St Kilda Pavilion

St Kilda Pavilion is a white wooden structure standing at the end of St Kilda Pier, built in the Federation style with ornamental details. The building features an ornate cast iron roof and windows that face toward Port Phillip Bay.

The building was designed in 1904 by John W. Douglas and kept its original operating name through the 1930s when it changed. A fire in 2003 destroyed the original structure, after which salvaged parts like the cast iron roof were reused during its later reconstruction.

The pavilion carries a name linked to its early operators and shows features visitors can see today: the interior with bright woodwork and its connection to the water that draws daily visitors. The way locals use it for resting and watching the bay reflects its role as a gathering point.

A kiosk inside the building offers drinks and light snacks that can be enjoyed on the terrace while watching the bay. Visitors should know that the place gets quite crowded in good weather and feels less busy early in the morning or late afternoon.

The roof with its weather vane actually dates from 1903 and was preserved after the 2003 fire, allowing the building to retain a piece of its original identity. These reused metal parts tell a story of loss and recovery that remains unseen by most visitors.