13 Jun 2025 10 Must-See St Kilda Attractions for First-Time Visitors
Welcome to St Kilda, Melbourne’s iconic beachside suburb packed with sun, snacks, street art, and adorable creatures. Nestled on the edge of Port Phillip Bay, it’s where locals go to unwind, tourists snap their best selfies, and everyone finds their favourite spot.
From historic amusement parks and cake shops on Acland Street to live gigs at the Palais Theatre, this place blends seaside charm, cultural events, and a touch of retro fun.
Let’s dive into the top 10 St Kilda attractions that’ll make your first visit unforgettable.
Top 10 Attractions in St Kilda
St Kilda keeps things interesting, from beach walks and vintage rides to live gigs and late-night bites. If it’s your first time, these top 10 attractions will show you exactly why this seaside spot stays on everyone’s radar.
1. St Kilda Beach
The heart and soul of the suburb, St Kilda Beach is where locals and visitors head for a proper Melbourne beach day. With its palm-lined promenade, golden sands, and iconic backdrop of Port Phillip Bay, it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, rollerblading, or just people-watching.
The sunsets here are stunning, casting a glow over the water and skyline. It’s a go-to for morning joggers, weekend strollers, and anyone who needs a breath of fresh sea air.
- Location: Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda VIC 3182
- Transport: Tram route 96 or 16 from the city centre to St Kilda Beach
- Best Time: Sunrise for a calm walk, sunset for golden hour views
- Facilities: Beach showers, toilets, kiosks, lifeguards in summer
2. Luna Park Melbourne
A true icon, Luna Park is Australia’s oldest theme park, operating since 1912. Walk through the giant smiling face and you’ll find vintage rides, carnival games, and classic thrills for all ages. It’s especially great for families, nostalgic adults, and photo-hungry visitors.
The Scenic Railway rollercoaster, with its wooden track and beach views, is one of a kind.
- Location: 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182
- Transport: Tram route 16, 3a, or 96 to Luna Park
- Opening Hours: Weekends & school holidays, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (subject to change)
- Tip: Book online for ride passes; opens longer during summer holidays
3. St Kilda Pier and Breakwater
This long pier stretching into Port Phillip Bay offers panoramic views of the Melbourne city skyline. But the real magic happens near the breakwater rocks, home to a penguin colony of fairy penguins, best viewed at dusk.
It’s an easy walk with scenic photo ops along the way, perfect for couples, families, and solo travellers looking for some quiet reflection. The St Kilda Pavilion at the end adds a dash of vintage flair.
- Location: Pier Rd, St Kilda VIC 3182
- Transport: Tram 96 or 16 to The Esplanade, then short walk
- Penguin Viewing: Around sunset; free access
- Note: Please don’t use flash when photographing penguins
4. Acland Street Cake Shops
Acland Street is your one-stop shop for indulgence. Lined with European-style cake shops, alfresco cafes, and quirky boutiques, it’s a paradise for foodies and anyone with a sweet tooth.
Highlights include Monarch Cakes, serving up fresh bread and Polish cheesecake since the 1930s, and Europa Cake Shop, a staple of St Kilda’s Jewish community. Street performers and local characters make it a lively walk-through any day of the week.
- Location: Acland Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
- Transport: Tram route 96 to Luna Park, short walk
- Top Spots: Monarch Cakes, Europa, Cafe Di Stasio
- Best Time to Visit: Late morning or afternoon for cake + coffee combos
5. St Kilda Botanical Gardens
Need a breather? The St Kilda Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful contrast to the hustle of Acland Street. Spread across 6 hectares, it features a beautiful ornamental pond, palm trees, a conservatory, and a community garden.
Great for picnic dates, strolls, quiet family outings or sketching under shady trees. It’s a favourite among locals wanting to escape the buzz without leaving town.
- Location: Blessington St, St Kilda VIC 3182
- Transport: Tram 96 or 16 to Acland St, 10-minute walk
- Open Hours: Daily from dawn to dusk
- Facilities: Public toilets, benches, drinking water fountains
Beach Views. Vintage Vibes. Your First Home in St Kilda Awaits.
Don’t just visit – live the lifestyle. Our Melbourne mortgage brokers help first-home buyers secure the right home loans to purchase their dream property near St Kilda’s best spots, from Acland Street to Albert Park Lake. We’ll handle the paperwork, simplify the jargon, and keep it stress-free all the way to settlement. Speak with us today at 03 7036 3356 or learn more at www.everlend.com.au.
6. Esplanade Market
Every Sunday, The Esplanade turns into a vibrant artsy strip with the St Kilda Esplanade Market. Local artists, jewellery makers, and crafters sell their wares beside live music and occasional food trucks.
This is the place to pick up handmade souvenirs, gifts, and get a taste of St Kilda’s creative scene. Whether you’re a tourist or local, it’s a must-visit for that one-of-a-kind find.
- Location: Upper Esplanade, between Luna Park and Palais Theatre
- Transport: Tram 16 or 96 to Luna Park
- Market Hours: Every Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tip: Bring cash for some stalls; ATMs nearby
7. Palais Theatre
A towering piece of Art Deco design, the Palais Theatre is one of Melbourne’s most beloved music venues. With a capacity of nearly 3,000, it’s hosted big names from around the world and continues to be a go-to for concerts, cultural events, and theatre shows. From rock legends to stand-up comedy, the event listings are always buzzing.
- Location: Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182
- Transport: Tram 96 or 16 to Luna Park
- Box Office Hours: Typically open event days 1 hour before show
- Booking: Check upcoming shows via Palais Theatre website or Time Out
8. Fitzroy Street Dining & Nightlife
Fitzroy Street is the pulse of St Kilda’s nightlife and dining scene. Lined with chic restaurants, Casual dining spots, bars, and even a rooftop bar or two, it’s the go-to after sunset. Whether you’re after Cantonese cuisine at Mya Tiger, pub fare at Hotel Esplanade, or drinks with a city skyline view, Fitzroy Street delivers. Plus, its street art adds extra flair to your stroll.
- Location: Fitzroy Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
- Transport: Tram 16 or 3a to Fitzroy Street
- Dining Tip: Weekends = busy. Book ahead for popular spots
- Nightlife: Most bars open until late; Happy Hours 4:00 PM–6:00 PM common
9. Catani Gardens
Tucked beside the beach, Catani Gardens offers a picturesque slice of open space dotted with palm trees, BBQ areas, and climbing frames. It’s a hit for laid-back afternoons, family picnics, and sunny day lounging. With comfortable seating, sea breeze, and flat lawns, it’s perfect for relaxing after a stroll along the coastal path.
- Location: Beaconsfield Parade, St Kilda VIC 3182
- Transport: Tram 96 or 16 to Jacka Blvd
- Facilities: BBQ pits, playgrounds, toilets, open lawns
- Best Time: Mid-morning to late afternoon
10. Albert Park & Albert Park Lake
A short hop from the heart of St Kilda, Albert Park offers serenity and stunning city views around its central Albert Park Lake. Great for jogging, cycling, or paddle-boating, it’s also home to Australian Grand Prix action and plenty of community events. The scenery, dotted with Victorian mansions, feels like a road trip without leaving Melbourne.
- Location: Albert Park VIC 3206
- Transport: Tram 12 or 96 to Fitzroy St, then walk to the park
- Open Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
- Activities: Kayak hire, walking tracks, birdwatching
Love St Kilda? Let Our Brokers Guide You Home.
Whether you’re picturing sunsets on the pier or brunches on Fitzroy Street, St Kilda could be the perfect fit. Our Melbourne mortgage brokers at EverLend will help you find the right loan, understand your options, and secure a property that suits your lifestyle and budget.
Reach out at 03 7036 3356 or head to www.everlend.com.au to chat with a broker who knows the neighbourhood well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I spend a day in St Kilda?
Start with a beach walk or coffee on Acland Street, visit Luna Park, see the penguins at sunset, and wind down with dinner on Fitzroy Street. There’s a mix of relaxation, food, and fun all within walking distance.
Is St Kilda worth visiting?
Absolutely. With its beautiful beach, vibrant culture, iconic attractions, and easy access from Melbourne’s city centre, St Kilda offers something for everyone, whether it’s your first time or tenth.
Can I still see penguins at St Kilda?
Yes! Head to the St Kilda Pier breakwater at dusk to spot fairy penguins returning to nest. It’s free and open to the public year-round, just avoid flash photography.
What is St Kilda well known for?
St Kilda is known for Luna Park, the beachfront, Acland Street cake shops, and its buzzing arts and music scene. It’s a favourite seaside suburb with a rich mix of history and lifestyle.
What home loan options are available for first-time buyers in St Kilda?
There are multiple loan types, including low-deposit, fixed-rate and variable-rate options. Melbourne mortgage brokers like EverLend help you compare lenders, maximise first-home buyer benefits, and guide you through the entire process.
Wrapping Up
St Kilda isn’t just a spot to visit; it’s a place people genuinely want to live. With a unique mix of lifestyle, location, and local charm, it’s no wonder St Kilda attractions draw in both visitors and future homeowners.
If you’re planning to buy your first home here in 2025, having the right support can make all the difference.
At EverLend, we’re mortgage brokers based right here in St Kilda, helping first-home buyers across Melbourne. We’ll walk you through your home loan options, compare the right lenders, and keep things simple from start to finish.
Give us a call on 03 7036 3356 or visit www.everlend.com.au to book your free consultation. Let’s talk about how we can help you turn your St Kilda lifestyle into something permanent.
