Spend a day by the sea in Melbourne’s historic port suburb and swimming beach to take in magnificent city views and see heritage Victorian architecture.

Visit the quaint maritime village of Williamstown to see Melbourne’s stunning city skyline through the crosshatching masts of tall yachts adorning the shoreline and the historic pier. Melbourne’s first port was established in 1837, and the city’s European history is exemplified in the beautiful Victorian and gold rush-era architecture of this gorgeous bayside suburb. Go for a dip at sandy Williamstown Beach or relax with a drink on the terrace of a heritage pub.

Begin your day in Williamstown with a visit to Nelson Place, a historic street that runs adjacent to the Hobsons Bay foreshore. Swing by a café to grab some breakfast and a coffee before strolling through the small waterfront park to the pier. Admire the vast collection of tall ships, yachts and boats that speckle the foreshore and check out the Seaworks Maritime Precinct to learn more about these elegant vessels.

Admire artworks and handcrafted items by Melbourne’s local craftspeople at the monthly Craft Market or the galleries that line the foreshore at Nelson Place.

Delve into Williamstown’s heritage at the Historical Museum or see history come to life on the spooky ghost tours that uncover the suburb’s past as a haunt for sailors and convicts. Set sail on a replica of Melbourne’s tall ship Enterprize, the first ship to carry European settlers up the Yarra River. Cruise sails depart from Williamstown once a month.

Stroll 20 minutes southwest from Nelson Place to reach Williamstown Beach. Explore the beach esplanade and swim in the waters of Port Phillip Bay. The beach’s eastern side has a pier, a leafy park and a picnic area, while the western side has the historic Williamstown Swimming and Life Saving Club.

In the evening, grab a seat at one of the many restaurants and bars lining Nelson Place and take in sweeping views of the city skyline, illuminated by the lights of the high-rise buildings.

Williamstown can be reached within 30 minutes by train from Flinders Street Station in the city centre. There are separate stations for the beach and the village. Alternatively, you can catch a ferry from Southgate in the CBD or make the 15-minute journey by car along the West Gate Freeway.