St Kilda Marina - Image 1
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St Kilda Marina Melbourne

4.4
·150 reviews·St Kilda, Australia

Melbourne's premier marina offering boat services, waterfront dining, and a gateway to Port Phillip Bay, plus charming penguin encounters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dusk

Best chance to see penguins

CrowdMedium
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St Kilda Marina - Image 1

St Kilda Marina Melbourne

Best Time

Dusk

Best chance to see penguins

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Melbourne's premier marina offering boat services, waterfront dining, and a gateway to Port Phillip Bay, plus charming penguin encounters.

4.4
(150 reviews)

"A premier docking place with a serene feel, close to vibrant streets and offering unique wildlife encounters."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐧 Penguin Viewing Etiquette

Be quiet and patient at dusk for the best chance to see the little penguins on St Kilda Pier.

🌅 Sunset Strolls

The newly renovated St Kilda Pier is perfect for evening walks with beautiful bay panoramas.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St Kilda Pier Penguins

St Kilda Pier Penguins

St Kilda Pier

Witness adorable little penguins waddling ashore at dusk. A magical wildlife encounter right in the city!

Newly Renovated St Kilda Pier

Newly Renovated St Kilda Pier

St Kilda Pier

Enjoy stunning bay views and sunset vistas from the modern, reopened St Kilda Pier.

St Kilda Marina

St Kilda Marina

St Kilda Marina

A premier docking facility with a serene atmosphere, offering boat services and waterfront dining.

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Planning Your Visit

Penguin Spotting & Pier Perks

Catch the adorable little penguins at dusk near St Kilda Pier! The newly renovated pier is a fantastic spot for sunset views and a stroll. Arrive early to snag a good viewing spot for the penguins.

Marina Access & Amenities

St Kilda Marina offers boat storage and services, with easy access to Port Phillip Bay. It's also home to restaurants and a boat ramp, making it a hub for marine activities and dining.

Best Times

When
Dusk
Why
Best chance to see penguins
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Spectacular bay views
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday mornings
Why
Vibrant market atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

the cutest 😭 #melbourne #stkilda #penguin #australia #australiatravel
@ellierose30
112.2K likes • 1.1M views

🐧 Penguin Viewing Etiquette

Be quiet and patient at dusk for the best chance to see the little penguins on St Kilda Pier. TikTok+2

🌅 Sunset Strolls

The newly renovated St Kilda Pier is perfect for evening walks with beautiful bay panoramas. TikTokInstagram+1

Australian 🐁 just taking a swim in the ocean in St Kilda. #australiaadventures #stkilda #whv
@clorindasgromo
55.3K likes • 824.6K views
St Kilda beach side rolla disco, open all weekend 12-twilight!! 👯‍♀️sizes 1 -14 available (children, women’s and men’s) 🎢 23a Marina Parade
rollabae
219 likes • 5.5K views

⚓ Marina Services

St Kilda Marina offers boat storage, fuel, and is home to waterfront restaurants. InstagramReddit

🛍️ Sunday Market Finds

Explore unique stalls and tasty eats at the St Kilda Market on the Upper Esplanade. TikTok

Step inside and prepare to be floored. The moment you open the door, the view takes over with uninterrupted panoramas stretching across the foreshore, the marina, St Kilda Pier and the curve of the Bay, right through to the city skyline and out towards Port Melbourne. 41/8-10 The Esplanade, St Kilda. Bed 3 | Bath 2 | Car 2 Auction: Sat 30 Aug 2025, 12:30pm For more information about this prope...
bellepropertystkilda
5 likes • 548 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐧 Penguin Viewing Etiquette

Be quiet and patient at dusk for the best chance to see the little penguins on St Kilda Pier. TikTok+2

🌅 Sunset Strolls

The newly renovated St Kilda Pier is perfect for evening walks with beautiful bay panoramas. TikTokInstagram+1

⚓ Marina Services

St Kilda Marina offers boat storage, fuel, and is home to waterfront restaurants. InstagramReddit

🛍️ Sunday Market Finds

Explore unique stalls and tasty eats at the St Kilda Market on the Upper Esplanade. TikTok

🌊 Bay Swimming

Consider swimming from St Kilda to Elwood for a refreshing bay experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(150 reviews)

Reviews Summary

St Kilda Marina is praised for its premier docking facilities and convenient access to Port Phillip Bay, with many appreciating the serene atmosphere and waterfront dining options. Visitors enjoy the chance to see penguins at the nearby pier and the lively Sunday market. Some reviews note the area can be windy, and a few mention less desirable elements in certain parts of St Kilda.

"Lots of nice boats fairly windy on the day I went but still a nice spot to go for a walk."

Filming Australia

"This is StKilda Marina, a famous docking place for the wealthy. In close vicinity to Brighton, Elwood & Albert Park there is a serene feel to this area. They also have skydiving pickup point here & they land on grass up the road next to the beach. Riva restaurant is here & right next to a park, nice place to hang out"

Rob the Nomad

"St Kilda Marina

St Kilda Marina is Melbourne’s premier marina facility situated only eight kilometres from the thriving C.B.D and only a five minute stroll to cosmopolitan Acland and Fitzroy streets.

The marina is the only marina to boast instant water access, also offering the convenience of close to boat parking right in the hub of bustling St Kilda.

The marina offers a variety of services including Marina berthing and undercover dry storage, rack storage, trailer and jetski storage. St Kilda Marina offers 24 hour marina fuel and easy access to Port Phillip Bay.

St Kilda Marina also boasts two fantastic restaurants – Riviera Beachclub and The Great Provider."

Karin S.

What People Like

Premier marina facilities
Penguin spotting
Waterfront dining

What People Dislike

Can be windy
Some urban grit

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can easily reach St Kilda Marina from the Melbourne CBD by taking trams 16 or 96, which run frequently. Driving is also an option with parking available nearby. TikTok

Yes, St Kilda Marina is well-served by public transport. Trams 16 and 96 stop close by, making it convenient to access from the city. TikTok

There is parking available near St Kilda Marina, though it can get busy, especially on weekends. TikTok

While it's a bit of a walk, you can stroll from the Melbourne CBD to St Kilda Marina, enjoying the coastal path. It's approximately 8 kilometers. Reddit

The best way to reach St Kilda Pier is via tram 16 or 96. It's a short walk from the tram stop to the pier itself. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to St Kilda Pier is free. You can walk along it and enjoy the views and wildlife spotting without any admission fee. TikTok+1

Visiting the public areas of St Kilda Marina is free. However, services like boat storage, berthing, and dining at the restaurants will incur costs. Reddit

St Kilda Pier is generally accessible at all hours, though it's most popular and safest to visit during daylight and early evening. TikTok

The St Kilda Sunday Market on the Upper Esplanade is free to enter. You only pay for any purchases you make from the stalls. TikTok

Yes, you can access the public areas of the marina, including the promenade and restaurants, even if you don't own a boat. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The best time to see the little penguins is at dusk, as they return to shore after a day of fishing. Patience is key! TikTok+2

At St Kilda Marina, you can enjoy waterfront dining, admire the boats, use the boat ramp, or simply take a scenic walk. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! St Kilda Pier offers beautiful sunset views and a charming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for date nights. TikTok

The St Kilda Sunday Market features a variety of unique stalls selling crafts, food, and more, set against a beachside backdrop. TikTok

While generally safe, be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night. Some TikToks mention areas with homeless individuals or drug use further from the main tourist spots. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, St Kilda Marina is home to restaurants like Riviera Beachclub and The Great Provider. Nearby Acland Street also offers a wide array of dining options. InstagramReddit

You can find various cuisines at the restaurants located at St Kilda Marina, often with waterfront views. InstagramReddit

Beyond the marina restaurants, St Kilda offers diverse eateries, including fish and chips shops like Northern Soul Chip Shop, which are popular. TikTok

Yes, St Kilda is known for its cafes, and you can find excellent coffee and inventive pastries, particularly around Acland Street. TikTok

The St Kilda Sunday Market is a great place to find various tasty street food options. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the boats, the marina architecture, and the sunset over Port Phillip Bay. The pier offers great vantage points. Instagram

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful light for photographing St Kilda Pier and the surrounding bay. Dusk is also magical for penguin shots. Instagram

Yes, you can photograph the penguins, but it's crucial to do so respectfully without flash or disturbing them. TikTok+1

Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check with local authorities and ensure you comply with CASA guidelines before flying. Instagram

Photography in St Kilda often focuses on the pier, the bay, street art, and the vibrant atmosphere of the area. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St Kilda offers a fantastic family outing, especially with the penguin spotting at dusk on St Kilda Pier. It's a magical experience for children to see these little creatures up close. TikTok+1 The St Kilda Sunday Market is also a hit with families, offering fun browsing and tasty treats. TikTok Consider packing snacks and drinks, and be prepared for crowds, especially on market days and during peak penguin viewing times.

💰 Budget Travelers

St Kilda is quite accessible for budget travelers. Visiting St Kilda Pier and watching the penguins is free, making it a top budget-friendly activity. TikTok+1 The St Kilda Sunday Market is also free to enter, allowing you to browse without spending money, though tempting food and unique items are available. TikTok Opt for casual eateries like fish and chip shops for affordable meals. TikTok

couples

For a romantic outing, St Kilda Pier at sunset is hard to beat. The panoramic bay views and the chance to see penguins create a memorable experience. TikTokInstagram Enjoy a leisurely walk along the pier or dine at one of the waterfront restaurants at St Kilda Marina for a special evening. InstagramReddit The vibrant atmosphere of Acland Street also offers plenty of charming cafes and bars for a relaxed date.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of St Kilda Pier and its Penguins

St Kilda Pier, recently renovated, is a beloved Melbourne landmark. It's not just a picturesque spot for sunset strolls and bay gazing; it's also a vital habitat for a colony of little penguins.TikTok+1 These charming creatures return to shore at dusk, offering visitors a unique and heartwarming wildlife experience. Remember to be quiet and respectful to ensure the penguins feel safe and continue to visit. The pier's modern design offers fantastic vantage points for both the penguins and the sweeping views of Port Phillip Bay. TikTokInstagram+1

Many visitors are drawn to the pier specifically for the penguin encounters. It's a reminder of the natural beauty that exists even within a bustling city. The pier's reopening after renovations has made it an even more appealing destination, blending modern aesthetics with natural wonders. TikTok It's a place where you can enjoy a peaceful walk, capture stunning photos, and witness a truly special natural phenomenon. TikTok

St Kilda Marina: A Hub for Boating and Beyond

St Kilda Marina stands as Melbourne's premier marina facility, conveniently located just eight kilometers from the city center. It offers comprehensive services for boat owners, including marina berthing, undercover dry storage, and rack storage for trailers and jet skis. The marina boasts instant water access and close-by boat parking, making it incredibly convenient for accessing Port Phillip Bay. Reddit

Beyond its core boating services, St Kilda Marina is also a destination for dining and leisure. It hosts restaurants like Riviera Beachclub and The Great Provider, offering waterfront dining experiences. InstagramReddit The marina's serene atmosphere, coupled with its proximity to vibrant areas like Acland and Fitzroy streets, makes it a pleasant place to visit, whether you're a boat owner or simply looking for a scenic spot by the water. Instagram+1

Exploring St Kilda's Vibrant Atmosphere

St Kilda is more than just its marina and pier; it's a suburb with a distinct and lively character. The St Kilda Sunday Market on the Upper Esplanade is a popular weekend attraction, offering a diverse range of unique stalls, delicious food, and a buzzing atmosphere. TikTok It's a great place to find handmade crafts, local produce, and enjoy the beachside vibes. TikTok

The area also boasts a rich culinary scene, from classic fish and chips at places like Northern Soul Chip Shop TikTok to inventive pastries and cakes found in the numerous cafes along Acland Street. TikTok While some visitors describe parts of St Kilda with a more gritty urban feel TikTok or even a 'brutal' winter vibe,TikTok the overall consensus points to a dynamic and engaging destination with plenty to offer, from wildlife encounters to bustling markets and diverse dining. TikTok

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