Things to do in the Mornington Peninsula: Your Essential Guide to Planning a Girls' Trip

The Mornington Peninsula is just a hop, skip and a short drive from Melbourne. Best known for its beautiful beaches and national parks, the Peninsula is also home to an amazing array of award-winning wineries and spas, as well as boasting beautiful boutique hotels. That's right, the things to do in the Mornington Peninsula is varied and vibrant. As such, it naturally lends itself to being the perfect place to spend a little gals' getaway.

So, get the car playlist ready, leave your partners, kids, and pets at home and head off for a gorgeous weekend away with your best girlfriends. Here's your essential guide to planning a girl's trip to the Mornington Peninsula. 

Get up close with some incredible sculptures at Pt Leo Estate

If there's one cool thing to do in the Mornington Peninsula. it's to pay a visit to Pt Leo Estate's newly acquired Yayoi Kusama pumpkin. It's iconic.  

The Pt Leo Sculpture Park itself is a true marvel on the Pen's cultural landscape; an outdoor gallery within 330 acres of landscaped grounds that offer a gentle promenade for you and your girlies. 

Take a dip at the beach

The Mornington Peninsula boasts miles and miles of gorgeous golden beaches, so make sure to go for a dip during your visit. Our picks would be Mount Martha Beach, which is lined with colourful beach huts, along with a handy strip of cafes to grab lunch at; Sorrento Back Beach, for its beautiful rock pools and golden sunsets; and Portsea Surf Beach, a popular spot offering wide sandy beaches and naturally weathered cliffs worth exploring. 

Bathe in the hot springs at Alba Thermal Springs or Peninsula Hot Springs

The Peninsula Hot Springs is a Mornington Peninsula must visit, with over 20 bath experiences including plunge pools, jet pools, massaging showers and a Turkish hammam spread across the open-air Bath House, it’s the perfect setting to relax and reconnect with your girlfriends.

But that's not all. There's also digital detoxing with a side of utmost tranquility, at the Mornington Peninsula's newest hot spring and spa haven Alba Thermal Springs & Spa. It has a strict no-phone policy, and whilst certainly an Instagrammer's dream; with its number of dramatic reflection pools commanding attention; you'll soon slip into a dream-like state of relaxation, where the stresses of the modern world have no place.

Enjoy the wilderness surrounding as you explore 31 different bathing pools, ranging from geothermal pools to cold-plunge pools and herbal-infused 'botanical pools', as well as 22 elegant spa suites. 

A true girl's trip necessity when it comes to things to do in the Mornington Peninsula. 

140 Springs Lane, Fingal 

282 Browns Road, Fingal 

Find your zen at a morning yoga class in Mornington

Warrior One Yoga stands out for its serene ambience, expert instructors and chic interiors, offering a transformative experience that nurtures both the body and mind. With a diverse range of classes catering to all levels, it's the perfect place to stop and slow down a while.

G01/786 Esplanade, Mornington

Sorrento Writers Festival

Thursday 25th to Sunday 28th April, 2024

Head to the markets

Is there a better way to start a morning than with a trip to the markets? We’re going with ‘no’. A couple of options for this include the Red Hill Community Market or the Mornington Racecourse Market — just don't forget to bring your basket with you.

Go for a hike along Millionaire's Walk

One of the best things to do in Mornington Peninsula with the girls is pretending to be a Pen millionaire and choosing which home you'd want to live in along Millionaire's Walk.

This stunning cliff-top walk has historic significance and breathtaking water views across Port Phillip to the Bellarine Peninsula, Melbourne, and Mount Dandenong. It's also a fun little insight into how Melbourne's elite spend time at their summer mansions.

Millionaires Walk makes up a small part of the Sorrento Portsea Artists’ Trail, with four of the fourteen sites that comprise the trail located along Millionaires Walk. Paintings by Sir Arthur Streeton, Arthur Boyd, and Ray Hodgkinson are displayed along the walk.

Portsea to Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula

Go horseback riding on the beach

Being one of the only places where you can actually go horseback riding in Victoria on the beach, Gunnamatta Trail Rides offers an unbeatable experience that can be booked for morning, afternoon or during evening sunsets. A super fun experience to add to your things to do in the Mornington Peninsula bucket list. 

Go swimming in the many gorgeous rock pools

In need of some rocks pools and hikes over some of Australia’s most beautiful coastline on your girls trip to the Mornington Peninsula? We've got you covered on both fronts. 

A trip out to some of the lapis-hued rock pools is definitely a highlight of things to do in the Mornington Peninsula. The hardest part is picking which one to swim in!

Whilst there are many rock pools to be found along the rocky back beaches, our favourites include Bushrangers Bay, Blairgowrie Rock Pools and Sorrento Ocean Beach. Happy splashing, girlies! 

You can also click here for all of our favourite walks in this treasured region of Victoria. 

Bistro Elba

Do you have serious foodie friends with a love of all things European cuisine? On your travels, make a quick stop in the South of France – no passport required! Industry heavyweights Clinton Trevisi, James Langley and Matthew Guthrie (Donna Maria, Patsy’s) bring their signature je ne sais quoi to Sorrento with Bistro Elba. Offering Southern French cuisine heavy on seafood, the seasonally geared menu reflects a “what is good right now” philosophy, sourcing largely from the bistro’s farm garden near Daylesford.

The pièce de resistance? Book a table between 5-6pm daily to enjoy half-priced Appellation rock oysters.

100 -102 Ocean Beach Road Sorrento

Donna Maria

Continue your European love affair at Donna Maria, the warm and welcoming Italian sister venue of Bistro Elba. The talented hospo trio put a sophisticated spin on classic dishes that champion Italy’s time-honoured culinary traditions. First things first, start with an aperitivo - the Negroni Sbagliato is a must - and pair with share plates of zucchini fritters with spanner crab and tarragon mayo, bresaola and pesce crudo. Homemade pastas and a wealth of local wine on the drinks list will have you all brimming with content and Chardonnay-drenched giggles. 

Shop 1/52 Cook Street, Flinders

Tedesca Osteria

In just three short years, Tedesca Osteria has cemented itself as one of the must-visit restaurants in not just Victoria, but all of Australia. You won’t know exactly what you’ll be eating until you sit down, with lauded chef Brigitte Hafner working with the day’s best and most inspiring produce. Guests can expect a long and leisurely meal that starts with antipasto, moves onto handmade pasta, and then seafood or meat cooked lovingly over woodfire, before closing off with a rustic dessert. The gorgeous dining room is centered around an open-plan kitchen and impressive brick hearth, making visitors feel right at home. A must on your next girl's trip to the Mornington Peninsula. 

1175 Mornington Flinders Road, Red Hill

Portsea Hotel

Don't miss out on experiencing a languid lunch at this picturesque hotel, especially come summertime. The perfect place to stay, drink, and dine by the bay - and one of the best things to do in the Mornington Peninsula. 

The food and drink offerings have been kept well up to date at the Portsea Hotel, given its near 150-year history. The menu is Italian-focused, with lashings of excellent pizza, kingfish crudo, and vongole pasta that sit pretty alongside pub classics like steak, fish and chips, and the almighty parma. 

Stretch out upon the roaming lawn, with its beautiful beach views and French Rivera-esque blue and white brollies open wide. You and your crew will j'adore the renovated interiors; sophisticated, chic, and light-filled. The gorgeous Longshore Room in particular feels more like a restaurant than a pub, with wicker chairs, leather banquettes, and all the potted greenery giving way to a tiled alfresco area and French doors. We can think of nothing better than dining here alfresco, slurping oysters, and locally sourced glasses of sparkling wine.

3746 Point Nepean Road, Portsea

Paringa Estate

Established by schoolteacher turned winemaker Lindsey McCall in 1985, Paringa Estate has consistently turned out some of Australia’s top Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and cool-climate Shiraz. Arrive on the weekend to sample some of their iconic single-vineyard wines and stay for an intimate dining experience at their highly-lauded restaurant overlooking the vines, and beyond. 

Their menu is a celebration of locally sourced, seasonal produce. The beef is typically sourced from Gippsland, the pork from the Western Plains of Victoria and the seafood is local. The team also love foraging for ingredients in the region. It's sincerely a real food and wine dream - and the perfect thing to do in the Mornington Peninsula on your next group vacay. 

Paringa Road, Red Hill South

Audrey’s

This sweeping fine diner by the sea is prolific restaurateur Scott Pickett’s first regional venture, and my-oh-my is she a beauty. The anchor restaurant of the revamped Hotel Continental, Audrey is a homage to the grandmother who inspired Pickett’s cooking. Diners are taken on a journey of premium local seafood reimagined, paired with thought-provoking wines.

The dining room is a vision of old-world elegance awash in sea green velvet, marble and priceless bay views everywhere you look.

If you're looking to add a little pomp and circumstance to your girl's weekend in the Mornington Peninsula, this is your sign to do it! 

1 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento

Buckley

One of the best things to do in Mornington Peninsula is to make a brunch date at Buckley Sorrento. Light-filled and buzzing, it’s a gorgeous spot, made even more exceptional when that first hit of freshly ground Inglewood coffee touches your lips. If you and your group of gal pals are ready to get stuck into a brunch cocktail or two, this is the place to take a seat. There are plenty of seats too, with a large outdoor area in prime position for basking in the morning sunshine. 

174 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento

Dreamer 

Make your way to Dreamer Cafe, nestled by Fossil Beach, where the locals rave about the all-day brunch menu that you can’t miss. ⁠From summer granola and acai bowls to cheese toasts and dippy eggs with avocado and smoked salmon, it's a nourishing offering from this cosy little cafe in Mornington. It'll ensure your morning starts merry and bright - and will have you ready for a full day of adventuring with your besties. 

2/25 Dava Drive, Mornington

Laura

The Peninsula's Pt. Leo Estate is home to Australia's most comprehensive sculpture collection, but did you know that there's a two-hatted restaurant onsite that's made for long, lazy lunches with the girls? Laura is a gourmet hideaway promising an ultra-luxe dining experience in a gloriously intimate setting. With a choice of four, five, or six courses, along with a perfectly paired wine list, diners will take a gastronomic tour of the region through each plate.

3649 Frankston - Flinders Road, Merricks 

T'Gallant Vineyard

Experience the flavours of Italy amidst the picturesque vineyards of Mornington Peninsula at T'Gallant Vineyard. Indulge in the finest wines, handcrafted with expertise, as your group settles in to savour authentic Italian cuisine made from the finest local ingredients. This recently reopened vineyard and restaurant offers a delightful blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance, creating the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience. 

1385 Mornington-Flinders Road, Main Ridge

Loosie's Diner & Bar

Tucked away in the unassuming pocket of shops on Beleura Hill, Loosie's Diner & Bar is a go-to for fried chicken and burgers, chill vibes, lush cocktails, cold beer, great wine, and excellent tunes. A place to unleash your cravings (especially after a day of wine tasting your way around the Pen), you and your favourites will love their Buffalo Burger, mac n cheese patty burger and Reuben Roll. The buttermilk chicken tenders and jalapeno poppers are also notoriously good for hitting the spot. Wash it all down with one of their fun named cocktails (the Wowee Zowee Whiskey Sour, anyone?) and finish with the popular and oh-so-comforting apple pie. The rock 'n' roll, boozy, 70's LA diner vibes only add to the many reasons why this is one of the best things to do in the Mornington Peninsula. 

97 Beleura Hill Road, Mornington

Barlow

A glossy after-hours haunt can be indulged in at The Continental Sorrento, bringing with it an exclusive vibe that’s more than a little bit seductive. Barlow sets the scene for the ultimate girls' night with its sumptuous styling (think emerald green walls and plush burgundy banquettes) and intimate vibes. Featuring killer signature cocktails like the Mornington Margarita, Victoria’s illustrious Speakeasy Group (Eau De Vie and Nick & Nora’s) has the expansive drinks list matched perfectly to Scott Pickett’s inspired interpretation of a late-night bar menu.

1-24 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento

Kerri Greens

Kerri Greens is a fantastic option for the Red Hill area. Fast becoming a favourite for visitors, due to its cellar door, rolling vineyards, and a comfy lawn ready-made for summer picnics. Grab a bottle of the Pinots De Mornington Rosé and settle in for the afternoon. Also, make sure to plan your weekend around a visit here, as they're only open on Friday through Sunday. 

38 Paringa Road, Red Hill South

Mornington Peninsula Brewery

Hidden in plain sight along a back street in Mornington, Mornington Peninsula Brewery is recognised as one of the best craft breweries in all of Australia. For that reason alone, it's easy to see why it's also one of the best things to do in the Mornington Peninsula. Brewing a great selection of beers, including everything from a pale ale through to a porter, you can take your pick before finding a seat all together out in the beer garden.

72 Watt Road, Mornington

Bass & Flinders

If gin is more your go-to, then you best add Bass & Flinders to the list. Being the only bespoke distillery on the Mornington Peninsula, this distillery destination offers several tasting options at their cellar door at various price points, all of which are refundable when a bottle purchase is made.

40 Collins Road, Dromana

Have a perfect wine tasting at Quealy Wines

Katherine Quealy and Kevin McCarthy were among the early wave of winemakers to move to the Mornington Peninsula, yet their output has consistently been some of the most innovative and elaborate. They were the first in Australia to plant Friulano, and with the help of their son, Tom, they’re creating some of the region's finest skin-contact wines. Visit on the weekend with your besties and the elegant chatelaine Louise will happily regale you about the winemaking process over a made-to-order cheese platter.

62 Bittern-Dromana Road, Balnarring  

Hotel Sorrento

Set on the clifftops with magic views of Port Phillip Bay and a two-minute stroll from the vibrant Sorrento township, there's a room for every type of traveller at the incredibly chic Hotel Sorrento. Watch boats sail by from the classic and comfy bay rooms, or bask in sunshine from the privacy of your own balcony in fully-appointed studios. The hotel is tastefully designed with natural finishes of limestone, European Oak and tan leather to make you feel right at home, while new in-house restaurant Shi Hui Shi offers a fiesta of contemporary Cantonese. A relaxed and incredibly considered stay for your girls trip to the Mornington Peninsula. 

Sitchu Tip: Sunset cocktails atop the hotel's rooftop bar are a quintessential girl's weekend experience. 

Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula 

Intercontinental Sorrento

Surely this is a stay in Sorrento, Italy?! No, fortunately for us, it's a blissful hotel right here on the Mornington Peninsula.

The Intercontinental Sorrento has quickly reestablished itself as the place to stay on the Mornington Peninsula. Drawing on 150 years of heritage in a stunningly modern refresh, every inch of the space reveals timeless coastal glamour.

Book into an array of rooms and suites with views of the Sorrento foreshore and township. You certainly won’t be spending all your time inside though, with a curated range of experiences at your door, including Aurora Spa & Bathhouse, fine-dining restaurants and disco decadence at their late night speakeasy Barlow. One of the more perfect things to do on the Mornington Peninsula. 

Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula 

Camillo Beach House 

An artful oasis on the Mornington Peninsula, Camillo House is a charming mid-century marvel made for restful retreating with your best gal group. 

An oasis in every sense of the word, Camillo House sits invitingly on the dunes of Blairgowrie. The joy-igniting space was dreamt up to delight holiday-seekers, artists and romantics looking for a coastal reverie away to call home. Striking a balance between sophistication and charisma, founder, Clare Hillier has stated it was "created with sensory pleasure in mind and an incredible attention to detail, it is a backdrop to living fully.”

A stay here is quite like sojourning in a private gallery, where guests will discover twenty-five original works by up-and-coming artists and renowned names. 

Blairgowrie, Mornington Peninsula

Jackalope Hotel

One of the ultimate things to do in the Mornington Peninsula is to book a weekend escape to Jackalope Hotel. Also adjoined to a winery, the hotel is part of the Willow Creek Vineyard (as per above), unique for its striking modern design. This luxury accommodation consists of 46 luxe rooms, with an outdoor 30-metre infinity pool overlooking views out to the vines. Book a dinner at onsite Doot Doot Doot and you're bound for getaway greatness with your besties. 

Merricks North, Mornington Peninsula 

Martha Beach House

This luxury beach escape has us dreaming of our next girls trip to the Mornington Peninsula. Located just metres away from the water, Martha Beach House champions all that is good about holidays - rest, relaxation and truly indulging. 

Part Mediterranean villa, part mini-day spa, this beautiful, eight-bed beach house is undeniably appealing for those style-seeking and in want of merry-making. Simply divine!

Mount Martha, Mornington Peninsula 

NESTE on 5th

Beachside luxury in the heart of Rosebud; NESTE on 5th is a light-filled beauty, perfect for gathering with the girls over cheese platters and wine, and gossiping well into the night. 

Inspired by nature and its simplicity, this beautiful Airbnb has a light and airy feel, intentional in its minimalist aesthetic to encourage a connection with the pristine coastline beyond the walls.

Newly renovated with no details overlooked, the stunning weatherboard home is also perfectly located; mere steps to the foreshore as well as the many nearby restaurants, cafes and bars, which means great things for your group brunch, lunch or dinner reservation! 

Staying in for this girl's trip to the Mornington Peninsula? The open plan living, kitchen and dining area will have you in good stead, with plenty of modern amenities. The outdoor entertaining area comprises a sun deck and lawn area, complete with plush sunning chairs and an outdoor table with bench seating for alfresco dining. It's quite literally a perfect place to escape to in the Pen. 

Rosebud, Mornington Peninsula 

Graceburn House

This luxury on-site accommodation for one of the Mornington Peninsula's most acclaimed restaurants is a vision in velvet and abundant in charm. Graceburn House was built in the early forties by an English couple who came from Devon, England. Beautiful renovated and restored by Tedesca Osteria's Brigitte Hafner and her partner Patrick, it's a sophisticated staycation to share in good times with your best gal pals. Especially if you're looking for a more low-key country retreat for your girl's trip to the Mornington Peninsula; Graceburn House delivers this on all fronts. It simply brims with warmth, art, and luxe furnishings; there's even breakfast of farm eggs, fresh bread, butter and condiments, provided daily. J'adore! 

Red Hill, Mornington Peninsula 

Loving reading about all the great things to do on the Mornington Peninsula? In desperate need of a holiday? Keep planning by checking out the best Mornington Peninsula wineries and the best spa retreats in Melbourne.