St Kilda is a remarkable place. It is situated on one of the most picturesque points of the Bay a short distance from the city, has safe sandy beaches, and yet for decades was shunned by Melbournites because it was the haunt of prostitutes and druggies.
It wasn't always like that. Back in the first half of the century, St Kilda was one of the most fashionable suburbs of Melbourne with grand homes and grand bpeople. Today, it is enjoying a resurgence.
Entrance to Luna Park, St Kilda
This bayside suburb is now one of the main tourist destinations and is renowned for its picturesque bayside setting, close proximity to the city, beaches, music venues, restaurants and cafe lifestyle.
Acland Street: one of Melbourne's Food Precincts and is also a long-time favourite of Melbournians and tourists alike because of its famous cakes shops. It is now the number one stop for backpackers because of the busy cafes and close proximity to St Kilda's beaches.
Upper Esplanade: has fantastic views of the Bay with the newly
restored and refurbished St Kilda Baths and Royal Yacht Squadron
in the foreground. The landmark Esplanade Hotel is a venue for
music gigs. On Sundays, a craft market is held on the Upper Esplanade.
Lower Esplanade: directly opposite the beach and beachside restaurants is known for a number of landmarks including Luna Park fun
fair, Palais Theatre (now a popular concert venue) and the St
Kilda Baths (for years the venue for shady nightclubs but is now
restored to its former glory).
Luna
Park:historic
fun fair that is the best known St Kilda landmark. The laughing
face facade and roller coaster have both been classified by
the National Trust.
St Kilda Botanic Gardens: situated in Blessington Street
(off Ackland Street), also known
as Blessington Gardens, are a delightful sanctuary that is one
of St Kilda's best kept secrets. Its rose gardens are spectacular
and among the best in Melbourne.
Robe Street: a fashionable street off Acland Street with some
lovely Edwardian houses.
