Williamstown

Williamstown is a suburb on Port Phillip Bay near Melbourne featuring sandy beaches, botanic gardens, and port facilities. A 24-kilometer coastal walking path connects these different areas throughout the locality.

The settlement was founded in the 1830s as Melbourne's first port with early Victorian buildings and maritime structures still standing. These original structures continue to shape the appearance of the place today.

The suburb is shaped by its long connection to the sea, visible in the museums, waterfront buildings, and everyday use of the harbor area. Visitors walk along the bay and explore exhibitions that tell stories of seafaring and port life.

The area is accessible by the Werribee railway line or West Gate Freeway with parking near Nelson Place and Commonwealth Reserve. Most areas are close together and easy to reach on foot.

The Timeball Tower built in 1849 from local bluestone dropped a ball at 1:00 PM each day to synchronize ship chronometers. This mechanical device remains one of the few still functioning examples of its kind.

Location: Victoria

Location: City of Hobsons Bay

Elevation above the sea: 14 m

Shares border with: Altona, Williamstown North, Newport, Altona North

Website: http://williamstownonline.net

GPS coordinates: -37.86100,144.88500

Latest update: December 17, 2025 11:08