The Mornington Peninsula, just a short drive from Melbourne, is a great place to visit all year round. With beaches on one side and the bay on the other, it has something for everyone. You can enjoy beautiful views, relax on quiet beaches, explore cute towns, and have fun in parks.
While it’s best to have a car to explore, there are lots of ways to get around once you’re here, like walking, biking, or taking a boat ride. You can also try cool activities like swimming with dolphins, fishing, playing golf, or relaxing in hot springs. No wonder it’s a favorite spot for weekend trips from Melbourne!
Check out our list of the best things to do on the Mornington Peninsula to plan your visit.
1. Peninsula Hot Springs
For a super chill getaway, don’t miss the Peninsula Hot Springs. Natural hot water bubbles up into pools surrounded by trees, creating a peaceful atmosphere for everyone, whether you’re with family or your special someone.
There are different pools for different vibes, like a Turkish steam room or a pool on a hill with awesome views. Make sure to book ahead, especially in busy times like summer and fall, and treat yourself to a yummy meal at the café after your relaxing soak.
Address: 140 Springs Ln, Fingal VIC 3939
Phone: (03) 5950 8777
Google Maps directions to Peninsula Hot Springs
2. Sorrento
Sorrento, Victoria’s historic gem, boasts the state’s earliest European settlement. Stroll through Sullivan’s Bay to witness the resting place of the pioneers amid stunning dawn views. Preserved limestone buildings from the 1800s grace the charming town, while its chic main street offers upscale shopping, dining, and even a vintage cinema.
For an unforgettable adventure, hike the picturesque five-kilometer trail connecting Sorrento and Portsea, dubbed “Millionaire’s Walk.” Along the cliffs overlooking Port Phillip Bay, catch glimpses of lavish holiday homes belonging to Australia’s elite.
Google Maps directions to Sorrento
3. Back Beach Walks
Exploring the back beaches of the Mornington Peninsula is an adventure full of thrill and tranquility. Despite bustling crowds, the vast expanse of coastline offers an unparalleled beach experience.
For safety, stick to patrolled areas marked by lifeguards and flags when swimming, as the waters can be hazardous. Grab a tourist map from the visitor center and embark on scenic coastal trails like Sorrento to St. Paul’s Beach or Coppins Track from Diamond Bay. After your stroll, recharge at the popular All Smiles beach café/restaurant in Sorrento.
Walking these beaches is a top free activity in the area, but keep an eye out for trail closures due to cliff erosion and always check current conditions.
Google Maps directions to Back Beach Walks
4. Mornington Peninsula National Park
Mornington Peninsula National Park offers a captivating coastal wilderness experience, boasting rugged ocean beaches and cliffside trails. Before embarking on hikes, check trail conditions for closures due to erosion.
Enjoy horseback riding, surfing, picnics, and nature walks within the park. Rye Back Beach is ideal for a leisurely stroll, offering views of the unique Lizard Head rock formation and potential sightings of the hooded plover. Cape Schanck features scenic trails to Pebble Beach and Eastern Lookout, while Greens Bush hiking trails provide opportunities to spot diverse birdlife and native animals like kangaroos and wallabies.
Google Maps directions to Mornington Peninsula National Park
4. Dolphin and Seal Swim
Discover the hidden treasures of Port Phillip Bay, home to a playful pod of around 80 bottlenose dolphins. Swim alongside these enchanting creatures for an unforgettable experience on the Mornington Peninsula.
Embark on a tour from Sorrento aboard Moonraker or Polperro for an adventure of a lifetime. Non-swimmers can still enjoy the spectacle from the deck, capturing photos as the dolphins frolic around the boat.
In addition to the dolphins, encounter the resident Australian fur seal colony and observe a variety of seabird species for a complete marine adventure.
Google Maps directions to Moonraker Dolphin Swims
Google Maps directions to Polperro Dolphin Swims
5. Sorrento to Queenscliff Ferry
Experience the beauty of Port Phillip Bay with this iconic 40-minute ferry ride connecting Sorrento and Queenscliff. Running hourly, every day, the ferry welcomes both vehicles and foot passengers, offering panoramic views of the coastline from spacious decks and large windows.
Keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the bow wave as you traverse between these beloved seaside towns. Whether you opt for a day trip or continue your adventure along the Great Ocean Road from Queenscliff, this ferry journey promises an unforgettable coastal experience.
Google Maps directions to Sorrento Ferry
6. Mornington Peninsula Enchanted Adventure Garden
The Enchanted Adventure Garden offers fun for the whole family, with thrilling activities like ziplines and treetop courses in a majestic eucalyptus forest. Kids can explore hedge mazes, solve puzzles, and enjoy tube slides, while adults appreciate the themed gardens with beautiful sculptures.
Make a day of it by combining your visit with a gondola ride/Arthurs Seat Eagleon the nearby Arthurs Seat Eagle, just a short drive away.
Address: 55 Purves Rd, Arthurs Seat VIC 3936
Phone: (03) 5981 8449
Google Maps directions to Enchanted Adventure Garden
Google Maps directions to gondola ride/Arthurs Seat Eagle
7. Horseback Riding along the Beach
For outdoor fun on the Mornington Peninsula, horseback riding on the beach is a fantastic choice, especially if you adore animals.
Gunnamatta Trail Rides offers the dreamy experience of riding into the sunset along the sandy shores. Their St. Andrew’s Beach and Bush Ride is perfect for both skilled and novice riders, taking you through peaceful bush tracks to the expansive surf beach. This ride is available all year round.
You can also try their “Beach and Bathe” package, combining the beach ride with a relaxing soak at Peninsula Hot Springs. They offer lessons, private rides, and special rides for kids too.
Address: 150 Sandy Rd, Fingal VIC 3939
Phone: 0400140747
Google Maps direction to Gunnamatta Trail Rides
8. Point Nepean National Park
Point Nepean National Park offers a blend of history and nature at the tip of the Mornington Peninsula. Explore remnants of military buildings and forts, witness the graves at Point Nepean Cemetery dating back to the 1850s, and stroll along popular hiking trails like the Fort Nepean Discovery Walk.
For a different pace, rent bikes from the information center or hop on the shuttle service to explore the vast park. Self-guided audio tours are available, revealing hidden gems throughout the area.
At the park’s edge, witness the meeting of Port Phillip Bay and Bass Strait, famously known as “the Rip,” a challenging water passage for vessels entering Melbourne. Additionally, learn about the mysterious disappearance of Australia’s 17th Prime Minister, Harold Holt, commemorated by a memorial where he was last seen.
Google Maps directions to Point Nepean National Park
9. Arthurs Seat Eagle
For a stunning view of the Mornington Peninsula, hop on the Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola ride. Glide over bushland and the sparkling bay below, surrounded by majestic eucalyptus trees, as you ascend to the summit station at the highest point of the peninsula.
At the top, unwind with a tasty Devonshire Tea at the café and take short walks to lookout points for even more breathtaking views. The gondola cars are weatherproof, ensuring you can enjoy this experience regardless of the season.
Address: 1085 Arthurs Seat Rd, Arthurs Seat VIC 3936
Phone: (03) 5987 0600
Google Maps directions to Arthurs Seat Eagle – Base Station
10. Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens Mornington Peninsula
Since the late 1970s, Ashcombe Maze has been a popular destination that continues to expand. While the original hedge maze remains a highlight, the property now features additional attractions like the renowned rose maze, lavender gardens, and the fun Great Gnome Hunt activity.
The café, constructed from mud bricks, offers delicious local fare and is a popular choice for weddings. Driving through the lush countryside of the Mornington Peninsula surrounding Ashcombe Maze is especially scenic, especially during the autumn months.
Address: 15 Red Hill-Shoreham Rd, Shoreham VIC 3916
Phone: (03) 5989 8387
Google Maps directions to Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens
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