Mornington Peninsula: Hot Springs, Wineries and Coastlines

The Mornington Peninsula is Melbourne’s coastal playground, a place where wellness escapes meet cool-climate wine country and rugged ocean scenery. You can bathe under the stars in geothermal springs, wander sculpture-dotted vineyards with a glass of Pinot Noir, then end the day watching waves crash against basalt cliffs. If you are plotting a romantic weekend, a family getaway or an indulgent spa holiday, this pocket of Victoria has the kind of variety that keeps you coming back.

This guide covers everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip, from the most relaxing hot springs and memorable cellar doors to unmissable beaches, walks, dining, stays and easy itineraries.

Why the Mornington Peninsula Belongs on Your Travel List

• Easy access from Melbourne, typically 60 to 90 minutes by car
• Two world-class geothermal bathing complexes with day and evening sessions
• A renowned cool-climate wine region known for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
• Dramatic ocean back beaches and calm bay shores within minutes of each other
• Coastal walks, lighthouses, lookouts and wildlife encounters
• A thriving food scene that spans chef-led restaurants, farm gates and distilleries
• Accommodation options from luxury vineyard lodges to glamping near the springs

Getting There and Getting Around

• By car: Follow the M1 and Mornington Peninsula Freeway or Peninsula Link. Mornington township is about 1 hour from Melbourne CBD, Red Hill 70 to 80 minutes and Sorrento around 90 minutes depending on traffic.
• By ferry: Searoad Ferries runs a vehicle and passenger service between Queenscliff and Sorrento in about 40 minutes. It is a scenic shortcut that connects the Bellarine to the Peninsula.
• Public transport: Frankston line trains connect to buses that service coastal towns and Red Hill. Services can be limited for winery hopping, so a guided tour or rideshare is often easier.
• Getting around: A car offers the most flexibility. For winery days, consider a driver or small-group tour for safety and convenience.

The Hot Springs: Wellness in Nature

The Peninsula’s geothermal water filters up from deep aquifers, rich in natural minerals and kept at beautifully warm temperatures. Two leading complexes provide different takes on the experience.

Peninsula Hot Springs

Australia’s pioneering geothermal spa continues to grow with new pools, wellness zones and dining. It offers:

• Bath House: A social series of pools, hilltop tubs with 360-degree views, cave pools, reflexology walk and family-friendly zones.
• Spa Dreaming Centre: Quieter, adults-only bathing with thermal pools, private pavilions and tranquil gardens.
• Fire and Ice: Guided contrast therapy that alternates sauna, ice cave and cold plunge for circulation and recovery.
• Wellness add-ons: Massages, body treatments, yoga, sound bathing and cultural experiences.
• Dining: Casual cafés and picnic hampers, with twilight dinners popular after sunset sessions.

Insider tips:

1. Book well in advance for weekends and holidays, and pick an early morning or twilight slot for softer light and fewer people.
2. Bring swimwear, a water bottle and a light robe or hire onsite. Flip-flops help on warm paths.
3. Hydrate generously and take breaks. The property is expansive, so plan an easy loop rather than bouncing between far-flung zones.

Alba Thermal Springs and Spa

Refined and contemporary, Alba is a newer arrival set among coastal bushland and orchards. Expect:

• Architect-designed pools: A circuit of open-air and sheltered baths, rain pools, botanical pools and quiet corners for deeper relaxation.
• Spa therapy: Tailored massages and facials using premium products, with private suites for couples and longer rituals.
• Dining: A polished onsite restaurant with seasonal menus that celebrate Peninsula produce.
• Atmosphere: A calm, considered mood with a focus on design, space and sensory detail.

Choosing between the two:

• For variety and family-friendly zones, choose Peninsula Hot Springs.
• For a serene, design-forward experience with a boutique feel, choose Alba.
• Wellness travelers often try both on different days or split a group based on preferences.

The Wineries: Cool-Climate Excellence

Mornington Peninsula’s maritime climate and rolling hills deliver elegant wines with freshness and finesse. Most cellar doors are concentrated around Red Hill, Main Ridge, Merricks, Moorooduc and Balnarring.

What the Region Does Best

• Pinot Noir: The flagship style, from perfumed, red-fruited expressions to structured, cellar-worthy releases.
• Chardonnay: Bright acidity, citrus and stone fruit, often with measured oak and great texture.
• Pinot Gris/Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp, aromatic whites that pair with seafood.
• Sparkling: Traditional-method sparkling wines show excellent finesse in this cool climate.
• Alternatives: Taste Syrah, Gamay and rosé for a change of pace.

Notable Cellar Doors and Wine Experiences

• Pt Leo Estate: A vast sculpture park with a striking cellar door, a fine dining restaurant and coastal views. Combine art, architecture and wine in one elegant stop.
• Montalto: A much-loved estate with a sculpture trail through the vines, a produce garden, casual piazza dining and more refined restaurant tasting menus.
• Ten Minutes by Tractor: Boutique excellence with a strong culinary offering and meticulously crafted wines. Booking essential.
• Paringa Estate: A benchmark Pinot Noir producer with consistently high acclaim and a cosy dining room overlooking vines.
• Polperro: Stylish cellar door and suites in Red Hill, blending wine tasting with a destination restaurant and polished service.
• Port Phillip Estate: A dramatic limestone building, sweeping views and a hatted restaurant. Sessions here feel special from the moment you arrive.
• Yabby Lake: Single-vineyard focus and a relaxed cellar door. Their Pinot Noir achieved national recognition and remains a standout tasting.
• Crittenden Estate: Friendly tastings, a broad range of styles and onsite lakeside villas ideal for a wine weekend.
• Red Hill Estate and Foxeys Hangout: Loved for views, sparkling tastings and approachable hospitality.

Wine touring tips:

1. Book tastings at popular venues, especially on weekends.
2. Plan three to four cellar doors per day with a lunch stop to keep the pace relaxed.
3. Share tastings or use a spittoon if you are driving. Better yet, book a driver or tour.
4. Ask for back-vintage pours or single-block comparisons. Staff love guiding curious visitors.

Coastlines: Bay Bliss and Ocean Drama

The Peninsula has two distinct coasts. On the Port Phillip side you will find calm, family-friendly beaches and heritage bathing boxes. Along Bass Strait, ocean back beaches deliver big swells, wind-carved cliffs and moody rock platforms. Exploring both is essential.

Best Bay Beaches

• Mount Martha: Golden sand, turquoise shallows and a classic row of colorful bathing boxes. Early mornings are sublime.
• Mornington Main Beach: A gentle curve with a long pier, cafés close by and the Esplanade for scenic walks.
• Safety Beach and Dromana: Wide, calm water that is perfect for paddleboarding and casual swims.
• Sorrento Front Beach: Clear water and easy access from the village. A great spot before or after the ferry.

Most Memorable Ocean Beaches and Headlands

• Gunnamatta: The region’s surf heartland with powerful waves and dunes. Always heed surf safety signs and avoid swimming if unpatrolled.
• St Andrews Beach and Rye Ocean Beach: Wilder stretches with remote vibes. Look for sheltered rock pools at lower tides.
• Portsea Back Beach: Photogenic cliffs and a raw ocean feel close to Sorrento.
• Cape Schanck: Black basalt, boardwalks, the lighthouse and the famous Pulpit Rock view. The short walk to Pebble Beach rewards with otherworldly textures.
• Bushrangers Bay: A scenic coastal hike through tea tree to a pristine cove. Pack water and check conditions.

Coastal safety:

• Always swim between the flags if you plan to enter the ocean. Bay beaches are much calmer than back beaches.
• Check tide times before exploring rock pools and platforms.
• Weather can change quickly. Bring layers and sun protection in all seasons.

Signature Walks and Lookouts

• Arthurs Seat Eagle and State Park: Ride the Eagle gondola for aerial views, then explore easy circuit trails or tackle the steep ascent on foot. Panoramas stretch across Port Phillip to the city skyline.
• Two Bays Walking Track: A 26-kilometre thru-hike linking Dromana to Cape Schanck that can be broken into shorter sections.
• Point Nepean National Park: History meets scenery at the end of the Peninsula. Walk or cycle past the old Quarantine Station, forts and gun emplacements to The Heads for dramatic views over the Rip.

Ocean Encounters and Water Adventures

• Dolphin and seal swims: Join a Sorrento-based boat charter for guided swims or relaxed cruises. Expect Australian fur seals, pods of dolphins and abundant birdlife.
• Snorkelling: Flinders Pier is famous for weedy seadragons, while Rye and Blairgowrie piers host curious fish and gentle rays.
• Kayaking and SUP: Calm bay mornings are ideal. Hire gear in Sorrento, Portsea, Mount Martha or Mornington.
• Fishing: Cast from local piers or book a charter for snapper, whiting and squid in season.
• Golf: The sands of the southern Peninsula host top-rated courses including Moonah Links, The Dunes, St Andrews Beach and Portsea Golf Club. Many pair well with a long lunch or a late soak at the springs.

Farm Gates, Breweries and Distilleries

The Mornington Peninsula food story is told in orchards, market gardens, olive groves and paddocks. Set aside a day to browse and taste.

• Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm: Pick-your-own in season and enjoy sundaes when fruit is at its sweetest.
• Green Olive at Red Hill: A farm-to-table café with olives, lamb and produce grown onsite, plus classes and picnics.
• Red Hill markets: Seasonal craft and produce markets bring local makers together. Arrive early for parking and fresh-baked treats.
• Breweries: St Andrews Beach Brewery set in former racehorse stables, Jetty Road Brewery in Dromana and Red Hill Brewery in the forested hills.
• Distilleries: Bass & Flinders Distillery for gin tasting flights and classes, JimmyRum Distillery in Dromana for cane-spirit cocktails and tours.
• Chocolaterie and ice cream: A whimsical stop for families and sweet tooths, showcasing artisan chocolates and local flavors.

Dining highlights:

• Wine estate restaurants for long lunches among the vines
• Casual coastal fish and chips to eat on the pier at sunset
• Chef-led venues that spotlight coastal seafood, foraged herbs and heirloom vegetables

Where to Stay: From Luxe Lodges to Glamping

Whether you want vineyard views or ocean air, the Peninsula delivers.

• Luxury and design:

  • Jackalope Hotel at Willow Creek Vineyard with a showpiece pool, contemporary art and destination dining.
  • RACV Cape Schanck Resort with a championship course, ocean panoramas and spacious rooms.
  • Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill for English garden charm and cellar-door convenience.
  • Port Phillip Estate suites and Polperro Villas for adults-only vineyard escapes.

• Boutique and coastal:

  • Flinders Hotel close to wild bass strait shores and the village.
  • Sorrento and Portsea guesthouses that blend heritage with modern comforts.
  • Chic holiday rentals in Mount Martha, Mornington and Blairgowrie for family groups.

• Wellness stays:

  • Peninsula Hot Springs glamping with exclusive bathing access outside general hours.
  • Spa packages that pair accommodation with treatments and private bathing.

• Budget and family:

  • Holiday parks and cabins near Rosebud and Dromana with easy beach access.
  • Apartments and townhouses within walking distance of cafés, piers and playgrounds.

Booking tips:

1. Summer and school holidays sell out early across coastal towns. Reserve months ahead for peak season.
2. Shoulder seasons bring better value and softer light. Consider midweek stays for added serenity.
3. Check whether your property includes parking and late checkout, and confirm proximity to the places you plan to visit.

Perfectly Planned: Sample Itineraries

One-Day Taster

• Morning: Drive from Melbourne to Peninsula Hot Springs for a 2 to 3 hour soak. Choose an early session for tranquil hilltop bathing.
• Lunch: A vineyard lunch at Montalto, Pt Leo Estate or Ten Minutes by Tractor.
• Afternoon: Scenic stop at Arthurs Seat Eagle or a bay swim at Mount Martha. Grab gelato in Mornington.
• Sunset: Stroll the pier at Sorrento or watch golden light across Safety Beach.
• Dinner: Casual seafood on the foreshore before returning to Melbourne or staying overnight.

Two-Day Wine and Wellness Weekend

Day 1:

1. Arrive in Red Hill for a mid-morning tasting at Paringa Estate or Port Phillip Estate.
2. Long lunch with a view. Schedule a second tasting nearby, such as Yabby Lake or Crittenden Estate.
3. Check into your vineyard lodge or coastal stay.
4. Twilight bathing at Alba or Peninsula Hot Springs followed by a relaxed dinner.

Day 2:

1. Walk Cape Schanck boardwalk before the crowds.
2. Café brunch in Flinders village, then browse boutiques and a chocolatier.
3. Optional dolphin cruise from Sorrento or an easy bay paddle.
4. Late lunch at a brewery in Dromana, then coastal drive home via Mount Martha.

Three Days of Coast, Culture and Cuisine

Day 1: Springs and sculpture

• Alba morning soak
• Lunch at Pt Leo Estate and a wander through the sculpture park
• Sunset at Bushrangers Bay lookout

Day 2: Wine immersion

• Private driver for a curated tasting trail across Red Hill and Main Ridge
• Picnic or garden lunch at Montalto
• Chef’s table dinner at a hatted venue, then fireside nightcap

Day 3: Ocean energy

• Point Nepean cycle and history tour
• Sorrento village shopping and front beach swim
• Late afternoon back beach walk at Portsea or St Andrews, followed by pizza and local pinot

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (Dec to Feb): Beach weather, long days and lively towns. Book early and plan around traffic on hot weekends.
• Autumn (Mar to May): Vintage energy in the vineyards, golden foliage and ideal hiking temperatures.
• Winter (Jun to Aug): Peak hot-springs season, whale sightings offshore, moody surf and cosy cellar doors with fireplaces.
• Spring (Sep to Nov): Wildflowers, new-season menus, shoulder-season value and crisp air that makes views sparkle.

Events to watch:

• Winter wine celebrations and long lunches across Red Hill
• Market weekends and twilight festivals along the coast
• Food and drink events hosted by estates and distilleries

Family-Friendly Fun

• Enchanted Adventure at Arthurs Seat: Tree surfing courses, tube sliding and hedge mazes set among gardens.
• Dolphin and seal cruises: Educational, safe and unforgettable for kids. Observers can stay on the boat if they prefer not to swim.
• Pick-your-own farms: Strawberries in season and farm picnics with space to run around.
• Gentle bay beaches: Ideal for sandcastles and paddling. Choose mornings for light winds and calmer water.
• Rainy-day options: Ice cream and chocolate tastings, casual bowling or indoor play in bigger townships.

Wellness and Accessibility

• Springs accessibility: Both complexes offer accessible paths, change facilities and selected pools with ramps or hoists. Contact the venue in advance to plan the best route and supports for your needs.
• Easy walks: Sorrento foreshore, Mornington’s waterfront and segments of the Bay Trail offer flat, sealed paths. Some lookouts have graded access, while coastal boardwalks often involve steps.
• Low-stimulation times: Early morning midweek sessions at the springs and beelines to quieter beaches help those seeking calmer environments.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Bookings: Reserve hot springs, cellar doors, top restaurants and dolphin cruises ahead of time, especially on weekends.
• Packing: Bathers, quick-dry towel, reusable water bottle, sun protection, light layers and sturdy shoes for coastal walks.
• Driving and parking: Popular beaches and spring car parks fill quickly. Arrive early or aim for late afternoons. Always observe local signage.
• Safety: Swim between the flags, avoid rock platforms in large swells and never turn your back on the ocean.
• Sustainable choices:
  • Refill bottles and recycle where possible
  • Stick to trails to protect dune vegetation
  • Support local producers and seasonal menus
  • Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-do experiences?

• A soak at Peninsula Hot Springs or Alba Thermal Springs
• A vineyard lunch and curated tasting trail in Red Hill
• A coastal walk at Cape Schanck or Bushrangers Bay
• A dolphin and seal cruise from Sorrento
• Sunset on a calm bay beach such as Mount Martha or Safety Beach

Can I visit as a day trip from Melbourne?

• Yes, but you will only scratch the surface. Choose either a hot springs and lunch combo or a dedicated wine and coast day. For the full experience, stay a night or two.

Do I need to book hot springs?

• Booking is highly recommended. Weekends and holidays often sell out. Consider off-peak sessions for a more tranquil visit.

Is the region suitable for non-drinkers?

• Absolutely. Focus on wellness, coastal walks, sculpture parks, markets, boat cruises and farm experiences. Breweries and distilleries offer mocktails and alcohol-free options.

Which towns are best to base yourself in?

• Red Hill for wineries and central access
• Sorrento for ferries, boutiques and bay plus back beach access
• Flinders for a quieter, windswept coastal vibe
• Mornington or Mount Martha for cafés, family-friendly beaches and easy access to the freeway

A Perfect Pairing: How to Combine Springs, Wine and Coast

For a signature Mornington Peninsula day, start with a sunrise or early morning soak to reset your senses. Write your worries off in mineral warmth, then change pace with a long lunch among olive trees and vines. Let a cellar door host guide you through Pinot Noir that whispers of cool nights and gentle sea breezes. As the afternoon unfolds, trace the coastline to a lookout that makes you feel small in the best possible way. End with bare feet in bay sand, a salty breeze on your face and the lingering comfort of a day lived well.

Conclusion: Plan Your Peninsula Escape

The Mornington Peninsula stands out because it is more than the sum of its parts. It is geothermal heat rising into starlit pools, chefs championing produce grown down the road, sculptural architecture among vines and a coastline that can be both soothing and wild within the space of a short drive. Whether you come for wellness, wine, waves or all three, the Peninsula rewards slow travel and time in nature.

Book your bathing session, secure a table with a vineyard view, map a couple of coastal walks and give yourself at least one sunset and one sunrise. With smart planning and a spirit of curiosity, you will leave relaxed, inspired and already plotting your return.