Beach


Cosmopolitan inner city beach
Jacka Boulevard
St. Kilda
Melbourne, VIC
Australia
+61 3 9658 9658 (Melbourne Visitor Centre)
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.

Review © 2007, Wcities
St. Kilda Beach photo by Yin Keen Chan
Photo: Yin Keen Chan
St. Kilda Beach photo by Marie Custeau
Photo: Marie Custeau
St. Kilda Beach photo by Jeremy Brook
Photo: Jeremy Brook
St. Kilda Beach photo by Tara O'Donoghue
Photo: Tara O'Donoghue
St. Kilda Beach photo by handgepaeck
Photo: handgepaeck
St. Kilda Beach photo by Heidi Fellenberg
Photo: Heidi Fellenberg
St. Kilda Beach photo by James Edwards
Photo: James Edwards
St. Kilda Beach photo by dbsofi
Photo: dbsofi
St. Kilda Beach photo by momomoff
Photo: momomoff
St. Kilda Beach photo by Ensom Ulv
Photo: Ensom Ulv
St. Kilda Beach photo by Lauren Thomas
Photo: Lauren Thomas
St. Kilda Beach photo by Michael Birnhack
Photo: Michael Birnhack
St. Kilda Beach photo by Michael
Photo: Michael
St. Kilda Beach photo by Ross McDermott
Photo: Ross McDermott
St. Kilda Beach photo by Michael Hall
Photo: Michael Hall
St. Kilda Beach photo by Ian Buckland
Photo: Ian Buckland
St. Kilda Beach photo by caoin
Photo: caoin
St. Kilda Beach photo by Fionnaigh McKenzie
Photo: Fionnaigh McKenzie
St. Kilda Beach photo by alexanderrm
Photo: alexanderrm
St. Kilda Beach photo by Dave McAnulty
Photo: Dave McAnulty
St. Kilda Beach photo by Jason Nixon
Photo: Jason Nixon
St. Kilda Beach photo by Chirag Rathod
Photo: Chirag Rathod
St. Kilda Beach photo by kamran illanlo'kamo'
Photo: kamran illanlo'kamo'
St. Kilda Beach photo by mel harris
Photo: mel harris
St. Kilda Beach photo by Wout Overkamp
Photo: Wout Overkamp
 

 
Yarra River


The heart of Melbourne
Southbank Promenade
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Australia
http://www.yarrariver.info/
Flowing through the heart of Melbourne is the Yarra River. Originally known as Birrarung or the river of mist to the city's Aboriginal inhabitants, the Yarra played a vital role in the development of the city. Today, it is lined with some of Melbourne's most popular attractions. A 10 minute stroll along its banks in the city centre will take you past the World Trade Centre, Exhibition Centre, Crown Casino Complex, the Aquarium, the Southgate Centre, Flinders Street train station, the ornate Princes Bridge and the Domain gardens. To the East of the city centre, the river is lined with grassy green parks with picnic areas and barbecues that are thronged on sunny weekends with locals and visitors.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Yarra River photo by Peta Hopkins
Photo: Peta Hopkins
Yarra River photo by Barbara Quinn
Photo: Barbara Quinn
Yarra River photo by Ryoko Yamada
Photo: Ryoko Yamada
Yarra River photo by Andy Teh
Photo: Andy Teh
Yarra River photo by Andy Teh
Photo: Andy Teh
Yarra River photo by fastskybus
Photo: fastskybus
Yarra River photo by Kent Holloway
Photo: Kent Holloway
Yarra River photo by i_r_e_n_e
Photo: i_r_e_n_e
Yarra River photo by Shelley James
Photo: Shelley James
Yarra River photo by Shelley James
Photo: Shelley James
Yarra River photo by Siobahn DeVincentiis
Photo: Siobahn DeVincentiis
Yarra River photo by Y.Nakamoto
Photo: Y.Nakamoto
Yarra River photo by Victor Low
Photo: Victor Low
Yarra River photo by rrossebo
Photo: rrossebo
Yarra River photo by S.J. Pickett
Photo: S.J. Pickett
Yarra River photo by paquan_laqaza
Photo: paquan_laqaza
Yarra River photo by Sue Waters
Photo: Sue Waters
Yarra River photo by John Kearney
Photo: John Kearney
Yarra River photo by Amruth R
Photo: Amruth R
Yarra River photo by John Griffiths
Photo: John Griffiths
Yarra River photo by Michelle Nacianceno
Photo: Michelle Nacianceno
Yarra River photo by David Hulme
Photo: David Hulme
Yarra River photo by kellythrs_jk
Photo: kellythrs_jk
Yarra River photo by Peter Dowley
Photo: Peter Dowley
Yarra River photo by John Lackness
Photo: John Lackness
Yarra River photo by Elena Merati
Photo: Elena Merati
Yarra River photo by Yugo Isal
Photo: Yugo Isal
Yarra River photo by Sam Gui
Photo: Sam Gui
Yarra River photo by Deborah Leese
Photo: Deborah Leese
Yarra River photo by An Gobán Saor
Photo: An Gobán Saor
Yarra River photo by Mike Moody
Photo: Mike Moody
Yarra River photo by amy neeson
Photo: amy neeson
Yarra River photo by Derek Minnema
Photo: Derek Minnema
Yarra River photo by Danielson_1988
Photo: Danielson_1988
Yarra River photo by Stephen
Photo: Stephen
Yarra River photo by Ivan Indriawan
Photo: Ivan Indriawan
Yarra River photo by Kim Lawton
Photo: Kim Lawton
Yarra River photo by Keith Findlay
Photo: Keith Findlay
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Melbourne - Lakes, Rivers & Beaches"
Melbourne - All Sights & Attractions
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - All Melbourne
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - Bayside
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - Carlton
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - City Centre
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - Fitzroy
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - Inner East
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - Inner West
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - Out & About
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - Prahran
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - Richmond
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - Southbank
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - St. Kilda
Melbourne - Sights & Attractions - Williamstown
Melbourne - Attractions & Landmarks
Melbourne - Historic Buildings
Melbourne - Churches & Temples
Melbourne - Baths, Saunas & Spas
Melbourne - Breweries & Wineries
Melbourne - Parks & Gardens
Melbourne - Panorama
Melbourne - Zoos, Farms & Aquaria
Melbourne - Museums
Melbourne - Tourist Information Centers

Other nearby cities:
Canberra (466 miles)
Hobart (594 miles)
Adelaide (658 miles)
Sydney (712 miles)
Brisbane (1363 miles)
Christchurch (2404 miles)
Wellington (2572 miles)
Auckland (2625 miles)
Perth (2726 miles)
Kauai (8836 miles)

Schmap.com
About
News & Reviews
Travel Store
Privacy
Terms of Use
Contact Us
© 2008 Schmap, Inc. All rights reserved.