Permeated with salt-tinged air, the hallmark of the Sandringham locale is undoubtedly its picture-perfect beach. Located just 3-minutes from your doorstep, many a day is to be enjoyed here by residents of Promenade, making for an utterly sublime second backyard. Along with the beach, you’ll also find a collection of recreational amenities that promote a distinctly ‘coastal’ way of life. The Sandringham Yacht Club, for example, is a boat owner’s paradise, boasting a 365-birth marina, an extensive calendar of events, a luxurious clubhouse and a range of other enviable facilities. Even the most indoorsy of residents will be drawn to all this idyllic foreshore has to offer.
If you’re familiar with the culinary mastery of Dino Moshin (Riserva Wine, Rockpool Bar and Grill), then it’ll come as no surprise that the restaurateur’s latest venture is already a Sandringham favourite. Baia Di Vino, which means ‘wine of the sea’ in Italian, has a penchant for seafood of the European variety. King prawns, brodetto, linguine and wood fired fish comprise the thoughtfully curated menu, along with a sound Mediterranean wine list and a decadent selection of French desserts. Interiors encapsulate coastal sophistication, adorned in terrazzo, marble and rustic timber. Just a 5-minute walk from Promenade, meander over whenever you please and soak up the lively European atmosphere.
Sandringham’s burgeoning hospitality scene is epitomised by Port of Call, a sunny brunch spot from the dream team who brought us cult favourites like Tall Timber, Plain Sailing and Left Field. In homage to the suburb’s coastal landscape, the café’s interiors feature mint green joinery, washed timber, an abundance of indoor greenery and multi-coloured flooring throughout. As expected, the menu is utterly inspired; highlights include the cauliflower tacos, the ‘big brekky brioche burger’ and the all-encompassing breakfast board. Coffee is also at the forefront here, using expertly brewed beans from Niccollo Coffee Roasters.
A haven of neutral tones and natural textiles, Village Import is the quintessential coastal boutique. Here, shelves are adorned with understated garments for the leisurely lifestyle, including lightweight linen shirts, beautifully woven knits and breathable summer dresses. In addition to clothing, explore a range of luxury homewares from local designers and international artisans. Imbued with just a hint of tribal edge, each piece encapsulates the Hamptons aesthetic this pocket of Melbourne is so widely known for. With an exquisite range of accessories and esoteric little trinkets on offer too, Village Import is the perfect place to buy a gift – be it for a loved one or yourself.
Running parallel to Beach Road, the Bay Trail presents one of the most scenic ways to exercise in Melbourne. Spanning from Seaford all the way to Port Melbourne, to access the Sandringham leg, just walk down to the end of your street. Enjoyed by bike riders, joggers and dog-walkers alike, the trail boasts breathtaking views of the ocean and city skyline, and passes a number of bayside landmarks along the way – the Brighton Baths, Point Ormond in Elwood, St Kilda esplanade and more. With its flat, smooth surface, confident cyclists can also utilise Beach Road for their rides – one of Australia’s most beloved bike riding routes.