12+ Best nightlife spots in St Kilda you need to try right now

Max Gibson • September 22, 2025

When it comes to nightlife in St Kilda, few places in Melbourne offer the same mix of coastal and urban attractions. Locals and travellers flock here for its relaxed beachside environment, exciting bars and pubs, an array of late-night restaurants, and a safe yet thrilling atmosphere that keeps the area alive past midnight. Therefore, this guide covers the best things to do in St Kilda at night, from Grey Street hotspots to night markets, late-night dining, and live shows.

Best bars & nightlife on St Kilda

St Kilda bars and pubs offer one of Melbourne’s most iconic nightlife. If you want to sip craft beer or hit the dance floor, here are some of the best bars and nightclubs in St Kilda.

The vineyard

  • Address: 1 Grey St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 6EE
  • Opening hours:
  • Mon and Tues: 3 PM – 1 AM
  • Wed and Thurs: 3 PM- 2 AM
  • Fri and Sat: 1 PM – 3 AM
  • Sun: 2 PM – 3 AM
  • Signature: Lively casual crowd. A mix of locals, students, and backpackers.
  • Must-try item: Wood-fired pizzas


The Vineyard is known for its casual atmosphere and live DJ sets, making it one of the top St Kilda pubs to kick off your evening.

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Prince Public Bar

  • Address: 29 Fitzroy St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
  • Opening hours:
  • Mon – Wed: 7 AM – 10 PM
  • Thurs: 7 AM – 11 PM
  • Fri: 7 AM – 12 AM
  • Sat: 8 AM – 12 AM
  • Sun: 8 AM – 10 PM
  • Signature: Trendy eclectic crowd, perfect for pre-gig drinks.
  • Must-try item: Grilled barramundi burger


This historic venue on the famous Fitzroy Street is part of the Prince Hotel and a popular stop for St Kilda live music lovers,


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The Local Taphouse


This is one of the best bars, offering more than 20 rotating craft beers on tap and a rooftop terrace perfect for evening drinks. Inside, you’ll find a warm, timber-clad interior reminiscent of a classic European tavern, while the rooftop terrace.

Dog's Bar

  • Address: 54 Acland St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
  • Opening hours:
  • Tues and Thurs: 5 PM – 12 AM
  • Fri: 5 PM – 1 AM
  • Sat: 3 PM – 1 AM
  • Sun: 3 PM – 12 AM
  • Signature: Artsy, creative crowd with a love for culture.
  • Must-try item: Lamb cutlets with red wine.


Established in 1989, Dog’s Bar is a cultural icon on Acland Street where you can go for wine-bar vibes, art exhibitions, and live jazz.

LATE NIGHT FOOD IN ST KILDA

No night is complete without good food, and these St Kilda late-night restaurants deliver everything from Indian curries to Italian classics.

lUNA'S CAFE  &  RESTAURANT

Address: 17 Fitzroy St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia

Opening hours: Tue – Sun: Open 24 hours

Signature: Backpackers and late-night diners

Must-try item: Chicken parmigiana


This spot is a go-to for hearty meals at all hours, perfect when exploring St Kilda nightlife until late.

 Kake Da Dhaba

Address: 33 Inkerman St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia

Opening hours:

  • Mon – Fri: 10 AM – 2:30 PM, 4 PM – 10 PM
  • Sat and Sun: 4 PM – 10 PM

Signature: Group of friends and spice lovers.

Must-try item: Butter chicken with naan.


If you are craving Indian food, this is one of the best cheap eats in St Kilda, serving authentic flavours well into the night.

LATE NIGHT SHOWS & CINEMA IN ST KILDA

If you are looking for things to do in St Kilda at night beyond eating and drinking, the suburb also offers iconic cinemas and live theatres.

Astor Theatre

Address: 1 Chapel St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia

Opening hours: Vary by screening, typically late evenings

Best for: Movie buffs and retro cinema lovers


This historic art deco theatre screens cult classics, double features, and themed marathons. If you want more than just the latest Hollywood releases, it is a perfect spot to go.

 Sunset Cinema

Address: 55B Blessington St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia

Opening hours: Seasonal, dusk until late evening.

Best for: Couples, families, and outdoor movie enthusiasts.


Set in the picturesque Botanic Gardens, the cinema transforms movie night into an enchanting outdoor experience. Visit it for a lineup of recent blockbusters, indie films, and family favourites.

Alex Theatre St Kilda

Address: Level 1/135 Fitzroy St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia

Opening hours: Vary by production, typically late evenings.

Signature: Theatre-goers, comedy fans, and live performance seekers


The theatre hosts everything from comedy nights and musicals to thought-provoking plays. These make a go-to for travellers seeking things to do beyond the St Kilda nightclubs.

SAFETY TIPS FOR ENJOYING ST KILDA AT NIGHT

While the area is generally welcoming and vibrant, many first-time visitors ask: Is St Kilda safe at night? The answer is yes, as long as you follow these basic safety tips:


  ★ Stick with friends to have support if anything unexpected happens. 

  ★ Stay in well-lit and quieter areas, and close to main hotspots

  ★ Take a taxi or Uber for more direct trips to your accommodation.

  ★ Keep valuables secure and carry only what you need when going out.

LIVE THE NIGHTLIFT, STAY AT PINT ON PUNT BACKPACKERS

If you want to dive straight into nightlife in St Kilda, Pint on Punt Backpackers is the perfect accommodation. This affordable, character-filled hostel offers numerous benefits for those looking to explore St Kilda’s beach, late-night restaurants, and bars. These include:


  ✅ A central location, placing you close to the best spots like Fitzroy Street and Ackland Street.

  ✅ Clean and comfortable dorms and private rooms.

  ✅ Cosy on-site amenities like bars and meeting points.

  ✅ Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, laundry services, and a 24-hour communal kitchen.



Book your private room or dorm in this backpackers' hostel to enjoy easy access to the F1 Grand Prix Australia. This annual event is held at Albert Park, only a 10-minute walk away from the hostel. Use the code GP05 when booking from March 2nd to March 9th for a 5% discount for your stay during this special event. 

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