Backpacker's guide to Barkly Street, St Kilda
Planning a trip to Melbourne and looking for the best area to stay on a budget? Welcome to Barkly Street in St Kilda — a lively pocket of Melbourne that has everything a backpacker could ask for. Think cosy cafés, live music bars, vintage shops, beach vibes, and plenty of places to meet other travellers.
Just a short walk from St Kilda Beach, Acland Street, and the area’s famous parks and reserves, Barkly Street is the perfect base for anyone who wants to experience the laid-back side of Melbourne without missing out on the action.
In this backpacker’s guide to Barkly Street, we’ll show you where to eat, sleep, and hang out - so you can make the most of your St Kilda adventure, whether you’re here for a weekend or a long stay.
Where is Barkly Street?
Barkly Street runs north to south through St Kilda (postcode 3182), Melbourne, Victoria. It’s part of the City of Port Philip and connects directly to some of St Kilda’s best parks, cafes, and fashion boutiques. Getting there is easy by tram or bus from Melbourne's city centre, a quick trip that puts you close to some of the best things to do in Melbourne.
What to eat in Barkly Street
Barkly Street’s culinary scene is casual, varied, and perfect for travellers on a budget. From seafood and vegan bites to hearty modern meals, here are some of the best cheap eats worth your time.
Lady of St Kilda
- Address: 204 Barkly St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
- Opening hours:
- Sun – Thurs: 6:30 AM – 9 PM
- Fri – Sat: 6:30 AM – 10 PM
- Price range: $20 – 40
- Must-try item: Shakshuka with Pita, The Captain’s Hummus.
A Mediterranean-inspired restaurant known for its colourful, health-focused dishes and sun-soaked interiors. It combines local produce with global flavours, offering fresh, wholesome meals perfect for a beachside brunch.
Greenzilla
- Address: 223 Barkly St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
- Opening hours:
- Mon – Fri: 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM
- Sat and Sun: 2:30 PM – 10:30 PM
- Price range: $20 - 40
- Must-try item: Butter Cheekin pizza and Aussie BBQ burger.
Greenzilla serves mouthwatering Greek cuisine that combines hearty wraps, burgers, pizza, and salads in a laid-back setting. The portions are generous, the service is friendly, and the prices are perfect for budget travellers.
Claypots Seafood Bar
- Address: 213 Barkly St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
- Opening hours: Wed – Mon: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Price range: $40 – 60
- Must-try item: Gumbo, Chilli Crabs O Mussels.
As a seafood restaurant with a cult following, Claypots is known for its relaxed atmosphere and live music nights. Expect sizzling seafood platters, Mediterranean-style mussels, and fresh local catches cooked to perfection.
Best cafes & bakery on Barkly Street
If you are looking for a coffee shop or bakery, Barkly Street has plenty of cosy spots to choose from. These cafes and bakery options give a healthy way to start your day with cakes or a strong espresso.
Asap Room Melbourne
- Address: 100A Barkly St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
- Opening hours:
- Mon -Fri: 7 AM – 4 PM
- Sat and Sun: 8 AM – 4 PM
- Price range: $1 - 20
- Must-try item: Plant-based banh mi.
Asap Room is a Thai restaurant that serves artisan coffee and fusion-style brunches in a cosy, minimalist space. Their vibrant decor and fast service make it a perfect stop before heading to the park or beach.
Woodfrog Bakery St Kilda
- Address: 108 Barkly St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
- Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 7 AM – 3 PM
- Price range: $1 - 20
- Must-try item: Almond croissant, Sourdough sandwich.
Woodfrog Bakery is a local institution known for its hand-shaped sourdoughs, flaky pastries, and delicious sandwiches. It’s the go-to bakery for travellers craving a freshly baked breakfast before exploring other things to do in St Kilda.
Jerry Milkbar
- Address: 345 Barkly St, Elwood VIC 3184, Australia
- Opening hours:
- Mon – Fri: 7 AM – 3 PM
- Sat and Sun: 8 AM – 3 PM
- Price range: $20 – 40
- Must-try item: Lemon ricotta pancakes
This retro-style milkbar cafe serves nostalgic Aussie breakfast favourites with a modern twist. Its friendly service and hearty portions make it a hidden gem for both locals and visitors.
Clothing stores on Barkly Street
The shopping strip features a diverse mix of fashion stores, ranging from sportswear to custom tailoring. This makes it great for backpackers seeking to refresh their wardrobe or pick up something unique.
Prime Athletic
- Address: Acland Street Village, 227 Barkly St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
- Opening hours:
- Mon, Wed, Thurs, & Fri: 11 AM – 6 PM
- Tue: 1 PM – 6 PM
- Sat & Sun: 10:30 AM – 4 PM
- Price range: From $110
Prime Athletic stocks quality sportswear and casual clothing. It’s an ideal spot for stylish yet comfortable gear that suits Melbourne’s easy-going lifestyle.
St Kilda Tailor
- Address: 154 Barkly St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
- Opening hours:
- Mon, Tue, Thurs, & Fri: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
- Sat: 9:30 AM – 2 PM
- Price range: $5.70 – 238
This local clothing store offers made-to-measure suits and custom alterations. It’s a great shop if you need something fitted for a special event or night out.
Bollywood Fashion ‘n’ Beauty
- Address: 567 Barkly St, West Footscray VIC 3012, Australia
- Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Price range: From $20
The store is renowned for its vibrant fabrics and distinctive styles. It's where fashion meets culture, and you can find vibrant accessories and dresses at great prices.
Where to get some fresh air if you stay near Barkly Street
When you need a break from the shopping or coffee shops, you can always find a
reserve park nearby. These green spaces are ideal for morning walks or relaxed afternoons outdoors.
Robinson Reserve
- Address: Elwood VIC 3184, Australia
Just a few minutes from Barkly Street, Robinson Reserve is a leafy
park
with open fields and walking paths. It's ideal for morning jogs or picnics after grabbing coffee from a nearby cafe.
J.Talbot Reserve
This hidden reserve park offers scenic views, fitness stations, and shaded areas, making it an ideal spot for outdoor relaxation. It's a great spot for backpackers seeking calm after a long day of exploring the streets.
Enjoy St Kilda nightlife at bars & pubs on Barkley Street
When the sun sets and the
night time comes at St Kilda, Barkly Street transforms into a hub of music bars, cocktail lounges, and lively pubs. Below are the best places to mingle with locals and fellow travellers over drinks and live tunes.
540 on Barkly
- Address: 540 Barkly St, West Footscray VIC 3012, Australia
- Opening hours:
- Tues – Thurs: 3 PM – 9 PM
- Fri & Sat: 3 PM – 9:30 PM
- Sun: 3 PM – 7:30 PM
- Price range: $20 – 40
- Best item to try: Tuesday Steak night at $26
This modern
cocktail pub at St Kilda offers rooftop views and weekly live music. It is a perfect spot for backpackers looking to unwind after a long day.
Bar Josephine
- Address: 295 Barkly St, Footscray VIC 3011, Australia
- Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 1 PM – 1 AM
- Price range: $20 - 40
- Best item to try: Negroni
The bar combines vintage charm with innovative cocktails. It's cosy, a bit quirky, and known for good tunes and friendly faces.
Bar Thyme
- Address: 227 Barkly St, Footscray VIC 3011, Australia
- Opening hours:
o Wed & Thurs: 5 PM – 10 PM
o Fri & Sat: 5 PM – 11 PM
o Sun: 12 PM – 9 PM
- Price range: $60 - 80
- Best item to try: Signature gin cocktail
A cocktail and
music bar that champions seasonal ingredients and sustainable dining. It combines natural wines and shared plates for a laid-back social experience.
Lost for Words
The cosy and eclectic bar is known for its intimate atmosphere and creative cocktail selection. The dim lighting, vintage decor, and friendly bartenders make it the perfect spot to unwind after a long, adventurous day. The bar often features local DJs and live acoustic sets, making it a go-to hangout to enjoy relaxed vibes and quality drinks.
Where to stay near Barkly Street to enjoy all the fun?
If you are looking for where to stay near Barkly Street, Pint on Punt Backpackers offers comfort, convenience, and unbeatable value. Located only 1.7 km away (about 7 minutes by car), it’s close enough for brunch, shopping, or a night out in St Kilda. Staying here gives you:
- Budget-friendly accommodation in the heart of all the fun.
- Cosy dorms and private rooms with a modern kitchen, laundry, and communal area facilities.
- Free breakfast and fast Wi-Fi.
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff, and weekly fun games.
Book directly on our website from March 2nd to March 9th, 2026, and use promo code
GP05 to enjoy a 5% discount on your stay. Don’t miss the chance to stay at Pint on Punt, the best location near St Kilda’s Formula 1 Grand Prix action.
