As a mum of two high energy mini wrecking balls, I know trips to the beach in summer are a brilliant way to tire the little tykes out. A leisurely few hours spent at the beach have all the makings of perfect summer memories. Especially if you have a connection who knows the best-kept secret of Melbourne beaches.
Mums know, however, it’s not as simple as it sounds. Getting the clan out of the house takes a bit of prep and a lot of groundwork. So let me be your local guide and share my intel with you.
So where is the best-kept secret of Melbourne Family Friendly Beaches?
I’m lucky enough to live in what I think is the best strip of Melbourne beaches, between Edithvale and Frankston on the southside. While most Melbournians flock to the inner city beaches on the days (the very rare days) the temperature soars, I’m busy making memories in the breathtakingly beautiful and quiet Melbourne beaches on the southside.
What sets these 6 beaches apart?
For me, it’s the fact they are all heavily geared towards families. These Melbourne beaches are regularly patrolled by lifeguards, most have a playground and BBQ facilities at arms reach and each has their own little secret draw card to entice you to make the trip southside.
Edithvale
Is well renowned by locals for its calm shallow waters and long stretch of soft white sand. Just the place to pack your bucket and spade to have those sandcastle sculpting competitions! I make a special trip to Edithvale beach to stop at the local health food cafe, pick up a coffee or smoothie bowl and bliss out on the sand while the kids swim.
Chelsea
Is a hive of activity which stems from the adjacent shopping mall. The kids are well catered for here with the beach front playground & BBQ area. A local secret is that often in the warmer months a seal comes to rest on the beach and say hello. The seal has become a bit of celebrity and is a big hit with my kids when he grunts and rolls about.
Bonbeach
This is where we spend our beach days. It is situated at the entrance of the Patterson River and is completely captivating for my kids as they watch the boats and Jet skis bustle towards the bay. There is also and amazing walking trail that passes under an enclosed foot bridge where the kids can watch as trains buzz past only meters away.
Carrum
Situated on the opposite side of the Patterson River to Bonbeach, you will often see families fishing, jet skiing and swimming at this lively southside beach. Perhaps the most alluring attraction, however, is a well kept secret unknown to many a local. Bright and early on Saturday mornings you will find racehorses being exercised along the beach. Witnessing these grand horses galloping along the water’s edge is worth getting up early for. To add to the attraction there is also another outstanding foreshore playground and BBQ area.
Seaford
Is a hidden gem that is often overlooked, making it perfect for a quiet day at the beach. Parents will be pleased to know there is a beachfront cafe perfect for filling up your caffeine tanks. The kids will also love exploring the foreshore boardwalk. Interestingly Seaford beach is one the last few areas of relatively untouched dune vegetation remaining in Victoria.
Frankston
With its recent multi million dollar upgrade Frankston beach is the place to dedicate a good couple of hours or the whole day if you can manage it. It offers a tremendous adventure playground for the kids, a spectacular pier and boardwalk, a landmark bridge as well as an ice-creamery and restaurants.
So much fun is waiting to be had! Planning a Family Outing in Melbourne? Make sure to check out these beaches on your trip!
Have you visited any of these beaches? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!
