Summer is the best time to explore the great beach destinations that are only a short drive away. Whether you like to surf, fish, play around in the sand or lounge around by the sea, Victoria’s coastline has a beautiful slice of paradise for everyone.
Grab a cheap hire car deal from Melbourne Airport and check out these fantastic summer destinations, which are less than two hours from the CBD.
Phillip Island
It’s the place where Victoria’s thrill-seekers flock all year round. Phillip Island offers great waves for surfing, body-surfing and body-boarding. Parents with small children can also enjoy family-friendly spots such as Smiths Beach on the southern part of the island. Vast sandy areas and shallow water make for a wonderful playground for toddlers. When the tide is out you can also explore rock pools at both ends of the beach. Larger pools are also an exciting snorkelling spot.
Sorrento Beach
Drive 90 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD and you’ll stumble across one of Mornington Peninsula’s most beautiful coastlines. Sorrento Beach has several clear rock pools waiting to be explored. There are also many popular jetties and other exciting walking routes. One of the best tracks to walk is Millionaires Walk. The 1.6km long walk takes you past some of the most exquisite mansions overlooking the coast.
Apollo Bay
The southernmost town along the Great Ocean Road also happens to be one of the most popular beach destinations in Victoria! Apollo Bay is a great place to take the family. The bay is lined with cafes and other trendy shops, while a group of surf life savers watch over the beach. It’s a beautiful spot to go if you want a great view of sunrise or sunset. Pack a picnic if you’re heading there for the day and relax before the rolling waves.
St Kilda Beach
No this one you don’t have to travel far at all! Journey just outside the heart of the Melbourne CBD and you’ll encounter the fascinating St Kilda. Recent years have seen the suburb go from a bad reputation as a centre for crime and drugs to a trendy area with booming nightclub. Many people make the trip to St Kilda for a relaxing day by the beach. Be warned, thousands of others are likely to have the exact same idea on a hot summer’s day.
