Brighton Beach

Known for its brightly-decorated beach boxes, Melbourne’s Brighton Beach lies to the south of the Central Business District on the eastern shores of Port Phillip. Stretching for close to a kilometre in length, it has the form of two gentle concave arches, so that from the air it looks similar to a long bow.

Widest at its northern end, it narrows as it reaches its one hundred year old beach boxes. Together with a pier and several cafes, Brighton Beach has a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere and is popular with local families.

The orange sand is a pleasant escape at any time of day, and the sparkling waters equally attractive whether you walk in the shallows, grab a paddle board, or take a dip. 

Swimming is safe between the flags, although you might want to use swim shoes to counter the rocky bottom. Cycles can be hired from beside the pier for coastal rides free of traffic and other obstacles.