Historically known as Sandridge, Port Melbourne is a former industrial hub that’s been transformed into one of Melbourne’s hippest beachfront suburbs. It lies where the Yarra River flows into Port Phillip Bay and is clustered with high-rise buildings housing upmarket apartments and trendy eateries.
Things to do in Port Melbourne
Wander between the shops that line Bay Street, which serves as the heart of all the action in Port Melbourne. In addition to one-of-a-kind boutiques and independent bookstores, it’s home to organic greengrocers, artisan bakeries and global eateries where you can grab lunch or dinner.
If you’re visiting in the summer months, you can cool off at Port Melbourne’s long strip of sand while watching the Spirit of Tasmania setting off for the Apple Isle. Photograph the old wooden pillars of Princes Pier, kick back in one of the waterfront green spaces or cycle along the Bay Trail as it hugs the coast of Port Phillip Bay.
After a cultural fix? See what’s taking place at the Gasworks Arts Park, a former gas plant that houses two theatres and several galleries where art exhibitions are regularly held. You can coincide your visit with a live performance, festival or market in this unique creative space, which is surrounded by a four-hectare parkland dotted with sculptures.
Getting around Port Melbourne
Port Melbourne is a 10-minute drive from the CBD or around 20 minutes from Melbourne Airport. It’s served by an extensive bus network, as well as tram route 109 which connects to Box Hill. Daily ferries from Tasmania arrive at Station Pier, which also welcomes cruise liners. Due to its compact size, Port Melbourne is easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle.