Places worth discovering

Things to Do

Find attractions, experiences and places to visit. Events remain the best way to see what is happening on a particular date.

Looking for a dated event? Explore Events

629 places

Explore local places

M16 Nebula — Image credit: David Rolfe

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Mornington Peninsula Astronomical Society (MPAS)

Mornington Peninsula Astronomical Society (MPAS) was founded in 1969 at the time of the first Moon landings with the aim of furthering understanding of Astronomy and Science in the wider community. The volunteer experts of MPAS have a long history of introducing schools, community groups, tourists and the general public to the wonders of the night sky and the Universe. Held on at least the first Friday of each month, and more often in Summer holidays, at the registered Mount Martha Observatory inside the Briars Historic Park, these popular events are a great chance to have all your questions about space and the sky answered by experts, and experience guided stargazing under dark skies. See the Moon with its craters and mountains, and planets like Venus, Mars, mighty Jupiter and ringed Saturn, fascinating stars, nebulae, clusters and galaxies, as well as meteors, satellite and space station passes, and rarer events like eclipses and the Aurora Australis. MPAS also shows a variety of multimedia presentations to spark the interest of curious minds, and you can hold a real meteorite or even buy one. Free light refreshments are supplied. There is a small gift shop with merchandise available for purchase. Public stargazing nights are held regardless of the weather, and include indoor talks and outdoor stargazings. Bookings are via the website.

Mount Martha VIC

0.0 km away

The Briars

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

The Briars

Discover The Briars, a beautiful 230-hectare property in Mount Martha where nature, conservation, history and discovery come together. Explore the wildlife sanctuary, with walking trails through woodland, wetlands and open grassland. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, emus, koalas and native birdlife, or pause at the bird hides and lookouts to take in the landscape. The Sanctuary is also home to the new 40-hectare expansion, featuring a 2.6-kilometre grassland walk. Wander through wide-open landscapes, discover new plantings and see conservation in action as this important habitat continues to grow. The expansion forms part of the Briars Ark Conservation Plan, a long-term project protecting threatened species and restoring wildlife to the Mornington Peninsula. Step back in time at the historic Briars Homestead and gardens. Built in 1851 for Alexander Balcombe and his family, the Homestead is now a National Trust property and an important part of the Peninsula's history. Visit The Briars Nursery to discover native and indigenous plants for your garden, or explore the Eco-Living Display Centre for practical ideas to create a more resource-efficient home. The property is also home to an astronomy centre, outdoor education facilities, picnic areas and other community organisations. Whether you're looking for wildlife, history, nature or a relaxing day outdoors, there's plenty to discover at The Briars.

Mount Martha VIC

0.0 km away

Hawker Beach, Mount Martha — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire

Natural Attractions

Hawker Beach

Hawker Beach in Mount Martha is a 600 metre quiet section of shoreline with golden sand and clear water nestled beneath the steep local sandstone bluffs. The beach faces west-northwest and is in two parts. This is a moderately safe beach when waves are low, however, still watch the variable water depth off the beach owing to the bars, channels and rip holes. It becomes more rocky underfoot when out in the water. Be aware that while the rips are inactive under low waves, the water will contain strong currents. This is a year round dog friendly leash free beach. Your dog will love jumping through the waves or digging in the sand. The northern end is accessed via a wide steep path opposite Helena Street. There are a few beach boxes at the northern end behind a seawall that links Hawker Beach to Craigie Beach. The Esplanade parallels the shore on top of the bluffs and limited parking is available with signs indicating the trails down to beach. More beach boxes dot the southern end and this can be accessed just north of Augusta Street via a narrow steep path with many steps.

Mount Martha VIC

2.2 km away

Mt Martha Public Golf Course

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Mt Martha Public Golf Course

The Mt Martha Public Golf Course has 18 holes of lush, irrigated, couch fairways that awaits golfers of all standards, our facilities include: fully stocked pro shop, snacks, licensed bar and deck area, social indoor lounge, free barbeques, golf carts, buggies and clubs available for hire, each hole leads you into well kept greens that will keep your game honest. With a family friendly atmosphere the golf course invites social groups, the beginner, the pro and everyone in between to make the most of affordable green fees and season memberships. Tee yourself up with a box of balls or walk the course in a new pair of golf shoes. All your golf retail needs will be met onsite in the fully stocked pro shop including before and after game food and refreshments. If you have never played before bring yourself to the course and with our hire sets, buggies and motorised carts you will be well equipped to enjoy your golfing experience.

Mount Martha VIC

2.3 km away

Balcombe Estuary — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

Parks and Gardens

Balcombe Creek Estuary

Balcombe Creek, with its estuary, is the last unspoiled waterway entering the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay. The estuary was declared as 4 separate but adjacent reserves in 1987 and covers 44 hectares of natural bushland along the creek’s lower reaches. The Boonerwrung, the Mornington Peninsula’s traditional owners, called the Balcombe Creek area Tji’tjin’garook – the voice of frogs. A boardwalk and walking tracks run about 3.5 km through bushland along the south bank, from the estuary to the Nepean Highway, with two bridges to the north bank creating a circuit. At the highway, the track connects with walking tracks in the Briars Park.

Mount Martha VIC

2.4 km away

Mount Martha Beach — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board

Natural Attractions

Mount Martha Beach

Mount Martha Beach is home to some of the most beautiful bathing boxes on the Mornington Peninsula. This beach is two kilometres long, with Balcombe Creek mouth dividing it into two equal halves: Mount Martha (South) and Mount Martha North. The Mount Martha Life Saving Club and the yacht club are located at the northern end of the southern beach. South of the club a vegetated bluff backs the beach, with small boat sheds between the bluff and the 50 metre wide beach. The beach slopes steeply to the shoreline, with usually deep water against the beach face. A deep water trough often runs along the beach, with a broad, shallow, outer bar cut by deeper channels parallel to the beach. The beach faces north-west, exposing it to westerly winds which, when strong, produce the waves and currents to maintain and move the bars and troughs. Under normal calm to low wave conditions, and at high tide, waves will only break at the beach. However, during strong winds, higher waves break across the 100 to 200 metres wide outer bar and shoals. A popular beach for bathers, sailors and boaters, with facilities for all. Including beach matting for accessibility (Mount Martha Lifesaving Club) available daily between November and May. Please note beach matting will not always meet the waters edge, during low tides.

Mount Martha VIC

2.7 km away

Mornington Skate Park — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Mornington Skate Park

This open style park features a range of elements aimed at all abilities and age groups. The park design features fun boxes with hubba, transitional quarter pipes, pyramid, handrails and a surf wall that caters to skaters who love surf-style skating. Bike riders can use the quarter to gain speed and hit the fun box. The transition quarter pipes consist of three wide quarters offering skaters, scooters and bike riders an opportunity for coping and air transition tricks.

Mornington VIC

2.9 km away

Fossil Beach — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

Natural Attractions

Fossil Beach

In 1854, geologist A.R.C. Selwyn reported a multitude of fossils in the limestone cliffs in a stretch of rocky bay beach between Mornington and Mount Martha. They showed evidence of Australian sea life from 10 to 15 million years ago and led to the beach being named Fossil Beach. Fossil Beach is not a sandy swimming beach but a narrow rocky beach where fossils were found. Along the tree-lined walk down to the beach, look out for native birds such as the yellow wattle bird and yellow robins. The small section of this bay can be explored via multiple walking tracks and a long sea wall built to aid entrance onto the rocks. The beach is also a popular leash free area for dogs.

Mornington VIC

3.5 km away

Fosters Beach (dog friendly), Mornington — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire

Natural Attractions

Fosters Beach

Between Craigie Beach and Linley Point is a three kilometre section of rocky coast dominated by 20 to 30 metre high sandstone bluffs topped by a continuous foreshore reserve. A busy main road runs along the top of the bluffs behind the beaches and there is limited off street parking. Fosters Beach in Mornington is a fairly narrow, steep, rocky, west facing beach in the shape of an arc. It is only 80 metres long and the cliffs are steep and unstable so keep to the tracks. There is deep water close inshore at high tide and rips are present when waves are breaking. The main beach area is all rocks and not conducive to bathing. Fosters Beach is a dog-friendly beach and is designated as leash free for the whole year. However, always refer to signs at beach entry points as changes to dog restrictions may be made at any time by local authorities. Access is via via the Fossil Beach walking track from a small car park opposite #633 Esplanade and restricted to a steep slope down the bluffs. After a hundred metres the track branches off to the north to access Fosters Beach (also known as the Fossil Beach Leash Free area). Note: you can also choose to continue further along the track to the equally isolated Fossil Beach.

Mornington VIC

3.5 km away

Mornington Botanical Rose Gardens — Image credit: Mornington Botanical Rose Gardens Inc

Parks and Gardens

Mornington Botanical Rose Gardens

Located on the Mornington Peninsula is the Rose Garden of International Significance - Mornington Botanical Rose Gardens. It is situated within the Civic Reserve on Dunns Road Mornington, at the gateway to the Main Street shopping precinct. The Rose Garden is nestled between the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery and the community based Oak Hill Gallery. It has over 4,000 roses planted in over 100 beds and is surrounded by a border of native Australian trees and shrubs, not to mention the huge expanse of open space and lawn areas. The garden was built and is maintained by volunteers, generous sponsor donations and with the support of Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. Why not hold your next celebration at the beautiful Mornington Botanical Rose Gardens? Visit, take a stroll, soak up the tranquil atmosphere of the gardens and enjoy the day. Donations and sponsorships are welcome and will help to contribute to the maintenance of the gardens.

Mornington VIC

4.0 km away

Devilbend Natural Features Reserve — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

National Parks and Reserves

Devilbend Natural Features Reserve

The reserve includes the largest inland water body on the Mornington Peninsula providing valuable habitat for waterbirds and shorebirds. Recreational activities including picnics, walking and cycling, fishing, photography, birdwatching and non-powered watercraft. The landscapes and landforms of the reserve are intrinsic elements of the Country of the Boonwurrung people. The reserve is of considerable aesthetic, historical, scientific and social value to the Boonwurrung people and has been assessed as being of state significance for its unique combination of cultural and environmental values near a populated area. Facilities include picnic tables, shelters, toilets and electric barbecues in the Daangean Point Picnic Area.

Moorooduc VIC

5.6 km away

Inside the Mark Gray Gallery Mornington — Image credit: Mark Gray

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Mark Gray Gallery Mornington

The Mark Gray Gallery Mornington features a stunning collection of abstract, aerial and landscape photography by Mark Gray, one of Australia's leading photographers. Large, framed and acrylic frameless limited edition prints are exhibited from across Australia and World-Wide. A wide range of one day and multi-day photography workshops are also available at the best locations Australia has to offer. Souvenirs and gifts are also available.

Mornington VIC

5.9 km away

Dindi Naturals Mornington

Shopping and Markets

Dindi Naturals Mornington

Dindi Naturals luxurious skincare and body products harness the power of rare native botanicals, Australian plant oils and pure essential oils to soothe, nourish and revitalise the skin. Dindi Naturals products are produced by hand in small batches at their solar-powered eco-factory in Murrindindi Shire, Victoria and are palm oil-free, cruelty-free and gentle on both the earth and skin.

Mornington VIC

5.9 km away

Royal Beach, Mornington — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire

Natural Attractions

Royal Beach

Royal Beach in Mornington is a west-facing, small, pebble and sand, pocket beach, just 190 metres long, south of Schnapper Point. Nestled between two 10 to 20 metres high, red sandstone bluffs, it is also backed by grassy bluffs and the Esplanade. On a clear day it offers views of Melbourne’s city skyline to the north. The beach is named after the Royal Hotel that lies opposite, and the beach is accessed via steps and a sloped walkway down the hillside. The narrow beach looks attractive at high tide, but low tide exposes a continuous rock and reef flat, with deep water only out beyond the rocks. This is a dedicated dog friendly off leash beach all year long, tucked away to the side from the other local Mornington beaches. While it isn't overly big, it does have different things for dogs to explore; rock pools, a little bit of grassland/scrub, cliff-sides and the one access point with cliffs at the back of the beach means the dogs are relatively safe from the busy road above. There isn't a lot of parking availability at the top of the cliff along the Esplanade. However it is only about 150 metres south of the pretty Mornington Park (where more parking is available), or a short walk will find you at the main shopping centre of Mornington.

Mornington VIC

6.0 km away

Pond Bathhouse

Spas and Retreats

Pond Bathhouse

Escape to Pond Bathhouse, a premium bathhouse and wellness space nestled in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula. Designed to nurture both body and mind, Pond offers a two-hour bathing ritual where guests can move seamlessly between mineral pools, traditional and infrared saunas, steam rooms, ice baths, and relaxation lounges. Enhance your experience with one of Pond's signature massage treatments or wellness packages, thoughtfully curated to restore balance and encourage deep relaxation. Whether you're seeking a solo reset, a day out with friends, or a romantic wellness escape, Pond provides a tranquil retreat just an hour from Melbourne.

Mornington VIC

6.1 km away

Devilbend Golf Club

Entertainment Venues

Devilbend Golf Club

Established in 1973 and located in the heart of the Peninsula, the Devilbend golf course provides a great day's golf on a course that has couch fairways, automatic watering and excellent greens. It is a challenging 18 hole 6000 metre course set amidst a flora and fauna reserve. Over the past ten years the capital works program has been implemented with the result that the course has improved in all areas. Each hole provides magnificent views of undulating countryside and provides a variety of challenges for all golfers. The club and its players are widely respected in district and state competitions. Facilities include a driving range, practice nets and a large practice putting area. The clubhouse is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and the golf shop is equipped for all your needs. Lessons can be arranged with the professional staff. Bookings are required and dress standards apply. Great membership deals are always available call operator to enquire today.

Moorooduc VIC

6.2 km away

Mothers Beach — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board

Natural Attractions

Mothers Beach, Mornington

Mothers Beach is located on the coast of Mornington township and faces north out to Port Phillip. This beach is terrific for children as it is a sheltered, shallow beach with soft white sand in the swimming area. It can be accessed via a long pathway from Schnapper Point Drive, or via Shire Hall Beach which is at the eastern end. Towards the back of the beach there are many beach boxes and there are kayaks, canoes and stand up paddle boards available for hire. On the beach reserve there are picnic tables, toilets with water taps and outdoor showers. Just south of the beach is Mornington Main Street and Mornington Park which has a large playground and football oval. The adjacent Mornington Marina boasts a large car park and a boat ramp. The Marina precinct has boats for hire and there is food available here if you are looking for somewhere nearby to eat. Beach matting for accessibility is available daily between November and May at Mothers Beach. Please note the matting will not always meet the waters edge, during low tides.

Mornington VIC

6.3 km away

Shire Hall Beach, Mornington — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

Natural Attractions

Shire Hall Beach

Shire Hall Beach in Mornington faces north out to Port Phillip and is at the eastern end of Mothers Beach. This beach is terrific for children as it is a sheltered, shallow beach with soft white sand in the swimming area. Towards the back of the beach, there are many beach boxes including the much-photographed one covered in the Australian Flag. On the beach reserve, there are two picnic tables and public toilets. Further amenities are available at Mothers Beach It is located along the coast of Mornington and accessed via a small car park off Esplanade opposite Grange Road. Shire Hall Beach looks towards the Mornington Marina which boasts a large car park and a boat ramp. The Marina precinct has boats for hire and there is food available here if you are looking for somewhere nearby to eat. Just south of the beach is the shopping strip of Mornington Main Street and Mornington Park which has a large playground and football oval.

Mornington VIC

6.3 km away

Mornington Park Playground — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

Parks and Gardens

Mornington Park Playground

Mornington Park and its playground are located on Schnapper Drive on the Mornington Foreshore. Overlooking the picturesque vista of Mothers Beach and Mornington Pier, it is a beautiful location to spend some quality playtime. Found at the end of Mornington, Main Street, a thriving hub for cafes, shops, restaurants, ice cream and great coffee, you can be sure to enjoy all the local culinary delights on offer before or after a park visit. Pack a picnic to share in the wide-open spaces of lawn or take advantage of the picnic tables scattered across the park. Kids can let their imaginations run wild, walk the plank, steer the ship or play pirate on the central wooden ‘pirate ship’. The sea-themed playground includes a slide, flying fox and swings, as well as some epic climbing trees to explore. With shaded areas, drinking water and toilets close by, it has all the ingredients for a great day of play.

Mornington VIC

6.3 km away

Mills Beach — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board

Natural Attractions

Mills Beach - Mornington

Mills Beach is a picturesque stretch of golden beach that has wonderful native vegetation and is populated by some of the famous Mornington Peninsula Beach Boxes. Shallow water makes it ideal for swimming and paddle boarding. Located one kilometre north of Mornington Pier, just off the Esplanade, there is a grassy picnic area, a stone sea wall and a bridge over Tanti Creek and a small carpark.

Mornington VIC

6.3 km away

Mornington Pier — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

Landmarks and Buildings

Mornington Pier

Mornington Pier is a popular destination for a range of recreational activities including sightseeing, fishing and scuba diving. It is also home to fishing charters and provides a safe berth for the yachts in the Marina. A stroll on the pier soaking up the bay views and watching the fishermen try their luck is a very relaxing way to spend your time. You can also take in all the views there is to offer at the seafood restaurant and café on the pier. Boat hire, shops and eateries are just a short walk from the pier. Parking and facilities are available in the vicinity of Schnapper Point Park.

Mornington VIC

6.4 km away

Beach huts at Safety Beach — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

Natural Attractions

Safety Beach

Safety Beach is an ideal safe swimming beach in the protected cove making it suitable for the entire family. Parking can easily be found either on the road or close to the beach. The 2.7 kilometre long Safety Beach swings around to finally face west in lee of Martha Point. If you brought your pooch with you, then the small sandy doggy beach section known as Tassells Cove (between Marine Cove and Bruce Road) is a great spot to chat with locals and visitors and let the dogs run around in a safe and enclosed area. You can also go for a walk of the Foreshore Bay trail that starts here in Safety beach. Boat and jet ski launch area is available with parking for boat trailers and it includes a jetty. If you are on the northern side of the beach, you can easily grab a coffee at the local deli. Due to the clear water and calm bay, paddle boarding and canoeing is popular in this part of the bay. From the yacht club, you can also walk towards Martha Cove on a lovely boardwalk . Parking including boat trailers close to the pier. Three separate toilet blocks cover long stretch of beach. Picnic tables, playground.

Safety Beach VIC

6.8 km away

Safety Beach Pier — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire

Natural Attractions

Safety Beach Pier

This small, picturesque pier is located along the 2.7 kilometres Safety Beach. The pier itself is a popular subject of photographers but from out on the pier you can also get some great shots looking back at the colourful bathing boxes lined up along the foreshore. From the pier you can also enjoy views of the cliffs and across to Arthurs Seat. The adjacent calm, sandy beach provides safe swimming and boating opportunities, and this area of the coastline consists of grassy picnic areas, children's playground and walking tracks. This is a popular boat and jet ski launching area with parking for boat trailers available. Car parking can easily be found close to the jetty on either the road or close to the beach. There is also a small shopping strip located opposite the pier.

Safety Beach VIC

6.8 km away

Dromana 3 Drive In — Image credit: Dromana Drive-In

Amusement and Theme Parks

Dromana 3 Drive In

Make a memory at Dromana 3 Drive In. Going to the movies is so much more than just a movie, it is an experience. Re-live a classic era when drive-ins were hip, take your favorite guy or gal, bring the kids. Screening movies for all tastes; the romantics, the comics through to the thrillers, perfect for all ages. Four screens including a Deckchair Cinema. A popular destination for tourists and locals all year round. Come and 'Dine with the stars' in Shel's Diner, 50s style or take-away back to your car to enjoy under the stars. The classic burgers and fries with a twist, milkshakes, ice creams and so much more. Movie Memorabilia galore; take a 'selfie' with a Hollywood icon. Exclusive merchandise for sale and an adventure playground for the kids. Dromana 3 Drive In hosts various events throughout the year including New Years Eve Fireworks, live music, Halloween, pre-release movie screenings, Christmas, Valentines Day, Easter, school holiday activities, car clubs, classic movies as well as private events, filming, promotional and fundraising opportunities. Established in 1962, Dromana 3 Drive In is Heritage Victoria and National Trust Listed.

Dromana VIC

7.7 km away

What is happening now?

Search dated events, markets, live music, sport and community activities.

Planning by place?

Use Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.