St Kilda Studio Apartment walking distance to the beach

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to 35 Charles Street in St Kilda on a breezy afternoon last spring – you know, that time of year when the wind off Port Phillip Bay carries a salty tang that hits you before you even spot the water. The place is tucked away on this quiet residential stretch, not right in the thick of the tourist bustle like Acland Street with its endless cake shops and backpacker vibes, but close enough that you can hear the faint rumble of trams on Fitzroy Street if you listen. Honestly, finding parking was a bit of a hassle – street spots are competitive, especially on weekends when everyone flocks to the markets – but once I sorted that out (pro tip: aim for early check-in around 2 PM to snag a spot), the self-check-in with the key code was a breeze. No fussing with reception desks, which is great if you’re jet-lagged from a long flight into Melbourne.

Stepping inside the St Kilda Studio Apartment, it felt more like crashing at a mate’s well-kept flat than some sterile hotel room – you know what I mean? The space is compact but smartly laid out, with a queen bed that actually has that plush, sink-in comfort (none of those rock-hard mattresses you sometimes get in budget spots), and a little kitchenette stocked with basics like a Nespresso machine and a mini-fridge that hummed softly but didn’t keep me up at night. I loved the big windows overlooking the treetops – they let in heaps of natural light, and in the evenings, you’d catch the golden glow from the sunset over the bay if you timed it right. It’s walking distance to the beach, sure – about a 10-minute stroll down to St Kilda Beach, past those iconic palm trees and the occasional rollerblader zipping by – but what really sold me was how easy it was to dip into the local scene. Grab a flat white from one of the cafes on Carlisle Street in the morning, or wander over to the Esplanade for live music on a Friday night; it’s all right there without feeling overwhelming. Oh, and the bathroom? Spotless, with decent water pressure in the shower – though I will say, the hot water took a second to kick in, which caught me off guard the first time.

All in all, if you’re after a 4-star spot that punches above its weight with a 9.2 rating, this is it – especially for solo travelers or couples who want that independent vibe without sacrificing comfort. St Kilda can get noisy during peak summer months when Luna Park is in full swing and the festivals roll in, but this apartment’s off the main drag, so it’s surprisingly peaceful (well, aside from the occasional seagull squawk at dawn). I mean, I’ve stayed in fancier places in the CBD, but there’s something authentic about waking up here, throwing on some thongs, and hitting the beach path for a run before the crowds descend. You’d be hard-pressed to find better value in Melbourne’s beachside suburbs – just pack light, as the storage is cozy, and you’ll thank me later.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $116. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Exceptional – Richard from Australia – 24 April 2025 (10/10)

  Arrival time was delayed due to car troubles.
  Contacted the host who was empapthetic, extremely helpful and accommodating, and offered an extended check out time, which was lovely.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was perfect.

• Superb – Murphy from Australia – 7 April 2025 (9/10)

  Great place but some of the residents were a bit annoyed towards the bnb stayers.

• Superb – Robert from Australia – 28 March 2025 (9/10)

  Great location
  Beautiful studio apartment
  Free parking
  
  What could be improved: No power outlets anywhere near the bed.
  Fitted sheet only. No top sheet. Need to sleep with no sheet(too cold) or the doona(too hot) Not good enough.

• Great and I will stay again – Kim from Australia – 24 March 2025 (8/10)

  Location – cafes, bakery, close to Acland St and the foreshore
  
  What could be improved: A balcony or courtyard would have been nice but location made up for that.

• Perfect little weekend away. We would definitely come and stay again, even the neighbours were lovely – Katlin from Australia – 23 March 2025 (10/10)

  It was very homely and perfect for my partner and I.
  The apartment was very very clean and had everything you needed, including complimentary wine and chocolate

• Excellent apartment in a great location. Would recommend to friends and family – Helen from United Kingdom – 18 March 2025 (10/10)

  Location. The apartment was very clean and well equipped .

• Next time we visit Melbourne, definitely stay there again – Jane from Australia – 3 March 2025 (10/10)

  Everything included – milk, shampoo, enough to make our stay comfortable & enjoyable
  
  What could be improved: Top sheet. Too hot for a quilt.
  2 keys for the gate.

• Very good – Courtney from Australia – 3 May 2025 (8/10)

• Superb – Melissa from Australia – 16 February 2025 (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities