PORT AQUATIC PHILLIP’S PLAYGROUND

As Melbourne prospered, its pioneering residents quickly discovered the recreational uses of Port Phillip.

Rowing, sailing and fishing became entrenched in the colonial lifestyle.

Bayside suburbs such as St Kilda and Brighton were established on the east shore of the bay and Sorrento and Portsea became popular resorts in the south.

Today, the bay is one of Victoria's most popular recreational destinations, attracting nearly 60 million visitors annually, including many from interstate and overseas.

For Melburnians and others who live close to its shores, the bay is a vast and freely accessible sanctuary from the bustling metropolis, and a major contributor to the liveability of the city and its surrounds.

With its mostly calm, temperate waters and long stretches of sandy coastline, the bay’s beaches are ideal for swimming, kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddle boarding.

Dozens of lifesaving clubs dot Port Phillip, especially on the east coast, providing volunteer lifeguard services and conducting sporting carnivals.

Port Phillip is also one of the state’s premier saltwater recreational fishing locations, with target species of flathead, snapper and King George whiting making up more than 500 tonnes of catch annually.

Divers and snorkellers have a wide choice of experiences among the bay’s diverse underwater