Melways Ref:  97 and 99
    Map Link 

Seaford Foreshore Reserve provides important habitat for a variety of significant reptiles and birds whilst being one of the few remnant areas of coastal vegetation within Port Phillip Bay. The natural setting of the wide sandy beach, shady picnic areas and walking tracks make Seaford Foreshore popular for the sense of remoteness it provides. Its heavy use during the summer months testifies to it being one of the superior bathing beaches in Melbourne.

History
Seaford Foreshore Reserve is a 4.6-kilometre coastal strip of beach and state significant remnant vegetation bounded by Nepean Highway to the east and Port Phillip Bay to the west and is approximately 50 hectares in size. The reserve was permanently reserved for public purposes in 1873 and re-reserved in 1987 for the purposes of conservation of an area of natural interest and public recreation. Since 1937 Seaford Foreshore Reserve has been managed by a Committee of Management.

Facilities and Activities
The Seaford Foreshore Reserves popularity is mainly associated with the beach where swimming, bathing, sunbathing, walking and fishing occur. This is one of the few extensive areas of relatively untouched dune vegetation remaining in the metropolitan area. A feeling of remoteness and isolation can be experienced in the reserve. Picnic tables and toilets are provided. Electric barbeques are available at the pier car park. Fires are not permitted anywhere within the reserve.

A central walking track traverses Seaford Foreshore Reserve from north to south, and is suitable for walking and jogging only. Horse riding and trail bike riding are prohibited within the reserve. Numerous other tracks traverse the dunes and these are fenced to prevent erosion and restrict uncontrolled public access. 

Special Features 
Seaford Foreshore Reserve contains remnants of the original coastal vegetation, little of which remains elsewhere around Port Phillip Bay. Numerous significant flora and fauna species inhabit the area which makes Seaford Foreshore Reserve regionally important. 

Management Issues 
The coastal zone is an extremely fragile ecosystem and requires adequate protection and management. Uncontrolled public access across the fragile primary dunes contributes to destruction of vegetation that binds the sand dunes together. Without this vegetation, the dunes are exposed to erosion and habitat loss for animal species. Fencing, walkways and signs are important ways to control these problems.

The impact of introduced plants and animals poses a serious threat to remnant vegetation. Foxes and cats prey on native fauna, and weed species outcompete indigenous flora for habitat. If cat and fox populations are not controlled, they will eventually decimate the significant reptile populations.

Flora
Three main vegetation communities dominate the Seaford Foreshore Reserve. They include coastal banksia, coastal scrub and coastal grassland.

The coastal banksia woodland occurs in deep calcareous sands generally on the secondary dune with the main species including, coastal banksia and coast beard heath. Coastal scrub can be found on the landward side of the primary dune, the main species within this community include tea-tree, coast wattle, white correa and coastal daisy bush . 

Coastal grasslands occur on the primary dune and are composed mainly of indigenous grasses such as hairy spinifex, blue tussock grass and the introduced marram grass.

Other significant plant species found within the reserve include a number of orchids including the trim greenhood, mosquito orchid and maroonhood.

Fauna 
Over 117 bird species have been recorded within the Seaford Foreshore Reserve. Many of these birds are migratory and use the coastal reserve to nest and feed. Fourteen bird species have been observed nesting and breeding within the reserve, use the coastal scrub for their needs. These species include the eastern yellow robin and the yellow thornbill. 

White's skink and the delicate skink are among many regionally important reptiles found within the reserve. Studies have found that the lizard density in the reserve is amongst the highest in the Melbourne and Mornington Peninsula areas. It is vitally important that the threats to these lizards habitats are minimised.

Caring for the Reserve 
The Friends of Seaford Foreshore Reserve assist in caring for the reserve by holding monthly working bees. Native trees and shrubs are planted, introduced weeds are cleared and rubbish and litter is removed during these working bees. Further public participation is warmly welcomed. 

How you can Help 
When walking and enjoying the reserve, keep to the formed tracks and stay out of fenced areas. Do not light fires or leave rubbish and litter behind. Keep dogs on a  leash at all times, and note times during summer when dogs are prohibited. Join the friends of Seaford Foreshore Reserve and participate in their activities. For details contact Council's Environment Department on 1300 322 322.

Location and Access
Parking is provided along Nepean Highway and in lots adjoining the pier. For the disabled, wheelchair access is provided at the pier car park. Other entry points to the reserve are located at pedestrian lights at the Riviera Hotel, Armstrongs Road, McCulloch Avenue and Station Street.