St Kilda Sea Baths
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St Kilda Sea Baths

4.4
·2k reviews·St Kilda, Australia

Oceanfront complex with a heated saltwater pool, spa, and restaurants, offering stunning bay views and penguin encounters nearby.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset

Penguin viewing magic

CrowdMedium
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St Kilda Sea Baths

St Kilda Sea Baths

Best Time

Sunset

Penguin viewing magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Oceanfront complex with a heated saltwater pool, spa, and restaurants, offering stunning bay views and penguin encounters nearby.

4.4
(2k reviews)

"Swim in the sea, see penguins, and enjoy great food with breathtaking bay views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐧 Penguin Viewing Tips

Arrive before sunset for best penguin sightings on St Kilda Pier. Bring warm clothes!

🏊‍♀️ Saltwater Swim Experience

Enjoy the unique heated saltwater pool with bay views. Great for a relaxing swim.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St Kilda Pier Penguins

St Kilda Pier Penguins

St Kilda Pier

Witness adorable penguins waddling home at sunset. A magical wildlife encounter with city skyline views.

Heated Saltwater Pool

Heated Saltwater Pool

St Kilda Sea Baths

Swim in a 25-meter heated saltwater pool directly from the sea, offering stunning bay vistas.

Captain Baxter's Brunch Club

Captain Baxter's Brunch Club

Captain Baxter, St Kilda Sea Baths

Indulge in a bottomless brunch with share plates and cocktails against a beachside backdrop.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Penguin Spotting

Catch the St Kilda Pier penguins returning at sunset! Arrive before dusk for the best chance to see them. Remember to bring warm layers, as it gets chilly by the bay, even after summer. Phone cameras might struggle to capture the magic, so soak it in.

Pool Access & Value Considerations

While the St Kilda Sea Baths offer a unique saltwater experience with great bay views, some visitors find the entry price higher compared to other local aquatic centers like MSAC. Consider multi-pass options if you plan frequent visits, but be aware of potential expiry dates.

Best Times

When
Sunset
Why
Penguin viewing magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Brunch vibes
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter swim
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Australian 🐁 just taking a swim in the ocean in St Kilda. #australiaadventures #stkilda #whv
@clorindasgromo
55.3K likes • 824.6K views

🐧 Penguin Viewing Tips

Arrive before sunset for best penguin sightings on St Kilda Pier. Bring warm clothes! TikTok

🏊‍♀️ Saltwater Swim Experience

Enjoy the unique heated saltwater pool with bay views. Great for a relaxing swim. Instagram

Introducing the newly renovated St Kilda Pier that’s just reopened 🥳 #melbourne #melbournethingstodo #melbourneactivities #australia #melbournedateideas #stkildapier
@biancainmelbourne
44.3K likes • 653.5K views
Poppie is back for another tour - the South Pacific St Kilda Sea Baths🌊 #stkilda #seabaths #SouthPacific #fitness #25yearsstrong
southpacificstkilda
85 likes • 3.3K views

🍽️ Brunch with a View

Captain Baxter offers a popular bottomless brunch with stunning seaside vistas. Book ahead! Instagram

🧘‍♀️ Rooftop Yoga

Join community yoga sessions on the rooftop for a unique wellness experience. Instagram

Captain Baxter’s iconic bottomless brunch just got a glow-up ✨ Introducing Baxter’s Brunch Club — a new weekend ritual at the St Kilda Sea Baths, where beachside views meet share-style plates and free-flowing cocktails 🍸🌊 Here’s what your 2-hour session includes: 🍽️ 8 curated share dishes – think Hiramasa kingfish, prawn & chive dumplings, duck sausage bao, and crispy fried chicken with kimchi s...
dishh.out
0 likes • 7.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐧 Penguin Viewing Tips

Arrive before sunset for best penguin sightings on St Kilda Pier. Bring warm clothes! TikTok

🏊‍♀️ Saltwater Swim Experience

Enjoy the unique heated saltwater pool with bay views. Great for a relaxing swim. Instagram

🍽️ Brunch with a View

Captain Baxter offers a popular bottomless brunch with stunning seaside vistas. Book ahead! Instagram

🧘‍♀️ Rooftop Yoga

Join community yoga sessions on the rooftop for a unique wellness experience. Instagram

⚠️ Lost Property Caution

Be mindful of personal items; lost suits were reportedly discarded by cleaning staff. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the unique heated saltwater pool and magnificent bay views at St Kilda Sea Baths. The adjacent pier is a hit for penguin spotting at sunset. However, some find the entry price steep compared to other facilities, and caution is advised regarding lost personal items.

"St Kilda Sea Baths is a unique swimming pool where you can experience the pleasure of bathing in salt water that has been derived directly from the sea and heated to a soothing temperature - Right by the ocean! They have a heated 25-meter seawater pool, hydrotherapy spa pool, unisex aromatherapy steam room and a lounge area offering magnificent views of the bay. - Hamish John Appleby // APPLEBY PHOTOGRAPHY"

Hamish John Appleby

"Went to watch the Tiny penguins come home for the night from the pier. Very good viewing platform newly opened. Arrive before sunset, but don't be surprised if your phone camera doesn't do what you see justice. Bring something warm to wear after summer. It gets chilly. Great views over the Melbourne city skyline."

Dave Pinniger

"Lovely pool. Both me and my partner lost suits there and couldn’t recover them the next day. Turns out the cleaning staff just throw them out. Be careful not to leave anything behind!"

Laura Nicholson

What People Like

Unique saltwater pool
Stunning bay views
Penguin viewing on pier

What People Dislike

Higher entry cost
Lost property issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St Kilda Sea Baths are easily accessible by public transport. Tram routes 16 and 96 stop nearby. Driving is also an option, with parking available at the adjacent car park, though it can be busy. Reddit

Yes, there is an adjacent car park. However, it can get crowded, especially during peak times and events. Consider public transport or ride-sharing if possible. Reddit

Absolutely! St Kilda is a popular cycling and walking destination. There are paths along the foreshore, and you can cycle from other parts of Melbourne. Instagram

Taking Tram 16 or 96 from the Melbourne CBD is a direct and convenient way to reach St Kilda Sea Baths. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. TikTok

For a scenic approach, consider cycling or walking along the bayside path from areas like Elwood or Brighton. The views of the bay and city skyline are beautiful. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, especially for different facilities like the pool, spa, and restaurants. It's best to check the official St Kilda Sea Baths website for the most up-to-date information on hours for each area. Reddit

Entry prices can vary. While some reviews mention it's 'not cheap' and 'more than double' other facilities, they offer a unique saltwater experience. Check their website for current admission fees and any multi-pass options. Reddit

For general pool entry, booking in advance might not always be necessary, but it's recommended during busy periods or for specific events. For popular dining options like Captain Baxter's brunch, advance booking is highly advised. Instagram

Multi-pass swims are sometimes offered, which can be cost-effective for frequent visitors. However, be aware of potential expiry dates on these passes. Reddit

Entry typically includes access to the heated 25-meter seawater pool. Additional facilities like the hydrotherapy spa, steam room, and lounge areas may have separate charges or be part of specific packages. Instagram

🎫 🏊‍♀️ Onsite Experience

You can swim in the heated saltwater pool, relax in the hydrotherapy spa and steam room, enjoy bay views from the lounge, and dine at the onsite restaurants. The nearby pier is also popular for penguin viewing. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the 25-meter seawater pool at St Kilda Sea Baths is heated to a comfortable temperature, making it enjoyable for swimming year-round. Instagram

While not directly at the baths, the St Kilda Pier, adjacent to the Sea Baths, is a well-known spot to see Little Penguins returning at sunset. TikTok

Yes, South Pacific Health Club at the Sea Baths offers various classes, and community yoga sessions are held on the rooftop. Instagram+1

The Sea Baths offer magnificent views of Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne city skyline, especially from the lounge areas and rooftop. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Captain Baxter is a popular restaurant and bar within the complex, known for its bottomless brunch and Italian pizzas, offering great sunset views. InstagramReddit

Captain Baxter is a popular venue for events, including music events and exclusive lunches, often featuring DJs and a vibrant atmosphere. Instagram

While Captain Baxter offers full dining, other cafes and eateries are available in the wider St Kilda area for casual coffee and snacks. TikTok

Captain Baxter's share-style brunch menu often includes a variety of dishes that can cater to different dietary needs, but it's best to inquire directly about specific vegetarian or vegan options. Instagram

The restaurants, particularly Captain Baxter, offer a dynamic atmosphere with beachside views, making them ideal for enjoying sunsets and lively weekend events. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the bay, the Melbourne skyline, the pier, and the penguins at sunset. The architecture of the Sea Baths themselves also makes for interesting photos. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can photograph the penguins on St Kilda Pier. However, be aware that phone cameras might not capture the detail as well as you'd hope, and it's best to focus on the experience. TikTok

Bioluminescent algae have been spotted in St Kilda waters, offering a rare and magical photography opportunity. Check local conditions and be prepared for low-light photography. TikTok

Sunset is ideal for capturing the penguins and the city skyline. Golden hour light also enhances the beauty of the bay and the Sea Baths architecture. TikTok

Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, for commercial photography or drone usage, specific permits and permissions may be required. Always check signage and local regulations. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families can enjoy a visit to the St Kilda Sea Baths, particularly the heated saltwater pool which is great for all ages. The adjacent St Kilda Pier is a highlight, offering a chance to spot the Little Penguins returning at sunset – a magical experience for children. TikTok

While the Sea Baths themselves are more geared towards adults and fitness, the wider St Kilda foreshore offers playgrounds and open spaces for kids to run around. Dining options like Captain Baxter can accommodate families, though it's worth checking their menu for kid-friendly choices. Remember to bring warm clothing for the pier visit, especially after dark. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, St Kilda Sea Baths might be a splurge. While the pool entry has a cost, consider it for the unique saltwater experience and bay views. Some reviews suggest other local pools offer better value for money. Reddit

However, you can still enjoy the St Kilda area on a budget. Walking along the beach, exploring St Kilda Pier to see the penguins (free!), and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the Esplanade are all excellent, cost-free activities. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the bay instead of dining at the more upscale restaurants. TikTok

couples

St Kilda Sea Baths offer a romantic setting, especially with the stunning bay views and the option for a sunset swim. The hydrotherapy spa and steam room provide a perfect opportunity for couples to relax and unwind together. Instagram

For a special date, consider booking Captain Baxter's bottomless brunch, which combines delicious food, free-flowing cocktails, and a picturesque beachside backdrop. Enjoying the sunset from the restaurant or the pier after a relaxing swim can create a memorable experience. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Evolution of St Kilda Sea Baths

The St Kilda Sea Baths have a rich history, with the original baths opening in the 1860s. They were established to provide a safe and private space for swimming in the bay. The current complex is a modern redevelopment, with the original structure having been rebuilt in the early 2000s. This evolution reflects St Kilda's enduring appeal as a seaside destination. Instagram

The baths have always been a place for recreation and wellness. From early public bathing to the modern facilities offering spa treatments and fitness classes, the core purpose of providing a refreshing and rejuvenating experience by the sea remains. The integration of a heated saltwater pool directly sourced from the ocean is a key feature that connects the modern baths to their historical roots. Instagram

Today, the St Kilda Sea Baths complex is more than just a swimming pool; it's a vibrant hub that includes dining, fitness, and wellness services. It continues to be a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a unique seaside experience, blending historical significance with contemporary amenities. InstagramReddit

Wildlife Encounters: Penguins and Bioluminescence

One of the most enchanting experiences near the St Kilda Sea Baths is the chance to see the Little Penguins returning to their burrows on St Kilda Pier at sunset. This natural spectacle draws visitors who hope to catch a glimpse of these charming creatures waddling ashore after a day at sea. It's a reminder of the diverse wildlife that inhabits Melbourne's coastal areas. TikTok

Beyond the penguins, St Kilda has occasionally been graced by the magical phenomenon of bioluminescent algae. These microscopic organisms can light up the water with an ethereal glow, creating a truly breathtaking sight. While sightings are not guaranteed and depend on specific environmental conditions, they offer a rare and unforgettable natural display for those lucky enough to witness it. TikTok

When visiting for wildlife viewing, it's crucial to be respectful of the animals and their habitat. Maintain a safe distance, avoid using flash photography, and follow any guidelines provided by local authorities or park rangers to ensure the well-being of the wildlife. TikTok

Fitness and Wellness at the Baths

The St Kilda Sea Baths are a destination for fitness and wellness enthusiasts. South Pacific Health Club, located within the complex, offers a range of fitness facilities and classes, catering to various interests and fitness levels. This provides an opportunity to combine a swim with a comprehensive workout. Instagram

Beyond traditional gym activities, the Sea Baths also host unique wellness events. Rooftop yoga sessions offer a serene environment to practice, with stunning bay views enhancing the experience. These classes foster a sense of community and well-being, making the Sea Baths a holistic destination for health-conscious visitors. Instagram

For those seeking relaxation and recovery, the hydrotherapy spa pool and aromatherapy steam room provide therapeutic benefits. These facilities are designed to soothe muscles, reduce stress, and promote overall relaxation, complementing the active pursuits available at the baths. Instagram

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