The Mornington Peninsula Tour presents an array of attractions, such as beaches, thermal springs, animals, vineyards, eateries, a welcoming ambience, and superb coffee, establishing it as a favoured spot in Victoria.
The Mornington Peninsula, situated on the eastern portion of Port Phillip Bay, boasts breathtaking coastal views and is where we reside.
The Mornington Peninsula possesses lovely beaches adjacent to a densely populated region, making it an accessible locale.
This manual can assist if you need clarification on which endeavours to pursue on the Mornington Peninsula. It features only the prime suggestions.
The Mornington Peninsula has excellent entertainment
After touring the Mornington Peninsula, we’ve assembled an exhaustive list of top activities, encompassing trips to breweries and vineyards and observing magnificent vistas.
The range of attractions and pursuits on the Mornington Peninsula shifts with the changing seasons and periods of the year. Thus, reviewing local timetables to organise your excursion aptly is recommended.
Mornington Peninsula National Park and Point Nepean National Park are sought-after spots for nature lovers close to the Bellarine Peninsula.
You can enjoy a pint at one of the oldest hotels in Melbourne
Frankston is ranked number 1 on the list of things to do on the Mornington Peninsula. While it may not offer the same scenic views as other areas, several vital activities will several important activities will complete your day.
If you are familiar with Frankston, you may want to visit Little Olly’s, located in the Olivers Hill car park.
Discovering the secluded coves along the rugged coastline is a delightful experience, as they are often sparsely populated and off the beaten path. The calm waters in this area also provide excellent opportunities for Stand Up Paddle Boarding and snorkelling.
Please consider visiting a local rental shop in Frankston to rent a paddle board.
Take in the views from Oliver's Hill Lookout
This is the place to be if you are looking for beautiful views.
The view from Oliver’s Hill Lookout is still breathtaking, even after all this time.
When driving north along Nepean Highway and descending into Frankston, you can enjoy impressive views of Port Phillip Bay. On a clear day, the Melbourne CBD is easily visible.
It was once the residence of Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman and is considered one of the top free attractions to visit on the Mornington Peninsula.
You are invited to visit Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park
Moonlit Animal Sanctuary is an Australian Wildlife Conservation facility that has been family-owned since 2001. It also features beautiful gardens that showcase native Australian flora.
The goal of the Sanctuary is to conserve species through responsible breeding and reintroduction into their natural habitats.
Moonlit Sanctuary is a facility that offers tourists the opportunity to observe and interact with endangered and threatened Australian wildlife.
Hike through the bush to see the fauna in the Mornington Peninsula and Western Port biosphere reserve before European settlement.
The Tasmanian Devil was previously widespread throughout Mainland Australia, but conservation efforts by the Sanctuary have successfully prevented its extinction.
The activities in Mornington Peninsula make a day trip from the city worthwhile.
Explore the main street of Mornington
Mornington main street is a popular destination for locals and tourists, offering various takeaway businesses, art galleries, plant shops, local produce stores, cafes, and restaurants.
Every Wednesday morning, the main street in Mornington is transformed into a fresh produce market and the road is generally blocked off from car traffic, providing plenty of things to do.
Mornington is located 57 km from Melbourne CBD and is the main access point to the rest of the Mornington Peninsula.
The area was first called Schnapper Point, but it has since become the central hub for the entire Morning Peninsula.
After walking along the main street, it is recommended to visit the Mornington Peninsula Regional Contemporary Art Gallery located at the corner of Dunns rd and Tyabb Road.
Take a walk along Mornington Pier
The 46m pier, built in 1858, is a great place to take an evening stroll and enjoy the scenery. Many fishermen also come here in the evening for dinner.
Continue on Schnapper Point Drive until you reach the Pier, past the Mornington Yacht Club.
Several historical buildings are along the main street, including the old Post office at the Esplanade and Main Street corner.
Flying in Arthur Seat is popular on the Mornington Peninsula
Have you ever listened to Seal’s “Fly Like an Eagle” song? You may have the chance to experience that at Arthurs Seat.
One of the highest activities available on the Mornington Peninsula is a ride to the summit of Arthurs Seat.
The Arthurs seat chair lift is considered to be a truly unique experience and one of the top activities in Mornington Peninsula.
The elevation gain over Dromana and Arthurs Seat State Park is 314 meters, providing Port Phillip Bay with scenic views.
On a clear sunny day, viewing Melbourne CBD from here is possible.
Sunbathe at the Beach Boxes at Mills Beach
Located east of the pier and Mothers Beach, Mills Beach features a charming assortment of colourful beach huts adorned with various decorations, such as the Australian flag or an old pirate ship, complete with weathered anchors and boat rope.
Walking around Mount Martha is quite enjoyable
Mt Martha is a residential town boasting a compact shopping district, boutique stores, coffee houses, and dining places across from Mount Martha Beach.
The establishments on Lochiel Avenue have an appealing and unique design. At Volpino, one can appreciate the ambience while sipping coffee on its exterior deck or relishing a hearty meal inside. Alternatively, one might enjoy a glass of red from San Marco’s upper terrace while enjoying the scenic view of Mt Martha Beach.
On a serene summer day, when the sky is bright, and the sea is tranquil, the panoramic views of concealed tidal pools and sandy shallows near the cliffs are captivating, which elucidates the allure of the Mornington Peninsula for many.
The beach is considered safe, with waters usually serene, making it an ideal spot for stand-up paddleboarding.
The Mt Martha public golf facility is located on Forest Dr, near the shoreline.
Embark on a run down the Balcombe Creek Boardwalk
The Balcombe Creek Boardwalk and Balcombe Estuary Reserve, situated to the east of the beach, are accessible from the Esplanade, the principal thoroughfare skirting the shoreline of the Mornington Peninsula.
A 2.5km walkway traverses Balcombe Creek, Bushland Reserve, and the Briars Homestead. This locale boasts splendid gardens populated with indigenous flora and fauna, some exclusive to the Mornington Peninsula.
The preservation area houses a wildlife refuge, a heritage-protected residence, an ecological awareness centre, and an observatory. Tourists can reach all these sites via the Balcombe pathways.
For millennia, the Mornington Peninsula was home to the Boonwurrung/Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation; they named this region Tji’tjin’garook, signifying the sound of frogs.
Briars historical residence
The Briars is a historical residence set on 230-hectare land, erected by the initial European colonists during the 1840s within the Mornington Peninsula territory.
The property was transferred to the National Trust of Australia and the Mornington Peninsula Shire in 1976, with the residence being bequeathed to the Shire.
Moreover, several facilities are at the location, encompassing a cafe, open-air educational camp, observatory, and specific picnic spots.
Explore the Pillars
This spot garners attention from Melbourne locals and guests from various regions, rendering it a prime attraction in the Mornington Peninsula.
The Pillars represent a stone formation situated beneath the cliffs, frequently utilised as a stage for diving into the waters beneath.
The optimal period to tour this locale is during summer when the waters are tepid, the sun beams brightly, and Mornington Peninsula residents visit their cherished spots.
Parking isn’t available nearby, and adjacent streets have removed parking indicators to dissuade visitors from approaching the unmonitored cliffs.
If your swimming proficiency is limited or the waves prove larger than expected, potential injuries can occur, so prudence is advised.
Consider visiting Safety Beach on the Mornington Peninsula
Safety Beach ranks highly among the most scenic beaches throughout the Mornington Peninsula.
Spanning 3.5 kilometres, this pristine sandy beach with crystal-clear waters is a sought-after spot on the Mornington Peninsula.
While among the largest expanses of unspoiled sand on the Mornington Peninsula, this beach boasts magnificent sunsets and a tranquil ambience.
A strip of gleaming sand offers views of Port Phillip Bay, and on a bright day, you can spot the edge of the Bellarine Peninsula, signifying the commencement of the Great Ocean Road.
You can head to Dromana and wander along Point Nepean Road for a comparable vibe but with a more bustling shopping scene.
The Dromana Pier stands as an iconic landmark of the Mornington Peninsula. Here, it’s common to spot two majestic native stingrays gliding around the Pier during the dawn and dusk.
Enjoy a drink at Jetty Road Brewery in Dromana
Jetty Road Brewery in Dromana is a notable hotspot on the Mornington Peninsula.
The brewery provides an informative setting for understanding the craft of beer production, ensuring it’s both enlightening and pleasurable for everyone.
A favoured activity on the Mornington Peninsula involves embarking on a day excursion from the metropolis to relish the meticulously brewed beverages.
Jetty Rd Brewery showcases an assortment of signature brews, like Pale Ale, Draught, IPA, and Chocolate Stout.
Balnarring
One favoured local endeavour on the Mornington Peninsula involves stopping by the Emu Plains Market on Coolart Rd in Balnarring.
Guests can browse indigenous craft and culinary stalls while soaking in the agreeable ambience.
Though Emu Plains Market is celebrated in the Mornington Peninsula, showcasing a rich tapestry of culture, artistry, cuisine, and design, many tourists and outsiders might still need to discover it.
Discovering Shoreham - Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens
The Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens in Shoreham rank as a top draw on the Mornington Peninsula, especially for duos seeking tranquillity and wanting to appreciate the splendid lavender rose garden and intricate hedge mazes.
This particular maze holds the distinction of being Australia’s most longstanding and renowned classic maze. It envelops over 1000 cypress saplings and spans 25 acres of perennially blossoming lavender.
Travellers can partake in a self-steered journey through the lavender fields, with an alternative to feast at the Ashcombe Café and savour dishes infused with lavender.
Kindly refer to their official website for the most recent updates and promotions.
Experience the flavours of Red Hill's wines
While South Australia boasts the Barossa Valley and New South Wales is renowned for the Hunter Valley, the Mornington Peninsula proudly hosts Red Hill.
The regional fare here is presented via a tapas selection that emphasises ingredients procured locally.
Wineries in the Peninsula are notable for their self-reliance, cultivating grapes, olives, and veggies and crafting delicious meals for their guests.
Green Olive at Red Hill provides more than merely a wine cellar; visitors can engage in culinary workshops atop the establishment’s restaurant. This is regarded as one of the prime experiences in the Mornington Peninsula.
Montalto Art Trail
In Red Hill of the Mornington Peninsula, Montalto Winery is acclaimed for its prize-winning wines, complemented by its striking sculptures and enchanting garden landscapes.
The pathway within this estate stretches for 1 km, meandering through diverse landscapes like verdant meadows, gravelled trails, and wooden walkways. En route, guests can relish the Sculpture Park, home to over 30 artistic pieces.
During your stay, consider dropping by the Red Hill Community Market to delve into the offerings of local artisans.
Experience a new world at the Enchanted Adventure Garden
The enchanted adventure garden is a natural attraction in Arthurs Seat on the Mornington Peninsula. It offers an adventure playground for people of all ages, with activities such as a cable flying fox, tree surfing course, canopy walk, tube slides, and a hedged maze for children to enjoy.
General admission to this Mornington Peninsula tourist attraction costs $35 for adults and $25 for children aged 3-17.
The canopy walk was popular at the enchanted adventure garden, similar to the Otway fly on the Great Ocean Road.
The enchanted adventure garden is located in the hinterland of the Peninsula and is a popular family-friendly attraction.
SeaWinds Gardens
After completing the cable car ride, visitors can continue their adventure in the Seawinds Gardens in Arthurs Seat State Park. The gardens are just a short walk from the Summit Cable car and on the opposite side of the Enchanted Adventure Garden.
The garden area spans 34 hectares and offers visitors various paths through the well-maintained gardens. Additionally, there is a sculpture park by Melbourne Sculptor William Ricketts, who spent significant time in the Northern Territory.
For future up-to-date information and offers, please visit the Seawinds Gardens website.
Flinders
For a serene exploration of the delightful yet tucked-away coastal hamlets of the Mornington Peninsula, direct your steps to its southeastern corner and marvel at the convergence of Western Port Bay and Bass Strait.
The Flinders Pier, positioned on the eastern shoreline of Western Port Bay, stands out for its expansive 250-meter span and is a sanctuary for the Weedy Sea Dragon, a globally recognised sea dragon species.
An enticing activity on the Mornington Peninsula is earning the Open Water Scuba Diver certification, an option that might resonate with divers who have an affinity for chillier marine environments.
Kindly explore Flinders Blowhole
Nestled between Cairns Bay and Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary, Flinders Blowhole is a rare spectacle on the Mornington Peninsula’s southern flank.
A timber stairway stemming from the zenith of the Blowhole track descends to a vantage point of the blowhole, organically carved at the terminal point of Elephant Rock, opening to the vast Southern Ocean.
Explore the Flinders Cargo Shed Museum's hidden treasures
Constructed in 1871, this unassuming yellow structure served as a port for assembling heavy goods from the late 1800s to the 1900s. Additionally, the cargo shed played a significant role in establishing and relaying crucial communication between mainland Australia and Tasmania.
A long underwater cable stretches 320 km from Tasmania to mainland Australia, connecting Darwin to the rest of the world.
The cargo shed turned museum was used as a relaying service hut for sending Morse code messages, as the electrical current could not reach beyond the shoreline.
Discover the Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary
The Southern Coast of Flinders has diverse and unique landscapes on the Mornington Peninsula.
Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary is an 80-hectare protected marine park on the Mornington Peninsula, known for its diverse underwater ecosystem and famous among divers, snorkelers, and boaters.
Both Mushroom Reef and the grassland surrounding Flinders are protected under the Peninsula National Park.
The shallow reef bed underneath resembles a Mushroom, hence its name, and has been a source of attraction for scientists for more than a century.
The inter-tidal ancient basalt rock formations provide a habitat for various species, including birds, fish, crabs, and anemones. It is recommended to visit during low tide and remain cautious near the rugged coastline due to the unpredictable weather and tide changes.
Cairns Bay
gout located west of Mushroom Reef may not suit everyone.
This place may not be among the most popular beaches on the Mornington Peninsula, but if you time it right, you might discover one of the few swim holes along the coast.
During low tide, the water recedes from Port Phillip Bay, revealing several deep rock pools along the ocean’s edge.
This beach is un-patrolled, so caution is necessary due to the rapid and unexpected tide.
Surfing at Gunnamatta Shore
Fingal, a coastal town to the west, is renowned for its celebrated beach and as a unique vacation spot.
On the opposite end of the Mornington Peninsula, Gunnamatta Beach is recognised for its gusty winds and formidable waves, deeming it a challenge for novice swimmers.
As an oceanic beach, it teems with perpetual waves and stony outcrops, rendering it not safe for casual swimmers but a paradise for adept surfers. It is highly regarded as one of the premier activities on the Mornington Peninsula.
Continue driving south to Cape Schanck
Cape Schanck Reserve is conveniently located and considered one of the top destinations on the Mornington Peninsula.
Cape Schanck is located at the southern tip of the Mornington Peninsula within the Mornington Peninsula National Park.
Located at the end of the Two Bays walking track in the Mornington Peninsula National Park, you can find a lighthouse, one million-year-old rock formations, and some of the cleanest air in the world.
This section of the Two Bays Track includes a 2.6km track known as the Bushrangers Bay walking track. It can be easily accessed from the Cape Schank car park.
The Bushrangers Bay walking track section offers stunning coastal scenery on the Mornington Peninsula.
The views from the top of the hike are highly regarded and considered one of the most enjoyable day trips and fun activities on the Mornington Peninsula.
A coastal walking route starts at the Cape Schanck Lighthouse Reserve car park and follows a path down to the boardwalk.
From this location, one can observe the rugged coastline extending towards the tip of the park, where famous sights such as Pulpit Rock and Devil’s Desk can be visited.
The trail is surrounded by vegetation, which increases the chances of encountering native Australian wildlife, such as kangaroos, echidnas, and possibly snakes. Staying on the trail and avoiding creating your path is essential.
Unwind at Peninsula Hot Springs
Post a surfing session at Gunnamatta Beach, a visit to the Peninsula Hot Springs in Fingal emerges as the ideal respite to decompress and rejuvenate.
It’s widely endorsed and stands as one of the pinnacle experiences on the Mornington Peninsula.
It’s possible to reserve a comprehensive day excursion from Melbourne to the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs.
The intrinsic thermal basins in Victoria are nourished by subterranean reservoirs, infusing the Mornington Peninsula’s spring pools with warm geothermal fluid sourced from a depth of 637 meters.
Commuting these geothermal springs is a primary pursuit on the Mornington Peninsula, with myriad choices available.
Your day can unfold at the Spa Dreaming Centre with individual spa saunas, therapeutic massages, hot stone treatments, and the prospect of plunging into a brisk pool. Alternatively, you might indulge in a day dedicated to communal swimming.
Peninsula Hot Springs extends various offerings, encompassing bathing packages, clay treatment packages, yoga sessions, thermal contrast therapies, and contemplative guidance.
Embedding the Peninsula Hot Springs Natural Thermal Pools into your Mornington Peninsula itinerary promises a soothing and refreshing respite, setting you on course for upcoming adventures, be it at the onset or culmination of your journey.
The thermal baths on Springs Lane in Fingal are hailed as one of the Mornington Peninsula’s standout experiences, contingent on your financial planning.
Rye Exploration
Rye stands prominently at the commencement of the Mornington Peninsula and acts as a pivotal gathering spot for individuals from across Victoria.
The journey to discover Rye completely beckons once you’ve departed from the peninsula’s thermal springs.
Due to its distinctive position, Rye is a sought-after spot on the Peninsula. It boasts a northern beach overlooking Port Phillip Bay and a southern coast that gazes upon Bass Strait.
A visit to Paradise Beach ranks among the top leisure pursuits on the Mornington Peninsula, especially during the sunlit summer days.
Adjacent to the Rye Pier and situated within the Peninsula National Park, the camping/caravan site organises a beachside carnival, complemented by an array of eateries, taverns, and coffee shops that come alive in the summertime.
To traverse between Portsea and Seifty Beach, Point Nepean Road, stretching west, serves as the main thoroughfare.
Rye’s strategic location is ideal for golf fans, housing four prominent golf courses. Dunes Golf Links, Eagle Ridge, St. Andrews Beach Golf Course, and Peppers Moonah Links Golf Courses are all conveniently nestled within a short driving distance from one another.
Distinct Rock Structures in Rye: Lizard's Head and Dragon's Head
The coastal beach of Rye is home to two intriguing rock formations that resemble a Lizard’s Head and a Dragon’s Head.
Both are nestled on the shoreline and integral to the Mornington Peninsula National Park. Onlookers might witness the spectacle of petite waterfalls gushing and retreating from these rocky giants during the receding tide.
Explorers should don protective reef footwear for comfort during their ventures. At ebb tide, the vicinity around the Lizard’s Head reveals miniature tidal pools teeming with a rich tapestry of marine organisms.
You can scuba dive at the Octopus Garden Marine Trail
Dive into the mesmerising world of the Octopus Garden, a captivating marine wonderland stretching along the enchanting Rye Pier.
The project was initiated in Victoria with the support of Parks Victoria and Mornington Peninsula Shire Council.
Please wear your mask and take a self-guided tour to observe the local marine life. However, it is essential to refrain from touching any objects or animals.
This dive site in Mornington Peninsula is known for its diverse marine life, including puffer fish, rays, crabs, and, occasionally, little penguins.
Nudibranchs, blue-ringed octopuses, and various fish species are on the seabed at a depth of 5-6 meters.
Activities in Sorrento
Sorrento is a coastal village located at the southern tip of the Mornington Peninsula. It is known for its boutique shops, art galleries, cinema complex, and excellent coffee.
One of the enjoyable activities in Sorrento is to spend time on the beach near the marina and observe dolphins swimming in the early morning or late afternoon.
Among the various activities and attractions in Sorrento, one notable aspect is its connection between the Mornington Peninsula and the Bellarine Peninsula, marking the starting point of the Great Ocean Road.
You can take a 45-minute trip on the Sorrento to Queenscliff ferry across Port Philip Bay, and if you’re fortunate, you may spot dolphins riding the waves created by the ferry.
One can swim with dolphins in Sorrento
You can explore the underwater world and discover the unique life below sea level.
Tonnes of bottlenose dolphins and Australian fur seals can be found patrolling and playing along the north coast of Port Phillip Bay on the Mornington Peninsula.
A short boat ride of 10-15 minutes will take you to Chinamans’s Hat, located just outside Sorrento/Rye, where you can observe the local fur seal population and enjoy snorkelling.
Diamond Bay Beach is a hidden and secluded location
One of the notable places to visit on the Mornington Peninsula is Diamond Bay Beach.
A small dirt car park is located at the back of Diamond Bay Road.
The dirt track leads to a staircase that overlooks the crystal blue waters of the ocean beach.
The sandstone-surrounded cove is not typically crowded and is home to nesting gulls and a diverse range of marine life.
The Bay of Islands and St. Paul Ocean Beach are located nearby and can be easily reached via a circular walkway leading to the viewing platforms on the east side of the beach..
Sorrento's back beach has a rock called Sphinx Rock
The Southern Ocean has rough waters, and the Mornington Peninsula has exciting rock formations, including Sorrento Back Beach in Bass Strait.
To reach the Coppins, look out from the Sorrento back beach car park, take the stairs and come across a small sheltered rotunda with stunning panoramic ocean views.
From this location, follow the signage leading to the beach entrance. Once there, turn left to view the Sphinx rock formations reminiscent of those in Cairo, Egypt.
Millionaires walk
In addition to the average home price of $2.8 million, Millionaires Walk holds significant historical importance. It is the site where the Union Jack flag was first raised in 1802, signifying land ownership in Australia.
The piers on Millionaires Walk are privately owned by some of the wealthiest individuals and homes on the Mornington Peninsula.
The clifftop walk is 1.5 kilometres long and offers beautiful ocean views. It is also included in the Sorrento Portsea Artists Trail.
Point Nepean Nature Reserve
As a conservation space, Point Nepean Nature Reserve safeguards many indigenous Victorian wildlife, including kangaroos and wallabies. In addition, the reserve showcases native plants and animals and stands as a symbol of cultural importance, being the ancestral land of the Bunurong community.
This nature reserve is a favoured spot on the Mornington Peninsula, presenting opportunities like bike riding, delving into Fort Nepean, and partaking in a leisurely picnic.
Nestled at the Mornington Peninsula’s extremity, Fort Nepean originally served as a strategic military establishment and isolation ward. It stands as one of the nation’s primary established quarantine facilities and has a pivotal role in the inception of Victoria’s Defence Force.
A monument within Point Nepean Nature Reserve pays homage to the 17th Prime Minister of Australia, believed to have met his fate at Cheviot Beach, on the park’s South-Western fringe.l.
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