St Kilda Pier & Breakwater Melbourne
Iconic St Kilda Pier offers stunning Melbourne skyline views, charming penguin encounters, and a beautiful boardwalk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Penguin spotting & city lights
St Kilda Pier & Breakwater Melbourne
Best Time
Penguin spotting & city lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic St Kilda Pier offers stunning Melbourne skyline views, charming penguin encounters, and a beautiful boardwalk.
"A must-visit when in Melbourne, offering stunning scenery and a welcoming atmosphere."
🤫 Be Quiet for Penguins
Keep noise to a minimum near the breakwater rocks for the best chance to see penguins.
⏰ Check Pier Access Hours
The pier boardwalk often closes 6 PM-9 AM for penguin rest. Verify current times before visiting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Little Penguins
Breakwater rocks
Spot adorable fairy penguins waddling back to their burrows at dusk. Best seen quietly near the rocks.
Melbourne Skyline Views
End of the pier
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Melbourne city skyline, especially stunning at sunset and night.
Sunset Spectacle
St Kilda Pier
Witness breathtaking sunsets over Port Phillip Bay, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
+1Planning Your Visit
Penguin Viewing Hours & Access
New Pier, New Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Be Quiet for Penguins
Keep noise to a minimum near the breakwater rocks for the best chance to see penguins.
⏰ Check Pier Access Hours
The pier boardwalk often closes 6 PM-9 AM for penguin rest. Verify current times before visiting. +1
📸 Capture City Views
The revamped pier offers fantastic photo ops of the Melbourne skyline, especially at sunset.
🚶♀️ Stroll the New Boardwalk
Enjoy the spacious, modern boardwalk, perfect for a leisurely walk and enjoying the bay breeze.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Be Quiet for Penguins
Keep noise to a minimum near the breakwater rocks for the best chance to see penguins.
⏰ Check Pier Access Hours
The pier boardwalk often closes 6 PM-9 AM for penguin rest. Verify current times before visiting. +1
📸 Capture City Views
The revamped pier offers fantastic photo ops of the Melbourne skyline, especially at sunset.
🚶♀️ Stroll the New Boardwalk
Enjoy the spacious, modern boardwalk, perfect for a leisurely walk and enjoying the bay breeze.
💡 Consider Bioluminescence
Rarely, bioluminescent algae can create a magical glow in the water at night.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the newly renovated St Kilda Pier, praising its stunning Melbourne skyline views, especially at sunset, and the charming little penguins often spotted at dusk. The spacious boardwalk and ample seating are highlighted as major improvements, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a romantic evening. While some note the lack of shade and occasional crowds, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, offering a beautiful and accessible coastal escape.
"Beautiful newly built pier with amazing views of the city. Beautiful spot to watch the sunset and see the city beautifully lit up at night. Def worth visiting and going for a walk to the end of the jetty. Also lots of seating all the x way along the pier for those that need to take a rest or to sit and see the beautiful city views. I love this pier."
Linda Boydell
"St Kilda Pier is an absolute gem in Melbourne’s vibrant coastal scene, and my visit was nothing short of spectacular! This iconic spot offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, lively atmosphere, and convenient amenities that make it a must-visit destination🙂.
The pier itself is a scenic delight, stretching out into Port Phillip Bay with breathtaking views of the city skyline and the shimmering water. Visiting in the evening was a brilliant choice—the sunset paints the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a magical backdrop for a leisurely stroll. The gentle sea breeze and the sound of waves lapping against the pier add to the serene yet lively vibe. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the resident fairy penguins waddling back to their burrows at dusk—an adorable highlight!
One of the standout features is the accessibility and convenience. The parking area near the pier is well-organized, with plenty of spots available even during peak evening hours. While parking isn’t free, the rates are quite reasonable for such a prime location, making it hassle-free to drive in and enjoy the experience without breaking the bank.
The pay for amenities and nearby facilities is also very fair. The kiosks and cafes along the foreshore offer a range of delicious food and drinks at decent prices, perfect for grabbing a coffee or fish and chips to enjoy while soaking in the views. The area feels safe and well-maintained, with clean pathways and ample seating to relax and take it all in.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, St Kilda Pier in the evening is an unforgettable experience. The combination of stunning scenery, affordable parking, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a top-tier destination"
Bibin Thomas
"A must-visit when in Melbourne. St Kilda Pier offers stunning views of the city skyline and Port Phillip Bay, especially during sunrise and sunset. The walk is peaceful, with plenty of spots for photos. If you’re lucky, you might spot the famous little penguins near the breakwater at dusk. Clean, well-maintained, and a perfect place to relax and soak in the fresh sea breeze."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily reach St Kilda Pier from Melbourne CBD by taking a tram, typically routes 16 or 96, which will drop you close to the pier. Driving is also an option, with parking available nearby, though it can be busy.
Yes, there is parking available near St Kilda Pier. While it's not free, reviews suggest the rates are reasonable for such a prime location, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! The revamped St Kilda Pier has improved access for cyclists and pedestrians, making it a great destination for a bike ride along the coast.
Yes, St Kilda Pier is well-served by public transport. Trams are the most common method, with several routes stopping within walking distance of the pier.
For sunset viewing, taking a tram is recommended to avoid parking hassles. Routes 16 and 96 are convenient options from the CBD.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting St Kilda Pier itself is free. However, there might be costs associated with parking or any specific tours or activities offered in the area.
The St Kilda Pier boardwalk typically has access hours, often closing from 6 PM to 9 AM to allow penguins to rest. It's best to check local listings for the most up-to-date information. +1
The penguin viewing area on the pier itself may be closed after 6 PM. For nighttime penguin viewing, consider the nearby breakwater or specialized penguin cruises. +1
The newly revamped St Kilda Pier officially reopened in 2024 after extensive renovations.
Access to the St Kilda Breakwater for general viewing is typically free. Specific tours or activities might have separate charges.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At St Kilda Pier, you can enjoy scenic walks, admire the Melbourne skyline, watch sunsets, spot little penguins at dusk, and relax on the new boardwalk.
The best time to see the little penguins is at dusk, as they return to their burrows. It's crucial to be quiet and respectful of their habitat.
Yes, the newly renovated pier features ample seating along the boardwalk, providing comfortable spots to rest and enjoy the views.
Absolutely! St Kilda Pier is a popular spot for dates, especially at sunset, offering beautiful views and a romantic atmosphere.
Yes, St Kilda Pier is a popular spot for fishing, with many fish visible in the bay.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the pier itself may not have extensive dining options, there are kiosks and cafes along the St Kilda foreshore offering food and drinks.
You can find a variety of food options along the St Kilda foreshore, from casual cafes serving coffee and snacks to places offering fish and chips.
The description mentions picnic facilities, suggesting it's a good spot to bring your own food and enjoy a meal with a view.
Reviews suggest that the prices for food and drinks at the nearby kiosks and cafes are quite reasonable, making it an affordable option.
Yes, there are reports of an ice cream shop at the end of the road near the pier, offering a sweet treat.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the Melbourne skyline and the bay.
The end of the pier, looking back towards the city skyline, is a prime spot for photos. The breakwater rocks are also popular for penguin photography.
Yes, you can photograph the penguins, but it's essential to do so quietly and respectfully to avoid disturbing them.
Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive behavior.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city views and the pier itself. A telephoto lens can be useful for discreetly photographing penguins.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack some snacks or grab an ice cream from a nearby vendor for a complete treat. Consider visiting earlier in the day if your children are sensitive to crowds or the evening chill. While the pier itself is great, the surrounding St Kilda area also offers playgrounds and open spaces for kids to run around.
💰 Budget Travelers
You can save money by packing your own picnic to enjoy on the pier's ample seating. While parking has a fee, opting for public transport like the tram is a very affordable way to get there from the CBD.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 The newly renovated pier offers comfortable seating to simply sit and enjoy the moment together. Combine your visit with a casual dinner at one of the nearby foreshore cafes or enjoy a shared ice cream.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Little Penguins of St Kilda
+1While the pier itself has specific access hours, the breakwater area is often accessible for penguin spotting. Some visitors have reported seeing penguins even when the main pier is closed, right by the gates.
Remember that penguin sightings are not guaranteed, as their behavior can be influenced by various factors. Patience and quiet observation are key to a successful and ethical encounter with these adorable marine birds.
The Revamped St Kilda Pier Experience
This upgrade offers a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors looking to stroll, relax, and take in the views. While the new pier is a welcome addition, some visitors have noted that it could benefit from more shade, especially during warmer months.
+1The pier's transformation has made it a popular spot for both locals and tourists, contributing to its lively atmosphere, especially on weekends and during summer.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at St Kilda Pier
+1For capturing the iconic city views, position yourself at the end of the pier and use a wide-angle lens to encompass the entire panorama.
Beyond the main attractions, look for unique shots like reflections in the water, the textures of the new boardwalk, or the vibrant colors of a sunset. The pier's modern design also offers interesting architectural lines to play with in your compositions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit