Despite a reputation for being the nation’s cultural capital, Victoria is a state just as familiar with decent beaches as it is eateries thanks to a lengthy coastline. You just need to know where to go, which is why we’ve gathered a list of Victoria’s best beaches to swim at this summer.
Squeaky Beach Having been named one of the world’s best sandy stretches, the idyllic Squeaky on Wilsons Promontory belongs among the list of the best beaches in Victoria. This 700-metre cove is named in reference to its squeaky white sand, which partnered with some re4 ident turquoise waters makes for an aesthetically pleasing beach day.
But for surfers, it’s Bells Beach in Torquay which is one of Victoria’s best. The Great Ocean Road resident fringed by limestone cliffs is not best known for its sunbathing potential but its consistently large swell, and playing host to the world-renowned Rip Curl Pro annually.
Dotted with vibrantly hued bathing boxes, Brighton Beach is one of Melbourne’s most popular places to kick back on the sand. It’s not just found within easy reach (or an easy tram) from the CBD, but sheltered waters make it safe for all ages to enjoy. Post-swim wander the jetty, or drop by the historic Espy for a beer.
Potentially Melbourne’s most famous beach, St Kilda deserves a place among the best beaches in Victoria. While it’s not Victoria’s most dreamy destination, you can swim, or simply join the healthy population of walkers and cyclists enjoying its manicured foreshore, or local institution St Kilda Sea Baths.
Nudging the naturally bountiful Great Otway National Park is Apollo Bay. Another must-visit along the Great Ocean Road, this seaside town and adjoining beach is popular all year through thanks to a lengthy precinct with plenty of surfing, swimming and fishing potential.
While Gippsland is better known for its rolling green hills, the district boasts beautiful beaches too. Like Ninety Mile Beach, a seemingly endless stretch which divides Gippsland Lakes from Bass Strait reaching alongside one slender sand dune. This place can claim to be Australia’s longest beach (as well as one of its most unspoilt).
On the swanky Mornington Peninsula lives the seaside town of Portsea and its handful of adjoining beaches. Swimmers should stick to the Front Beach, tucked safe and sound within Weeroona Bay, where calm waters are guaranteed and a jetty, and reef access provide entertainment.
Tourists flock to Great Ocean Road icon Lorne all year through, eager to enjoy its sheltered beach out front. Post-swim (or surf), the town’s neighbouring main strip is awash with celebrated bars, restaurants, galleries, and boutiques to explore.
Off the mainland is where you’ll find another of the best beaches in Victoria; Cape Woolamai. The Philip Island favourite nudges rugged pink granite cliffs, and is best known for its surfing over swimming options. But you can stick to the sand and enjoy it too; the Cape Woolamai walking trails are ripe with stunning scenery.
Surfers on the lesser-known (though no less lovely) Bellarine Peninsula are no stranger to swell-magnet that is Thirteenth Beach. Dog lovers will be pleased to hear there’s a section of off-leash areas to enjoy with man’s best friend.
A part of Port Philip, Half Moon Bay proves good things come in small packages. The quaint precinct is popular among locals, offering swimming potential as well as a shipwreck to explore (HMAS Cerberus wreck). Dogs are also welcome to join you too (though hours are restricted).
Then there’s Sorrento’s Ocean Beach, another of the best beaches in Victoria. There’s not just sand to explore, but an array of rock pools and rock ledges come low tide. After a day by the water’s edge, visitors can make the most of the 3km Coppins Walking Track and its lookouts nearby.
The Mornington Peninsula has no shortage of places to swim, and Rye Beach is no exception. Like the rest of this region, Rye booms in popularity in the warmer months, a pristine beach nudging Port Philip Bay and tempting families with its offerings of calm waters, camping, playgrounds, and places to eat.
Picturesque is an understatement when it comes to the Mornington Peninsula’s Mount Martha. Its main beach boasts an armful of vibrantly coloured bathing boxes along its 2km length, and is family-friendly thanks to calm waters. Just as beautiful (though less welcoming of swimmers) is neighbouring rocky outcrop The Pillars.
A hidden gem among the best beaches in Victoria, this idyllic swimming hole is off the beaten track quite literally; gain access to this sandy stretch on the eastern side of Wilsons Promontory via walking trail at Little Waterloo Bay. You can even spend the night with bush camping available.
