Summer means clear skies and sunny weather, and what better place to spend a fun weekend getaway than Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, home to a wealth of exciting outdoor activities.
Mornington Peninsula, sometimes referred to as “Ninch,” is still a family-favourite vacation spot and the ideal summer playground away from the city. You’d think summer would never end with all the locations you could visit (such Mornington wineries, thermal springs, and national parks!). If you prepare ahead, staying cool on a hot day isn’t difficult. Summertime catch-ups with friends and family are best enjoyed on long, leisurely days and pleasant nights.
It’s time to add exciting new activities to your summer bucket list on the Mornington Peninsula.
Summer Beach Hopping & Stunning Swimming Spots
The aqua-blue shallow seas and white sand of Port Phillip beaches beckon with allure on a hot day, and there are plenty of them to pick from. However, don’t discount Western Port’s more sedate and unspoilt beaches, such as Balnarring, Flinders, Merricks, or Somers. Whichever route you take, be careful to arrive early (or late) to escape the more drastic midday temperatures and practise sun safety. Some of the best beaches in Victoria can be found on the Mornington Peninsula. There’s a beach for everyone, whether you’re looking for a quiet location to unwind or somewhere to swim or surf. Sorrento Back Beach, Rye Beach, and Safety Beach are well-liked options where you may observe surfers waiting for the ideal wave. A picnic in the summer is ideal, but on chilly days, nothing compares to wrapping up and gorging on the greatest fish and chips from the seaside. The views of the sea are free to take in all year round. Read our guide to the Top Beach Picks on the Mornington Peninsula.
Go Snorkelling in Mornington Peninsula
Throughout Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula, snorkelling and diving are popular activities, with some of the best spots including Rye Pier, Flinders Pier, Blairgowrie Pier, and Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary. The Octopuses Garden, a 200-meter underwater self-guided marine trail, is available at Rye Pier, while Blairgowrie Pier is well-known for its population of spider crabs and nudibranchs. You can get up close and personal with weedy sea dragons at Flinders Pier and Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary. Blairgowrie Pier is a well-liked snorkelling location, with records of over 100 different kinds of nudibranchs. Weedy sea dragons can be reliably found at Portsea Pier, and there’s also a little rocky reef nearby that’s worth investigating. There is a wide variety of marine life to discover underwater at these beaches, so why not go snorkelling this summer on the Mornington Peninsula.
Soar in Style at Arthur’s Seat
The highest point in the area, Arthur’s Seat, offers expansive views of the peninsula. A stunning view of Port Phillip Bay can be had from the peak after a drive or trek. On a clear day, you can see Mount Macedon, the You Yangs, and the skyline of Melbourne. This is a great place for a picnic at sunset. Summertime is a great time to visit the Arthurs Seat Eagle, which offers breathtaking views over Melbourne, the ocean, and the Mornington Peninsula across Port Phillip Bay. The Eagle has gained recognition in recent years for its seasonal summer celebrations and activities. The much-anticipated Eagle Summer Festival runs from Boxing Day throughout January, which is eagerly anticipated by both residents and tourists, and presents the finest of the Peninsula in an incredibly breathtaking environment. The Eagle has organised a programme that showcases regional talent and innovative partnerships in partnership with local companies and community organisations.
Go Horse Riding in the Mornington Peninsula
Take a leisurely horseback ride down the beach or through the cool bush this summer. Beach horseback riding is a distinctive activity in the Mornington Peninsula that adds some spice to your seaside experience. Glide through the countryside and sand dunes on your way to the breathtaking St Andrews Beach. If you’ve never rode a horse before, don’t worry—all of them are gentle and well-trained, and you’ll be riding with a leader! What’s better than horseback riding on the beach?
Even better, you can ride a horse and explore the hinterland! Riding one of the lovable horses on the Peninsula, you can explore the coastal wilderness along the picturesque Gunnamatta track! Enjoy a leisurely equestrian ride and use this opportunity to sharpen your riding techniques while travelling along one of Mornington Peninsula’s scenic pathways.
Soak it up at the Peninsula Hot Springs
On a hot summer’s day, why not explore Peninsula Hot Springs’ ice cave? At Mornington’s Peninsula Hot Springs, a well-known bathing paradise, unwind and let your worries melt. Choose from more than 20 experiences that are inspired by different parts of the world, and feel the stress leave your body. Hot springs in summer? Summer nights are great for soaking or head during the day to take a cold plunge before warming back up again. For those wishing to enjoy private swimming in the seaside sanctuary of the Peninsula, this is the trendiest ticket available. Take in the breathtaking scenery of the pools with their flowing mineral waters while you unwind for the ultimate in rest and rejuvenation during your stay on the peninsula. The hot springs, Victoria’s first geothermal mineral springs, are immensely popular, affordable, ideal for families, and the ideal thing to do when visiting the Mornington Peninsula. Read our Complete Guide To Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs And Surrounding Area.
Head out on the Bay with a Summer Cruise
Experience the best of Mornington Peninsula and the bay with a sightseeing and boat trip! Take a two-hour bay sail tour that will pass by popular Ninch sights such Murrays Lookout, Australia’s version of the London Bridge, and the famous peninsula bathing boxes. You won’t even need to worry about lunch because a delectable hamper meal prepared with local ingredients is waiting for you on board. A cruise out on the bay takes you on a picturesque ride through both Bellarine and Mornington Peninsula, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the vistas that Mornington Peninsula has to offer. Aside from that, you can learn more about Aboriginal culture, visit the Narana Cultural Centre to get up close and personal with emus and wallabies, and sample locally made craft beer at St Andrews Brewery.
Enjoy Mornington Peninsula’s Hikes & Walks
Take a trek to the Bushrangers Bay route in Mornington Peninsula National Park to fully immerse yourself in nature or head up into the clouds on the Arthurs Seat Circuit. Some of Australia’s most breathtaking views, beaches, and landscapes can be found on the Mornington Peninsula. Utilizing the stunning coastline and state parks will enhance your journey and satiate your spirit of exploration. Take advantage of the many thrilling hikes in the region, which vary in distance and degree of difficulty, to make the most of your time in this amazing area. The 2.6km Bushrangers Bay Route begins at the Cape Schanck parking and follows a bush track down to a wild beach where you can cool off at the end. Read our guide to the Top Walks on the Mornington Peninsula, and remember to avoid the midday heat and always carry water with you in summer.
Swim with Dolphins & Seals on the Mornington Peninsula
Unleash your inner merman or mermaid and go swimming with seals and dolphins on the Mornington Peninsula, one of the most exhilarating experiences to have in summer. Because of the amazing marine environment of nearby Port Phillip Bay, it is also home to playful seals and dolphins. You can take a three-hour sightseeing trip off the coast of Sorrento that includes a swimming encounter with these beautiful creatures to get up close and personal with these wild creatures.
Make reservations online which includes a snorkel, dive mask, and wetsuit. During your trip, you’ll get to say hi to a colony of fur seals. If you’re not up to snorkelling, you can watch these animals frolic in the water from a safe distance by taking the sightseeing cruise. .
Discover the Heritage on the Peninsula
Surrounded by breathtaking coastal surroundings, the Cape Schanck Lighthouse is a gorgeous and historically significant monument. The boardwalk descends to a fantastic view of Pulpit Rock, a stunning geological structure rising above the rocky shoreline, while the neighbouring observation platforms offer great chances for sightseeing, photography, and observing seals and dolphins. There are also paid guided tours of the lighthouse available. Head out and explore Point Nepean National Park, which was important to Australia’s military history; a treat for history aficionados. Learn about the area’s history as you explore spectacular coastal vistas, tunnels, and former military forts. You can tour the region on your own bike for free, however there is a paid shuttle service that runs between the main entry, Quarantine Station, and Fort Nepean.
Sample Cool Brews during Summer
Explore some of the most creative and healthful cellar doors on the Mornington Peninsula by following the Beer, Cider & Spirits Trail. Not only is this area well known for its fine dining establishments, meandering vineyards, and exceptional grape-related accomplishments, but it’s also becoming a centre for craft brewers, outlying cideries, and boutique distilleries.
Imagine yourself enjoying a long, nice glass of cider while sitting beneath trees and enjoying the scent of apples in the air, or discovering your new favourite local pint at one of the six Mornington Peninsula breweries. The Beer, Cider and Spirits Trail offers a plethora of intriguing (and delicious) locally brewed beers that are perfect for a summer’s day. Of course, there are hip tiny pubs to find when the sun sets, along with refreshing cocktails. Taste limited-edition beers directly from a light-hearted, friendly tap house. In small, artisanal distilleries, discover the makers of single malt whisky, gin, and rum and learn their secrets. To keep you full in between drinks, the menu offers a tonne of delicious options. View a map of the Beer, Cider and Spirit Trail here.
Experience Summer Festivals and Events on the Mornington Peninsula
Attend festivals and events to capture the vibrant essence of summer and make lifelong memories on the peninsula. You can discover a calendar full of fun events, entertainment, and activities all year long (view the Mornington Peninsula Calendar of events here) as well as during summer. The Peninsula entertains with everything you need, including open-air markets, culinary and wine events, and kid-friendly family activities. If you’re more inspired by art and music, check out the constantly rotating schedule of plays, concerts, dance, and exhibitions that are available in the area. Don a party hat and get ready to party at events around the Mornington Peninsula. Celebrate everything from the region’s breathtaking beaches, farm-fresh vegetables, and excellent wines to competitions and exhibits at prestigious art galleries and designer golf courses. Join both locals and tourists celebrating throughout summer – View Summer Events here.
