What Are Things To Do In Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula?

The peninsula has historically served as a playground for Melbourne residents. For this project, we teamed up with Airbnb to explore the best local attractions, including beaches, breweries, vineyards, hot springs, and brunch locations, that you can enjoy this summer.

This curving peninsula, which encompasses the south-east of Port Phillip Bay, is only an hour's drive from the city and is filled with coastal towns and beautiful beaches with pristine waters. Swimming? That's fine with me.

If you're planning on taking a summer road trip down the Nepean Highway, consider making a detour into the hinterland instead (and booking a place to stay overnight) to see the region's vineyards, artisan breweries, hot springs, and upscale accommodations.

Choose between a secluded country studio with a Jacuzzi on the front porch and views of the sea, or a sprawling estate reminiscent of a Hamptons mansion with a swimming pool. Spend the day taking a culinary or wine tasting class and the evening relaxing beneath the stars in a rural setting.

Mornington Peninsula is home to so many wonderful attractions that you could easily fill a whole week there. The Mornington Peninsula is home to many different types of scenery. Take a look at our list of recommendations for fun in Mornington Peninsula.

Things To Do Mornington Peninsula

The Mornington Peninsula is a favourite recreational destination for Melburnians, and for good reason. Mornington Peninsula is perfect for a quick getaway any time of year. Travelling by automobile is the greatest way to see all of the area's sights, whether you're there for a weekend of relaxation, a family vacation, or an outdoor adventure.

There are high-end hotels, spas, restaurants, wineries, and outdoor activities available in the area. Although only an hour away, it seems like a completely other planet from Melbourne.

What To Do

Moonlit Sanctuary

After you've experienced ecstasy, you can go on a wild adventure to Moonlit Sanctuary. The sanctuary is open during the day, so visitors may feed kangaroos and wallabies, pet koalas, and get up up and personal with birds, reptiles, dingoes, and other species.

However, as its name suggests, Moonlit Sanctuary really comes to life at night, when visitors may take a lantern tour through the sanctuary and see a variety of nocturnal wildlife like owls, possums, bettongs, potoroos, bettong gliders, and bettongs.

Moonah Links is a 36-hole facility and resort with a spa and restaurant, and golf fans will flock there. If the weather permits, spending time at the beach is a terrific option. Dromana Bay, Rosebud, Rye, and Mornington are just a few of Port Phillip's nicest beaches, and they're all quite level and suitable for families with young children or windsurfing.

Arthurs Seat, at 314 metres, is the peninsula's highest point, and from there you can see all the way to the skyscrapers of Melbourne. Take the Eagle chairlift up and down the mountain at Arthurs Seat State Park for some truly breathtaking panoramas, or choose from a variety of treks of various complexity.

Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens has ten hectares of landscaped gardens and woods that are sure to impress horticulture enthusiasts. Your navigational skills will be put to the test in one of three mazes: the Cypress Hedge Maze, the Circular Rose Maze, or the Lavender Labyrinth. The wonderfully manicured fields of Pt Leo Estate's Sculpture Park are home to a colossal statue of Kaws, among many other sculptures. The stunning blue waters of Western Port Bay and the vineyard provide an idyllic backdrop.

You can choose your own red devils at the Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm on the way back to Melbourne, so stop by and grab a punnet of fresh fruit.

You might also visit Torello Farm to pick up some fresh seasonal food, outside plants, or even meat straight from the farm. It even includes a cookbook that you should definitely check out.

The Pillars

The pillars are a popular hangout spot for locals and visitors alike along the Mornington Peninsula's towering cliffs. Here you can lounge on spacious cliffs that extend out over the calm, blue lake below. Teenagers and locals alike use these rocks and the lake below during the warmer months of the year.

It's perfect for social gatherings or solo sunbathing among the soothing waves of the ocean. Recent injuries necessitated the closure of this area, but maybe it will reopen soon. A result is a scarcity of parking spaces, with the exception of a single little lot located directly in front of the pillars. Even if the pillars are locked, this parking lot provides easy access to the shore so you may take in the magnificent ocean from ground level.

Arthurs Seat Eagle 

If you've driven up the twisting road to Arthur's Seat, you've certainly heard of or even seen the Arthurs Seat Eagle. However, soaring over the city in the ski-lift style lift is an experience you simply must have. As you get closer to the peak, you'll have a 360-degree panorama of the land and sea below you. ​​

Koonya Ocean Beach

Koonya Ocean Beach is a long, beautiful strip of sand that is framed by orange cliffs, lush vegetation, and stunningly blue ocean. You may sunbake, fish, and surf here. We went there right before the summer ended, and the current was too strong for swimming. If you visit during a windy season, exercise caution. There's plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the summer at Koonya Ocean Beach. You should not assume that the water is safe to swim in because this beach is not patrolled.

Mornington Peninsula Wine Tour

When trying to decide where to begin a wine tasting experience on the Mornington Peninsula, the sheer number of wineries available can be overwhelming.

Matthew Smithwick, a 35-year resident of the Mornington Peninsula, organises Wine Time Tours for groups of up to 10 people. This tour takes you to five different wineries in one day, including Quealy, Pier 10, Red Hill Estate, Jackalope, and Myrtaceae, all while allowing you to take in the beautiful surroundings.

Smithwick (a self-proclaimed wine geek) takes you by the hand and laughs you through the entire process of making wine, from planting grapes to bottling. All of the wine tastings and a two-course lunch (special diets catered to) are included in the price.

Learn To Surf At Salty Surf School

A summer isn't complete until you've at least tried something terrifying in the whitewater. If you've been holding back from pursuing your surfing aspirations due to a lack of experience and a fear of falling repeatedly, then boy, do we have the thing for you.

Fraser and his crew of surf-trainers at Salty Surf School will teach you the ins and outs of surfing, from how to paddle to how to pop up on a wave, all while you're in the more newbie waters of Western Port Bay.

Sorrento Back Beach

The crystal-clear waters of the various rocky pools of Sorrento's back beach are well-known. Relax in one of the many serene rock pools when the time is right. When we went, the tide was too high for swimming, unfortunately. However, if the weather is windy, the tide can be rather rough.

Photos taken on sunny days show that this area is bustling with people enjoying themselves, so if you're searching for a location to hang out away from the sand, this is it. The coastline is also very long, so you may go for lengthy walks along the rocks while gazing at the seemingly endless cliffs and outcroppings. It's a stunning location, and you should definitely do some exploring there.

Bridgewater Bay

One of our favourite Mornington Peninsula beaches was Bridgewater Bay. This beach is a popular destination on the Mornington Peninsula due to the tranquil atmosphere and pristine water. The shores of Bridgewater Bay are both sandy and stony. When we were there, several of the cliff rocks collapsed, so We wouldn't recommend venturing too close to the edge. Because of its convenient location and pleasant water quality, this beach is a favourite with families.

Bridgewater Bay has a tiny stretch of sandy beach, but on a hot day, you'll probably prefer to cool off in the azure sea. Blairgowrie Jumping Rock, located to the left of the beach, with stunning blue rock pools and a place to jump off the rocks.

Cooking Class 

A French-trained chef who has cooked all around the world, Jacqui Selleck now offers workshops out of her Mornington Peninsula home. In this intensive four-hour course, you'll hone your knife skills, discover new methods for planting and preparing food, and discover the art of flavour balancing.

You might learn how to make pan-seared scallops with crispy prosciutto and radishes, lamb cutlets glazed with quince and served with braised leeks, and chocolate fondue served with vanilla bean ice cream and raspberries in a typical session.

After the instruction, you'll head to the dining area, which has a view of the Moonah Links course, to eat. Expect to leave this session eager to join up for the next season of Masterchef, or at least with the confidence to organise a gourmet dinner party at home, since Selleck's charisma and enthusiasm for cooking are contagious.

The venue's proximity to Peninsula Hot Springs means you can get in a relaxing bath after lunch.

London Bridge Lookout

As one of the Mornington Peninsula's most breathtaking vantage points, the London Bridge Lookout is a must-visit around sundown. This amazing rock formation is located on an isolated stretch of coastline, accessible either by a lookout or on foot. There is nothing but stunning scenery as far as the eye can view along this beach.

Have down on the sand and get a closer look at the shoreline and the rock formation. It's also a great place for paragliding, so if you visit in the dark, keep your eyes out for some soaring tourists. Seeing this place at sunset is a must and one of the most enjoyable activities on the Mornington Peninsula.

Flinders Blowhole

A visit to Flinders Blowhole on Mornington Peninsula was an impromptu side trip. Crazy black rocky shores are just a short stroll from the parking lot. We climbed up to the top of the cliffs and spent some time studying the rocks and taking in the scenery. Massive, dark rocks litter the landscape here. A secluded beach area with tiny black pebbles can be found there.

Be sure to swing by Flinders Blowhole if you're in the area and are looking for a bit of variety.

Peninsula Hot Springs

One of the highlights of our trip to the Mornington Peninsula was a visit to the Peninsula Hot Springs, where we relaxed and rejuvenated. Peninsula Hot Springs is a natural hot spring and day spa that has won numerous awards and is known for its extensive range of relaxing and rejuvenating services. They have a Turkish bath, cold plunge pools, saunas, and a mountaintop pool with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

The lush vegetation that surrounds each of the spas adds to the calming atmosphere. You can also participate in some of their well-known workshops, including the fire and ice session or the body clay session. We decided to participate in the fire and ice session, where we learned about the therapeutic uses of both heat and cold. Even cooler, we got to jump into the ice bath, which was set at a chilly 4 degrees Celsius. We learned a lot and hope to use what we learned to our daily lives as a result of this experience.

Blairgowrie Jumping Rock

If you find yourself on the Mornington Peninsula, be sure to make time to see Blairgowrie Jumping Rock. Locals and teenagers frequent the jumping rock to take the plunge from a height of around 7 metres into the pristine lake below. If you're feeling unsure of yourself, start with the smaller rock and work your way up.

If you'd rather not rock jump, the turquoise rock pools are a nice alternative. There is no sand here, but there are plenty of rocks to bask in the sun on. There's nothing better than a summer day spent with friends watching the cliff divers in action.

Bushrangers Bay

The hike to Bushrangers Bay may be long, but the destination is well worth the effort. You'll find a brilliant stretch of beach and some interesting black mountain ranges and rock pools as you reach the sand. The beach is not safe for swimming because it is not patrolled and there is poor cell phone service. Alternatively, if the tide is low, you can swim in the rock pools.

This beach and its rock pools are best explored during low tide and when there is no wind. When the tide is high and the winds are blowing, large waves will break over the rock pools, making this area unsafe to visit. In spite of this, Bushrangers Bay is a fantastic destination for those who are seeking an exciting adventure and a fresh viewpoint on the shore.

Where To Stay

Cape Schanck House 

Cape Schanck House is the place for you if you have an eye for architecture. The best home award at the Royal Australian Institute of Architects ceremonies went to this acclaimed establishment. Cape Schanck is a peaceful area on the Mornington Peninsula, and our accommodation is only a short drive from the Peninsula's beautiful beaches, wineries, and the famous lighthouse walk.

The interior's white walls and black accents highlight the forest beyond, while a water drop sculpture fills the space to the floor and a curving leather couch front a big fireplace. Its spare decor is ideal for a relaxing weekend away, when you can unwind and appreciate the little things in life.

Fox House In Mount Martha

This place reminds me of a Hamptons beach house. If you can't bear the thought of walking the 300 metres to Mount Martha beach, relax in the solar-heated pool or cedar hot tub. The interior is airy and light in colour, with white walls and stylish furnishings, and double doors that lead out to the patio.

The cathedral ceilings let in lots of natural light during the warmer months, and the gas and wood fireplaces will keep you toasty when the temperature drops at night. Three bedrooms allow for a total of eight guests. The other two queen-sized rooms aren't much of a sacrifice if you're unable to get the king suite with its own bathroom (both with walk-in closets).

The home has a smart TV (with Netflix and Stan), a Denon surround-sound theatre system, Smeg kitchen appliances, and an espresso machine with a coffee grinder, among other high-tech amenities (beans are provided). In the roomy pantry, you'll also find a wide variety of herbs, spices, and other useful items. We also accept dogs.

Tulum 

When looking for vacation spots, you've probably come across Tulum, which is really beautiful. The architecturally conceived and impeccably curated retreat is the epitome of beach chic. Nestled in one of Victoria's top wine regions, Tulum is a short drive from award-winning wineries and cellar doors, making it the ideal location for a romantic retreat.

The stark black façade gives way to a bright white paradise, where every detail has been thoughtfully planned out to provide a soothing mix of light and shade.

The Main Ridge Retreat

The Retreat is a country studio in the middle of the Mornington Peninsula with complete seclusion (unless you include the occasional wandering cow or inquisitive kangaroo). It boasts breathtaking views of Bass Strait and no neighbours in sight.

You should visit the location but stay for the vista. This property's spa is a major draw, and it's been placed on the deck's elevated stilts to maximise the scenery. Rather of braving the elements, stay inside and warm by the fire while taking in the scenery beyond the large windows.

It would be foolish not to take a glass of champagne into the spa at sunset and watch the kangaroos graze below you like a carefree gamekeeper, since the sunsets here are quite spectacular. Wineries, Arthurs Seat, Peninsula Hot Springs, and the cities of Rosebud, Dromana, and McCrae are all within easy driving distance.

Where To Eat

Ten Minutes By Tractor

Ten Minutes by Tractor, one of the top winery restaurants on the peninsula, blends fine dining (with excellent fruit and silver service) and a relaxed, rustic vibe.

Lunch is served Thursday through Sunday, while supper is served Friday and Saturday. Each item of the six-course set menu is paired with a glass of wine, primarily chardonnay and pinot noir, from a cool-climate region across the world or in Australia. The high price tag provides little room for error, but Ten Minutes by Tractor serves off a flawless meal. Everything about this establishment is well-oiled: the salad with Main Ridge goat's cheese, the salted caramel mousse, the kind service, and the spotless decor.

Watercress, samphire, and saltbush are just a few examples of foraged native edibles that are featured prominently on the menu. The Wimmera aged duck breast, Narooma bass groper, and Lakes Entrance squid are all items it is eagerly anticipating. If you want to see the vineyard and the surrounding bushland, try to get a seat beside a window.

Merchant & Maker

McCrae's award-winning cafe may be across the street from the beach, but the peninsula is more known for its wine. Although the restaurant's setting is rural, the food reflects the modern, Japanese-inspired tastes of its urban inspiration.

Try the wonderfully bursting nasi lemak dish or the okonomiyaki with a side of crispy calamari. Smashed avocado is also included, along with beetroot gel, quinoa, feta cheese from Denmark, almond dukkah, and pickled fennel. Spinach, grilled broccolini, quinoa, halloumi, marinated kale, a poached egg, and miso-pumpkin puree make up the Green Goodness dish, while chilli scrambled eggs and a poached egg are among the vegetarian alternatives. Coffee is provided by Commonfolk, Merchant & Maker's sibling cafe in Mornington.

Who could say no to a Espresso Martini on a steamy summer afternoon, and there's pale ale and draught beer on tap from Mornington Brewery?

Commonfolk Coffee 

You may find Commonfolk coffee in nearly every grinder on the Ninch, as they are the premier providers of caffeinated beverages on the entire peninsula. In addition to wholesale, they also operate two beautiful cafes in Mornington and Frankston, where you can relax with a couple of cups of freshly made batch brew, excellent single-origin espresso, and any type of milk you can imagine.

There is a lot of energy at this renovated warehouse in Mornington, and the food, from the 18-hour slow-cooked pork Cubano to the strawberry french toast, never disappoints. Coffee beans may be purchased in bulk and stored safely because they also roast next door.

Zarb & Ru 

Zarb & Ru, a cafe with a lot of character nestled away on Rosebud's commercial main drag, is a true hidden gem. You may get a wide variety of toasties, from the usual ham, swiss cheese, and pickle to the more exotic prosciutto and poached pear and gorgonzola, all expertly fried in jaffle irons behind the bar. There is a wide selection of handmade pottery, artwork, and designs by local artisans.

Red Gum BBQ

Red Gum could be hard to find if you don't know what to look for, but its distinctive smoky scent will guide you to the entrance if you get close enough. Hidden amid a thicket of bushes, this gas station has been turned into a BBQ joint complete with a smoke barbeque.

All of the meat on the menu, from pulled pork to beef brisket, is sourced from small family farms in Victoria. Red Gum knows that the perfect complement to their slow-cooked barbeque is a classic lineup of sides, and they don't disappoint with their selection of cornbread, mac n' cheese, coleslaw, broccoli salad,and more. Beer is the standard beverage at a barbeque, and this joint has a nice assortment of craft beers on tap, including the popular Two Bays.

Martha’s Table

There is a brand new restaurant on the peninsula, Martha's Table, located at the marina end of Safety Beach in Martha Cove. The restaurant takes its cues from the cuisine of the Mediterranean and is a well-oiled machine that includes not only a full kitchen but also an aperitif bar, a wine cellar, and a providore charmingly named "The Grocer" that sells a variety of gourmet goods and regional specialities.

Adam Beckett, formerly of Quay, Paringa Estate, and Vue De Monde, is in charge of the kitchen, where he serves up contemporary interpretations of classic European flavours from the wood-fired grill. Ricotta gnocchi, with fresh chard, and entire fish roasted across the wood fire and served with Grenoble sauce are just two examples of the refined yet simple meals on the menu.

Arthurs Bar also has a great selection of drinks, including wines from both California and other countries.

Conclusion

Melburnians visit the Mornington Peninsula for day trips and weekends. This twisted peninsula southeast of Port Phillip Bay is an hour from Melbourne. Wineries, breweries, thermal springs, and luxury hotels are nearby. Arthurs Seat, the Mornington Peninsula's highest point, at 314 metres. Eagle chairlift rides offer breathtaking alpine vistas.

The well-kept Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park has a large Kaws statue. Koonya Ocean Beach is a long, beautiful beach with red rocks and green plants. Wine Time Tours by Matthew Smithwick visits five vineyards in one day. Salty Surf School can train you. At her Mornington Peninsula home, Jacqui Selleck teaches cookery.

London Bridge Lookout sunsets are unforgettable. However, Bridgewater Bay's pure water may be more enticing on hot days than its small sandy beach. Peninsula Hot Springs has won awards for its natural hot spring and day spa. Divers jump from the 7-meter Blairgowrie Jumping Rock into the ocean. Bushrangers Bay is worth the long trip.

Cape Schanck House on the Mornington Peninsula is a relaxing retreat. White walls and black accents highlight the forest outdoors. Use the solar-heated pool or cedar hot tub in summer. The room has a high-tech TV with Netflix and Stan, immersive sound, and more. Ten Minutes by Tractor is a top Mornington Peninsula winery restaurant.

The restaurant's six-course set menu includes a glass of wine, typically chardonnay and pinot noir. Foraged foods dominate the menu. Zarb & Ru in Rosebud's 18-hour slow-cooked pork Cubano, and strawberry french toast are must-tries. Arthurs Bar serves many artisan beers, including Two Bays. The entryway has a Red Gum-like smokey fragrance if you get close. Martha's Table serves trendy European-inspired wood-fired grilled cuisine.

Content Summary

• The peninsula has historically served as a playground for Melbourne residents.
• For this project, we teamed up with Airbnb to explore the best local attractions, including beaches, breweries, vineyards, hot springs, and brunch locations, that you can enjoy this summer.
• This curving peninsula, which encompasses the southeast of Port Phillip Bay, is only an hour's drive from the city and is filled with coastal towns and beautiful beaches with pristine waters.
• If you're planning on taking a summer road trip down the Nepean Highway, consider making a detour into the hinterland instead (and booking a place to stay overnight) to see the region's vineyards, artisan breweries, hot springs, and upscale accommodations.
• Mornington Peninsula is home to so many wonderful attractions that you could easily fill a whole week there.
• The Mornington Peninsula is home to many different types of scenery.
• Please look at our list of recommendations for fun in Mornington Peninsula.
• The Mornington Peninsula is a favourite recreational destination for Melburnians and a good reason.
• Mornington Peninsula is perfect for a quick getaway any time of year.
• Travelling by automobile is the greatest way to see the area's sights, whether you're there for a weekend of relaxation, a family vacation, or an outdoor adventure.
• Dromana Bay, Rosebud, Rye, and Mornington are just a few of Port Phillip's nicest beaches, and they're all quite level and suitable for families with young children or windsurfing.
• Arthurs Seat, at 314 metres, is the peninsula's highest point; from there, you can see the skyscrapers of Melbourne.
• Take the Eagle chairlift up and down the mountain at Arthurs Seat State Park for some truly breathtaking panoramas, or choose from a variety of treks of various complexity.
• Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens has ten hectares of landscaped gardens and woods that impress horticulture enthusiasts.
• The pillars are a popular hangout spot for locals and visitors along the Mornington Peninsula's towering cliffs.
• A result is a scarcity of parking spaces, with the exception of a single little lot located directly in front of the pillars.
• Even if the pillars are locked, this parking lot provides easy access to the shore so you can take in the magnificent ocean from ground level.
• ​​ Koonya Ocean Beach is a long, beautiful strip of sand framed by orange cliffs, lush vegetation, and a stunningly blue ocean.
• There's plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the summer at Koonya Ocean Beach.
• The sheer number of wineries available can be overwhelming when deciding where to begin a wine-tasting experience on the Mornington Peninsula.
• Matthew Smithwick, a 35-year resident of the Mornington Peninsula, organises Wine Time Tours for groups of up to 10 people.
• Fraser and his crew of surf trainers at Salty Surf School will teach you the ins and outs of surfing, from how to paddle to how to pop up on a wave, all while you're in the more newbie waters of Western Port Bay.
• One of our favourite Mornington Peninsula beaches was Bridgewater Bay.
• The shores of Bridgewater Bay are both sandy and stony.
• Blairgowrie Jumping Rock, located to the beach's left, has stunning blue rock pools and a place to jump off the rocks.
• Jacqui Selleck is a French-trained chef who has cooked worldwide and now offers workshops out of her Mornington Peninsula home.
• As one of the Mornington Peninsula's most breathtaking vantage points, the London Bridge Lookout is a must-visit around sundown.
• One of the highlights of our Mornington Peninsula was a visit to the Peninsula Hot Springs, where we relaxed and rejuvenated.
• If you find yourself on the Mornington Peninsula, watch Blairgowrie Jumping Rock.
• The hike to Bushrangers Bay may be long, but the destination is well worth the effort.
• Despite this, Bushrangers Bay is a fantastic destination for those seeking an exciting adventure and a fresh viewpoint on the shore.
• Cape Schanck House is the place for you if you have an eye for architecture.
• The best home award at the Royal Australian Institute of Architects ceremonies went to this acclaimed establishment.
• Cape Schanck is a peaceful area on the Mornington Peninsula, and our accommodation is only a short drive from the Peninsula's beautiful beaches, wineries, and the famous lighthouse walk.
• When looking for vacation spots, you've probably come across Tulum, which is beautiful.
• Nestled in one of Victoria's top wine regions, Tulum is a short drive from award-winning wineries and cellar doors, making it the ideal location for a romantic retreat.
• The Retreat is a country studio in the middle of the Mornington Peninsula with complete seclusion (unless you include the occasional wandering cow or inquisitive kangaroo).
• Ten Minutes by Tractor, one of the top winery restaurants on the peninsula, blends fine dining (with excellent fruit and silver service) and a relaxed, rustic vibe.
• The Wimmera-aged duck breast, Narooma bass groper, and Lakes Entrance, squid are all items it eagerly anticipates.
• Try the wonderfully bursting nasi lemak dish or the okonomiyaki with a side of crispy calamari.
• Commonfolk, Merchant & Maker's sibling cafe in Mornington, provides coffee.
• You may find Commonfolk coffee in nearly every grinder on the Ninch, as they are the premier providers of caffeinated beverages on the entire peninsula.
• Zarb & Ru, a cafe with a lot of character nestled away on Rosebud's commercial main drag, is a true hidden gem.
• Hidden amid a thicket of bushes, this gas station has been turned into a BBQ joint complete with a smoke barbeque.
• Red Gum knows that the perfect complement to their slow-cooked barbeque is a classic lineup of sides, and they don't disappoint with their selection of cornbread, mac n' cheese, coleslaw, broccoli salad, and more.
• Beer is the standard beverage at a barbeque, and this joint has a nice assortment of craft beers on tap, including the popular Two Bays.
• There is a brand new restaurant on the peninsula, Martha's Table, located at the marina end of Safety Beach in Martha Cove.