About Riviera Beach Club
Riviera Beach Club is a seaside events venue on Elwood’s foreshore (Marine Parade, Elwood VIC 3184) overlooking Port Phillip Bay . It blends modern Australian dining (a chic bistro lounge and deck) with open-air party spaces, creating a “beachside sunset” atmosphere . This multi-level venue features an upper indoor-outdoor cabana (often called the Pavilion) and a large lower lawn (“festival lawn”) perfect for summer events. The Pavilion has flexible indoor-outdoor areas with bay views, while the lawn can accommodate several thousand guests in full festival mode . For more intimate gatherings, the indoor spaces hold about 450 standing guests . The décor is beach-chic with rugs, lounge seating, and palm trees, embodying a coastal lifestyle. Riviera matters locally as one of Melbourne’s few true beach club venues: it revitalises Elwood’s foreshore with live music and community events. It’s become known for its laid-back, summery vibe – a place where people eat, drink and dance in the sand. Riviera’s history dates back decades as a foreshore bar and has been transformed by its owners (Atlantic Group, with Good Company Bar and Finders Keepers) into a modern event destination. It now regularly draws top local and international DJs and bands, putting Elwood on the entertainment map .
Events and Programming
Riviera Beach Club hosts a wide variety of events year-round, with a focus on music and beachside parties. Summer is peak season: each year the venue runs weekly “Sunday Sessions” afternoon-to-evening club nights on the Pavilion lawn (usually from December through January) . These are beach parties with DJs spinning house, techno, disco and dance hits as the sun sets. Outside summer there are still events – big-name club shows, market-style festivals, and private functions – but they’re less frequent. The venue has attracted internationally renowned artists (for example, DJ Claptone’s “Masquerade” tour in November and the UK house duo CamelPhat in January) as well as local favorites. It also hosts genre nights (rock, metal or hip-hop concerts) and cultural celebrations – for instance, a 2024 “Sounds of Afrobeats” outdoor party on Nov 24 www.ticketfairy.com . Events range from dance music parties (house, techno, EDM) to live band concerts (rock, alternative, reggae, etc.), so the crowd and energy can vary widely. Promoters like Poof Doof and Thick as Thieves regularly use Riviera for large parties. Many weekends have open-day music festivals or sunset BBQs (often featuring Melbourne DJs and food stalls), while occasional weekdays see club shows or private events. Ticket prices depend on the act (big-name DJs often charge $100+ , while smaller DJs or community events may be $30–50 ). Overall, Riviera’s programming is notable for seaside vibes – it’s advertised as “more than a venue, it’s a lifestyle: beachside sunset sessions and elevated events” , and truly brings music to the sand.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Riviera Beach Club events are typically sold in advance through official promoters and authorised websites. The venue itself does not operate a traditional walk-up box office, so you usually buy tickets online (via promoters or event pages linked from Riviera’s promotions). Major events often have announced on-sale dates and presales. For example, a Claptone live show in late 2019 opened a presale signup in early June and tickets sold out quickly. To secure tickets for popular DJs or peak events, watch Riviera’s own site or social media for announcements and join mailing lists – presales can begin weeks or months ahead . Ticket prices vary by event: club nights and big acts might be $60–120+ (CamelPhat 2026 tickets were $109.90–119.90 ), whereas smaller gigs or daytime parties might be in the $20–$50 range. Tiered pricing (e.g. early-bird vs. standard) is common. Tickets are generally **not** sold at the door for sold-out shows, so plan ahead; only some events may offer limited door sales if not sold out. There are no onsite ticket counters apart from occasional event-day staff at the entry gates, so always book in advance online. Note that you will need to have a printed or mobile e-ticket and bring valid photo ID to enter (see Venue Policies).
Seating and Layout
Riviera Beach Club is primarily a standing-room venue with an open beach-floor and lawn layout. There is no fixed seating – most tickets are general admission. However, the space has a few different areas to enjoy the show. Upstairs is the Cabana/Pavilion level, which has an indoor bar/lounge area and an adjoining open-air deck. This deck offers a raised vantage over the grounds and is ideal for sunset and bay views – it’s a popular spot to relax with a drink and watch the action from above. Downstairs is the festival lawn in front of the main stage (near the beach), where most people stand and dance. For best sightlines, the centre of the lawn facing the stage is ideal; keep in mind that speakers and lighting rigs are set up onstage, so very far to the sides or behind the stage will have obstructed sound or view. There is a slight slope on the lawn, so the farther back you stand, the higher a bit on some days (bring heels or watch your step on sand if the lawn is uncovered). Close to the stage the audio is very loud, so earplugs are recommended. At the sides or rear of the deck level you can still see and hear the music with a bit more space. The venue does have a small elevated DJ booth and platforms by the stage. In practice, there are a few tables and standing rails near the bar areas inside for those who want to sit (if any standing tables are set up for special events), but generally it’s festival-style. The outdoor lawn and deck can also be used for seating during private events. Acoustically, Riviera is set up with a professional sound system for open-air events, so sound carries well across the lawn, though breezy evenings can diffuse it slightly.
Getting There and Parking
Riviera Beach Club is located at 42B Marine Parade, Elwood (in the St Kilda Marina complex). Public transport is a good way to reach it. From Melbourne CBD, catch the No. 16 tram to Luna Park/The Esplanade stop#138 (Alma Road), then walk about 15 minutes along the beach to the marina . You can also take No. 96 (from Bourke Street) or No. 12 (from Collins Street) to St Kilda Beach, then walk or transfer to another tram or ride a short distance. Tram No. 3 from Swanston Street goes to Carlisle Street (35 min), near Elsternwick – from there you can either walk (40 min) or catch a connecting bus or tram. Alternatively, the Sandringham train line (V/Line) to Elsternwick Station plus the #246 bus (to Barkly Street) will get you within about a 9-minute walk of Riviera . Trams run frequently (about every 10 minutes) from early morning until after midnight . On busy event days, traffic around Marine Parade can be heavy, so public transit is recommended if possible. There is a small onsite parking lot: Riviera has about 80 allocated car spaces for patrons . However, outside parking in Elwood and St Kilda is mostly residential permit zones, and council officers patrol regularly . If you do drive, plan to arrive early; the lot fills up quickly and street parking is very limited (alternatives include paid parking at Luna Park or St Kilda Marina if available). Note that the Riviera parking area operates roughly from 2:00pm–10:30pm on event days , so outside those hours it may be closed. For pick-up and drop-off by taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft), Riviera has an official one-way loop right off Marine Parade at the entrance (near the BP station) . Only authorised riders (taxis or ride-share with signage) can enter this loop; other vehicles are turned away. To avoid congestion, the venue recommends that drop-offs also use nearby Dickens Street and walk over (there’s a pedestrian crossing on Alma Road) . Always obey signage and traffic directions around the marina area. For accessible parking, notify the venue in advance so they can reserve a spot (see Accessibility).
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, you’ll queue at the entrance to have your ticket scanned, show your ID and pass through security. Riviera enforces standard event checks – bags will be searched and you may be wanded or patted down for safety. All patrons must present a valid photo ID (Australian driver’s licence, passport or proof-of-age card) at entry . Upon entry, you’ll be issued a wristband. Keep it on at all times (no pass-outs are allowed once you’ve entered ). Inside, Riviera has two main bar areas (one upstairs and one downstairs), plus a covered indoor lounge. The bar serves alcoholic drinks and basic cocktails, as well as soft drinks and water. There is usually a food menu offering modern Australian fares – in non-event hours (especially Sundays) Riviera operates as a restaurant/bistro. The cuisine is Modern Australian, and Atlantic Group often does beach BBQs and catering for events . Outdoor, food trucks or snack stalls may appear for large events. You cannot bring your own food or drinks (only empty water bottles are allowed) . Inside, expect a beach-casual vibe: sand or wooden boardwalk underfoot, lounge seating by the bars, and festival decor. Free water refill stations are sometimes available at major music events – but it’s wise to bring an empty bottle anyway and fill it up to stay hydrated. There are toilets and at least one accessible restroom located near the main stage (on the right side) . Coat check is not guaranteed – for events in cooler weather you may need to hold onto belongings or ask security staff if any are available. Connectivity is mostly via mobile networks, which generally work though can slow when the venue is full. The atmosphere is open and social – people often mingle up at the deck bar or sit on the steps of the lawn. Merchandise stalls may appear during concerts. Remember that events often go until late (midnight-mid-1am), and trams run until about 1:30am so you have options for getting home.
Nearby Amenities
Because it sits at the junction of Elwood and St Kilda, Riviera Beach Club has plenty of nearby amenities. Within a few hundred meters is Dickens Street and Ormond Road, where you’ll find casual cafes, burger joints (e.g. The Beach Shack), and take-away restaurants (pizza, Mexican, Vietnamese, etc.). Acland Street and Fitzroy Street in St Kilda (about a 10–15 minute walk) have many more bars, restaurants and shops. Popular pre-show dinner spots include Pete’s Pan (Mexican taqueria at Dickens & Acland) or Sarim’s Indian Restaurant. For coffee, try Barkly Square or local brewers along the way. If you prefer fine dining, St Kilda’s seaside restaurants (e.g. the Boathouse or Republica) are a short walk or tram ride away. Late-night venues are also close: you could start evening drinks at the Espy or the Stokehouse. For accommodation, many visitors stay in St Kilda (hotels like the Novotel or the Rendezvous) or nearby Port Melbourne. A commute from the CBD is 15–20 min by car or 30 min by tram. Remember to leave extra travel time on event nights, and note that after midnight public transit is less frequent. Alternatively, Uber/taxi fares can surge when events let out. There are taxi ranks on the St Kilda Esplanade and West Beach, or flag down bayside cabs on Fitzroy St. Street parking anywhere is metered and strictly enforced – watch for permit-only signs.
What Makes This Venue Special
Riviera Beach Club is special because of its seaside setting and all-day, all-ages lifestyle feel. It’s one of the few places in Melbourne where you can literally sit in the sand and watch live music or DJ sets over the bay. The combination of a modern bar/restaurant with open-air decks and an expansive festival lawn right at the water’s edge creates a unique “beach festival” vibe within the city . Architecturally, it stands out with palm trees, round-arched skylights, and timber decking – the design intentionally blurs indoors and outdoors. Culturally, Riviera has grown into a summertime institution, continuing a tradition of outdoor bayside entertainment (St Kilda has a history of beach concerts and festivals). It has helped boost the local economy by bringing large crowds to Elwood, supporting nearby cafes and shops. The view itself is a draw: watching a live band with the sunset at your back and paddle-boarders on the water is memorable. Both artists and audiences love Riviera for its relaxed coastal energy – promoters call it a “beachside destination” and DJs often praise the strong sound and crowd vibe. In short, Riviera Beach Club matters as an iconic spot for “coast meets culture” – it’s where Melburnians go to feel on holiday without leaving town.
Visitor Tips and Information
Riviera Beach Club events are primarily 18+ affairs, so be sure to carry your photo ID. Many patrons dress casually in summer attire: t-shirts, shorts and sneakers are fine. On the deck or near the water there can be mosquitos at dusk, so consider repellent on warm evenings. Always arrive early for big shows – lines for entry, bars and bathrooms can grow quickly once doors open (often by mid-afternoon on weekends). Pro tip: bring earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music. The sand and lawn can get uneven, so flat shoes or sandals are recommended (high heels can sink). Sun cream is wise for daytime or early-evening events. Check the weather: rain in summer is rare, and shows usually go ahead in light shower, but high winds could occasionally impact the comfort of open-air events. Riviera provides drinking water, but you can bring an empty bottle (glass bottles are forbidden ). Lockers are not generally provided, so carry only what you need. Since the parking is limited, plan travel by tram if possible. Use the registered drop-off lane if you do rideshare. Inside, tipping is not required but photographers and staff appreciate it. When leaving at night, be patient and organized for trams or rideshares – the tram stop at the Esplanade is one of the last on the line. Finally, respect the beach environment: leave no litter and stay within marked areas, as Riviera shares space with public parkland and marina boat traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Riviera Beach Club?
The capacity varies by area. The indoor/outdoor Cabana (also called The Pavilion) can fit about 450 people standing . The large outdoor lawn and beach area can hold many more (the venue advertises up to 5,000 for full-scale festival events) . For most club nights and concerts, expect up to a few hundred on the floor.
What types of events and music are held at Riviera Beach Club?
Riviera hosts a mix of concerts and club events. You’ll find live bands (rock, pop, reggae, metal, etc.) as well as DJ nights (house, techno, electronic, hip-hop, etc.). There are weekly summer “Sunset Sessions” with DJs on Sundays, and special events like beach festivals (e.g. “Sounds of Afrobeats” in 2024 www.ticketfairy.com ). International headliners (Claptone, CamelPhat) and local artists both perform HERE.
When do Riviera Beach Club events usually take place?
Most events run on weekends, especially during summer. “Sunday Sessions” occur each summer from roughly December through January (Late afternoon into evening) . Major concerts and club shows tend to be in the evening on Friday/Saturday. The venue is generally busiest in Nov–Feb. Off-season events occur, but check the schedule – weekend dates fill up fast in peak season.
How can I buy tickets and when do they go on sale?
Tickets are sold online by promoters – there’s no regular box office. You should buy through the venue’s official ticket link or promoter pages. For big acts, presales may start weeks in advance (for example, a Claptone event began presales a month before the show ). Follow Riviera Beach Club on social media or mailing lists for announcements. If tickets sell out online, door sales are usually not available, so it’s best to book early.
Can I get tickets at the door?
Usually not. Popular shows at Riviera sell out in advance. There isn’t a public ticket booth at the venue, so on-the-door sales are only possible if an event doesn’t sell out. If a show is advertised as sold out, assume there will be no tickets released at the door. Always try to purchase ahead online.
Where exactly is Riviera Beach Club located?
The address is 42B Marine Parade, Elwood VIC 3184, inside the St Kilda Marina complex. It’s on the Elwood foreshore – just west of St Kilda. You’ll enter via Marine Parade (near the BP station) into the marina. Despite some listings calling it “St Kilda,” the venue is technically in Elwood, around 1 km west of St Kilda’s main pier area.
What public transport serves Riviera Beach Club?
Take a tram to the St Kilda/Elwood area. For example, Tram No.16 (from Swanston St) goes to Luna Park/The Esplanade (Stop 138) – from there it’s a ~15 min beach-side walk to Riviera . Trams No.96 and No.12 stop near St Kilda, also a short walk away. The #3 tram to Carlisle St (Elwood) and some bus routes (e.g. 246 from Elsternwick) will also get you close . After shows, trams run roughly every 10 minutes until about 1:30 am .
Is there parking available at Riviera Beach Club?
Yes, but it’s limited. Riviera has an onsite car park with about 80 spaces . However, outside parking nearby is mostly residential or metered, and council inspectors enforce permits on weekends . If you drive, arrive early and have a backup plan. The venue’s car park operates roughly 2pm–10:30pm on events days . There are paid parking lots at the St Kilda marina and Luna Park if the Riviera lot is full, but they can fill quickly too.
Where are taxi or rideshare drop-off points?
Riviera has a designated one-way drop-off loop right at the Marine Parade entrance . Only official taxis and ride-share cars can use that loop. Guests are advised to use that zone for drop-off/pick-up. To avoid congestion, you can also ask your driver to stop on Dickens Street (one block away) and walk across the pedestrian light to the venue . Do not double-park on Marine Parade.
Are there age or ID requirements?
Yes. Most Riviera events are 18+ (you must bring a valid photo ID: driver’s licence, passport or proof-of-age card ). If an event is all-ages or has a different restriction, it will be noted on the ticket info. In any case, staff will check IDs at entry and issue wristbands after scanning your ticket . Note that there are no pass-outs – once you leave, you won’t be re-admitted, so plan your entry accordingly .
What items are prohibited inside Riviera Beach Club?
For safety, Riviera enforces strict no-nos. You cannot bring professional camera or recording gear (DSLRs, video cameras, drones, etc.) . Other banned items include outside alcohol, glass bottles, coolers/eskies, tents or umbrellas, flags or any large signage, and illegal drugs . Small personal items and an empty water bottle are fine (empty bottles can be refilled) . Weapons or sharp objects are of course forbidden. In short, pack light – carry only what you’ll need for a concert.
Can I bring my own camera or drone?
No. Only smartphones and small personal cameras (GoPros, phone cameras) are allowed for casual photos. Professional cameras or video equipment, and any drones, are banned . Security will confiscate recording devices that look professional. Basically, if it’s a large camera or tripod, it’s not permitted.
Is smoking allowed inside Riviera Beach Club?
Riviera is a licensed venue, so smoking is not allowed inside the indoor areas or in the covered lounge. However, since much of Riviera is open-air, you can step outside on the deck or lawn to smoke (away from the stage and entrances). Always be mindful of others on the beach. Dispose of cigarette butts in bins, not on the sand.
Are there food and drink options available?
Yes. Riviera operates an on-site bar and kitchen. You can purchase modern Australian meals (seafood, burgers, BBQ, etc.) and snacks, plus cocktails, beer, wine and soft drinks. On event days there may also be food trucks or a beachside BBQ set-up. Menus focus on share plates and beach-friendly fare. Regular coffee and takeaway snacks may not be available late at night, so plan your meals accordingly.
Are restrooms and accessible facilities available?
Yes. There are public restrooms for patrons, including unisex toilets. A dedicated accessible toilet (wheelchair-friendly) is located near the main stage . The lounges and bars have level access, and the upstairs Pavilion is accessible by ramp. If you need special assistance, Riviera recommends contacting them ahead of time. On event day they also prioritize accessible parking (see accessibility).
Is Riviera Beach Club wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue has accessible features. The entry is at ground level with no steps into the Cabana and deck areas. There is at least one dedicated accessible bathroom on site . Wheelchair users should arrange for accessible parking in advance (see below). The lawn is on sand, which can be uneven, so you may want to contact Riviera ahead of time for best assistance. Special arrangements (like seats or ramps) can often be made by request.
Is there an age restriction or are children allowed?
Most Riviera concerts and club events are strictly 18+ and require ID . If an event is family-friendly, it will be specified on tickets (some daytime markets or festivals might allow younger kids). Always check the specific event’s age policy when buying tickets. In general, plan for an adult crowd and no children under 18 unless otherwise noted.
Is smoking allowed inside the venue?
No. Riviera is a non-smoking venue indoors. If you need a smoke break, use outdoor areas (e.g. the open deck or lawn) well away from entrances and the stage. Always use ashtrays and follow staff instructions.
What is the weather policy if it rains?
Because much of Riviera is open-air, events are typically rain-or-shine once they start. They may have a marquee or shelters, but heavy rain or storms could delay opening or cause postponement. The indoor section provides some cover. Check the event notice – for light rain, shows usually go on. If a show is cancelled, announcements will be made via the promoter or Riviera’s social media. Rainy-day attire (waterproof jacket) is wise during winter events, though rain in summer is rare.
Can I leave and re-enter the venue during an event?
No. Riviera Beach Club enforces a strict no re-entry policy . Once you enter and receive your wristband, you must stay inside for the duration. If you leave for any reason (to street, car, etc.), you won’t be allowed back in.
