Brighton Beach is actually a generic name for three different parts of Port Phillip Bay. Upper Brighton Beach leads into Middle Brighton Beach, known primarily for its historic sea baths and iconic pier. But one of the main attractions is undoubtedly Dendy Street Beach, whose famous beach huts have made it one of the most photographed locations on this picturesque stretch of coastline.These brightly painted huts, or “bathing boxes”, date back to the Victorian era, when sea bathers protected their modesty by changing in privacy. The heritage-protected boxes are still in use today, with annual licences highly sought-after among local families seeking a convenient and novel base on the beach. The modest wooden-framed structures are all built to the same practical design, with weatherboard sides and corrugated-iron roofs, but have been decorated in highly individual styles and striking colours. Weekends in particular are a good time to stroll along the beach and maybe catch a quick glimpse inside the occupied huts.Brighton’s three beaches are all patrolled by lifeguards and the waters are generally calm, making them popular and safe places for bathing. The grassy foreshore provides plenty of recreational opportunities, from picnicking to ball games, while separate walking and cycling paths along Port Phillip Bay offer wonderful panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline on one side and the ocean on the other.Brighton Beach is situated in the upmarket suburb of Port Phillip Bay and is easily accessible by bus or via the Sandringham train. Alternatively, it’s around a 30-minute drive from the centre of Melbourne and there is a pay car park nearby. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen and drinking water, as the sun can get very strong, especially in high season.
Brighton Beach
Visit Brighton Beach
Aspire Melbourne
Reviewed on 26 Mar 2024
Quincy Hotel Melbourne
Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024
Tours & day trips
See all 301 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Melbourne: Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour
History & culture
See all 77 activitiesOpens in new tabMigrants Tour of Melbourne - Sydney Road
Private & custom tours
See all 73 activitiesOpens in new tabSydney to Melbourne 5 Star Bus Tour VIA Great Ocean Road
Adventure & outdoor
See all 30 activitiesOpens in new tabOutdoor Rock Climbing and Abseiling Tour
Water activities
See all 25 activitiesOpens in new tabMelbourne: 2-Hour City Highlights River Cruise
Reviews of Brighton Beach
5/5 - Excellent
Visit the beach houses but be warned, there are lots of tourists!
Popular places to visit
Elwood Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Elwood Beach during your travels in Melbourne? Make some time to visit the shops while you're in the area.
Sandringham Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Sandringham Beach during your travels in Melbourne? Make some time to visit the shops while you're in the area.
St. Kilda Botanical Gardens
This historic botanical garden has a modern twist, incorporating a fascinating Eco-Centre into its green lawns, stunning native flowerbeds and rose garden.
St Kilda Beach
From rollercoasters to rock bands, fine dining to fish and chips, St Kilda is the archetypal seaside resort.
Acland Street
Everyone knows the way to Melbourne’s heart is through the stomach and this famous dining strip in St. Kilda has been winning hearts for nearly a century.
Luna Park
Enjoy old-fashioned thrills and state-of-the-art spills at this famous Melbourne landmark.
Top Brighton Beach Hotel Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Brighton Beach
- Holidays and getaways similar to Brighton Beach
- Hotels Near Brighton Beach
- Hotels near other Attractions
- More Hotel Options in Brighton Beach
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Hotels near Brighton Bathing Boxes
- Hotels near Crown Casino
- Hotels near Melbourne Central
- Hotels near Marvel Stadium
- Hotels near Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Hotels near Queen Victoria Market
- Hotels near Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Hotels near Collins Street
- Hotels near Rod Laver Arena
- Hotels near Bourke Street Mall
- Hotels near University of Melbourne
- Hotels near Aami Park
- Hotels near Monash University
- Hotels near Chadstone Shopping Mall
- Hotels near Melbourne Zoo
- Hotels near Princess Theatre
- Hotels near St Kilda Beach
- Hotels near Royal Melbourne Hospital
- Hotels near Flemington Racecourse
- Hotels near Royal Botanic Gardens