Are there any Melbourne suburban (or public transit accessible) beaches worth spending a few days at before flying out to Sydney. We have a few days to kill!! Any b &amp; b or accommo suggestions welcome.<BR>Cheers!

Williamstown would be good. it's only about 15-20 minutes from the city and has a good train service. It's a old seaside town with lots to see and a ice beach. There's also a ferry sevice up the river to Southbank. I'd suggest either Heathville House (B &amp; B) or for preferece the Quest apartments at 1 Syme St, Williamstown. They're lovely and right on the waterfront. Quest should have a web site - or let me know and I'll get you contact details.

St Kilda is about 10 mins by tram from the city, has an OK beach but a very lively atmosphere. Good craft market every Sunday along the esplanade, cake shops to die for on Acland St and great restaurants on Fitzroy St. Popular with backpackers. Depends on how much you want to spend, but the Novotel overlooks the water and the esplanade. Also a B&amp;B called Robinsons has won awards.<BR>Sorrento is much further away but a great place, not sure how you'd get there, maybe bus? <BR><BR>Mary - an 'ice' beach? Could have sworn it was sand <BR><BR>Kay

Lin<BR><BR>I love the Mornington Peninsula but I have never toured it by public transport. I know you can get to Frankson by train from Melbourne in around 1 hour but I am unsure about the rest. There are bus companies that work the peninsula but I believe they are private. However if it is doable, and the website http://www.nepeanet.org.au/pentour/ has an email address that you can use to enquire, it is a great spot. Wonderful wineries (pinot noir and chardonnay in particular), really good views, nice walks, and great beaches.<BR>

Woops - obviously meant 'nice'. I also meant to add that if you are booking with Quest in Williamstown - only stay at their Syme st units. Do not stay at their other ones in Williamstown which, while nice, are way away from anything - including transport!

Lin,<BR><BR>What do you mean kil...come on!! Melbourne....beach side suburbs...well as the previous posters have said Williamstowm on the west, South Melborne, St Kilda, Elwood, Brighton, Hampton, Sandringham, Black Rock, Mentone, Beaumaris...do I need t o go on...there are plenty of places to kill time that are on the public transport system.<BR><BR>David

David,<BR>For God sake - lighten up. The Aussie posters didn't seem to get upset with my wording. I live 20K away - how would I know anything about Melbourne's seaside suburbs accessible by transport except what I read in guides. Personal comments from locals are always more useful. Much appreciation to those who responded positively.

Beaches in or around Melbourne?????? You have to be kidding