Sunnyside Nude Beach, Mt Eliza, Melbourne
Hi everybody, thought I'd give my thoughts on Melbourne's only nude beach, Sunnyside North, in the outer Melbourne suburb of Mt Eliza. The beach is located around 50km from the CBD, and about an hour's drive. There is a designated car park, however this summer, the council started charging for the privilege - $6.50 per hour to a maximum of $19.50. If you are like me, and think that is a bit steep, you can park a little further away on the side of Sunnyside Road, which connects the Nepean Highway to the car park. Street parking is signposted, and be sure to observe them, parking regulations are enforced. If you visit on a weekend, and come anything other than in the early part of the morning, expect a fair walk along the road to get back to the car park.
From the northern end of the car park, there is about a 200 metre walk along the sand and rocks , heading north to reach the clothing optional area. The beach itself is about 500 metres in length, with width varying between 10 to 20 metres in width, with the beach backing onto scrublands. Being on Port Phillip Bay, waves are normally non existent. The first two thirds of the beach are for everyone, while the northern third of the beach is predominantly a gay area.
I prefer to visit in the morning. It's easier to get a parking spot, and the beach is much quieter. The sun rises behind you, while you face the water, and sets out in the bay.