Sunnyside North Beach

Contributor Review – Charlee Peterson
Local Expert. Visited 2023

We recently hit up Sunnyside North Beach, and let me tell you, it's a gem! Nestled south of Mount Eliza, just a quick 10-minute drive from Frankston, this spot is Melbourne's only official nude beach. Despite there being tonnes of nude beaches in Australia, there aren't that many in this part of the country unfortunately. The day we went was pretty warm, but luckily it wasn’t too crowded early on. It was super chill and welcoming, with a crowd that's mainly older guys, but there were a few couples around too, everyone was friendly and polite.

The journey to the beach itself is a little adventure – about an 800 metre walk from the parking lot. If you can't get a car space near the parking lot you could end up having to hike a little further. On a hot day, this walk can feel longer, but the scenic route with its rocky paths is part of the experience. Just a heads up: wear sturdy shoes because the trail can be a bit tricky. Reaching the beach, we found the perfect spot amidst the rocks, which requires a bit of navigating but it's a small price to pay for the sense of freedom and community you get there.

Despite its beauty, Sunnyside North Beach has its quirks. Our perfectly packed sandwiches fell victim to the local magpies, who apparently have a taste for picnic lunches! These cheeky birds are quite bold, so keep an eye on your snacks. Another thing we noticed was the electric BBQs near the carpark. They weren't being used much, but they seem like they'd make for a fantastic day out – just bring your own food and enjoy a beachside barbecue.

The beach itself is cozy and friendly. We chatted with locals who were welcoming and eager to share stories and tips. Most people are very proud of their local beach and we felt like everyone knew each other. We didn’t encounter any lurkers, although we heard they sometimes appear later in the day around sunset. Apparently telling them to 'rack off' is enough to scare them off but to be safe I'd always come here with a friend if staying later near sunset.

One thing to note about Sunnyside North is its high tide. When the tide is up, the beach loses a lot of its sandy space, and the water covers most of the rocks, so there’s considerably less room. It’s best to check the tides before you go to make the most of your visit.

The campaign earlier in 2023 to save this nudist beach's status was a hot topic among the regulars. It’s a relief the beach remains a nude-friendly zone, considering it’s such a unique and cherished spot in Melbourne. It seems since the media coverage the nude beach has become much busier also, which is a great thing for younger generations.

Bottom line, if you're in Melbourne and curious about nudist beaches, Sunnyside North is the spot. It's peaceful, the waters are clear, and you just feel free. We’ll definitely be back – it’s just too good of a spot to miss out on. Just beware of the magpies and hold onto your lunch!