“Where are the best beaches?”
The pastel blue water and gentle, rippling waves at Carrum beach make it perfect for day-tripping families.
Poor old Melbourne tends to get it hard from other states in Australia when it comes to boasting of beaches. Sure, Western Australia and the East Coast claim to be home to many of Australia’s most famous beach locations. Even Tasmania got in on the action by recently claiming top spot in the top 10 beaches in Australia with its ‘Bay of Fires’. But as we know in many aspects of life, there are always hidden gems that sneak under the radar. And Victoria is home to more than a few of them,
For us Brits brought up on seaside visits to Blackpool, Bognor Regis or Margate, any of the beaches in Australia instantly trump our humble offerings. Perhaps only Newquay can hold its head up high but even then it wouldn’t particularly stand out in Australia. That’s why for the BRITlist Melbourne cohort, a list of the best beaches in and around Melbourne is of particular interest.
Without further ado and in no particular order, here are BRITlist’s favourite beaches in and around Melbourne. (Please note, this doesn’t include many amazing beaches on the Great Ocean Road or further afield in places like Wilsons Prom).
BEST BEACH FOR SURFING - PORTSEA BACK BEACH
A popular and well-known beach, Portsea Back Beach is loved by surfers and holidaymakers alike. Portsea Back Beach’s breaks for surfers occur over the bars and reefs. If you wish to have a swim in the ocean, make sure you stay between the flags as there can be some major rips here.
BEST BEACH FOR THAT INSTAGRAM PHOTO - BRIGHTON BEACH
In terms of the beach itself, Brighton Beach is much like any other in the Bayside area. However, it is the iconic beach boxes here which attract the Instagram crowd. If you’re looking to replicate your Windows screensaver then get yourself down here for a snap. Also, make sure you visit the recently-build Dendy Beach Pavilion which houses the popular ‘Beach House Brighton’ cafe.
BEST BEACH FOR FISH & CHIPS - HALF MOON BAY
As well as being a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, many are drawn to Half Moon Bay for two other reasons. Firstly there’s the sunken HMVS Cerberus that serves as a breakwater for the beach. This provides the beach with a historical and slightly quirky appeal, as many like to swim out to explore the sunken ship. However, the big draw for this beach is the fish & chips served directly out of the ‘Cerberus Beach House’ kiosk. Run by a couple whom originate from Yorkshire, the fish & chips here are famous around Melbourne.
BEST BEACH FOR CHILLING OUT - CARRUM BEACH
The white sands and calm, clear blue water at Carrum Beach make it a perfect destination for a lazy beach day. Big waves are a rarity here so if you’re not a strong swimmer or just want a dip to cool off, this is the beach for you. While Carrum Beach is a favourite of this BRITlist editor, any of the beaches nearby are of the same quality including Chelsea, Aspendale, Bonbeach and Edithvale.
BEST BEACH OVERALL - COWES BEACH
Recently named the 10th best beach and Australia (and the best beach in Victoria by virtue of it being the only one on the list), Cowes is the ultimate family beach. It’s north-facing aspect lends itself well to calm waters and a gentle swell meaning its safe and kid-friendly. If you’re not a person who enjoys the sand, then the nearby grassy verges will provide welcome comfort. A real holiday vibe is created with the nearby cafes and restaurants. Cowes Beach is a real ‘all-rounder’,