Mornington

  There are many beaches in Mornington, some of which are spectacularly located at the base of rocky cliffs which dominate part of the coastline. The sheltered Mothers Beach and Scout Beach are located along the eastern side of Schnapper Point while Shire Hall Beach and Mills Beach are located further east along the coast. Approximately a kilometre south of Schnapper Point is Fishermans Beach which ends at the scenic rocky outcrop of Linley Point where there are boat ramps and scenic viewing spots along the coast.

  You don't have to travel far from Melbourne to staisfy your appetite for unforgettable meals created by star chefs using local farm-fresh produce accompanied by signature wines. Feast on super-fresh seafood in Mediterranean style at eateries overlooking the water. You can head inland to restaurants like Max's at Red Hill Estate for unforgettable views of the rolling hills to the bay. Relax among the vines for home grown wines matched with mouth-watering chef creations made from local harvests. The tiny pocket of Main Ridge and Red Hill boasts as many as five restaurants that have been endowed with hats in the esteemed The Age Good Food Guide 2012.  

  Mornington's attractive commercial centre centres around Main Street, which is lined by almost a kilometre of restaurants and cafes many of which offer outdoor dining. Take a stroll around Main Street to discover speciality shops and the history of the former Schnapper Point fishing village. Browse in boutiques and stop at the old bank to withdraw beer, wine and cocktails. See Victoria's oldest courthouse and adjoining lock-up, and embark on a steam train ride on the Mornington Railway. Wander the coastline of red bluffs for panoramic views of yachts bobbing in the Port Phillip Bay harbour and the iconic bathing boxes. Nearby Morning Star Estate also offers soaring views of the Melbourne skyline, with the added bonus of luxurious accommodation, food and wine.

Though it feels like a world away from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula's rugged wilderness, coastal vistas and lush hinterland gardens are only an easy hour's drive away. Public transport options - Jump on a metropolitan train service (running every 15-20 minutes) from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne to Frankston, then connect through Hastings to Stony Point on Westernport Bay. Buses travel from Melbourne to all areas and local bus routes operate around each Mornington Peninsula village. Choose the scenic option and spot dolphins as you make the stunning ferry crossing from Queenscliff on the Great Ocean Road to Sorrento. Searoad Ferries depart daily from Sorrento Pier and Queenscliff Harbour, every hour on the hour from 7am until 6pm, all year round. Foot passengers, bicycles, cars, towed caravans and trailers, motor homes, motorcycles and truck are all welcome.  

The Mornington Peninsula has a hilly topography and generally a cool climate.   

Surrounded by water on three sides, the Peninsula's summer days average around 22 °C, with winter temperatures dropping down to around 13°C. During the spring and autumn months daytime temperatures average around 17 – 19 °C. Extreme variations are not uncommon and even on the hottest days, the weather can change rapidly. It’s recommended that warm clothing be close at hand at any time of the year.