The Ultimate Guide to the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria

Wineries, hot springs, enchanted gardens & amazing coastal walks, this is your ultimate guide to the Mornington Peninsula. Whatever you’re in the mood for, this peninsula truly has everything needed for a memorable weekend, or week, away!

Located just 1-1.5 hours southeast of Melbourne in Victoria, the Mornington Peninsula is easily accessible and makes for some amazing memories to be had any time of year.

When To Go :

Melbourne weather can be quite erratic and unpredictable (take it from me, I have experienced it first hand the last year and a half), however the Mornington Peninsula can be enjoyed any time of year depending on what kind of activities you plan on doing.

The warmest months to go range from November to March with the hottest temperatures being in December until February.

These times are best for swimming & spending your days at the many, many beaches that line the coast along the peninsula. Wineries are also a very popular activity during these months as well.

But, just because the weather is warmest in the summer months, do not fear! There are still many other things you can do if you’re visiting when it may be a little too cold to spend your days on the beach.

In the winter you can cozy up with unique glamping experiences and quaint cottage stays, or experience luxury and ultimate relaxation at the Peninsula Hot Springs.

Getting There & Getting Around :

The best way to see the Mornington Peninsula in my opinion, is by car. A car allows you the opportunity to stop at whatever place happens to catch your eye, and gives you the flexibility of how long you want to spend at each destination.

There is public transit by means of bus, but I found traveling by bus to be slow and inconvenient in this area. Ubers and taxis are also available in this area should you need one, but just plan on waiting a tiny bit longer, as there aren’t as many here compared to Melbourne CBD for example. Also be weary if needing an Uber late into the evening, as there may not be too many operating at that time depending on day of the week/season.

If you do not have your own car, I would recommend renting a car from Melbourne, or wherever you may be coming from first. Car rentals in Australia are in general quite cheap and can usually start from as low as $30 per day depending on what vehicle you choose. That’s less than $10 per person if splitting costs with a car load of friends! Definitely worth it if you ask me.

For more information take a look at Economy Bookings for a better idea on rental prices in Melbourne.

*** TRAVEL TIP ~ The farther in advance you book the car the cheaper it will be. I have found that renting the day on or the day prior is usually quite expensive, so make sure you plan your days and book in advance!

Where To Stay :

There are so many incredible places to stay on the peninsula that you really can’t go wrong, it just depends what kind of vibe you are going for!

North side of the Peninsula

It is definitely better to stay on the north side if you are looking for calmer waters for swimming as beaches here are sheltered within Port Phillip Bay. There are also many shops, restaurants and bars you can visit too.

Safety Beach, Dromana, Rosebud : Near Arthur’s Seat & Enchanted Adventure Garden.

Rye, Tootgarook, Chapel Sound : Close to Peninsula Hot Springs, The Cups Estate Winery, Truemans Golf Range & St Andrew’s Brewery. I absolutely loved the amazing beach house my friends and I stayed in, just around the corner from the beautiful Rye Foreshore.

Blairgowrie, Sorrento, Portsea : Beautiful bars & restaurants overlooking the water and quaint streets lined with shops to explore. Near Sorrento Golf Club, Point King Beach, Point Nepean National Park, as well as, Diamond Bay, Sorrento Ocean Beach, Coppins Lookout, Portsea Surf Beach, London Bridge Lookout & Sierra Nevada Rocks on the south side. We positively adored staying at this gorgeous hilltop retreat in Blairgowrie with the most incredible views!

Middle of the Peninsula

For this section of the peninsula, think quiet secluded cottage feels, cozying up by the fire and taking a stroll through the forest.

Main Ridge : Great for a winter weekend getaways & relaxing staycations. My friends and I were super cozy & comfy at this cute cottage during our girls night away together.

South side of the Peninsula

The south side of the peninsula is definitely a lot quieter, less restaurants, bars, etc. but great if you’re just looking to relax and unwind. 

Point Leo : Great for surfing, near Pt. Leo Estate, Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Garden, Iluka Retreat, Red Hill Estate. 

Flinders : Quiet summer home town near Flinders Blowhole Lookout, Flinders Golf Course, The National Golf Club, Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary & Cape Schanck Lighthouse.

Where To Eat :

There are so many stunning and delicious locations to eat along the peninsula that I could probably go on for ages, so I will just focus on some of my favourites!

South Beach Project – For a delicious brunch on your way down the peninsula may I suggest this charming and scrumptious place. I am a sucker for a cute brunch and this one hit the spot!

Cross the street after your meal to take a look at Mount Martha Beach and the Mornington Peninsula Bathing Beach Boxes. Check out the menu here.

The Cups Estate – While I may not be much of a beer drinker, I do sure love a cold glass (or bottle) of rose on a beautiful summer afternoon. The Cups Estate is a chic venue located just minutes from Rye/Chapel Sound area.

Sit outside with a glass of pinot grigio to enjoy the fresh air and admire some breathtaking views, or dine inside their stunning restaurant and enjoy items off the menu such as my personal favourites, pork bao buns, calamari tacos and croquettes of the day.

The chefs here are truly something else, each bite is better than the last! Having trouble choosing what to eat? Let the chefs choose for you with their ultimate tasting menu. Check out the menu here.

St. Andrews Brewery – The perfect spot to stop at for lunch or dinner on your way to, or from, visiting the Peninsula Hot Springs. St. Andrew’s Brewery has such a delicious & creative menu of items to choose from (may I suggest the sweet potato tacos), as well as, a vast array of cold, fresh brews to pair with it.

Try one of their signature tasting paddles where you’ll be able to sample their 4 core range of beers! Check out the menu here.

Morgan’s Sorrento – For a quick bite by the water nothing beats a classic burger and fries. Enjoy your meal seated at the outdoor dining area during summer, or inside near their indoor fireplace in winter.

Don’t forget to take a stroll along the Sorrento Beach when you’re done! Check out the menu here.

Red Gum BBQ – If you’re looking for the an American BBQ style restaurant here in Australia, then look no further! Red Gum BBQ is a niche and family style restaurant located in Red Hill with food the whole gang will love.

Enjoy your meal seated at a picnic bench table, and let the little ones enjoy the designated play area, for those in need of a little distraction before the main course arrives. Check out the menu here.

Hotel Sorrento – This place was on my bucket list for ages and I finally got to visit the other weekend! This restaurant & bar is the perfect combination of luxury and fun with amazing drinks and great weekend nightlife vibes.

Have a gorgeous dinner in the main restaurant area, a yummy cocktail in the pub & end off your night with a dance in the outdoor bar. You are sure to have a great evening! Check out the menu here.

Portsea Hotel – Think views and versatility! Looking for a classy dining experience? Eat seated upstairs in their elegant dining room. Looking for something a bit more casual? Have your meal seated in the main level lounge. Beautiful weather? Sit outside on their gorgeous veranda and soak up the sun!

Either way, be sure to stay for sunset and enjoy a delicious meal or cocktail with some of the most magnificent views. Check out the menu here.

Restaurants on my peninsula bucket list that I haven’t gotten to try yet include : The Kitchen Bistro Bar and Courtyard, SiSCo Pizza, Captains of Rye Back Bar & The Baths Sorrento.

What To See & Do :

Visit the many, MANY Wineries : Cups Estate, Red Hill Estate, T’Gallant Cellar Door & Pizzeria, Pier 10, Paringa Estate, the list is endless! Each place is more beautiful and unique than the last.

Truemans Golf Range : Grab a cold beverage or snack from the bar and try your luck on the range. I am definitely no golfer, but this was a fun & casual environment to practice in and we had so much fun!

Take in some Amazing Peninsula Views : Check out the short coastal walks at Cape Schanck Lighthouse, London Bridge Lookout, Coppins Lookout, Diamond Bay & Flinders Blowhole. Or more of a long distance hiker? Look into hiking Bushrangers Bay track. 

Ride the Gondola at Arthur’s Seat : Ride up, up and away in the gondola! Don’t forget to check out Murrays Lookout for an incredible view of the coastline when you are done. Parking available at both spots.

Check out the Enchanted Adventure Garden : Enjoy tree top adventure climbing, zip lining and more! This place is so much excitement & adventure packed into one amazing location.

Take in the beauty at Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Garden : Stroll through lush lavender gardens and adventure through hedge mazes in the spring or summertime. 

Cliff Jumping at The Pillars : Transport to an almost European like location and enjoy the exhilarating experience of jumping cliffside into the most stunning and clear turquoise waters. Make sure to always go with a buddy and always be aware of safety risks, such as if the water is too rough, if it is too dark, or if you are alone.

Take a hike at Fort Nepean National Park : Check out Fort Nepean on the very tip of the peninsula. Bus services offered for those that do not want to or are unable to complete the walk to the fort from the car park.

Peninsula Hot Springs : Unwind and experience the ultimate oasis of serenity at the Peninsula Hot Springs. Treat yourself to massages, spa treatments, hot and cold pools, and don’t miss the view at the top of the spa!

Relax at Safety Beach : Some other great beaches include Mount Martha, Point King Beach, Sorrento Beach (north), Sorrento Back Beach (south), Portsea Beach (north) Portsea Surf Beach (south) & Rye Foreshore. 

Overall Thoughts :

Overall, the Mornington Peninsula is a beautiful destination with a wide diversity of different activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to take in some amazing scenic hikes, enjoy some delicious food, go for a swim or just relax at the spa, I genuinely believe that you will be delighted with and absolutely love your time spent here!