Jutting off the coast of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is a haven of gorgeous beaches, fabulous food and stunning scenery. It has served as a summer playground since the late 1800s, when paddle steamers cruised around Port Phillip Bay. Today, it’s a year-round holiday destination that feels worlds away from the buzz of the state capital.

Things to do

With its sandy beaches and gentle waves, the inner peninsula is ideal for relaxation. It’s dotted with breezy coastal towns like Mornington to Sorrento, which are perfect for families. If you get restless, why not sign up for a day of kayaking, snorkelling or dolphin watching?

For surfing and deep-sea fishing, head to the windswept beaches that face the Bass Strait. The coastal strip boasts some impressive scenic walks, with some of the best found in Mornington Peninsula National Park.

Home to more than 15 golf courses, the Mornington Peninsula is a great place to tee off. If you prefer a dose of culture or natural landscapes, you can visit the local galleries and studios, or take a soak at the beautiful Peninsula Hot Spring complex.

The Mornington Peninsula is a foodie’s paradise, with a smorgasbord of wineries, breweries and distilleries to explore. If you have the kids in tow, take them to see the strawberry farms, olive plantations and cheese factories that dot the hinterland.

Getting around

Victoria is well connected by a network of roads and highways, which makes road-tripping the easiest and most flexible way to explore the Mornington Peninsula. It’s just an hour from Melbourne by car, with trains and buses also making the trip. For a chance to spot dolphins, take the ferry from Queenscliff to Sorrento.