Everything You Need to Know About Williamstown Melbourne
Williamstown felt like stepping into a postcard—its charm didn’t shout; it whispered. I wandered through streets lined with quaint cafés and boutiques, stopping for a coffee that tasted even better because the barista greeted me like an old friend.
The sea was always within reach, its breeze following me wherever I went. I found myself by the shore, watching children laugh as they chased waves while the horizon glowed softly in the fading light.
Luckily, I trusted the whispers and recommendations about this seaside suburb, which led me straight here. So, get ready because I’m about to take you through a day in Williamstown and show you why it’s way more than just a charming bayside detour!
Where is Williamstown?
Williamstown is located in the City of Hobsons Bay, southwest of Melbourne’s CBD.
What is the main street in Williamstown?
Nelson Place is the main street in Williamstown. It’s lined with 19th-century buildings now home to bustling cafés, boutique shops, and ice cream parlors.
The street faces the harbor, so you can sip your coffee or tuck into a plate of fish and chips while watching sailboats glide by—a scene that feels almost cinematic in its charm.
How to Get to Williamstown
Closest train station: Getting to Williamstown is a breeze. If you’re coming from Melbourne, you can catch a train on the Williamstown Line from Flinders Street Station, which takes you straight to Williamstown Station in about 30 minutes.
Alternatively, if you’re driving, head southwest from the city on the West Gate Freeway and take the exit for Williamstown Road. Follow the signs, and in under 25 minutes, you’ll find yourself by the sea.
What to Do and See in Williamstown
Wander Williamstown Botanic Gardens for a peaceful escape
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Pricing: Free
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
The Williamstown Botanic Gardens offer a serene and picturesque retreat, blending lush greenery with a touch of historical charm.
With its sweeping lawns, towering Moreton Bay figs, and vibrant flowerbeds, the gardens provide a peaceful escape from the bustle of daily life. The winding pathways invite visitors to take their time.
A standout feature is the charming rotunda, a perfect centerpiece for the garden’s tranquil atmosphere. It’s surrounded by meticulously maintained blooms and shaded by elegant trees, creating a sense of timeless beauty.
Relax at Williamstown Beach
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Pricing: Free
Williamstown Beach is a perfect blend of calm waters and scenic beauty, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
The sandy shore is ideal for leisurely walks, sunbathing, or simply listening to the gentle rhythm of the waves. With its easy access and laid-back vibe, it’s a quintessential beach experience that’s less crowded.
The beach is family-friendly, offering safe swimming areas and plenty of space for kids to play in the sand. For those who prefer a more active visit, it’s a great spot to paddleboard or take a refreshing dip in the clear waters.
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Address: Gem Pier
Pricing: $
Operating Hours: Sat–Sun: 11 AM–4 PM
The HMAS Castlemaine is a beautifully preserved WWII naval ship that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Australia’s maritime history.
Docked at Gem Pier in Williamstown, this museum ship allows you to step aboard and experience life as it was for sailors during wartime. From the cramped crew quarters to the engine room, every part of the vessel tells a story of resilience and dedication.
The exhibits are thoughtfully curated. They feature historical artifacts, photographs, and detailed descriptions that bring the ship’s history to life.
Climbing narrow ladders and exploring the decks gives a hands-on perspective of what it was like to serve on a warship.
Discover Jawbone Flora and Fauna Reserve for a natural retreat
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Pricing: Maddox Road
Pricing: Free
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
The Jawbone Flora and Fauna Reserve is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape into a world of natural beauty and wildlife.
Spanning coastal wetlands and saltmarshes, the reserve is home to an incredible variety of native plants and birds. It’s definitely a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
One of the highlights of the reserve is the birdwatching opportunities. With binoculars in hand, you can spot pelicans, black swans, and a range of other bird species that thrive in the area.
Where to Eat and Drink in Williamstown
Atomic Bar & Restaurant
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Address: 183 Nelson Place
Phone: +61 3 9399 9889
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Known for its lively atmosphere, creative cocktails, and modern pub-style
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Thu: 4 PM–11 PM
- Fri: 12 PM–12 AM
- Sat: 11 AM–12 AM
- Sun: 11 AM–11 PM
The Atomic Bar’s menu is a culinary delight, offering a mix of classic crowd-pleasers and dishes with a creative twist.
The woodfired pizzas are a standout, with their perfectly blistered crusts and fresh, high-quality toppings—try the prosciutto and rocket for a balance of salty and peppery or the spicy salami for a fiery kick.
For those in the mood to share, the small plates steal the show. The crispy calamari is golden perfection, paired with a zesty aioli, while the arancini balls ooze with cheesy goodness and just the right amount of crunch.
Sebastian Restaurant
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Address: 26 Esplanade
Phone: +61390888989
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Renowned for its Spanish-inspired menu featuring paella, grilled seafood, and tapas
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Fri: 12 PM–11 PM
- Sat–Sun: 11 AM–11 PM
Sebastian Beach Grill & Bar delivers a culinary experience that feels like a seaside escape to Spain.
The menu is rooted in Mediterranean flavors, starting with their must-try tapas. The patatas bravas are perfectly crispy, topped with a smoky paprika aioli, while the grilled chorizo brings a satisfying kick to every bite.
The star of the menu is their paella, cooked to perfection in a traditional pan with saffron-infused rice, plump prawns, tender chicken, and fresh mussels. It’s rich, hearty, and designed to share, making it the centerpiece of any meal here.
The Strand Restaurant
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Address: 1 The Strand
Phone: +61 3 9397 7474
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Celebrated for its modern Australian cuisine, fresh seafood, and breathtaking views of the Melbourne skyline
Operating Hours: Mon–Sun: 12 PM–10 PM
The Strand Restaurant is where refined dining meets the best of local flavors, offering a menu that feels both classic and contemporary.
Start with their standout entrees like the seared scallops, perfectly caramelized and served with a silky cauliflower puree, or the prawn and avocado cocktail, which is as fresh and vibrant as it sounds.
For mains, the seafood is the real showstopper. The grilled barramundi, served with seasonal greens and a citrus beurre blanc, is a dish that balances richness and brightness in every bite.
Pier Farm
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Address: 34 The Strand
Phone: +61 3 9397 7799
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Specializes in Mediterranean-inspired dishes, fresh seafood, and a curated wine list
Operating Hours: Mon–Sun: 12 PM–10 PM
Pier Farm’s menu is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients with a Mediterranean twist, perfectly suited to its stunning waterfront setting. To start, the oysters are a must—served natural or with a tangy mignonette, they’re a refreshing prelude to the meal.
For mains, the seafood shines, as it should. The chargrilled snapper, served with a lemon and caper dressing, is simple yet exquisite, letting the quality of the fish take center stage.
Meat lovers will appreciate the slow-cooked lamb shoulder, meltingly tender and paired with roasted vegetables and jus. Vegetarians will find delight in the handmade pumpkin ravioli, finished with sage butter and toasted pine nuts for a touch of indulgence.
Porters
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Address: 49 Nelson Place
Phone: +61393971251
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Offers standout dishes like slow-braised lamb shoulder and miso-glazed salmon
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Thu: 12 PM–10 PM
- Fri–Sat: 12 PM–11 PM
- Sun: 12 PM–9 PM
Porters Williamstown offers a modern Australian menu that strikes the perfect balance between familiar favorites and refined flavors.
Start with the crispy pork belly, served with a tangy apple puree and crackling so crisp it’s almost addictive. The garlic and chili prawns, tossed in a delicate white wine sauce, are another popular choice, packing a punch without overwhelming the palate.
Save room for dessert, because their sticky date pudding, drenched in butterscotch sauce and served with vanilla bean ice cream, is worth every calorie.
Where to Shop in Williamstown
Thirty 16 Williamstown
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Address: 65 Ferguson St
Phone: +61451572146
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Fri: 7 AM–3 PM
- Sat–Sun: 8 AM–3 PM
Thirty 16 Williamstown isn’t your typical gift shop—it’s a carefully curated haven of beautiful, unique, and thoughtful items. From the moment you step in, the space feels warm and inviting, with shelves artfully arranged.
The collection is nothing short of inspiring. You’ll find handcrafted jewelry, artisanal candles, and gorgeous ceramic pieces that are perfect for adding a touch of charm to any space.
Their range of greeting cards is equally impressive, with designs that range from quirky and fun to elegant and heartfelt. For those shopping for little ones, Thirty 16 also stocks adorable children’s toys and keepsakes, making it a great spot for finding that special gift.
Enchanted Years
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Address: 23 Ferguson Street
Phone: +61 3 9397 1154
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Thu: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Fri: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Sat: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Sun: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Known as a children’s boutique, Enchanted Year exudes charm, with shelves brimming with delightful toys, adorable outfits, and unique keepsakes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a joy to browse for the perfect gift or treat for your little one.
The product range is nothing short of enchanting. You’ll find beautifully crafted wooden toys that are as timeless as they are durable, alongside soft, plush animals that beg to be cuddled.
Their children’s clothing collection stands out with high-quality fabrics and whimsical designs, perfect for everyday wear or special occasions. They also carry keepsake items like memory boxes and baby journals, which are ideal for marking life’s milestones in a meaningful way.
Back to Basics Products
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Address: 157 Nelson Pl
Phone: +61418599923
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Fri: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Sat–Sun: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Back to Basics Products is a gem for anyone passionate about health, wellness, and eco-friendly living.
The product selection is impressive. From natural skincare products that pamper your skin without harsh chemicals to eco-friendly cleaning supplies that keep your home fresh and green, there’s something for everyone.
They also stock high-quality health supplements and essential oils, perfect for supporting a holistic approach to wellness. The store’s reusable and biodegradable household items make it easy to reduce your environmental footprint without sacrificing convenience or style.
Where to Stay in Williamstown
Punthill Apartment Hotels
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Address: 4/18 Ferguson St
Phone: +61393931293
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Punthill Apartment Hotels in Williamstown offers the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and style. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a home-away-from-home experience.
The accommodations are well-designed, with modern, self-contained apartments that cater to both short and long stays. Each unit comes equipped with a kitchenette, spacious living and dining areas, and a comfortable bedroom.
The private balconies are a highlight—some offering stunning views of the bay or the Melbourne skyline, adding a touch of luxury to your stay.
Quest Williamstown North
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Address: 115-119 Kororoit Creek Rd
Phone: +61393939700
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
If you’re looking for a place that feels both tranquil and convenient, Quest Williamstown North is a gem. It’s tucked away near the waterfront, offering a peaceful vibe that makes it easy to unwind after a day of exploring.
What we really love about this place is the attention to the little details. The beds are so comfortable, and the blackout curtains ensure you get a great night’s sleep. Plus, they have an outdoor BBQ area surrounded by lush gardens.
And the location? It’s spot on. You’re close enough to Williamstown’s attractions, like the waterfront cafes and shops, but far enough to avoid the busy tourist spots. They even offer a complimentary shuttle to nearby areas.