St. Andrews Beach Visitor Guide
St. Andrews Beach
Located along the southern shores of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, St. Andrews Beach is a surf haven known for its windswept dunes and powerful waves. Less crowded than many of the region’s more popular beaches, this two-kilometre beach offers a peaceful escape and a wild energy that captures the spirit of the Bass Strait out front.
What Makes St. Andrews Beach Special
Just a short 16-minute drive from Searoad Ferries’ Sorrento terminal, St. Andrews Beach offers a rugged beauty that sets it apart from the Peninsula’s busier beaches. For locals and adrenaline junkies, this beach is synonymous with powerful surf and dramatic wells. Its exposed beach break offers fairly consistent rips, making it a favourite among experienced surfers looking for a thrilling ride.
But St. Andrews Beach is not just for surfers. During summer, when the surf waves tend to be calmer, the beach is also enjoyed by more casual wave riders, bodyboarders, and beachgoers. Nature lovers are drawn to the windswept dunes and peaceful walking tracks that make this stretch of coastline feel like a hidden gem on the Peninsula. Anglers and fishing enthusiasts also enjoy casting a line from the shore, particularly around dawn and dusk, when the beach is at its most serene and the fish are biting.
All year round, St. Andrews Beach offers different experiences for every type of beachgoer. And if you’re planning an extended stay, St. Andrews Beach has accommodation options that range from cosy coastal retreats to stylish holiday homes nestled among the dunes.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours every day
Things to Do
- Surfing
- Swimming
- Beach fishing
Safety Information
- St. Andrews Beach is not patrolled, so visitors should exercise caution when swimming or engaging in water activities.
- The beach has a general hazard rating of 8 of 10 (Highly Hazardous) according to Beach Safe.
How to Get To St. Andrews Beach
Nearby Attractions
St. Andrews Beach is surrounded by a variety of attractions that cater to all interests. If you’re in the mood for a detour or an extended stay, these nearby spots offer plenty of things to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you swim at St. Andrews Beach?
Swimming at St. Andrews Beach is generally not recommended due to its strong rips, unpredictable surf conditions, and the absence of lifeguards. If you are looking for a safer swimming experience, consider exploring the front beaches on the Mornington Peninsula, such as Rye Beach.
- How much does it cost to go to St. Andrews Beach?
There is no entry fee to visit St. Andrews Beach. It’s a completely free, natural attraction, making it a perfect destination for a spontaneous day trip or a budget-friendly getaway.
- Can you surf at St. Andrews Beach?
Yes. The St. Andrews Beach surf is considered some of the best on the Mornington Peninsula, known for its consistent swells and challenging breaks. It’s a hotspot for experienced surfers, though conditions can be rough, so always check St. Andrews Beach weather and surf forecast before heading out.
- How to get to St. Andrews Beach from Melbourne?
There are different ways to get to St. Andrews Beach:
By ferry: Drive from Melbourne to Queenscliff, then hop aboard Searoad Ferries where you’ll cross Port Phillip Bay to Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula. From there, it’s a 16-minute drive to St. Andrews Beach.
- By car: Head south on the Mornington Peninsula Freeway. The entire drive will take you almost two hours.
- By public transportation: Catch a train on the Flinders Street to Frankston Station. Then, take a cab to St. Andrews Beach.
- Is St. Andrews Beach pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at St. Andrews Beach as it is located within the Mornington Peninsula National Park. However, there are other pet-friendly beaches on the Mornington Peninsula, such as Rye Front Beach, Safety Beach, and Fossil Beach.
- Where is St. Andrews Beach?
St. Andrews Beach is located on the southern coast of the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia. It sits between Gunnamatta Surf Beach and Rye Ocean Beach, facing the wild waters of Bass Strait.