Are you looking for the perfect summer getaway destination? Look no further than the Mornington Peninsula! Located in Victoria, Australia, the Mornington Peninsula is renowned for its stunning beaches and natural beauty. With plenty of activities to do and places to explore, the Mornington Peninsula offers an unforgettable summer experience. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the beach or a thrilling adventure, we’ve compiled a list of our top 5 things to do to make the most of your summer trip to the Mornington Peninsula.
1. Visit the Hot Springs
The Peninsula Hot Springs are one of the most popular hot springs and offers a perfect weekend getaway destination. They feature a variety of natural hot mineral pools surrounded by tranquil landscaped gardens. You can enjoy a dip in the soothing waters, which range from 25 to 46 degrees Celsius. The therapeutic benefits of the hot mineral waters will help relieve aches and pains and promote relaxation and well-being. As well as soaking in the hot springs, visitors can enjoy a range of spa treatments and massages.
The experienced therapists at Peninsula Hot Springs offer a range of massage treatments, from traditional Thai massages to reflexology. You can also choose from various beauty treatments such as facials, manicures, pedicures, etc. The Peninsula Hot Springs are open every day from 9am until late, so you can visit whenever you like. With its beautiful natural surroundings and therapeutic hot springs, it’s no wonder the Peninsula Hot Springs is a popular summer destination on the Mornington Peninsula.
2. Picnic Lunch at the Local Wineries
The Mornington Peninsula is one of the most popular destinations in Australia for wine lovers. With more than 70 wineries and tasting rooms, there’s something to suit every taste. If you want to make the most of your visit, why not try a picnic lunch at one of the many local wineries? Enjoy a delicious al fresco meal surrounded by vineyards, with a stunning backdrop of rolling hills and the ocean in the distance.
You can enjoy your picnic lunch while sampling local wines or take home a bottle later.Mornington Peninsula wineries like Red Hill Estate, Moorooduc Estate, and Foxeys Hangout all have picturesque settings for picnics amongst the vines. During the warmer months, many wineries even host live music and yoga sessions in the vineyard – perfect for enjoying local wine.
3. Visit Mornington Peninsula Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery
The Mornington Peninsula is home to some of Victoria’s most delicious chocolates and ice creameries. Whether you’re a chocolate connoisseur or just looking for a fun treat on a summer day, these stops are sure to please. Start your sweet journey with a visit to Panny’s Chocolate Factory in Rye. The family-run shop offers handmade chocolates and fudges that use recipes dating back over 60 years. For more unique flavours, head to the Rye Family store, which features over 30 different types of chocolates and fudges.
The Mornington Peninsula is home to several old-fashioned ice cream parlours like Four N Twenty Ice Creamery, Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery, and Seaside Ice Creamery. All offer variousflavours, from classic vanilla to exotic ones like honeycomb and chocolate chip cookie dough. Or, if you prefer something more indulgent, try one of the premium sundaes at Motley Cow Ice Cream Parlor in Sorrento. With delicious toppings like marshmallow fluff, chocolate sauce, and caramel sauce, you won’t be disappointed.
4. Go Swimming or Snorkelling
The Mornington Peninsula is the perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling during Summer. With its stunning views, crystal clear waters, and diverse marine life, there’s plenty to explore beneath the surface. Many options are available, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced swimmer. If you’re looking for a more relaxed swim, head to one of the many beaches dotted around the peninsula.
Mount Martha beach is top-rated, with its shallow sheltered bay providing an ideal dip spot. Alternatively, Port Phillip Bay offers some great swimming and snorkelling spots. Take a short drive to Safety Beach and enjoy spectacular views of the bay as you take in all the underwater wonders below. Bring some goggles and flippers if you explore further in the water. For those not keen on getting wet, take a stroll along any of the nearby bayside tracks and enjoy the scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
5. Dolphin Swim at Port Phillip Bay
If you’re looking for a truly unique and fantastic summer experience, head to Port Phillip Bay for a dolphin swim. That is an incredible opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle marine creatures in their natural environment. You can tour or even opt for a private charter for a truly unforgettable experience. An experienced guide will help spot and identify dolphins from afar.
Once you’re in the water, your guide will show you how to interact with the dolphins and give tips on making the most of your swim. It’s essential always to respect these creatures and never feed them or try to touch them – but they can come up close to you with some patience. During your tour, you may spot other marine life, such as sea birds, stingrays, and even whales.
Conclusion
The Mornington Peninsula has so much to offer and is an excellent destination for a summer getaway. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore the outdoors, or have fun, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the hot springs, swimming with dolphins, enjoying delicious local chocolate and ice cream for a sweet tooth, going to the beach, and having a picnic are just some of the best things to do this summer on the Mornington Peninsula. So make sure to plan your trip and take advantage of all the great activities the region offers!