Easy Day Trips from St Kilda You Can Do Without a Car

Max Gibson • February 24, 2026

Not renting a car in St Kilda doesn’t mean you’re stuck in the city or can’t even enjoy a day trip. Thanks to well-connected public transport, you can easily explore a range of day trips from St Kilda without a car. From relaxing in green parks, soaking up coastal day trips along beaches, or taking a short trip to meet some truly adorable animals, this guide lets you enjoy more with less planning. 


 Get an iconic seaside photo shot at Brighton Bathing Boxes


  • Activities: Beach walk, photography at the colourful bathing boxes, swimming, picnic, cafés along the foreshore.
  • Distance and time: About 14 km from St Kilda and takes 20-35 minutes one way
  • Transport: From St Kilda, you can go by bus or tram
  • Cost: About AUD 5



Brighton Bathing Boxes are one of Melbourne’s most iconic seaside landmarks, famous for their colourful wooden huts along the beach. Just a short trip from St Kilda, this spot is perfect for capturing classic coastal photos. It’s an easy stop for anyone looking for a coastal day trip. 


New TitleWine tasting in Rochford Wines, Yarra Valley


  • Activities: Wine tasting, lunch at the vineyard, short drives/walks in nature and local produce shopping.
  • Distance and time: Covers about 40 km in roughly 35 minutes.
  • Transport: From St Kilda, you can go by bus or tram
  • Cost: About AUD 20


Rochford Wines Yarra Valley is a wonderful destination for a day trip. Known for its scenic vineyard views and approachable wine tastings, it offers a relaxing countryside escape. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely lunch at the vineyard, take short walks or drives through the surrounding nature and browse local products. It’s an ideal stop for those looking to sip good wine and experience the countryside just outside Melbourne


Castle experience with medieval shows in Kryal Castle


  • Activities: Live shows, archery, family attractions, and picnic areas.
  • Distance and time: 109km long, with 1.5 to 2 hours one way
  • Transport: You have to use more than one mode of transportation to go on the trip. Take a tram to Southern Cross Station, then a train to Ballarat Station, followed by a local bus or a short taxi ride to Kryal Castle.
  • Cost: About AUD 40



Unlike any other adventure park in Australia, Kryal Castle offers a unique medieval-themed experience. Visitors can enjoy live performances, watch thrilling knight battles, try archery, and explore a range of family-friendly attractions. With open spaces and picnic areas, it’s an immersive day trip for those looking to step into a fairytale.

Water rides in Funfields Theme Park


  • Activities: Water slides, thrill rides, family rides, picnic areas and theme park experience.
  • Distance and time: 40km long, takes about 1.5 hours
  • Transport: Can go by bus (Route 382) or train by Mernda Line
  • Cost: About AUD 12



Funfields Theme Park is a lively destination for anyone looking to add some excitement to their day trip from St Kilda. Known for its mix of water rides and thrill attractions, the park is especially popular during warmer months, when visitors can cool off on large water slides or relax in splash areas. With open picnic areas and plenty of space, it’s an easy-going yet energetic escape that delivers a full theme park experience without travelling far from the city.


Visit Moonlit Sanctuary Park


  • Activities: Open-range safari zoo with walking trails, where you can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies and view koalas in a bushland setting
  • Distance and time: Covers about 54km and takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes
  • Transport: Train from Melbourne area to Cranbourne Station, then by bus (Route 792)
  • Cost: About AUD 34


Moonlit Sanctuary Park & Zoo offers a relaxed open-range safari experience set within natural bushland. Visitors can follow walking trails, hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, and get up close with koalas in a peaceful natural setting. It’s a great day trip for animal lovers and families looking to enjoy Australian wildlife without venturing too far from the city.

Staying in St Kilda after long day trips

Whether you’re planning to explore nearby day trips from St Kilda, staying somewhere well-connected makes all the difference. Pint On Punt Backpackers is just minutes' walk from St Kilda trams, giving you easy access to public transport and the freedom to get around without a car. 


Ready to experience St Kilda without breaking the bank? Book your bed at Pint On Punt Backpackersand enjoy the perfect mix of affordability, comfort, and fun for your Melbourne stay.

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