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Beach huts on Bright Beach, Melbourne

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Things to do in Melbourne

Swimming and beaches

Even more Aussie than knocking back an icy beer at the footy is a sandy day relaxing at the beach. St Kilda, just 30 minutes from the city, is an attractive and safe stretch. And the beaches of Port Melbourne, South Melbourne, Middle Park, Elwood, Hampton, Brighton, Sandringham and Williamstown are also all patrolled by lifesavers on weekends and public holidays from November to March. Surf, swim, play volley ball or simply people-watch from your patch of toasty sand - just don't forget the sunblock.

Watersports

Port Phillip Bay is a suitably windy location for sailing, windsurfing and kite surfing. Elwood and Middle Park beaches are also popular with windsurfers. If you fancy some wet and wind-powered pursuits, they’re best enjoyed in summer as the chilly breezes and Antarctic Ocean currents can make it a tad too chilly in winter. Katani Kiteboarding and Kitesurfing offer lessons and equipment for all levels at St Kilda’s West Beach. Or try your hand at sailing with Melbourne Dockland Sailing School.

Katani Kiteboarding and Kitesurfing
Tel: 1800 528 264.
Website: www.katani.com.au

Melbourne Dockland Sailing School
Tel: (0425) 752 745.
Website: www.docklandsailingschool.com.au

Hot air ballooning

For those who like the pace of life a little slower, and don’t mind a bird’s eye view, try hot air ballooning over Melbourne or the picturesque Yarra Valley, just under 1 hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD. Balloon Sunrise (tel: 1800 468 247, in Australia only; www.hotairballooning.com.au) offers sunrise ballooning followed by a gourmet champagne breakfast in both Melbourne and the Yarra Valley. Or join Global Ballooning (tel:1800 627 661; www.globalballooning.com.au) for their sustainable ballooning adventures over Melbourne or the Yarra Valley.

Balloon Sunrise
Tel: 1800 468 247 (Australia only).
Website: www.hotairballooning.com.au

Global Ballooning
Tel: 1800 627 661.
Website: www.globalballooning.com.au

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