Why should you visit Mornington Peninsula?
Mornington Peninsula is a part of Melbourne, Australia. It is a picturesque region renowned for its diverse landscapes, featuring rolling vineyards, pristine beaches, and rugged coastal cliffs. The area is a haven for food and wine enthusiasts, boasting a flourishing culinary scene with wineries, farm-to-table restaurants, and artisanal producers.
How do you spend a day in Mornington Peninsula?
If you leave early in the morning, it is totally possible to spend the day village-hopping around the small boutique towns and enjoying the beaches and walks that the peninsula has to offer. If you really want to see more of the region, I recommend staying the night and spending the weekend there so you can enjoy the restaurants and vineyards.
What you will find here
This post will tell you all about the peninsula and most importantly, what is really worth your time in the area. This is a trip I have personally done many times, so I’m sharing my personal experiences and opinions. I hope this helps you plan an amazing trip for when you visit Mornington Peninsula!
What Is there to do at Mornington Peninsula?
Sorrento Beach
Sorrento Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Mornington Peninsula. It is located in Sorrento and you’ll find many beach homes here as it is popular with wealthy Melburnians.The town’s main street is lined with boutique shops, cafes, and galleries, offering a delightful mix of shopping and cultural experiences. You can also enjoy the beautiful beaches, including the iconic Sorrento Ocean Beach and the calm waters of Sorrento Front Beach.
Point Nepean National Park
Point Nepean National Park is located at the end of Mornington Peninsula. The park is known for its military history, with fortifications and tunnels dating back to the 19th century, offering a glimpse into Australia’s heritage. Beyond its historical significance, Point Nepean has rugged coastlines, expansive ocean views, and lots of Australian flora and fauna, so I highly recommend you do the walk from the Upper Barracks site through Fort Nepean to the The Engine House at the tip of the peninsula.
Portsea
Portsea is another upscale village near the end of the peninsula. Boasting luxurious properties and a prestigious golf course, Portsea attracts affluent visitors so you’ll find really amazing coffee shops, boutique stores, and high end restaurants. The town is also famous for its iconic Portsea Pier where you can see the Portsea Pier Bathing Boxes.
What is the best vegan food in Mornington Peninsula?
Mornington Peninsula has amazing food, and it even has one of my favourite restaurants, Wombat (Cafe & Store). They have really delicious vegan options and always have something unique on offer. If you’re wanting to visit a winery in Melbourne that has vegan options, Yabby Lake on the Mornington Peninsula has a two and three course vegan option at their restaurant, Cellar Door.
Wombat Cafe & Store: 230 Boundary Rd, Dromana VIC 3936
Yabby Lake Winery: 86 – 112 Tuerong Road, Tuerong Victoria 3915
When is the best time to visit Mornington Peninsula?
I recommend getting up early to visit Mornington Peninsula on a warm summer’s weekend (December to end of February) as that is when the villages really come to life. It also means all of the shops will be open and you’ll be able to enjoy the beaches.
How do you get to Mornington Peninsula?
To get to the Mornington Peninsula, you can use various transportation options from Melbourne CBD:
Car: This is the best and most convenient way to get there in my opinion. From Melbourne, it takes about an hour to 90 minutes to reach the peninsula, depending on traffic. The EastLink toll road provides a faster route.
Public Transport: Train services operate from Melbourne to Frankston, and from there you can catch a bus to different parts of the peninsula. However, public transport within the peninsula itself may be limited, so it is advisable to check schedules in advance.
Ferry: If you’re coming from the city, you can take a passenger ferry from the Docklands in Melbourne to Sorrento which is towards the end of the peninsula. The ferry ride offers a scenic journey across Port Phillip Bay and I highly recommend this option if you don’t drive.
What are the best hotels to stay in when visiting Mornington Peninsula?
VERDICT
Is it worth going to Mornington Peninsula?
If you’re visiting Melbourne for only a couple of days, a visit to Mornington Peninsula might not be the best option for you as it will be a full day trip or a weekend trip. But if you’re spending a week or more in Melbourne I think this should definitely be on your list!
Did this article speak to you?
I’d love to hear your thoughts! If you’re on Instagram, you can find me over here: @apicturesquelife so feel free to reach out or use #apicturesquelife and I’d be happy to connect!