Combine idyllic European coastal living with good old Australian charm and you’ll get the Mornington Peninsula. Located just an hour from Melbourne, the region is a combination of seaside towns and local wineries, and the stunning coastline walks will take your breath away.
Whether you’re up for a day trip, making a little getaway of it or visiting for the whole summer, the compact size of the region and diverse activities means you’ll never have a dull day.
Things to do
Aside from award-winning wineries, this coastal region has a lot to get excited about and our ultimate list of things to do highlights a number of things to keep visitors busy, or relaxed, however, you want to spend your time. For many, the hot springs are what influences their visit, and Alba Thermal Springs is a must-visit. Also known for If you’re going on a road trip along the coast, make sure to check out our ultimate itinerary for a long weekend away. The welcoming waters of the Mornington Peninsula offer something for everyone, and our comprehensive overview details the most stunning beaches to visit.
Best Time to Visit
The Mornington Peninsula is a very popular destination, especially for visitors from Melbourne. Because of this, the region can get very busy during school holidays. In terms of climate, the best time to visit is generally February through to April. It’s still warm so visitors can enjoy the water activities, but it’s not so busy because schools are back in session. These months also tend to be the driest so you have more chance of enjoying everything the Peninsula has to offer in terms of outdoor sites.
In saying this however, March tends to be one of the busier months so prices for accommodation may rise and you may have to deal with more people milling around. Also bear in mind that some of the top restaurants on the Peninsula are open Friday and Saturday nights, and at times, Wednesday through to Sunday for lunch. If you’re keen to sample the local cuisine at its best, try to book over a weekend or at least towards the end of the week.
Best Places to Stay
From chic beach houses to quaint motels, The Mornington Peninsula offers a diverse range of accommodation options.
The region knows how to do luxury, and there are plenty of accommodation options to suit. One of our favourites is the Jackalope Hotel—an award-winning 46-room boutique hotel that simply screams luxury. Or if you’re in need of your best sleep yet, Peninsula Hot Springs’ Eco Lodges guarantee a peaceful stay.
Glamping is also a popular option on the Mornington Peninsula and there are some unforgettable stays to book into.
Top Foodie Experiences
There are so many world-class eateries that it’s hard to pick just a few to sample. The good thing is that the Mornington Peninsula offers everything, from fine dining right through to cafe food and snacks, so no matter what you’re in the mood for, there’ll be something on offer. We’ve got you covered with our favourite restaurants and cafes to indulge at to taste the flavours of the region.
Since the early 1980s, the Mornington Peninsula has emerged as one of Australia’s premier wine regions. The cool-climate region is home to more than 200 wineries and we’ve listed the absolute must-visits in our Mornington Peninsula wineries guide.
