Wanting to book a hotel in St Kilda but don’t know where to start? I’ve got you covered with this guide to the best St Kilda accommodation for all budgets – curated by a Melbourne local.
As a Melbourne local who regularly gets asked questions about where to stay, the CBD is certainly the place I usually recommend visitors book, particularly first-time visitors.
But there are so many other Melbourne neighbourhoods to explore. And one of the most popular tourist destinations is St Kilda. This seaside suburb is just 8km from the CBD, so staying here is a great balance of being close to Melbourne’s main landmarks but also having the beach, great nightlife and fabulous restaurants and cafés nearby.
St Kilda is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Melbourne, so in this guide I’m going to take you through a curated list of the best hotels in St Kilda, so you can easily book a stay that’s perfect for you.
This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).
Top picks for hotels in St Kilda
#1 pick
Quest St Kilda Bayside
✔️ Affordable serviced apartments
✔️Close to beach
#2 pick
The Prince Hotel
✔️ Iconic building
✔️ Great location
#3 pick
The Hamptons Apartments St Kilda
✔️ Great sized apartments
✔️ Near to restaurants and bars
How did I pick these hotels?
These hotels were all selected because they’re ones that I’d be happy to pay cash for myself. I’ve purposely chosen hotels at a range of budgets to suit a variety of travellers.
Personally, I would never stay at a hotel that gets a guest rating of less than 7/10 – so all of these St Kilda accommodation options meet my own standards.
Comparison of the best accommodation in St Kilda
Don’t have time to read the full hotel reviews below? Here’s a rundown of the St Kilda hotels included on this list.
| Hotel | Price range | Rating | Book |
| Quest St Kilda Bayside | $$ | 7.9 | Book now |
| The Prince Hotel | $$ | 8.4 | Book now |
| The Hamptons Apartments St Kilda | $$$ | 8.6 | Book now |
| Kimberley Gardens Hotel | $$ | 8.1 | Book now |
| Cosmopolitan Hotel | $ | 7.7 | Book now |
| Tolarno Hotel | $$ | 8.0 | Book now |
| Selina St Kilda | $ | 7.9 | Book now |
| Barkly Backpackers | $ | 7.5 | Book now |
| Adara St Kilda | $ | 7.5 | Book now |
| Nomads St Kilda | $ | 7.4 | Book now |
| Crest on Park | $$ | 7.2 | Book now |
| Saint Kilda Beach Hotel | $$ | 7.1 | Book now |
Prefer to see where these hotels are on a map so you can make your decision?
The 12 best hotels in St Kilda
Looking for a specific type of hotel in St Kilda?
- Best luxury hotel – The Hamptons Apartments
- Best hotel for a romantic weekend getaway – The Prince Hotel
- Best midrange accommodation – Kimberley Gardens Hotel
- Best hotel for families – Quest St Kilda Bayside
- Best budget hotel – Cosmopolitan Hotel
- Best hostel – Barkly Backpackers
1. Quest St Kilda Bayside
Rating: 7.9/10 | View on Booking.com | View on Expedia
Quest St Kilda Bayside has the best of both worlds – it’s located on a quiet residential street, but bars, cafés and restaurants are only a few minutes away.
With a variety of serviced apartments from studio to 2-bedroom, there are plenty of choices to suit your stay. The kitchenettes in the rooms are fully equipped – just in case you don’t want to venture out for dinner. Most rooms have balconies so you can enjoy the fresh sea air.
During the Melbourne summer months, the outdoor, solar-heated swimming pool opens so you can mix up pool time with beach time. The hotel is a mere 500 metres from the beach, making it one of the closest hotels to St Kilda beach.
If you’re in town on business, there are professional meeting and conference facilities to help you get your work done.
Best parts?
Close to beach, on-site swimming pool, rooms with kitchenettes and balconies
Worst parts?
Pool only open in summer, some guests say hot water in showers is tricky to regulate
Summary
Great choice for people who want to be close to St Kilda restaurants and nightlife – but also have the option to cook
2. The Prince Hotel
Rating: 8.4/10 | View on Booking.com | View on Expedia
One of St Kilda’s most famous live music venues, The Prince is also one of the best hotels in St Kilda. (Don’t worry – they’ve got good soundproofing!)
With a prime location right on Fitzroy Street, this boutique hotel has 38 rooms and suites, each with its own unique design and luxurious amenities.
Outside, the building has retained its original art deco architecture, while inside the rooms you’ll find custom furniture and iconic photography that represents the local St Kilda scene. Rooms have a tonne of natural light.
The Prince Hotel boasts an impressive rooftop bar and restaurant, making it the perfect spot to relax after a day exploring Melbourne.
The great thing about staying at The Prince is that you’re close to all the action on Fitzroy and Acland Streets, while only being a 10-minute walk from the St Kilda Beach Foreshore.
Best parts?
Gorgeous design, location – it’s close to restaurants and bars and the beach, friendly staff, on-site parking, three restaurants on site this St Kilda accommodation
Worst parts?
Some guests say the beds are quite soft, rooms are quite small, rooms don’t have beach views
Summary
Stylish hotel in an iconic venue that’s great for a romantic weekend trip to St Kilda
3. The Hamptons Apartments St Kilda
Rating: 8.6/10 | View on Booking.com
If you’re looking for luxury in St Kilda, then look no further than The Hamptons Apartments St Kilda.
These 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments take inspiration from the Hamptons region in New York, with stylish decor. Each comes with modern amenities such as air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities and free Wi-Fi, and many have spacious balconies.
The location puts you between the beach and the Chapel Street shopping and dining precinct, while the CBD is just a short tram ride away.
This is a great choice for both a romantic weekend away or a family/friends getaway.
Best parts?
Gorgeous apartments with tonnes of amenities, balconies/outdoor areas in most rooms, great location near to restaurants and bars
Worst parts?
Not as close to the beach as other hotels in this list
Summary
Gorgeous apartment for a romantic weekend away in St Kilda or family stay
4. Kimberley Gardens Hotel
Rating: 8.1/10 | View on Booking.com | View on Expedia
If you’re contemplating where to stay in St Kilda that isn’t going to cost you a pretty penny, Kimberley Gardens Hotel is the place for you.
Offering excellent value for money, the hotel rooms and serviced apartments at Kimberley Gardens have ample space and multiple amenities that’ll make your life easier.
Choose from a regular hotel room (some even have spa baths) or 1, 2 or 3-bedroom villas. The villas have kitchens, and the largest can sleep up to 8 people.
There’s a heated swimming pool, spa and 24-hour gym, as well as free parking.
While the hotel is in St Kilda East, it’s a quick trip on a tram down Carlisle Street to the beach and heart of St Kilda.
Best parts?
Spacious rooms, apartments have kitchens, free parking, pool and gym
Worst parts?
No on-site restaurant – but plenty close by, looks a bit like a retirement village or residential apartment complex from the outside, not within walking distance of the beach
Summary
Great value hotel with plenty of room options to suit your stay
5. Cosmopolitan Hotel
Rating: 7.7/10 | View on Booking.com | View on Expedia
One of the most affordable hotels in St Kilda, the Cosmopolitan Hotel nevertheless retains a sense of confidence and style. You won’t feel like you’re staying in a budget hotel here.
If you’re planning to be out and about all day and partying all night, one of the Compact Doubles might be for you – why pay extra for space you’re not going to use?
But if you’re travelling with a group or your family, one of the larger Two-bedroom Apartments is the better option – you’ll enjoy the flexibility of a kitchenette, as well as the privacy of separate bedrooms.
It’s a 10-minute walk to the beach and 6 minutes to Luna Park (one of the best things to do in Melbourne with kids) and the Palais Theatre, so you’re right in the heart of St Kilda. There’s also a tram stop nearby that’ll take you into the city if you want to explore a little further.
The Cosmopolitan Hotel is just off Carlisle Street, which is where you can find a tonne of St Kilda’s best bars, cafés and restaurants.
Best parts?
Some rooms have balconies, some rooms have kitchenettes so you can cook, affordable
Worst parts?
No pool, no on-site restaurant – but close to so many restaurants and cafés, limited parking on-site so you will need to reserve ahead of time
Summary
Affordable option that’s in a fantastic location in St Kilda
6. Tolarno Hotel
Rating: 8.0/10 | View on Booking.com | View on Expedia
More than just a bed for the night, the Tolarno Hotel in Kilda has a rich history and colourful past, all of which is captured in the essence of this accommodation in St Kilda.
Established by renowned artist Mirka Mora when she arrived in Australia after fleeing Poland during World War II, the hotel became a popular hangout for artsy and alternative folk in Melbourne in the 70s and 80s.
Each room features a signature piece of artwork around which the rest of the décor is based – as you can imagine, no two rooms are the same.
The Tolarno Hotel is on buzzing Fitzroy Street, so you’re close to a fabulous array of restaurants, bars and attractions.
Book a room at the back of the hotel if you’re sensitive to noise.
Best parts?
Unique rooms with individual style, most rooms have balconies, central location – close to restaurants and the beach
Worst parts?
Reception closes at 5pm (but late check-in can be arranged), no on-site parking, building is older so does come with some maintenance issues, rooms closer to Fitzroy St can be noisier
Summary
Funky stay in fabulous location – excellent choice if you’re looking for something different than the usual hotel décor
7. Selina St Kilda
Rating: 7.9/10 | View on Booking.com
Enjoy a hip and upbeat atmosphere along with a host of useful amenities and facilities when you stay at Selina St Kilda.
One of the newest accommodation offerings on the Melbourne scene, Selina hotels are a little more upmarket and stylish than a hostel but still affordable and with the fun, communal vibe of a backpackers.
Located in the very heart of St Kilda, Selina has a range of different room options, from private rooms to shared spaces.
Visitors have access to Selina’s very own restaurant, rooftop bar, cinema room, co-working space and wellness deck, encouraging you to make the most of your time in the city while also taking it easy and doing the things you need to do.
Best parts?
Upmarket hostel, female-only rooms available, options for shared dorms and private rooms, free airport shuttle (if you book a stay of at least 4 nights), communal kitchen
Worst parts?
Shared dorms are quite large – sharing for 12 people, building is old so it can be noisy/have maintenance issues
Summary
Funky affordable option that’s a bit more of an upmarket hostel but with the same communal vibe
8. Barkly Backpackers
Rating: 7.5/10 | View on Booking.com
Barkly Backpackers is all about providing affordable accommodation that is clean, efficient and well-located.
While it doesn’t look like a lot from the outside, here you can rest assured that you’ll have a clean room, speedy Wi-Fi and that you’ll be surrounded by other like-minded travellers.
Providing budget accommodation in St Kilda, the dormitories are mostly mixed and between 6, 8 or 10 people. Rooms are filled with light.
There’s also a common room for guests to relax and kick back during the day. The shared bathrooms are kept clean and tidy at all times, and the beach is only five minutes away – the ultimate convenience.
With Barkly Backpackers, saving on accommodation doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the quality of your holiday experience.
Best parts?
Choice of 6, 8 and 10-room dorms, female-only rooms available, communal kitchen, close to restaurants and nightlife, great staff and atmosphere
Worst parts?
No private rooms, 20-min walk to the beach
Summary
Great option if you’re looking for a friendly and quiet hostel with a communal vibe
9. Adara St Kilda
Rating: 7.5/10 | View on Booking.com | View on Expedia
Adara St Kilda is a fantastic choice for travellers who value both comfort and convenience.
With a selection of accommodations ranging from cosy studios to spacious 2-bedroom suites, this hotel ensures there’s a perfect fit for every guest.
Each room is outfitted with fully equipped kitchens for those who enjoy the flexibility of home cooking while on holiday. Rooms are simply yet tastefully decorated.
This hotel sits on iconic Inkerman Street, between lively Chapel Street and St Kilda Rd. A swift journey can take you to the heart of Melbourne’s CBD or the lovely St Kilda beachfront.
Whether you’re visiting for work or leisure, Adara St Kilda ticks all the boxes for an enjoyable stay.
Best parts?
Serviced apartments with kitchens and washing machines, affordable rooms, on-site parking (at a cost of $20 per night)
Worst parts?
Further from the beach that other hotels on this list, rooms are small
Summary
Great choice if you don’t mind being further from the beach – but still want access to restaurants and bars
10. Nomads St Kilda
Rating: 7.4/10 | View on Booking.com
This hip, fun hostel embraces Melbourne’s energy and encourages guests to get involved in all the activities it puts on. Not only is Nomads St Kilda one of the best hostels in Melbourne to meet like-minded people, but it’s also very laid back.
There’s a tonne of amenities and facilities at this cheap accommodation in St Kilda, including a 24-hour reception and on-site security, an especially attractive feature for solo travellers. In addition, Nomads has its own bar, TV room, café, pool table and BBQ area – everything you’d expect from a classic backpackers in St Kilda.
The hostel has dorm beds as well as private rooms – and all rooms have their own ensuite so you don’t need to go far to the toilet in the middle of the night, which is a bonus!
The hostel bar puts on plenty of activities throughout the week, including live performances, trivia, bingo and budget-friendly meal options.
This is a party hostel, so if it’s a quiet stay you’re looking for, this probably isn’t the place for you.
Best parts?
Lots of activities to help you socialise and explore Melbourne, great amenities, shared rooms have shared ensuite, 24-hour reception, female-only rooms available
Worst parts?
No on-site parking, noisy because of hostel activities and bar
Summary
Party hostel that excels in creating a communal vibe with fun activities
11. Crest on Park
Rating: 7.2/10 | View on Booking.com | View on Expedia
Situated in the heart of fun-loving St Kilda, Crest on Park places you close to the beautiful St Kilda Foreshore.
The mix of hotel rooms and serviced apartments in St Kilda offer plenty of choice whether you’re travelling with your family or you’re in town on business.
While the rooms might not be overly spacious or extravagantly decorated, the strategic location and competitive pricing of this St Kilda accommodation make it an excellent choice.
You do get free access to the St Kilda Baths when you stay here. This iconic St Kilda location has a heated pool, hydrotherapy spa pool and steam rooms.
Bonus: there’s complimentary parking on-site, a rarity in Melbourne.
Best parts?
Free on-site parking, access to the St Kilda baths, great location close to the beach, option for a serviced apartment with kitchenette (but no washing machine), 24-hour reception
Worst parts?
Can’t check in at hotel – need to check in at sister property (Crest on Barkly – 5-min drive), rooms are fairly small, high bond to be paid
Summary
Affordable hotel in the heart of St Kilda with the option for serviced apartments or hotel rooms
12. Saint Kilda Beach Hotel
Rating: 7.1/10 | View on Booking.com | View on Expedia
When it comes to location, it simply doesn’t get better than the Saint Kilda Beach Hotel (formerly the Rydges St Kilda).
Just a few minutes from St Kilda Beach and the neighbourhood’s main precinct, this accommodation in St Kilda is perfect for those looking to make the most of everything the area has to offer.
The hotel has well-lit and spacious rooms, with minimalist design. Depending on your needs, choose between rooms with queen, king or twin-sized beds, or even a family room if you’re bringing the little ones along for a holiday.
Guests can also enjoy an on-site restaurant, bar and gym – making it the perfect choice for both business and leisure.
Best parts?
Close to beach, close to public transport (trams and the SkyBus to airport), 24-hour check-in/reception, interconnecting rooms available
Worst parts?
Parking is on-site (and undercover) – but it’s $35 per day, no rooms with balcony, no beach views
Summary
Affordable accommodation in St Kilda in fantastic location
Final thoughts: St Kilda Hotels
St Kilda is a great part of the city to visit – and to stay. If you’re looking for a different part of the city to stay beyond the usual CBD, then it’s a great choice.
With its varied range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, there’s something to suit every traveller. Its beachside location is an escape from the bustle of the city, while its well-connected public transport network ensures easy access to Melbourne’s main attractions.
Hotels in St Kilda Melbourne: FAQ
How do I get to St Kilda from Melbourne Airport?
There are several ways to travel from Melbourne Airport to St Kilda.
- By taxi or rideshare: This is the most convenient but also the most expensive option. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes without traffic.
- By shuttle bus: SkyBus offers a direct service from the airport to St Kilda. You’ll need to take the Peninsula Express bus, and get off at the Inkerman Street bus stop. The trip takes about an hour.
Does St Kilda have good public transport?
St Kilda is well-served by public transport, making it easy for visitors to navigate around the area. Trams are a particularly popular option, with several lines running through St Kilda, providing direct access to various points of interest, including the CBD.
Do you need any help searching for hotels in St Kilda? Drop a comment below!
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Related posts
Looking for more Melbourne and Victoria accommodation guides? You might like these:
- The best boutique hotels in Melbourne
- Amazing 5-star hotels in Melbourne for a luxe getaway
- Must-stay hotels in the Melbourne CBD
- Great serviced apartments in Melbourne (better than Airbnb!)
- Where to stay near Melbourne Airport
- Where to stay in Melbourne: A guide to the coolest neighbourhoods
- Awesome Airbnbs in Victoria for a weekend getaway
Best Melbourne resources
- Check out my Melbourne travel guide for everything you need to know about planning a trip to Melbourne
- Look for flights to Melbourne on Skyscanner.
- Book accommodation on Booking.com or Expedia for your Melbourne trip. The Ovolo Laneways Hotel is a good choice in the CBD.
- You won’t really need a car in Melbourne, but if you do want to get out of the city, then rent a car through DiscoverCars.
- Pick up a copy of the Lonely Planet Pocket Melbourne to help plan your trip.
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