Victoria’s best beaches to visit in summer, including hidden gems and surfing hotspots
Nothing says summer like a day at the beach. Whether you’re looking for a sandy stretch to build a castle, wild waves to conquer or secret spots to chill, we’ve done the legwork for you. OUR TOP 10
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When it comes to beaches, Melbourne is spoiled for choice.
There’s peaceful bay beaches, and plenty of ocean-facing stretches if you fancy more of a challenge.
Just remember to always stay within the flags, and don’t forget the sunscreen.
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FAMILY FUN
MILLS BEACH
Esplanade, south of Tanti Ave, Mornington
Home to the Mornington Life Saving Club, this is the pick of the bunch for preschoolers. It’s patrolled on weekends and public holidays between noon and 6pm. There are toilets and change rooms, a kiosk, barbecues, picnic tables and free parking.
MORDIALLOC BEACH
Beach Rd, Mordialloc
With plenty of restaurants, a spectacular pier, peaceful marina and shaded playground, Mordialloc Beach has family fun down-pat. The lively hub is arguably Kingston’s busiest foreshore in summer, and kids can keep themselves entertained by walking up the pier, checking out the colourful boats at the marina, watching jet skis whiz by, having a splash or tucking into a beachside feast from the kiosk. There’s a train station and bus stops located just steps from the sand, and parents can have peace of mind with plenty of active patrollers keeping a lookout over the holidays.
HALF MOON BAY
Beach Rd, Beaumaris
With a safe shallow bay and crescent-like auburn coloured cliffs for a backdrop, Black Rock’s Half Moon Bay is a private sanctuary for families looking for a quieter trip to the seaside. Also featuring a pier, the HMVS Cerberus submarine breakwater, fantastic food spots and boat ramp, Half Moon is like a mini Mordialloc beach, minus all the hustle and bustle.
You can access sailing instructions and other equipment at the yacht club, and the Red Bluff cliffs make for a beautiful sunset stroll. If you’re staying for the day, head to Black Rock village on the way home as it comes alive at dinnertime.
CATCH A WAVE
GUNNAMATTA BEACH
Truemans Rd, Fingal
This has been ranked among the world’s most dangerous stretches of water, and is best suited to experienced surfers. It has two large car parks, and toilet blocks that can be accessed from Truemans Rd.
Volunteer and professional lifeguards patrol daily from December 26-January 26.
MAIN BEACH
Merricks Beach Rd, Merricks
Not far from Flinders village, this safe sandy beach on Westernport Bay is popular with locals and visitors alike. It has small waves and few rocks. The wide foreshore reserve behind the beach features Merricks Yacht Club and toilets. If you’re lucky you might even spot a koala.
MUSHROOM REEF
Golf Links Rd, Flinders
Boogie boarders flock to this spot to make the most of its perfectly shaped reef break. It’s also a marine sanctuary that is home to weedy sea dragon and the black and white sea star as well as myriad birds. Leave the car at the first car park off Golf Links Rd.
GOOD WALKS
TASSELS COVE
Marine Drive, Safety Beach
Our four-legged friends like a day at the beach just as much as we do. Luckily, canine visitors are welcome at many Melbourne beaches. There can be restrictions on when they’re welcome so check the relevant council website before heading out. Our top pick is tucked away in Tassels Cove. The picturesque red cliffs provide a natural barrier for adventurous pooches and a great back drop for some seasonal selfies. To access the small car park exit Bruce Rd onto Marine Drive and continue over the bridge.
MENTONE BEACH
Beach Rd, Mentone
There aren’t many dog beaches in Melbourne where our favourite hounds can be unleashed around-the-clock, and Mentone Beach is Kingston’s ticket to 24-hour, seven days per week fun.
Take a midnight swim with your furry friend or run wild in the sunshine, but be mindful of peak times because this beach can get packed. Be sure to stay on the sand and between Charman and Plummer Rd, as strict leash restrictions kick into place next door near Parkdale.
HIDDEN GEMS
TIDEWAYS BEACH
Nepean Hwy, opposite Westmore Ave, Sorrento
This secluded beach is a family favourite the locals would like to keep secret. Tideways overlooks Sullivan Bay, the home of a short-lived convict settlement established in 1803 by Lieutenant-Colonel Collins.
SEALERS COVE
Wilson’s Promontory
Getting to this golden beach requires a solid 10km hike — so be prepared. The trail is well marked and manages and the scenery makes it more than worth the slog. There is a campsite with a two-night permit available.