Beachside Gem with Gorgeous Views & Cafes Steps Away!

I remember pulling up to 41 Nott Street in Port Melbourne – you know, that quiet little pocket just off Bay Street where the houses have that old Victorian charm mixed with modern renos. It’s Unit 305, up on the third floor, and honestly, if you’re not a fan of stairs, pack light because there’s no elevator (I learned that the hard way with my overstuffed backpack). But once I got in, whoa – the place opens up to these massive windows framing the bay, with the water sparkling like it does on those crisp Melbourne mornings. I stayed there last spring, right when the weather was turning, and the first thing that hit me was the salty breeze sneaking in, mixing with the faint coffee aroma from the cafes downstairs. Check-in was a breeze; it’s one of those self-service deals with a code, but the host left a handwritten note with tips on where to grab the best flat white – turned out to be this tiny spot called The Local on the corner, where the baristas know everyone’s order.

What really makes this Beachside Gem stand out, though, is how it’s tucked right into the heart of things without feeling touristy. You’re literally steps from the sand – I mean, Port Melbourne Beach is a two-minute wander down the path, and on weekends, you’d hear the distant hum of families picnicking or the occasional seagull squawk, but it’s never overwhelming, especially if you time your visit mid-week when it’s quieter. The unit itself is spotless, with that 4-star polish – think plush bedding that actually feels lived-in, a kitchenette stocked with decent appliances (I whipped up a quick brekkie using herbs from the balcony planter, which was a nice touch), and views that stretch out to the Spirit of Tasmania ferry gliding by in the distance. Parking can be a bit of a juggle on Nott Street – it’s permit-heavy for locals, so I ended up using the metered spots on Bay Street, but it’s doable. Oh, and if you’re into exploring, hop on the 109 tram right nearby; it’ll zip you into the CBD in under 20 minutes, or you could stroll to St Kilda for some people-watching. Well, one minor gripe: the Wi-Fi dipped a couple times during peak hours, but nothing that ruined the vibe – I just stepped out to one of those cafes for a change of scenery, and honestly, the almond croissants at Cafe Lafayette made up for it.

All in all, with that 8.8 rating, it’s no surprise this place feels like a hidden win for anyone wanting a beachy escape without the full-on resort fuss. If you’re hitting Melbourne in summer, book early because it gets snapped up – the views alone are worth it, especially at sunset when the sky turns all pink and orange over the water. I’d go back in a heartbeat; it’s the kind of spot that makes you feel like a local, sipping your morning coffee while watching the world wake up. Sort of reminds you why Melbourne’s bay suburbs are such a gem, you know?

Early hotels booking in Melbourne secures theatre premieres, hidden supper clubs, and sunrise balloon flights over the Dandenongs.