Top 12 Tours & Experiences In St Kilda

St Kilda is a lively seaside suburb of Melbourne famous for its eclectic mix of attractions, from stunning coastal scenery to buzzy nightlife. What makes it especially appealing for travelers is the wide variety of tours and experiences available, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty, indulge in fun activities, or enjoy the local culture. We particularly like the Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour for Backpackers — it’s a perfect way to see iconic landmarks like the 12 Apostles while spotting koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat. If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to explore, the St Kilda SUP Rental offers an excellent chance to paddle along the coast at your own pace, soaking up the scenery and maybe even catching a glimpse of local dolphins or penguins.

St Kilda caters to a diverse crowd: thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and nightlife enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re into multi-day road trips, water sports, or self-guided city explorations, the options here are practical, engaging, and full of local flavor. The next few sections will help you choose the best experience to fit your interests and schedule.

1. Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour for Backpackers aged 18-35

This 12-hour group tour is tailored for young backpackers, students, and travelers aged 18-35. Starting from various hostels in Melbourne, the tour takes you along the spectacular Great Ocean Road, a route renowned for its rugged cliffs and ocean vistas. The highlight is the 12 Apostles, where limestone stacks rise dramatically from the sea. Along the way, you’ll also visit Loch Ard Gorge, Great Otway National Park, and other scenic spots, with plenty of stops for photos and quick snacks like tea and coffee. Wildlife sightings are a bonus — keep an eye out for koalas and kangaroos, especially in the national parks.

What makes this tour stand out is the flexible, fun atmosphere geared toward youth travelers, with private transportation and a guide who shares local insights and helps with photos. The reviews reflect its popularity: “The guide was very attentive, took great photos, and made the long day enjoyable,” says one happy traveler. With a modest price of $87.46 and a focus on natural beauty and wildlife, it’s ideal for those who want an affordable, active day out.

Bottom Line: Perfect for young travelers wanting a lively, social day tour with iconic sights and wildlife spotting.

2. Ride Tours 2 day Great Ocean Road Trip for 18-35 year olds

This two-day adventure offers a relaxed way to see the best of the Great Ocean Road without rushing. For $233.91, you get accommodation, meals, and transport, making it a hassle-free option that saves research time. Traveling in a reversed route to most tours, it avoids the crowds and takes you to Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, where you can spot kangaroos, emus, and koalas in a sunken volcano setting.

Overnight stays are in the Sow & Piglets Guest House, Australia’s only hostel with its own craft brewery, adding a fun local vibe. Other highlights include the Bay of Martyrs, The Grotto, and a sunset at the Twelve Apostles. The tour’s reviews praise the guide for being energetic and knowledgeable, with travelers mentioning that they enjoyed the extra time at scenic spots and the opportunity to see wildlife up close.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want to explore more leisurely, with included accommodation and meals, in a small group setting.

3. St Kilda SUP Group Lesson

For anyone curious about watersports, this 1.5-hour stand-up paddleboarding lesson is a great intro. Held right in St Kilda’s beaches, the St Kilda SUP Group Lesson is fun, safe, and suitable for complete beginners. Your instructor teaches you how to paddle, steer, and balance, offering a thrill while avoiding the city’s hustle.

Reviews note that the guide is friendly and helpful, making it an enjoyable experience even for those new to paddleboarding. It’s an affordable way to try something active, with all equipment included for just $42.70. Expect to spend the session exploring the calm waters, with potential sightings of dolphins, penguins, or tropical fish, especially if the conditions are right.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a quick, fun introduction to paddleboarding, suitable for all ages and skill levels.

4. St Kilda SUP Rental

For those who prefer going at their own pace, the St Kilda SUP Rental provides all the gear you need for a self-guided session. Rent a paddleboard for an hour and explore the coastline independently. This experience is ideal for those comfortable with paddling or looking to practice their skills in calm waters.

You’ll cruise past palm-fringed beaches and might spot dolphins, penguins, or tropical fish. It’s a relaxing, low-impact activity that costs $21.52 and includes all necessary equipment. Many travelers say it’s a peaceful way to disconnect from city noise and enjoy Melbourne’s ocean scenery.

Bottom Line: Suited for independent paddlers craving flexibility, wildlife spotting, and scenic views, with a budget-friendly price.

5. Melbourne (St Kilda) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

If you prefer exploring at your own pace, this self-guided scavenger hunt combines sightseeing with puzzle-solving. Starting at Luna Park and ending at St Kilda Pier, it challenges you to solve riddles that lead to local landmarks and hidden gems, all via your smartphone. At just $13.34, it’s an affordable way to discover Melbourne’s highlights uniquely.

Reviews praise its engaging puzzles and the chance to learn quirky facts about the area. While the app’s responsiveness can sometimes be an issue, restarting it usually helps. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy interactive experiences and want to explore without a guide.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for independent explorers and puzzle enthusiasts wanting a fun twist on sightseeing.

6. St Kilda SUP Private Lesson

If you prefer personalized instruction, the St Kilda SUP Private Lesson guarantees tailored guidance. With one-on-one time, you’ll learn to paddle, steer, and balance faster than in a group class. After mastering the basics, head out into the ocean to practice your skills in a scenic setting.

The private lesson costs $41 and includes all equipment. The personalized attention appeals to beginners or those wanting to refine their technique, with the instructor’s experience making a difference. It’s a good choice if you’re nervous about learning in a group or want a more focused experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for beginners or those wanting private coaching while enjoying Melbourne’s beautiful beaches.

7. Melbourne: Bayside Bike Tour | Pedal into Local Seaside Life

This 3-hour bike tour takes you along Melbourne’s picturesque bayside. Starting at Green Point, you’ll see colorful Brighton Beach Boxes, historic Brighton Baths, and the lively St Kilda scene. It’s a practical way to experience the seaside vibe and admire stunning beachside homes.

The tour offers a good mix of scenery and local culture, with stops to stroll and take photos. It’s suitable for casual cyclists and offers insight into Melbourne’s coastal lifestyle, making it a balanced outdoor activity for a sunny day.

Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with physical activity and local flavor.

8. Melbourne’s Luna Park General Entry with Unlimited Rides

For a fun, nostalgic day, Luna Park’s general entry offers unlimited rides at a reasonable $39.45. Opened in 1912, this historic amusement park features classic rides, roller coasters, and carnival games perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.

While reviews are mixed regarding crowd management, all agree the rides provide a lively atmosphere. It’s an easy add-on to a day in St Kilda, especially if you’re visiting with kids or want some lighthearted fun. The park’s vintage charm and variety of rides make it worth considering.

Bottom Line: Great for a playful break from sightseeing, especially if you’re traveling with children or want a nostalgic amusement park experience.

9. Kiteboarding Lessons in Kite Republic School

For adventurous souls, Kiteboarding lessons at Kite Republic are a chance to learn one of Australia’s most exciting watersports. The 6-hour course is held at St Kilda’s West Beach and is taught under the International Kiteboarding Organisation standards.

While only two reviews are available and ratings are modest (3.0/5), the instructors’ passion and the thrill of riding your first wave make it appealing. This experience is best suited for physically active travelers seeking a challenge and a unique skill. Note that kiteboarding can be weather-dependent and physically demanding.

Bottom Line: Ideal for thrill-seekers eager to learn kiteboarding, prepared for a full day of active, wind-powered fun.

10. Stand Up Paddle Boarding Hire

If you already know the ropes, this 2-hour paddleboard rental allows you to explore St Kilda’s waters independently. Glide past the pier, watch for local wildlife, and enjoy the calming effects of paddling in your own time. All equipment is provided, making it a straightforward way to enjoy the coast.

This experience is perfect for people comfortable on a board or wanting to practice without a formal lesson. Many find it a relaxing activity that combines exercise and sightseeing, especially if the weather is good.

Bottom Line: A flexible option for confident paddlers wanting to enjoy St Kilda’s scenic waters at their own pace.

11. Private Giant Stand Up Paddleboard Ride in Victoria

For something a bit different, the Private Giant SUP Ride is about teamwork. You and your friends or family will work together to paddle this massive board, which measures several meters long. It’s a fun, social challenge that rewards cooperation and balance.

This unique experience costs $49.49 and lasts about an hour. It’s great for groups looking for a memorable, shared activity that isn’t just about individual skill. The novelty of paddling a giant board adds a playful element to your time on the water.

Bottom Line: Best suited for groups wanting a collaborative, memorable paddling adventure.

12. St Kilda Pub Crawl: 5 Free Drinks & The Best Bars of Melbourne

Finally, for nightlife lovers, the St Kilda Pub Crawl offers an energetic way to experience Melbourne’s bar scene. Starting at The Back Room, you’ll visit five popular venues while enjoying free drinks, games, and prizes. The route includes some of St Kilda’s most famous spots, and the lively atmosphere makes it a great way to meet fellow travelers.

While the reviews aren’t detailed, the inclusion of free drinks and the chance to explore multiple bars in one night make it a solid choice for night owls. It’s best suited for social travelers looking to unwind and discover local favorites after sunset.

Bottom Line: A lively option to enjoy St Kilda’s nightlife, especially if you’re keen to mingle and try a variety of bars in one evening.

How to Choose

When selecting the right tour or experience in St Kilda, think about your budget, schedule, and interests. Want a comprehensive adventure with wildlife and scenery? The Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour offers spectacular sights in a day. Craving something active? The paddleboarding lessons (SUP Group Lesson) or bike tours (Bayside Bike Tour) combine exercise with sightseeing. If nightlife appeals, the St Kilda Pub Crawl offers a lively way to end your day.

For those with limited time or on a budget, self-guided options like the Scavenger Hunt and SUP rentals provide flexible, affordable ways to explore independently. Consider your fitness level, weather, and whether you prefer guided or private experiences.

To sum it up, St Kilda offers a range of terrific tours and experiences suitable for every traveler. For a classic scenic trip with wildlife, the Great Ocean Road Tour is hard to beat. Adventure seekers will love the paddleboarding lessons, while those wanting a fun, social night should consider the pub crawl. Whatever your style, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on these popular experiences.