Victoria has many beaches along the coast. Some have big waves for surfers, and some are calm for families. You can go for a summer holiday or a short weekend trip. From famous places like Torquay to quiet beaches and parks, each one is special and worth visiting.
The Top 10 Best Beaches in Victoria
1. Torquay Beach
Known for: Starting point of the Great Ocean Road and Australia’s surf culture
Torquay is commonly referred to as the surf capital of Australia and is located only 95 km outside Melbourne. Beginners will have an opportunity to practice mild waves at the main beach, and experienced surfers will go to side breaks.
In the summertime, families fill the sand, and kids make castles, and the cafes located close to it serve hot fish and chips. There is also the Surf World Museum and the year-round surf competitions.
2. St Kilda Beach
Known for: City beach with penguins and a historic pier.
St Kilda is a local favourite within a distance of just 6 km of the center of Melbourne and has been in existence for over 150 years.
Swimming, bike riding along the foreshore, or walking the pier at sunset to view little penguins are all possible. The Sunday market, Luna Park, and cake shops in Acland Street make it a fun, traditional place to be.
3. Lorne Beach
Known for: Beach with rainforest and mountain views.
About 140 km along the Great Ocean Road, Lorne offers calm waters perfect for families. Here, the popular activities include paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming.
The city is surrounded by restaurants, and during the time of the Sculpture Biennale, huge artworks are placed along the shore. And after 10 minutes inland, you can have a cool dip in Erskine Falls.
4. Quarry Beach
Known for: A quiet beach inside Point Addis Marine National Park.
This small place of a hideout off Torquay is like a getaway. Quarry Beach is also good for snorkeling, rock pooling, and relaxing swims under the protection of the cliffs.
Shops and facilities are nonexistent, and you should pack everything that you may need for a basic day at sea.
5. Brighton Beach
Known for: Famous colorful bathing boxes.
Brighton Beach is a popular place that is only 11 km away, but is loved by Melbourne due to its row of 82 bright bathing boxes.
Facilities are good, and on a clear day you can see across the bay to the You Yangs mountains.
Read Also: Best Beaches in Tasmania
6. Ocean Grove Beach
Known for: Having huge sand dunes and excellent surf breaks for all skill levels.
Ocean Grove has 18 km of sand with massive dunes. This place is popular with surfers of all levels, with families enjoying patrolled spots and dog walkers visiting off-leash zones.
The Ocean Grove Nature Reserve is located behind the dunes, and it is ideal for sighting the wildlife in the area.
7. Chelsea Beach
Known for: Melbourne’s longest continuous stretch of sandy beach.
With a distance of approximately 10 km (Mordialloc to Frankston), Chelsea Beach is not as crowded as other beaches in Melbourne.
The small slope provides safe swimming conditions, and families like the parks, barbecues, and the playground. The long flats are useful for walking in and searching the shells at low tide.
8. Bells Beach
Known for: Hosting the world’s longest-running surf competition.
Bells Beach is the surfer’s paradise of Torquay. It has powerful waves that accommodate the Rip Curl Pro every Easter. Whether you are a surfer or not, the viewing platforms and cliffs are dramatic places to view the ocean. You have even more wonderful shoreline views when you walk to a nearby Winki Pop.
9. Squeaky Beach
Known for: Sand that literally squeaks when you walk on it.
Squeaky Beach is fun and beautiful, and it is located in Wilsons Promontory. The quartz sand is pure, and you are squeaking as you walk.
Granite boulders surround the beach, and the water is crystal clear, although usually cool. The Tidal River walk is part of the adventure, and it has an opportunity to see wombats.
10. Half Moon Bay
Known for: Shipwreck history and cliff jumping at the old HMAS Cerberus.
In the proximity of Black Rock, Half Moon Bay is composed of calm waters and the rusted parts of the HMAS Cerberus.
Red Bluff’s cliffs glow in the afternoon sun, and snorkelers often spot stingrays and colorful fish around the wreck. Families have visited for generations, enjoying fishing and swimming in this sheltered bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prettiest beach in Victoria?
Many people say Squeaky Beach is the prettiest. It has bright white sand, clear water, and granite rocks that make it very beautiful.
How many beaches are there in Victoria?
Victoria has hundreds of beaches along its long coastline. Some are busy and popular, while many are quiet hidden spots waiting to be explored.
Which beach is best for a weekend holiday?
Bells Beach and Squeaky Beach are great for longer visits. They offer natural beauty, space to relax, and views worth spending extra time enjoying.
What makes Victoria Beaches special?
Victoria has many different beaches. Some are good for surfing. Some are calm for families. Each beach has its own beauty and charm.
Are there any Victoria beaches near Melbourne city?
Yes. St Kilda and Brighton are very close. They are great for quick visits. Families love them, and there are shops nearby.
Final Words
Best beaches in Victoria prove you do not need to travel far to find great coastal spots. Some beaches, like St Kilda and Brighton are close to the city and good for a quick visit.
Others like Squeaky Beach and Bells Beach, are better for a full-day trip or weekend holiday. Every location is unique and will be either surfing, swimming or just sightseeing.
There is just too much sand to explore with all these choices. So pack your towel and sunscreen and see why Victoria’s beaches are some of the most loved in Australia.
