Where To Stay On The Mornington Peninsula

Discover accommodation options, from charming motels to quirky beach houses, at this favourite holiday destination that blends the best of coast and country.

The Mornington Peninsula is to Melburnians what Palm Beach is to Sydneysiders. Or Rottnest Island to Perthites. A place of escapism conveniently close to the city. You can duck down for a day trip and still be back in time for dinner or make a long weekend of it.

Dotted among the seaside towns, local wineries, coastal walks and boutique eateries is a selection of incredible places to rest your head for the night. Here are our picks of the best places to stay on the Mornington Peninsula.

1. Portsea Hotel

Heralded as the wealthiest postcode in Australia, Portsea is home to a pub that puts you among Melbourne’s rich and famous.

the exterior of Portsea Hotel, Mornington Peninsula — The Tudor-style facade belies the modern interiors. (Image: Simon Shiff)

The little village is a sanctuary by the sea, and an upgrade to the Portsea Hotel was more than a lick of paint.

the restaurant at Portsea Hotel, Mornington Peninsula — The Portsea Hotel is known for its pub by the sea. (Image: Simon Shiff)

Standard hotel rooms offer traditional but elegant pub accommodation, featuring a queen bed, sink, TV and shared bathrooms. For a little extra space and an ensuite, choose from standard, deluxe, executive and Bayview suites.

a standard room with a queen bed at Portsea Hotel, Mornington Peninsula — The chic Standard Room.

Downstairs, find a spot on the panoramic deck under the blue and white umbrellas to enjoy the ocean views. There’s also a nautically themed dining room where you can replenish with wood-fired pizza and updated pub classics.

a cocktail drink on the table at Portsea Hotel, Mornington Peninsula — While away the afternoon on the deck with a cocktail in hand. (Image: Simon Shiff)

Address: 3746 Point Nepean Road, Portsea, Mornington Peninsula VIC

2. Peppers Moonah Links Resort

Peppers Moonah Links Resort is described as a modern country coastal oasis. Contemporary one-bedroom suites, Moonah Rooms and Open Rooms all feature stylish decor with a calming natural palette, plus they all have balconies or terraces overlooking the fairways.

The real drawcard with Peppers is it’s within the grounds of Moonah Links, featuring two 18-hole championship courses, so it’s perfect for the golf enthusiasts out there. The resort also offers an on-site spa, heated pool and the charming Pebbles Restaurant.

Address: Peter Thomson Drive, Fingal, Mornington Peninsula VIC

3. Port Phillip Estate

The natural world meets modern design at the family-owned Port Phillip Estate . Emerging from the native landscape and surrounding vineyards, this modernist structure houses a cellar door, winery and accommodation.

Six exclusive apartments feature king-size beds with leather headboards, spacious ensuites, plush Missoni bathrobes, glamorous furnishings and outdoor terraces with stunning views across the vines to the bay. With a discreet guests-only entry and car parking, privacy is guaranteed.

the modernist structure at Port Phillip Estate, Mornington Peninsula — The modernist Port Phillip Estate houses a cellar door, winery and accommodation.

Address: 263 Red Hill Road, Red Hill South, Mornington Peninsula VIC

4. Polperro Farmhouse

Set in Red Hill’s lush landscape, Polperro Farmhouse is a celebration of the 1950s holiday home, offering a sense of nostalgia and retro holiday charm.

the Polperro Farmhouse in Red Hill — Polperro Farmhouse is a charming holiday home in Red Hill.

The three-bedroom property sleeps six guests in total, having been renovated in conjunction with renowned design firm Hecker Guthrie. A social living space is at its core, with a resounding pull towards the natural elements: the surrounding Polperro vineyard, a backdrop of pine forest, European-style gardens and distant ocean views.

the European-style garden at Polperro Farmhouse — Unwind in the European-style garden.

Envisioned as both a summer and winter destination, the relaxed charm is carried through to the furniture, objects, styling and artwork. The property includes a fully equipped kitchen, open fireplace, luxury bath, extensive outdoor kitchen and fire cooking facilities, all presented with immaculate attention to detail.

the living room interior of Polperro Farmhouse — The relaxed charm is carried throughout the accommodation.

Address: 150 Red Hill Road, Red Hill, Mornington Peninsula VIC

5. Hotel Sorrento

This glorious limestone pile was built in 1872, but there’s very little that’s old-fashioned about Hotel Sorrento ’s rooms and suites. In 2023, a transformation of the building was unveiled. It included a 30-metre lap pool, day spa, terrace and 13 new suites, as well as a renovation of all existing rooms. The entry-level Classic Rooms make the most of the original limestone walls, adding contemporary furnishings, oak trims and French shutters. The new Sunset Suites are sleek and glamorous, with raw materials like travertine, timber and limestone used throughout and outdoor marble bathtubs.

poolside umbrellas and sun loungers at Hotel Sorrento — Lounge under the poolside umbrellas at Hotel Sorrento.

You can still get a pot of Carlton and a parma in the front bar, kick back in the beer garden or order a pub meal in the dining room, but there’s now also Cantonese eatery Shihuishi. Salt, a bar and live music venue, and a rooftop bar and expected to open in summer 2025.

the interior of Hotel Sorrento with an outdoor marble bathtub — Have a relaxing soak in the outdoor marble bathtubs.

Address: 5/15 Hotham Road, Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula VIC

6. Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate

Crittenden Estate is home to some of the oldest vines on the Mornington Peninsula, and the family-run business offers a relaxed stay for anyone looking for a weekend in the country. There are just three self-contained, stand-alone Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate , constructed entirely over the vineyard’s serene lake.

Each one has a king bed, a queen sofa bed that can be used by children, a well-equipped kitchen adjoining a dining room, and a spacious living area.

a car driving across a vineyard at Crittenden Estate — Go on a scenic road trip to Crittenden Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The stylish villas are decorated in a modern country style, with a palette matching the surrounding bushland. Enjoy breakfast on the balcony over the water then spend some time at the expansive cellar door tasting the diverse range of wines produce here.

an aerial view of the Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate — Head to the Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate for a relaxed stay over the water. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Address: 25 Harrisons Road, Dromana, Mornington Peninsula VIC

7. Quarters at Flinders Hotel

Just 100 metres from the coastline and at the foot of the historical Flinders village, Quarters at Flinders Hotel consists of 40 contemporary rooms that take inspiration from their setting. Make the most of the locale, by booking one of the rooms with a balcony or patio.

Whichever room style you decide on, you’ll be resting your head on a king-size bed with luxury linens, snacking on local produce from the mini bar or getting ready in your large bathroom to explore the region.

There’s an excellent onsite bistro where you can order a bowl of Peninsula mussels, a plate of traditional fish and chips, or a good burger.

Address: Corner Cook and Wood Streets, Flinders, Mornington Peninsula VIC

8. The Keith

If there’s anything Australian travellers have come to love, it’s an old roadside motel dolled up to make the most of its retro charm. The latest one to grace the Mornington Peninsula is The Keith .

a vintage car outside The Keith, Mornington Peninsula — The Keith is dolled up to make the most of its retro charm.

Its 16 spacious rooms, ranging from queen to family accommodation, were all in good condition before the renovation, so the designers were able to repurpose fittings and fixtures.

the picnic tables at The Keith, Mornington Peninsula — The picnic tables add to the summer camp vibes.

The light, bright rooms are decorated in pretty pastel shades, with timber furnishings and artwork by a local, Cath de Boise. Each room has kettle, toaster and Nespresso machine, but there’s a full outdoor kitchen, with Adirondack chairs and picnic tables adding to the summer camp vibes.

the bed at The Keith, Mornington Peninsula — Rooms have been swathed in playful pastel tones.

Address: 1929 Point Nepean Road, Tootgarook, Mornington Peninsula VIC

9. Sorrento Beach Motel

Everyone who visits the Mornington Peninsula inevitably stops at Rosebud or Dromana to take photographs of the colourful beach boxes. At Sorrento Beach Motel , there are just 19 ground-floor rooms. Choose one of the executive rooms, however, and you might be surprised by the facade, which has been styled to look like one of those charming attractions. Inside, these rooms are spacious, with timber floors, feature brick walls and contemporary furnishings.

the exterior of Sorrento Beach Motel, Mornington Peninsula — Sorrento Beach Motel has been styled to look like the famous beach boxes.

Staying here is a bit like stepping back in time: all guests are greeted warmly, there’s a free guest laundry and you can have breakfast delivered to your room in the morning.

the bedroom at Sorrento Beach Motel, Mornington Peninsula — The rooms are cosy with contemporary furnishings.

Address: 780 Melbourne Road, Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula VIC

10. The Nest Boxx

Set between the front and back beaches at Rye is this bespoke pod set among Moonah trees. The Nest Boxx is a gorgeous couple’s getaway, with vertical timber battens affixed to the exterior and an interior that’s completely original. The overall tone is sage green, with an eclectic selection of vintage and contemporary furniture and wallpaper featuring a leaf motif. There’s a smart TV with Netflix, and the host stocks the room with coffee bags, drip coffee, assorted tea, sprint water and fresh milk, so you’ve got the basics.

This cute stay is in a quiet location, close to Peninsula Hot Springs. This retreat is the perfect sanctuary to return to after a full day spent exploring the wineries, beaches and walking trails.

Address: Rye, Mornington Peninsula VIC

11. Logbox Red Hill

On top of a hill in the bush, you can stay in one of the three cabins offered at Logbox Red Hill . Each one is different, but all offer a casual, comfortable ambience for a relaxing stay.

the lush landscape at Logbox Red Hill — Logbox Red Hill is surrounded by a lush landscape. (Image: Madeleine Burke @madeleineburke)

The Green House is the largest of the cabins, sleeping four in two bedrooms. While it’s fitted with a modern kitchen and bathroom, it is furnished with rustic, vintage pieces.

a cabin at Logbox Red Hill — Cosy up in one of the cabins. (Image: Madeleine Burke @madeleineburke)

The Cabin, with its raw timber ceiling and kitchenette, is the cosiest space, sleeping two. The Dairy, which also sleeps two, has a wood heater, rustic furnishings and an excellent view. You can even lie in bed and watch the kangaroos outside.

This would be a great option for a group of friends who want to book out the whole property and go winery hopping (many of them are less than 10 minutes away). The cabins have outdoor barbecues and firepits for sunset get-togethers that stretch into the evening.

the outdoor seating area at Logbox Red Hill — Sit outside and watch for kangaroos.

Address: 151 Point Leo Road, Red Hill South, Mornington Peninsula VIC

12. Wattlebird Studio

Lovers of 1950s style will feel right at home at Wattlebird Studio , near Saint Andrews Beach. There are retro lounge suites, a Parker sideboard, plenty of potted plants to amp up the relaxed vibe, and a full kitchen built from recycled plywood if you feel like gathering and cooking some local produce. Borrow one of the studio’s books, make a cuppa and go sit out in one of the garden areas.

a close-up of the bed head board at Wattlebird Studio, Mornington Peninsula — Unwind in the 1950s-style Wattlebird Studio.

It’s in a great location, close to both Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs, St Andrews Beach Brewery, plenty of wineries and eateries, as well as beaches and bush trails. When you get back to the studio, play one of the board games or stream your favourite movie on the TV.

a retro lounge suite at Wattlebird Studio, Mornington Peninsula — Book a stay in one of the retro lounge suites at Wattlebird Studio.

Address: Saint Andrews Beach, Mornington Peninsula VIC

13. Flinders Nuthouse

It isn’t really surprising this cute retro seaside cottage with its bright ‘70s decor is popular for girls’ weekends. The Flinders Nuthouse is joyful, quirky and cosy all at once. It has two bedrooms – one with a queen bed, the other with single bunks – and a spacious living area with open fire.

The Flinders Nuthouse in Mornington Peninsula — Step into this retro seaside cottage.

There are lots of cute touches, like a record player, lots of vintage art and a Polaroid toilet roll holder. Hang out on the deck during the day then light a fire in the brazier when the sun goes down and roast some marshmallows.

the colourful interior of The Flinders Nuthouse — The Flinders Nuthouse is filled with eclectic finds and lashings of colour.

You can walk from the Nuthouse to Flinders town centre and to Flinders Pier. Jump in the car and you’re a short drive to ocean beaches and some of the peninsula’s best wineries.

a beach near The Flinders Nuthouse in Mornington Peninsula — You’re just a short drive to ocean beaches.

Address: Flinders, Mornington Peninsula VIC

14. The Red Hill Barn

On top of a hill, surrounded by manicured lawns, is this beautiful farmhouse. The Red Hill Barn has views of vines and olive groves, and your nearest neighbours are herds of cows and sheep.

the farmhouse among the vines at The Red Hill Barn, Mornington Peninsula — Experience bucolic bliss at The Red Hill Barn.

On the ground floor is an open-plan living area and kitchen with classic farmhouse styling, while upstairs has two bedrooms, the main one with doors to a balcony. The house is surrounded by a timber deck with plenty of little sitting areas from where to enjoy the view.

a look inside the farmhouse at The Red Hill Barn, Mornington Peninsula — Stay in a classic farmhouse with modern amenities.

The barn is located between Red Hill and Merricks North, so is surrounded by restaurants and wineries, including Polperro and Foxey’s Hangout, and is equidistant between the beaches of Port Phillip Bay and those of Westernport Bay.

the bedroom at The Red Hill Barn, Mornington Peninsula — Get cosy in The Red Hill Barn.

Address: Red Hill, Mornington Peninsula VIC

15. Hart’s Farm

There are two stylish accommodation options at Hart’s Farm : The Retreat is one of the biggest options for a couple on the peninsula. Cooks will love the huge fully equipped kitchen that comes complete with a fancy Wega espresso machine.

the Hart’s Farm in Mornington Peninsula — Hart’s Farm opens up to views of the bush.

The contemporary fit-out has worn-in leather couches, a long dining table, a fireplace and big glass doors that open to views of the bush and olive groves in the distance.

an accommodation at Hart's Farm surrounded by lush greenery — Hart’s Farm is set in a verdant landscape.

If you don’t need all that space, you can book just The Studio, which has a smaller living area, a queen bed with French linen and an ensuite with a huge bath and walk-in shower.

a look inside the dining and living room at Hart’s Farm in Mornington Peninsula — con Enjoy contemporary amenities and furnishings.

Breakfast provisions are supplied to the guests, along with a four-pack of Hart’s Farm award-winning ciders and a 500ml bottle of the property’s extra virgin olive oil.

the exterior of Hart’s Farm in Mornington Peninsula — Retreat into one of the contemporary stays at Hart’s Farm.

Hart’s Farm runs a farmgate every weekend, where guests can taste the different varieties of apple cider produced here and stock up on cider, olive oil, natural fruit cordials, preserves and seasonal produce.

a mini lake at Hart’s Farm in Mornington Peninsula — Escape the hustle and bustle at Hart’s Farm.

Address: 300 Tucks Road, Shoreham, Mornington Peninsula VIC

16. Lancemore Lindenderry

the Lancemore Lindenderry accommodation in Mornington Peninsula — Retreat into a stylish stay surrounded by manicured gardens. (Image: Lancemore Lindenderry)

Nestled within 34 acres of picturesque gardens and vines, Lancemore Lindenderry in Red Hill is a classic European-style retreat that boasts elegant rooms with modern country charm.

Situated close to idyllic beaches and cool climate wineries, it’s the perfect place to base yourself to explore the best of the region’s offerings – a stay will also give you complimentary access to Pt Leo Sculpture Park and a wine tasting at Foxey’s.

Make the most of your stay with a visit to the two-hatted restaurant The Dining Room to indulge in a paddock-to-plate feast.

Address: 142 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill, Mornington Peninsula

Discover the best things to do on the Mornington Peninsula.

No matter your age and no matter your interests, Victoria’s coastal Bellarine region makes for a memorable getaway for the whole family.

Curving into Port Phillip Bay and extending south from Geelong, The Bellarine is a gorgeous coast-meets-country destination. It’s a captivating mix of beachside towns, rolling farms and vineyards, effortlessly cool eating and drinking spots and coastal vistas that seem to stretch beyond the horizon.

Among its many highlights is a plethora of family-friendly activities to suit all ages and all interests. Here’s your guide to the ultimate Bellarine getaway guaranteed to keep every generation happy.

1. Tuckerberry Hill Farm

There may be no better way to spend an early morning than by foraging and feasting on your own bounty of berries. At Tuckerberry Hill Farm , you can pick blueberries, strawberries and stone fruit from November through March. Take them home or enjoy on the farm’s sun-dappled grounds.

Tuckerberry also has a regular market selling farm-fresh produce, plus an inviting on-site cafe doing light lunches, drinks, home-baked treats and condiments – many of which incorporate the farm’s own harvest.

2. The Oxley Estate

A memorable holiday starts with a memorable place to stay, and The Oxley Estate delivers. Situated in the relaxed coastal town of Portarlington, the sprawling site offers thoughtfully styled rooms and activities that’ll keep both parents and kids entertained.

Wander the fragrant rose gardens, olive grove and fruit-laden orchards. Meet the resident alpacas, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens and ducks. Challenge your crew to a round of giant chess or mini golf. Or cool off in the shimmering saltwater pool after a busy day of exploring.

Different room types cater to different groups, with the largest able to comfortably sleep eight.

3. Oneday Estate

Oneday Estate is a must-visit. The winery lets you try small-batch, estate-grown shiraz, pinot noir and riesling. It’s also a vibrant and character-filled Sunday lunch spot.

The on-site eatery and bar hosts weekly Sunday Sessions accompanied by tunes from local musicians, a buzzy atmosphere and flavour-packed food and drink. Order a round of delicious woodfired pizzas with toppings to suit all tastes, alongside a glass of Oneday’s signature wine.

The restaurant is also a sight to behold, an eclectic stone-and-timber hall crafted from recycled materials and 100-year-old relics repurposed from the surrounding region.

4. BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon

BIG4 holiday parks are renowned for their all-ages appeal, and BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon in the coastal enclave of Queenscliff is no different. The pool and gym are a given, but there’s also a playground, pickleball and basketball courts, a jumbo-sized jump pad, an interactive games arena and an indoor games room equipped with toys, activities and entertainment.

The diverse range of accommodation spans compact studios designed for three guests, all the way up to expansive beach houses accommodating up to 10, providing comfort and flexibility to suit every size of family.

5. Bellarine Railway

If your entourage includes any locomotive enthusiasts, book a journey aboard the Bellarine Railway . The more than 100-year-old steam train transports you to a bygone era and takes you through the rolling farmland and windswept coastal landscapes that make The Bellarine so beautiful.

The Swan Bay Express is an easy 45-minute ride perfect for younger passengers (and even allows dogs on board), or you could opt for a themed trip. There are seasonal events like the Polar Express (a festive favourite in the lead-up to Christmas), along with the Blues Train (a high-energy experience of live music and dancing) and the Q Train (a roving fine-dining feast celebrating regional produce).

6. The Dunes

waiter holding desserts at The Dunes, the bellarine — Save room for dessert. (Image: Visit Vic)

The Dunes offers the perfect balance of polished and playful, a breezy beachside bar and restaurant that appeals to adults and kids alike.

Feast on moreish snacks, share plates and mains from the Italian-inspired menu, or a selection of San Marzano-topped pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven. Pair your meal with a classic cocktail, an ice-cold beer or a glass from the generous drinks menu, which brims with local drops. Little ones are well catered for with a line-up of kid-approved meals for breakfast and lunch.

If you’re simply swinging by en route to the family-friendly beach, grab a bite at The Dunes’ beachside kiosk before strolling down for a paddle or surf.

7. Sea All Dolphin Swims

dolphins playing in The Bellarine — Spot the locals with Sea All Dolphin Swims. (Image: Visit Vic)

The sparkling waters around The Bellarine are home to dolphins, fur seals, little penguins, humpback and southern right whales, plus a flurry of seabirds. Sea All Dolphin Swims lets you see some of these magnificent animals up close aboard one of their small-group vessels.

Head out on a sightseeing tour and spot local wildlife darting around the boat, or dive right in with a swim adventure tour. You’ll be swimming alongside dolphins and seals in their natural habitat – a bucket-list experience you won’t forget fast.

Swimming and snorkelling gear is provided, and guides are trained to ensure a gentle, eco-friendly encounter for both swimmers and sea creatures.

8. Jack Rabbit

aerial of jack rabbit winery and vineyard — Everyone has a menu to enjoy at Jack Rabbit. (Image: Visit Vic)

Jack Rabbit is a one-stop dining destination, with a casual cafe and refined restaurant in one place.

If your mood leans laid-back, the House of Jack Rabbit is a lovely spot for brunch, lunch or dinner. The cafe serves a produce-driven all-day menu filled with seasonal mains, generous sharing platters and a playful kids menu to suit even the pickiest of eaters.

If you’re after something more elevated, Jack Rabbit Restaurant does plates that change with the seasons and incorporate plenty of local produce. Even younger guests are well catered to, with a considered yet familiar kids’ menu that’s just as vibrant as the grown-up one.

To start planning your trip or for more inspiration, head to visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

16 of the dreamiest places to stay on the Mornington Peninsula