Melbourne's beaches are certainly beautiful in the daytime, but once the sun goes down, they look entirely different. There's a lot to do at night, whether you're looking for a peaceful night by the ocean or something a bit more adventurous, here are some suggestions for getting the most out of your night by the ocean.
1. Sunset Views: A Perfect Start to the Evening
There's magic to seeing the sun set below the horizon on one of Melbourne's numerous beaches. Go to places like famous St Kilda Beach or Brighton Beach for a treat of a sunset. The glowing colours of the sky mirrored on the water are a peaceful start to the day. It's a great way to chill, unwind, and appreciate the beauty of Melbourne's coastline.
2. Evening Beach Walks: Peaceful and Invigorating
As the crowds thin out and the beach quietens down, the cool evening breeze makes a beach walk the perfect activity. Take a walk on the beach, hear the waves, and see the stars gradually coming out above. You can venture further into
Melbourne's beachfront districts, like the popular St Kilda Pier, where you can even catch some of the local penguins as they move towards the pier’s breakwater at dusk.
3. Night Markets: Dining and Shopping by the Sea
For an even more vibrant experience, try visiting one of Melbourne's beachside night markets.
St. Kilda Beach is a frequent residence to vibrant markets with food stalls, local art & craft, and live music. These are the perfect way to enjoy good food, shop original pieces, and have the vibrancy of the beach at night.
4. Stargazing by the Sea
If you're a fan of stargazing, Melbourne's beaches are a great spot to look up at the night sky. With minimal light pollution at some locations, such as Port Melbourne or Altona Beach, you can enjoy the beauty of the stars. Bring a blanket, lie back, and relax as you watch the constellations above. It's a tranquil way to connect with nature and spend time by the water.
5. Night Photography: Capturing Melbourne’s Coastal Beauty
Melbourne's beaches also make an ideal backdrop for nighttime photography. The soft glow of city lights, the dark sky, and the calm waves provide many possibilities to snap magnificent photos of the beach after dark. Whether you're a professional photographer or just love taking photos, the unusual lighting and ambience provide for some fantastic views.
6. Beach Bars and Nightlife: Enjoy a Drink by the Water
For those who want a bit of nightlife, Melbourne’s beaches have a number of beachfront bars offering drinks with a view. Both Brighton and St. Kilda have great live music venues with a laid-back atmosphere and spectacular seaviews. They are ideal to sit and have a drink with your friends or simply chill out and hear the noise of waves crashing nearby against you.
Conclusion
Once the sun goes down, Melbourne beaches are a haven for relaxation, entertainment, and Mother Nature. With sunset vistas and serene strolls, stargazing, and beach bars buzzing with activity, there is something for everyone to appreciate by the sea at night. Whether in the city for a visit or a resident wishing to
discover more of Melbourne, spending time on the beach in the evening presents a special and unforgettable experience.
