Suburb Spy: The 12 most unmissable attractions of St Kilda

What do you think when you hear the name ‘St Kilda’? Sun-drenched vistas? Seafront roller coasters and palm-lined foreshores?

Us, too. But is it the same in a post-pandemic world?

Don’t worry – it’s?even?better.

From the bronzed beach dwellers to the brilliant beachside dwellings, there’s no doubt St Kilda has a taste of something special – for everyone.??

St Kilda’s best belly-fillers – and the locals’ favourites

If you’re someone who prefers to dine where the locals do, don’t fret – we’ve got the scoop. (Of chips, that is!)

Northern Soul Chip Shop

Northern Soul isn’t just your everyday fish and chip shop. This is British and Irish homely cuisine –?at?its finest.

A food-truck-turned-brick-and-mortar business, Northern Soul is one of St Kilda’s most loved and prized eateries. So adored, in fact, that the locals call this bad boy their ‘institution’ of community soul food. (Fitting, given the name.)

Start your day with a traditional Irish breakfast butty with Northern’s signature ‘soul sauce’. Or fill your stomach with a hearty plate of the ol’ classic, battered fish and chips.

Donovans

Another local restaurant that has stood the test of time is everyone’s ‘home by the sea’, Donovans.

With Mediterranean-inspired cuisine fashioned from the freshest local ingredients, you’ll delight in the superb food and lux, yet cosy, setting.

When the sun is warm and the beach thronging, you can people-watch from the terrace: sipping on a crisp peninsula chardonnay and tucking into a selection of ‘Donovans oysters’.

And after the Melbourne chill inevitably sets in, you can come inside and snuggle up next to the fireplace. Sip a hot tea or shiraz – and stare out at the moody ocean and skies beyond.

Frankie’s Top Shop

In a tree-lined street named Cowderoy – just a stone’s throw from the foreshore – sits a milk bar and delicatessen called Frankie’s Top Shop.

Owned and operated by professional chef (and award-winning food author) Michele Curtis, Frankie’s serves only the most body, mind and soul-enriching foods.

Known by the locals for its Ottolenghi-style salads – perfect for those on a plant-based diet – there’s also plenty of delicious and nutritious sweet treats. (Banana and chia bread or a protein ball, anyone?)

And don’t stress if you run out of staples. Frankie’s also stocks all the healthy take-home goodies and meals you’ll need to get you through the week.

Stokehouse

If you’re looking for the ultimate juxtaposition of ‘relaxed’ fine dining, then look no further than Stokehouse (2.0).

In 2014, Melbourne’s collective heart broke when a kitchen fire set this well-loved institution ablaze – leaving it beyond repair. It was never in question: the rebuild?had to?take place.

It reopened in December 2016 – with a breathtaking, all-new interior (and unparalleled views of Port Phillip Bay!)

Stokehouse’s award-winning food and wine list boasts locally sourced produce and a prized selection of Australia’s elite vineyards: matched, with precision, to every course.

St Kilda’s rich slice of history

St Kilda has changed its face many times over the last century.

But in today’s ever-changing landscape, some of the greats have survived. And for good reason: they’re the heart and soul of this seaside suburb.

Luna Park

This theme and attraction park is quintessential St Kilda. Just try to find some imagery of St Kilda without the giant open clown mouth inviting you in for a day of fun and adventure. (To clarify: his name is ‘Mr Moon’.)

This iconic site first opened its doors (well…?mouth!) in 1912. And has been the epicentre of entertainment ever since.

With over 100 rides and attractions, Luna Park is a fun day out for the entire family.

Palais Theatre

Right next door to Mr Moon stands another building rich with history and charm. Yep… It’s the illustrious Palais Theatre.

Since 1927, the Palais has staged some of the biggest music acts to ever visit Melbourne. That includes the likes of Shirley Bassey, Tom Jones and the Rolling Stones – to name a few. But this much-loved venue also houses comedy, theatre shows and independent artists from across the world.

The Sea Baths

Flaunting dining, bars, and a seawater pool – plus a range of health and leisure activities – the St Kilda Sea Baths are the life and soul of the foreshore.

This indoor ocean water pool is heated to a soothing ambient temperature, while still giving you that saltwater refresh and glow up.

Looking out across the famous St Kilda pier, be sure to make the most of the sea’s proximity, too, by hiring a paddleboard or learning how to kitesurf.

And after water play, you’ll be ready to eat. Luckily, there’s plenty of options.?

From the beachside bungalow-style dining of Captain Baxter to the family-friendly umbrellas of the Beachcomber café and kiosk, you’ll find something to satisfy every craving.??

St Kilda’s evening experiences

It’s so easy to lose track of time in this vibrant suburb, that you’ll quickly find yourself looking for somewhere to go after dark.

The Esplanade Hotel (or the ‘Espy’)

Looking for a venue you can literally spend?all?day in? Head down to the Espy.

Built in 1878, much of the building had fallen into disrepair until a full-scale renovation in 2016.

After reopening in 2018 with five levels and a host of unique spaces, the Espy has fast become a favourite meetup for Melburnians the city over.

Whether you’re looking to sip world-class cocktails, have a high-quality dining experience, or boogie into the early hours – there’s something at the Espy for every vibe and tribe.

Trinity St Kilda

On the other side of Brighton Road (but still very much in the action zone) is Trinity St Kilda. Formerly the 'Holy Trinity Church Hall' – now the area’s newest local bar and event space.

Relax with a drink on the communal tables and meet some locals, as you feast on the seriously tasty delights served up by the on-site food trucks.

Or head inside to appreciate the exposed beams, emerald-green seating and a regal gold finish, the building balances a stylish, sophisticated aesthetic with a warm and welcoming vibe. With a mezzanine floor space overlooking a bar that caters to private events, it’s the perfect spot for a special celebration of any kind.

St Kilda’s sizzling summer sessions

When the sun’s out, St Kilda is the go-to spot for special events.

So, if you’re planning a trip to this bayside hotspot for some summertime fun, circle February in your calendar. That’s when the magic unfolds.

St Kilda Festival?

Nothing screams the St Kilda lifestyle like a nine-day festival celebrating music, the arts and everything in between.

Splayed across a kilometre of foreshore, you’ll find rides, parades, workshops, visual art displays and extreme sports. Basically, if you can dream it, you’ll probably find it at this unique –?and free?– event.?

Bring the whole family or grab some friends and head to one of the adults-only areas. And with pop-up bars?popping up?among the activities, you can grab an ice-cold beer or delight in a glass of sparkling – while still being deep in the action.

The action culminates with ‘Festival Sunday’. Held every year on the second Sunday in February, it boasts international music acts and a wild (but community-friendly!) party to wind it all up. In the most St Kilda of ways, too – completely out there!

Twilight Beach Polo

This star-studded event is relatively new on the St Kilda social calendar – but it’s fast become a February crowd favourite.

Right on the sands of St Kilda West Beach, it ticks all the boxes of a classic Melbourne affair.

World-class sport? Check. Incredible fashion? Check. Great food and drinks in a buzzing atmosphere??Check!

Enjoy a VIP experience in one of the sponsored tents, or simply bask in the sun, sipping champagne and watching the horseplay. Feeling more energetic? Get yourself over to the entertainment stage and dance away the evening to live music acts and DJs.?

Barefoot Cinema

Every February, Barefoot Cinema invites you to spread out your blanket and get comfortable in the luscious botanical gardens. Then, hunker down to watch a good film from a grassy knoll – under the expansive evening sky.

Prefer to travel in VIP style? Simply show up, choose your favourite seating option, then sit back and enjoy your bottomless popcorn.

Before you settle in for the screening, you can treat yourself to an ice-cold craft beer or vodka-soda at the Barefoot Bar – and sample some delights from the food trucks available.

Got a sweet tooth? Grab your sugar hit from The Barefoot Candy Bar. (Quick, though – the movie’s starting!)

Looking to live somewhere closer to the St Kilda action??Contact our St Kilda office ?– we’d be happy to help make that a reality!