Dive in to some of the best swimming spots in Melbourne’s southeast to beat the sizzling sun
Beat the heat this summer by exploring the white sand beaches and crystal blue waters along the peninsula coastline.
South East
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The temperature is rising and Melburnians are searching for ways to keep cool as the Australian sun sizzles.
Chlorinated backyard pools or crowded local jaunts aren’t the only way to quench a keen swimmer’s thirst – Melbourne has some of the best lakes, bays and beaches to dip your toes into.
We have compiled a list of five great spots to cool off in Melbourne’s southeast this summer.
Lysterfield Lake, Narre Warren
Lysterfield Lake is a must for anyone who enjoys water-based activities.
A 40-minute drive from the CBD, the lake is prime pickings for anyone who enjoys sailing, canoeing, kayaking or windsurfing.
With two designated swim areas at the southeastern end of the lake, the two constructed beaches are the perfect spot to dip your toes into.
The western and northern shorts of the lake are inaccessible by foot, but worth the sail or canoe over.
Once the provider of freshwater to the entire Mornington Peninsula, the lake has been purely a recreational area since 1975.
The area also has tracks and trails for hikers and facilities for horse riders.
Half Moon Bay, Black Rock
Half Moon Bay, which rounds the cliffs near Black Rock, is named for its crescent shape and is the perfect place to visit for a dip or to snap an aesthetic Instagram post.
Hidden to undiscerning audiences, the small local beach is also popular with boat enthusiasts due to its launching ramp while a pier can be found a short walking distance away.
The bay is protected from the north wind, making it a perfect place to set up for the day with small children.
The Pillars, Mount Martha
Not to be confused with a European postcard, The Pillars at Mount Martha might be one of the most picturesque spots for a swim in Victoria.
Just a 45-minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD and invisible to the naked eye, The Pillars are one of the most popular “secret” swimming spots in Melbourne.
Following the tiny path through the bush and on the edge of the cliffs, the journey to this swim spot is not for the faint hearted, but definitely worth the hike.
Anyone who visits The Pillars is urged to respect the environment they’re visiting by not littering or leaving their rubbish behind, and to park safely in local surrounding streets.
Bridgewater Bay, Blairgowrie
A bit further down the coastline, Blairgowrie’s Bridgewater Bay boasts multiple cliff jumps for swimmers looking for an adrenaline boost.
Only accessible during low tides, the spot is a popular place to cool off on warm weekends.
When the tides are low a series of rock pools are revealed for little explorers.
The beach can be accessed via a walking track from the St Johns Wood Road carpark and then by descending a steep staircase to the beach.
The beach is also accessible as part of the Coastal Walk.
Fairy Cove, Wilsons Promontory
A little more out of the way than the other spots, beachgoers will have to work up a sweat to take a dip in Fairy Cove.
Located along the Darby River to Tongue Point hike in Wilsons Prom, Fairy Cove is one of Victoria’s best kept secrets.
The sheltered beach is close to the tip of the tongue and is a white, sandy beach enclosed by granite boulders.
The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a hot hiker to take a dip or go snorkelling.
gemma.scerri@news.com.au
