The Labor Day long weekend rolled around and I thought of no better way to see out the Australian summer months then to head to some of the nicest coastlines Oz has to offer. The Mornington Peninsula surrounds the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay and is a favorite holiday spot for many Melbournians for a reason.
The peninsula is filled with beautiful calm beaches along the bay with the famous colorful peninsula beach shacks. Just over the hills you can also find rugged cliff faces lining stunning surf beaches and see way out to sea. On the way down to Point Nepean, there are many quaint towns to pass by and many things to see along the way.
My grandmother lives in Rosebud, over half way around the peninsula and only about an hour and a half from the heart of Melbourne.
Arriving to a cloudy day on Saturday, I didn’t do much sightseeing. But Sunday was just that, a day full of sun so I took off with my little pocket camera, snapping at some of my favorite spots.
Let me show you around the Mornington Peninsula
Portsea Back Beach
Portsea is the last major town before Point Nepean and because the land is so narrow as you get closer to the point, you can reach the ocean side in 5 minutes from the bay side. Portsea Back Beach is popular among surfers and showcases the stunning rocky coastlines and rock formations.
Sorrento
One of the most popular stops along the peninsula, Sorrento is a beautiful town with a lot to offer, including many cute cafes and shops. Hotel Sorrento is a nice place to stop for lunch, perched atop a hill for some picturesque views.
Blairgowie
A smaller town along the trail, you can come here for a quieter experience on the beach.
Arthurs Seat
Arthurs Seat offers incredible views of the bay and the surrounding regions. On a clear day you can see as far as the Melbourne city skyline and Mt Macedon (I saw both). There are roads leading up to it, or for a more adventurous experience, you can walk it. There’s a one hour circuit that also takes you to Kings Falls.
On the way back down from Arthurs Seat, we found Murrays Lookout. The pictures speak for themselves.
Dromana
One of my favorite towns with a gorgeous beach. Safety Beach has some of the most colorful beach shacks that really make the Mornington Peninsula unique.
Mornington
Mornington is the largest town along the peninsula of the same name. Beautiful waters, cliffs and beaches. The Mornington pier is a popular stop.
Road back to Melbourne
And some beautiful stops along the way home.
What a great weekend!
There’s so much to do on the Mornington Peninsula and you can do it in true Australian style. Camping spots are nestled between the beach and the main strips all the way along the peninsula for a relaxing stay. Check locations and book sites here.
If camping isn’t your thing, the Sorrento YHA will be your cheapest option.
The Rye and Rosebud summer carnivals over the holiday periods bring the bay to life and there are many more activities to keep anyone busy. Or just enjoy the beach, my personal favorite.
If you get a chance, don’t hesitate to visit this beautiful part of the world.
Happy Travels!
