Point Ormond Lookout
A free, scenic lookout offering breathtaking sunset views of the Melbourne skyline and Port Phillip Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best sunset views
Point Ormond Lookout
Best Time
Best sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, scenic lookout offering breathtaking sunset views of the Melbourne skyline and Port Phillip Bay.
"The sunsets in this city are magical. Cannot wait for summer to grab a blanket and enjoy the view."
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Spots
Popular for sunset, so get there early to snag a prime spot on the grass.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Feast
Bring your own food and drinks for a perfect picnic with a view.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Melbourne Skyline at Sunset
The main viewing area
Witness the iconic Melbourne skyline bathed in golden hour hues. A truly magical sight.
Panoramic Port Phillip Bay Views
Facing west from the lookout
Enjoy sweeping vistas of Port Phillip Bay, perfect for a peaceful moment.
Golden Hour Magic
The entire lookout area
Experience the breathtaking colors of sunset painting the sky.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunset Views
Picnic Perfect, But Pack Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Spots
Popular for sunset, so get there early to snag a prime spot on the grass.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Feast
Bring your own food and drinks for a perfect picnic with a view.
🚶♀️ Explore the Coastal Path
Enjoy a walk or bike ride along the scenic Elwood Beach path.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity may incur a fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Spots
Popular for sunset, so get there early to snag a prime spot on the grass.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Feast
Bring your own food and drinks for a perfect picnic with a view.
🚶♀️ Explore the Coastal Path
Enjoy a walk or bike ride along the scenic Elwood Beach path.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity may incur a fee.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The city skyline provides a stunning backdrop for photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Point Ormond Lookout for its breathtaking sunset views of the Melbourne skyline and Port Phillip Bay. It's a popular, free spot perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls, though it can get crowded. While amenities are a short walk away, the scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit for many.
"Stopped by Point Ormond Lookout on a sunny afternoon and really liked it. It’s not a huge area, but it’s got a great view over the bay and the Melbourne skyline in the distance. Perfect spot to catch a sunset or just take a breather during a walk. It's a popular spot so expect crowds. However there's plenty of space around to sit on the grass on the hill.
The lookout itself is a small hill right near the beach, so it’s an easy climb. There's a wide open grassy area if you want to sit down, relax, or bring a picnic.
The surrounding area is a nice place for a walk. If you go towards Elwood Beach path, it's a nice casual stroll or bike ride. There's lots of locals out walking their dogs or going for a jog but plenty of space on the footpath to move around.
There are no toilets or cafes near the lookout, but you can find some about 5 min further along the beach path. Parking was fairly easy too.
Overall, it’s a simple, peaceful lookout. I wouldn't say it's a must-see destination to go out of your way, but if you’re in the area or heading to the beach, definitely worth a stop."
Tim J
"I just know no better place for the melbourne sunset than this lookout!
The sunsets in this city are magical.
Cannot wait for summer to grab a blanket and enjoy the view.
Pro tip: come soon enough, it can get quite busy."
anja M
"A TRUELY great viewing spot of the city’s landscape and the great wide ocean adding on with the beautiful and stunning sunset dropping down and hiding behind the vast ocean."
Gordon Sun
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Point Ormond Lookout is located in Elwood, about 9km south of the Melbourne CBD. You can drive there in approximately 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Yes, parking is available near Point Ormond Lookout. However, it's important to note that some parking areas may require payment. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak sunset times, as spots can fill up quickly.
Absolutely! There's a dedicated cycling path nearby, making it a great destination for a bike ride. Enjoy the scenic route along the coast as you head towards the lookout.
While there isn't a direct train station at the lookout, you can reach the general Elwood area via public transport and then enjoy a pleasant walk to the lookout. Check local transport apps for the best tram or bus routes from your starting point in Melbourne.
For sunset, driving is often the most convenient if you want to arrive with enough time to find parking and a good spot. Public transport is an option, but factor in extra travel time and walking distance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Point Ormond Lookout is a free public space. You can enjoy the views and atmosphere without any admission cost.
Point Ormond Lookout is accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor public space. However, the best experience is typically during daylight hours, especially for sunset viewing.
No booking is required for Point Ormond Lookout as it is a free public area. Simply show up and enjoy the views.
As a public park and lookout, there are generally no specific closing hours. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of local park regulations and safety after dark.
Yes, it's a great spot for a quick stop to enjoy the view, or you can spend a couple of hours picnicking and relaxing.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' just before sunset is widely considered the most magical time for photography here, offering stunning light and colors.
You can capture panoramic shots of the Melbourne skyline, the expansive Port Phillip Bay, and the vibrant sunset. It's also a great spot for portraits with a scenic background.
The main grassy hill offers the best vantage point for the skyline and bay. Experiment with different angles to include the foreground elements like the grass or people enjoying the view.
For personal photography, no special permit is typically required. If you plan on commercial photography or videography, it's always best to check with local council regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on the city skyline. Don't forget a tripod for low-light sunset shots.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The primary activity is enjoying the stunning views of the Melbourne skyline and Port Phillip Bay, especially at sunset. It's also a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and relaxing.
It can get quite busy, particularly on sunny evenings and weekends, as it's a popular sunset spot. Arriving early is recommended if you want a good spot.
There are no facilities directly at the lookout itself. However, you can find toilets and cafes about a 5-minute walk along the beach path towards Elwood.
Yes, there is a playground and BBQ areas with sheltered picnic spots located adjacent to the lookout, making it family-friendly.
The lookout is situated on a small, open grassy hill, making it an easy climb. The surrounding area offers flat paths suitable for walking and cycling.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining establishments directly at Point Ormond Lookout. It's primarily a scenic spot for enjoying views and picnics.
You can find cafes and eateries by walking along the beach path towards Elwood, which is about a 5-minute stroll away. Alternatively, explore the dining options in nearby Elwood or St Kilda.
Absolutely! It's a perfect spot for a picnic. There are grassy areas and even BBQ facilities nearby.
Elwood, a short walk from the lookout, is known for having good chip shops. You can grab some fish and chips and enjoy them with the view.
Classic picnic fare like sandwiches, salads, and snacks work well. Many visitors enjoy bringing local Australian snacks to enjoy the scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a frisbee or ball for some outdoor fun. The relatively easy terrain makes it manageable for strollers, and the nearby beach path offers a pleasant, flat area for a family walk or bike ride. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are a short walk away.
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
Pack a picnic basket with some wine and cheese, find a cozy spot on the hill, and watch the sky put on a show. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the breathtaking scenery, makes it an ideal location for a quiet, intimate experience.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
+1Bring your wide-angle lens to encompass the vast panorama and a tripod for those low-light shots. The dynamic interplay of light and shadow on the city and water provides endless creative possibilities.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Melbourne Sunsets
To make the most of this, timing is crucial. Arriving about an hour before sunset allows you to find a comfortable spot, set up any picnic you've brought, and watch the sky gradually change colors. The reflection of the sunset on the bay adds another layer of beauty to the scene.
+1While the sunset is the main draw, the view during the day is also pleasant, offering a clear panorama of the bay and the distant city. However, the vibrant hues and dramatic lighting of sunset are what truly make Point Ormond Lookout a must-visit for photographers and romantics alike.
Picnicking and Leisure at the Lookout
Adjacent to the lookout, you'll find BBQ facilities and sheltered picnic areas, making it an ideal location for a casual gathering or a family outing. These amenities are well-utilized by locals and visitors alike, contributing to the vibrant yet relaxed vibe of the area.
The surrounding parkland and the nearby Elwood Beach path offer opportunities for leisurely strolls or bike rides. This makes Point Ormond Lookout a perfect destination for a half-day outing, combining scenic views with recreational activities.
Accessibility and Nearby Amenities
For those relying on public transport, reaching the general Elwood area is feasible, followed by a pleasant walk to the lookout. The terrain at the lookout itself is a gentle grassy hill, making it relatively easy to navigate.
While the lookout itself lacks direct facilities, essential amenities like toilets and cafes are conveniently located about a 5-minute walk away along the beach path. This ensures visitors can comfortably enjoy their time without being too far from services.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit