As an active community based, volunteer organisation, this iconic establishment is at the heart of Altona Beach. The Altona Life Saving Club not only provides safe, welcoming and encouraging opportunities for its members and the wider community but is also responsible for a range of outdoor facilities including wheelchair beach accessibility, community cafes and nippers for the little ones.
There’s something to be said for attempting the fine art of stand-up paddle boarding. From novices to experts, the team at Sun Seeker remain tethered to their commitment to teaching the safest techniques in a controlled and enjoyable environment. Originally from the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, the dedicated and internationally accredited coaches are guaranteed to make you fall in love with this exciting hobby.
Lined with majestic Norfolk Pines, this beloved walking trail is graced with panoramic views of the bay. If you listen closely, you can hear the native birdlife singing their song or the local fishermen humming a tune.
Tucked away from the action, Altona Dog Beach is a safe and secluded oasis where your canine companion can let off steam. Dogs are allowed to frolic off-leash right throughout the year, with vast stretches of shallow water creating the ultimate puppy playground. Boasting stunning views of the city skyline and Port Phillip Bay, this local treasure is one of Melbourne’s best-kept secrets.
Here, floor-to-ceiling shelves are stacked with authentic and nostalgic European staples, perfect for home-made delights. Bask within the eye-catching grocery store to find Italian necessities, with a vast range of delicious dips, imported pastas and top-shelf olive oils. Crafting a mouthwatering grazing plate for any occasion has never been easier.
The enchanting aroma of expertly roasted coffee beans from Industry Beans drifts throughout the store as you browse through a plethora of cold-cut meats, decadent cheeses and marinated antipasti treats to complement the richness of ingredients. Local musts include their famous sugo-doused meatball sub, topped with fresh ricotta and Parmesan – an explosive flavour revelation to all who get their hands on one.
The unsung hero of Matteo’s is the panini. Meticulously crafted using house-made condiments, the SPS is a molten, reuben-inspired panini that’s generously piled with pastrami and cheese. Finish it off with a buttery-soft Sicilian cannoli by Cannoleria to truly know the meaning of satisfaction.
Among the long list of amenities at your fingertips, you’ll find old-school service at the local IGA or trade stories and musings with masterful bakers at Bakers Delight. You’ll smell the sweet scent of blossoming peonies from a mile away, emanating from the bespoke florist, Wildberry Flowers and Gifts.
When the sun is shining, get outdoors and relish in Altona’s multitude of recreational amenities. Take a dip in the bay with the ocean mavericks at Snorkel and Dive Safari, enjoy a sunny day on the green at Altona Bowls Club or try your hand at one of the many sporting actives at Altona Sports Club – there are cricket and fishing clubs along with bocce, indoor bowls and pool tables.
Altona’s efficient public transport systems mean that you never have to worry about the hassle of parking your car. A brisk 2-minute walk from your front door, a train from Altona Station provides a streamlined journey as it drops passengers off along the coastline past the eclectic west and straight to the vibrant CBD at Flinders Street Station. For residents commuting locally, the bus stop located in your backyard makes venturing throughout Altona a walk in the park.
Held every Tuesday at Pier Street, Logan and Weaver Reserves, Altona Beach Market is Melbourne’s only weekly street market – a treasure trove of arts and crafts, farm fresh produce, takeaway food and much more. Spend the day browsing a unique and diverse selection stalls, surrounded by lush vegetation and breathtaking bay views.
Shrouded in greenery, the beauty of Altona extends beyond the beach to its expansive parklands and nature reserves. Whether you’re admiring aquatic birdlife at Cherry Lake, exploring biodiverse vegetation at Altona Coastal Park or watching the sunset over the bay at Weaver Reserve, your locale is replete with opportunities to reconnect with nature.
Only steps to the beating heart of Pier Street, Voyage residents will enjoy the ideal combination of village convenience and cosmopolitan delight. A culinary hub, the strip is home to an enviable selection of restaurants, cafes and bars along with fruit shops, supermarkets and gourmet delicatessens. Equipped with all the necessities including a post office, chemist, bank, florist and gym, here, you’ll always find whatever it is you need.