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Paddling in St Kilda, Melbourne
Written by Jess Davies /
Highlights
Paddling In & Around St Kilda
Since the late 70’s and early 80’s St Kilda has been the Melbourne hub of popular watersports, windsurfing and kitesurfing. More recently the boom of Stand Up Paddling has seen this new sub-culture also embrace St Kilda beaches.
It’s proximity at the northernmost part of Pt Phillip Bay gives it the uniqueness of being mere kilometres from the CBD.
The palm-lined sweeping boulevard that flanks St Kilda gives the keen paddler many options to park, launch and paddle.
If you don’t own a sup or are taking a few friends along, simply drop into Kite Republic, who are also located within the Sea Baths complex. Their friendly, knowledgeable staff can help you out with hire boards, lessons and advice. It does pay to book ahead on a weekend.
There is also KR Sup Centre that stocks a comprehensive range of boards, paddles and accessories to suit beginner to advanced paddlers. Again, the staff are experienced, passionate paddlers and can help guide you through your sup journey.
Make a day out in St Kilda & you’ll keep coming back!
Route directions
The focal point is the St Kilda Pier and Marina which offers ideal, protected paddling within the breakwall and harbour. Paddling around the moorings with a view of the city skyline on a sunny day is always a treat.Paddle under the pier and heading east will take you towards Elwood and Brighton.Suddenly the busy boulevard traffic noise makes way for a more serene experience as you hug the coast and the acres of foreshore parkland and reserves. There’s a few reefs and old mussel beds to explore and it’s an easy way to shun the crowd on a busy, hot summer’s day.Heading to the west towards Albert Park and Pt Melbourne, you’ll be greeted by the distinctive sight of “Big Red”, which is the Spirit of Tasmania. It’s the passenger car ferry that connects Victoria with Tasmania.
Local knowledge
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Sat nav
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Nearest parking
Access to St Kilda via public transport is easy. Jump on an iconic Melbourne tram or catch a bus. Parking is relatively easy, with paid parking on Jacka Blvd, Pier Rd and the Sea Baths.
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Launch point
All the parking areas above allow easy access to the water to launch your board.
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Places to eat and drink
Post paddle options are numerous around St Kilda. You can literally paddle to the front entrance of the St Kilda Sea Baths where you’ll find The Boardwalk Takeout. Ange and his crew arguably make the best beachside coffee around, combined with awesome homemade food and an unrestricted view of Pt Phillip Bay.
If you prefer to go upmarket, walk next door [if you’re suitably attired] to Republica and there you’ll find a large, cosseting courtyard venue offering a large range of food, drinks and live entertainment.
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