Melbourne is sexy and it knows it! Whereas Sydney, its rival up the coast, has big-city energy, swinging its assets for all the world to see, “Melbs”—as the locals call it—is artsy, bohemian, gritty, and the coolest city down under—just ask anyone who lives there; they’ll soon tell you. 

The southeastern coastal capital of Victoria (not of all Australia—that honor belongs to Canberra) is Australia’s New York, if Sydney were its L.A. Art is everywhere you look—from the constantly in-flux street murals displayed across the walls of streets like Hosier Lane to Australia’s most visited art museum, the National Gallery of Victoria. There’s always a designer coffee shop within a five-minute walk in Melbourne serving the best coffee in the world. The quality of food is amazing in literally every restaurant you could choose, and from unapologetically loud gay clubs to hidden speakeasy bars, heritage theaters to spontaneous street performances, there’s always somewhere to go and something (or someone) to do in Melbourne.

Every area offers its own take on Melbourne cool—whether that be the upscale kind found in South Yarra or the grungier Fitzroy and Collingwood (where most of the gay nightlife is centered). And of course, there are the beaches, like the popular St. Kilda or Brighton Beach with its brightly colored 19th-century cabins. Even the penguins love Melbourne—you can see them waddling home under the rocks by the pier at St. Kilda every sunset.

Hipster paradises are always LGBTQ+ friendly, and Melbourne is no exception. The gay scene thrives the whole week—as if no one has a nine-to-five—and drag queens rightly rule the roost, serving the kind of irreverent drag that only the Aussies can really pull off. Melbourne may seem aloof to outsiders, but those who give it the attention it wants, and deserves, are most certainly in for a good time during their visit.

Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in Melbourne
4. Sightseeing & Activities in Melbourne
5. Restaurants and Cafes
6. Melbourne Gay Bars and Clubs
7. Melbourne Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
8. Gay Beaches in Melbourne
9. Gay Events in Melbourne
10. Day Trips from Melbourne

General Tips

Melbourne’s LGBTQ+ scene is spread across a few gayborhoods, although the one with the highest concentration of gay bars, the sexiest saunas, and the mandatory rainbow crossing is located in Fitzroy and Collingwood. This makes for a great place to stay, with a handful of excellent hotels within an easy staggering distance of the nightlife. Prahran and South Yarra, along the banks of the Yarra River, are other excellent choices as unofficial secondary gayborhoods—although they’re also a bit posher and therefore more expensive. Don’t stay in the Central Business District; despite being near all the big tourist sites, it’s expensive while also being dull as dishwater.

As for the whens to visit, it depends on what you’re after. In the Southern Hemisphere, the sweet spot runs from October to April, with long evenings,and perfect beach weather. Shoulder months (October–November and March–April) bring milder weather (but still good enough for the beach) and easier bookings. Winter has its charm too, if you care more about sightseeing than getting a sexy surfer tan.

Transportation & Airport Transfer

Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to the city is easy: the SkyBus connects you directly to Southern Cross Station in around half an hour, with frequent departures. From there, switch to a tram or train. Alternatively, taxis and rideshares queue outside every terminal, with travel times of 25–45 minutes depending on traffic.

As for getting around when there, Melbourne runs on the Myki, which has trams, trains, and buses—the best being the completely free tram that connects all the major areas in the city center. Trains are best for longer hops though, and late-night services run on weekends.

Gay Hotels in Melbourne

Luxury

The Olsen – An upscale, art-forward, boutique-lux stay with five-star swagger. In other words, Melbourne incarnate. This hotel feels like an art gallery itself, which is fitting given that it’s a homage to Australian artist John Olsen. The décor balances playful creativity with polished restraint: glass, pale timber, and soft tones punctuated by bursts of color, with pieces on the walls like a colorful portrait of Freddie Mercury and a grunge rendition of the Mona Lisa. Rooms are spacious and quietly luxurious, with floor-to-ceiling windows and arty touches of their own. Facilities include a glass-bottomed pool suspended over Chapel Street, a popular vegan restaurant downstairs, and thoughtful details that make the space feel curated rather than styled. It’s also right on Chapel Street, where you’ll find the largest cluster of gay bars.

The Como Melbourne – For your more standard five-star affair, this hotel down in South Yarra (also close to a lot of the gay nightlife) serves sleek minimalism with a sheet of polish. The service is top-notch and guests get access to a heated rooftop pool and sun deck, a well-equipped fitness centre, as well as a sauna and steam room. Its spacious rooms and suites are spacious sanctuaries, many with private terraces and deep soaking tubs.

Mid-range

Ovolo South Yarra – Ovolo South Yarra proves that 70s glam never actually left — it just moved into a super-artsy boutique hotel with bubble machines, bold patterns, plus vinyls, Cher portraits, and even a modern-looking Mona Lisa adorning the walls. Rooms are fun, funky, and full of thoughtful touches (including loot bags). Step outside and Chapel Street is right there, ready for brunch-to-cocktails adventures. Inside, their trendy restaurant, Lona Misa, is legendary and dishes out Latin American flavors with a plant-based twist. Follow the glowing martini sign to Backroom, an art deco cocktail den hiding a Pop Art games room. Part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Ovolo nails Melbourne’s personality perfectly.

Veriu Collingwood – Tucked into Collingwood’s creative grid, right by a lot of the gay bars, this boutique stay gives apartment-style while being extremely good value for money. Its rooms and suites feel like stylish city pads: spacious layouts, polished finishes, splashes of color, and that Melbourne mix of minimalism and personality. Design-forward and community-minded, it also sports a rooftop pool, a well-equipped gym, and social spaces.

Budget

The Laird – Melbourne’s iconic gay bar is also the city’s only men-only hotel. The Laird sits right on the edge of Collingwood and Abbotsford’s creative strip, surrounded by other pubs, breweries, and the city’s most beloved gay venues. This men-only hotel leans proudly into its heritage, offering a classic, community-first vibe. Rooms are simple, comfy, and designed for easy, social stays. Plus, it’s an easy trip upstairs after a few drinks in the bar!

Sightseeing & Activities in Melbourne

Eureka Tower (Skydeck) – Melbourne’s ultimate room-with-a-view, sitting 88 floors above the city with floor-to-ceiling windows that make everything below look toy-sized. As the highest public viewpoint in the Southern Hemisphere at 975 feet tall, it’s the best place to get your bearings, with 360-degree views across the city. At sunset, it’s especially mind-blowing. If you’re feeling brave, head out onto The Edge, a glass cube that slides out from the building so you’re standing above the streets with nothing but clear panels beneath your feet. Book tour →

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) – From blockbuster exhibitions to free permanent collections, NGV delivers big feelings and beautiful rooms. Melbourne’s premier art museum blends grand architecture with world-class exhibitions. Inside, you’ll find everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary installations, plus that iconic stained-glass ceiling in the Great Hall. Wander through Australian and international collections, catch rotating blockbuster shows, or explore the sculpture garden between galleries. Book tickets →

Laneway Street Art Walk (CBD) – Melbourne wears its heart on brick walls with laneways that are basically open-air galleries.Hidden between office towers and cafés, these narrow alleys burst with ever-changing murals, stencils, characters, and color—often refreshed overnight. Start at Hosier Lane for the big, bold pieces, then weave through AC/DC Lane, Duckboard Place, and Union Lane to catch everything from political commentary to playful cartoon chaos. With new works constantly appearing, no two visits are the same. Book tour →

Federation Square – Fed Square is the impressive cultural heart of Melbourne. The huge open plaza hosts everything from festivals and outdoor screenings to pop-up events and buskers. Inside the surrounding buildings, you’ll find galleries, cafés, and the always-buzzing ACMI (Australia’s national museum of screen culture), along with iconic neighbors like Flinders Street Station and the Ian Potter Centre. Book tour →

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne – Whether you like your shrubbery wild or curated, Melbourne’s Botanic Gardens has a bit of both. This serene escape in the city center has 94 acres of lakes, lawns, and lush greenery that’s home to more than 8,500 plant species from around the world. Stroll through the Rainforest Walk, relax by Ornamental Lake, or join locals jogging the iconic Tan Track that loops around the grounds. Book tour →

St Kilda Pier & Little Penguins – One of Melbourne’s most charming seaside spots, St Kilda Pier offers classic bay views, breezy boardwalk vibes, and the chance to meet the area’s cutest little locals: Penguins. Just after sunset, these tiny birds waddle back to their breakwater homes, giving visitors a close-up (and free!) wildlife moment right in the city. By day, stroll the pier for skyline views, grab gelato on the foreshore, and watch sailboats drift across Port Phillip Bay.

Brighton Beach – Famous for its 82 garishly colored cabins in the English style, each uniquely painted and lining the sand here. Once used as changing rooms, they’ve been around since the 19th century. As well as being perfect photo fodder, the beach itself has old-school holiday vibes and pleasantly calm waters ideal for swimming or a relaxed paddle. Lovely! Book tour →

Luna Park – On the topic of old-school vibes, Luna Park has been delighting visitors since 1912 with its retro charm and giant grinning entrance. Set right by St Kilda Beach, it’s packed with classic rides, carnival games, and plenty of old-school whimsy. Its prime ride is the historic Scenic Railway roller coaster, one of the oldest in the world. Book tickets →

Queen Victoria Market – A Melbourne institution since the 1800s, Queen Victoria Market is the largest open air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Wander through historic sheds packed with artisan cheeses, cured meats, coffee, pastries, and global street eats, then browse rows of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to quirky souvenirs. The atmosphere is lively, colorful, and unmistakably local. Visit early for the best food picks or come during one of the famous Night Markets for live music, cocktails, and a buzzing festival vibe. Book tour →

State Library Victoria – A library may seem a dull choice for a sightseeing spot but the La Trobe Reading Room inside is truly impressive with its soaring octagonal dome, white balconies, and symmetrical study desks make it an architectural icon.. Open since 1913, the room sits at the heart of Australia’s oldest public library, with free exhibits, historic artifacts, and plenty of cozy corners to explore.

Restaurants and Cafes

Gimlet at Cavendish House –The perfect Aussie high-dining experience. Set within a beautifully restored 1920s landmark, the restaurant radiates old-world glamour—think soaring ceilings, curved leather booths, and soft, golden lighting. Led by celebrated chef Andrew McConnell, Gimlet presents a menu built around exceptional Australian produce and wood-fired techniques. You can go with a set menu or à la carte. In addition to being a perfect date location, they provide half portions of mains and sides for solo diners. The cocktails are also great, as is the service. The tenderloin steak is a highlight.

Lune Croissanterie – Scientifically engineered pastry might sound unusual, but Kate Reid’s Lune in Fitzzroy elevates the classic croissant to new levels, and they’re known for being some of the best in the world. Flaky, buttery, and undeniably delicious, the highlights are the almond croissant and the kouign-amann. Having breakfast here is an essential Melbourne experience, but get there early, as there’s always a queue around the block.

MISSCHU – Melbourne’s modern Vietnamese hawker experience. MISSCHU in South Garra brings a contemporary twist to classic Vietnamese street food. The menu is full of standouts: delicate steamed dumplings, fragrant rice-paper rolls, crisp bánh xèo, and vibrant noodle salads. It’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch or a quick takeaway. The vibe is lively and unfussy, with a focus on good food done well.

Proud Mary Coffee – Melbourne has been consistently voted the city with the best coffee in the world, and it certainly fits its hipster vibe. This café has also recently been named among the world’s best coffee shops and is handily located in Collingwood near the gay nightlife scene. Proud Mary Coffee is a brunch-and-beans institution with serious specialty cred—single origins, a crowd-favorite potato hash, and a buzzy, friendly floor that feels like Melbourne distilled.

Easey's – Located inside three retired train carriages that hover precariously five stories above Collingwood, Easey’s delivers classic Americana with that creative Melbourne twist. Climbing the graffiti-painted stairs, you end up in a snazzy rooftop diner within the connected carriages, with killer views across the inner north. The menu leans unapologetically indulgent, with perfectly smashed burgers, loaded fries, crispy fried chicken, and thick shakes. There’s even a rather random golf simulator in the back to enjoy between burgers.

Chin Chin – Melbourne’s high-energy temple of modern Thai flavor. Known for its pre-party vibes, thumping music, and neon-lit attitude, Chin Chin is a place where bold Southeast Asian flavors collide with Melbourne’s love of fun, fast, and beautifully executed food. There are banquet options, and the menu hits hard: zingy kingfish sashimi, addictive chili-jam fried chicken, fragrant curries, and shared plates. It’s always chaotically busy, so book in advance — it’s worth it.

Lona Misa – A Latin-inspired vegan dining experience, where non-vegans won't even notice the difference. Set inside the slick, art-filled Ovolo South Yarra hotel, Lona Misa brings serious flair to plant-based food with a menu that blends Latin street vibes and refined bistro cooking. Inside is as colorful and full of personality as the hotel. The creative musts include citrusy vegan ceviche, smoky grilled vegetables, house-made tortillas, and rich dishes that surprise with depth.

Fall From Grace – Speakeasies are a Melbourne specialty. This one is tucked behind a secret bookcase inside the State of Grace bar on Collins Street. The low-lit den oozes attitude with its sultry vintage touches, velvet banquettes, and a vibe cooler than your cocktail selection. The snacks are great too, and it makes for a perfect post-dinner stop before hitting the gay bars.

Mollie’s Bar & Diner – Located above the popular gay bar Sircuit, this diner is the go-to pre-game in Fitzroy. It has a heated rooftop, theme nights, and diner plates with attitude like Mexican parma and crispy schnitty. To get the night going, they often have drag shows themselves.

Melbourne Gay Bars and Clubs

The Peel Hotel – A Melbourne institution where pretty much all the gays go last, as it stays open until 7 a.m. on weekends and is found among the gaggle of gay bars in Collingwood. There are DJs, there’s drag, there are nice Aussie guys — basically everything you could want from a gay bar/club.

The Laird – Australia’s longest-running men-only gay bar and hotel mostly caters to bears and the leather community, but all men are welcome, really. It has multiple bars, a big bear garden (I meant what I said), and has a community-first feel to it. They also run themed nights ranging from fetish to pool competitions to “blokeoke.”

Sircuit – This gay bar is one of the most popular in the Fitzroy area. There’s an entrance fee, but it’s worth it because you get a sleek bar with a clubby feel. There are multiple areas to roam, with pool tables at the back that are cleared out for a dance floor, a diner upstairs, and a darkroom. Their stage is constantly hosting something — from drag competitions and pop-up performances to go-go dancers and themed party nights, including a naked night.

POOF DOOF @ Chasers – The place to be on a Saturday night in South Yarra, this gay club has two (and a half, technically) floors of queer fun. Downstairs is your circuit-party affair, with topless muscular men with Aussie tans everywhere you look. Meanwhile, upstairs is more diverse, with cheesy pop till dawn.

DT’s Hotel — Camp as a wedding cake, this is one of the city’s friendliest gay pubs, with a leafy beer garden, cabaret, and beloved drag lineups. An easygoing, chatty atmosphere makes it perfect for warm-up drinks when in Richmond.

Pride of our Footscray – Footscray might seem a bit further out but it has the benefit of housing this super fun venue. It’s a true community space, where the vibe is artsy, and a little delightfully chaotic. They host trivia nights, karaoke, and some of the most joyful drag shows in the west.

The 86 Cabaret Bar – Drag cabaret and creatuve cocktails, the perfect combo. In Fitzroy, this place serves free drag shows some nights, ticketed variety on others, and has a clubby vibe after the show finishes. Basically you can slide into a velvet booth, sip something theatrical, then dance it off after curtain call.

UBQ – Among the gay bar strip in Fitzroy this bar is a cozy, clubby space that straddles the line between bar and club. Expect drag shows that swing from campy to high-glam and karaoke.

Melbourne Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars

Wet on Wellington – Melbourne's only gay sauna. Thankfully, it's a good one and right in the gay area. Inside you'll find a beautiful large spa, steam room, dry sauna, lap pool, outdoor courtyard, play areas, cabins, sling rooms, a porn lounge, and even a “suckatorium.” Its events include under-30s, nude, mixed swingers, and “Furocious” bear nights! It’s cash only, so be sure you have a pocket full before going.

Gay Beaches in Melbourne

St Kilda Beach – Not an officially gay beach, but as the closest to Melbourne city (accessed via trams 96 and 16), it’s naturally popular with LGBTQ+ people, especially on weekends. Us gays tend to group together, so park yourself wherever you notice other LGBTQ+ folk. After a dip, wander to the pier at dusk for a chance to spot the resident penguins seeking refuge under the pier and soak in one of Melbourne’s most iconic coastal scenes.

Sunnyside North Beach – The only legal clothing-optional beach near Melbourne, around 37 miles (60 km) south near Mount Eliza. The signed C/O zone is a walk north from the Sunnyside Rd car park—follow the path and check the markers. It’s not specifically gay either, but you can rest assured there will be gay men there with their kit off. The rocks near Mount Eliza are a well-known cruising area.

Gay Events in Melbourne

Midsumma Festival – Melbourne’s Pride has its own cool name and is actually a bunch of events held over three weeks from mid-January to early February. There are more than 200 events spanning theatre, cabaret, visual art, film, parties, workshops, and family-friendly activities. The festival opens with Midsumma Carnival, a huge outdoor gathering in Alexandra Gardens featuring live music, community stalls, food trucks, and an “After Dark” (formerly T-Dance) party. Another highlight is the Midsumma Pride March, where thousands parade down Fitzroy Street in St Kilda. The festival’s finale, Victoria’s Pride Street Party in Fitzroy, transforms Gertrude and Smith Streets into a full-day outdoor bonanza with stages hosting big-name divas, drag queens, DJs, and speakers. Dates: February 1–22, 2026.

Melbourne Queer Film Festival (MQFF) – Australia’s longest-running queer film fest screens bold features, docs, and shorts—often across ACMI and partner cinemas. Expect premieres, filmmaker Q&As, and a crowd that laughs, cries, and debriefs over cocktails after. Recent editions have landed in November. Dates: 2026 to be announced.

Melbourne Queer Games Festival – Gaymers unite for this volunteer-run showcase spotlighting LGBTQIA+ video and tabletop games, talks, and awards—connecting queer creators and players. The fest has paused in 2025 with plans to return, but it’s a staple of Melbourne’s creative calendar. Dates: 2026 to be announced.

Day Trips from Melbourne

Great Ocean Road & the Twelve Apostles – A day trip from Melbourne along the cliff-hugging Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most stunning scenic experiences. Rent a car then drive past surf beaches, koala-filled eucalyptus forests, and dramatic clifftops, with charming stops like Lorne and Apollo Bay along the way. The highlight, of course, is the Twelve Apostles—towering limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean, especially breathtaking at sunset when they glow gold and amber. Book tour →

Yarra Valley: Wine & Wildlife – Just an hour from the city, the region is dotted with rolling vineyards, cozy cellar doors, and award-winning wineries where you can sample cool-climate chardonnay, pinot noir, and sparkling wines. In between tastings, visit Healesville Sanctuary to meet kangaroos, wombats, dingoes, and sleepy koalas in a beautiful bush setting. Book tour →

Phillip Island Penguin Parade – Head seaside on another short drive from Melbourne, where you can spend the day wandering windswept beaches, watching surfers at Cape Woolamai, or exploring the boardwalks above the island’s dramatic cliffs. Visit the Koala Conservation Reserve to stroll among treetops and spot wallabies, kangaroos, and of course koalas. The real magic happens at dusk, however, with the famous Penguin Parade, where hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore to their burrows. You do have to pay to see the cute spectacle (unlike at St. Kilda), and arrive early for the boardwalk vantage points. Book tour →

Featured image by Amanda Kevins

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