Most tourists make a beeline for Brighton, but it’s not the last word on bayside brilliance in Melbourne. Parkdale is a peaceful residential suburb 40 minutes from the city, but it feels like a  world away. Moving to Melbourne, I was secretly a bit sad about moving so far away from beautiful beaches. Growing up in Brisbane, between the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, I loved having the beach just an hour away.

I acknowledge the Boon Wurrung and Woiwurrung people as the First Nations owners of the lands now recognised as Melbourne. I pay respect to their Elders, lores, customs and creation spirits. I recognise that these lands have always been places of great natural beauty, culture and community. 

While Melbourne isn’t renowned for it’s beaches, it still has plenty to offer in terms of beautiful water, a sea breeze and even the  occasional warm swimming spot!

I was floored by the sparkling, aquamarine water in Parkdale, so clear that you could see every stone near the shore and  sandbanks drew pale blue stripes in the bay. I will definitely be spending lazy summer days plonked in the clear shallows. Because there are no waves I will be able to  just sit in the water and relax, without fear of losing my sunglasses, hat, umbrella (or bikini bottoms, like last time I went to Bribie Island). Not quite the same workout as a day spent in the surf, but definitely an easier day.

Parkdale has a number of cute cafes, like Parker’s Cafe just around the corner from the station, a few blocks from the beach. Their all-day breakfast menu is divine! For a chew with a view, grab a waterfront table or relax on a banana lounge at Parkdale Beach Cafe. There is often a wait, but it is worth it for the beautiful views that accompany your meal.

Get to Parkdale

Hop on the Frankston train line at Flinders St Station & get off at Parkdale, the trip takes around 40 minutes.

Have you been to Melbourne’s bayside areas? Where are your favourite beach cafes?

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Genevieve Lauren

Hello! I’m an Australian travel blogger, living in Melbourne, Australia. I grew up in Brisbane, studied in Paris, lived & worked in New York City and now live in Melbourne, Australia.

I love sharing specific and useful recommendations, itineraries and guides for the most beautiful things to see, do, experience & eat wherever I go.

My favourite travel destinations are Australia, New York City & surrounds, France, Greece & Japan, but I’m always excited to explore somewhere new!

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