Melbourne Suburbs to Visit: St Kilda
St Kilda is one of the most iconic locations in Melbourne with Luna Park, and the stunning architecture of the Palais Theatre all on offer along the sandy shores of St Kilda Beach. On top of that, there’s plenty of good food and shopping to be done here and its dynamic day and night life also contribute to the suburb’s popularity.
It’s a must-visit tourist site for first-time visitors or anyone looking to spend a great day out. So how do you get there and what can you do?
Getting There
Photo supplied by students.
Not everyone will have their own car so getting there by public transport will perhaps be the most convenient. If you’re coming from the CBD, you can catch the tram on routes 3, 16 and 96 from any stop along Swanston St and then get off at Stop 136 (The Esplanade) which is near St Kilda Beach.
It will take you approximately 40 minutes by tram, and your destination is certainly worth your time!
The Esplanade Market
Photo taken by students.
If you’re visiting St Kilda on a Sunday then make sure to visit The Esplande Market, a vibrant destination for those who appreciate the creativity and uniqueness of handmade artworks.
With more than 40 booths of original crafts and handmade works of art including things such from soaps, candles, door knobs, hand-made jewellery, wood carvings to one-of-a-kind paintings, all can easily be purchased at the market from their original artists.
This is also a great opportunity for visitors to chat directly with the makers!
Location: Along the Upper Esplanade beside Luna Park and Acland St
Opening Hours: Every Sunday 10.00am – 4.00pm
Website:http://www.stkildaesplanademarket.com.au
St Kilda Beach and Ferry
Photo taken by students.
You cannot visit St Kilda without taking a walk along the St Kilda Pier to the Ferry with a cup of coffee from the vintage coffee shop Kiosk.
Long considered to be one of the most famous beaches of Melbourne, St Kilda Beach offers visitors a breathtaking view of the city, the seashore and the buildings. It is especially ideal for when you and a group of friends want to just chill and watch the sunrise or sunset.
So get your cameras ready when visiting the beach; you will certainly get carried away!
Location: Along St Kilda Beach
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Website:http://stkildamelbourne.com.au/
The Icon at St Kilda
Photo taken by students.
The architecture in St Kilda is vibrant and exciting. But one unique building that’s sure to stand out more than the rest is The Icon, also nicknamed ‘The Lego Building’.
Located at the corner of Wellington St and St Kilda Rd, this Lego-like structure is something that you cannot find anywhere else except for in St Kilda. The building itself functions as residential serviced apartments, so you’re probably not going to be able to enter the building unless you live in the apartments.
Nevertheless, as a visitor to the suburb, you can still admire it from the outside and take plenty of pictures of this unique and colourful building!
Location: 6 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne
Opening Hours: 24 Hours
Acland St
Photo taken by students.
Looking for trendy restaurants, charming cake shops, jazzy coffee shops or cosmopolitan-style cocktail bars where you can have the chance to meet up with locals and experience the St Kilda night life? Acland Street is definitely meant for you to explore!
Take a five minute walk from the beach and you will find a street filled with gift shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and arcades. There are many attractive cafes and traditional cake shops along Acland St which is perfect for those who want to have their Instagram stories filled out.
The street is also a great place to get together with friends for a fantastic day/night out. End your trip with your choice of desserts along the street.
Location: Acland St
Opening Hours: Various times, dependant on stores (street always open)
Website: http://www.aclandstreetvillage.com.au/
The Vineyard
Photo taken by students.
But if you are starved for choice when it comes to a meal, we strongly recommend The Vineyard. This well-known establishment is located near the O’Donnell Gardens, right on the corner of Acland St.
The food and drinks are all mouth-watering here while the relaxing atmosphere is the real appealing point of this restaurant.
Location: 71A Acland St, St Kilda
Opening Hours: 10.30am – 3.00am every day
Website:http://thevineyard.com.au/
This story was produced by Media and Communication students at Trinity College Foundation Studies as part of Meld’s community newsroom collaboration. Education institutions, student clubs/societies and community groups interested in being involved can get in touch with us via meld@meldmagazine.com.au.