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Hastings Pier — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

Landmarks and Buildings

Hastings Pier

Hastings Pier provides many opportunities for both anglers and the visitors who just enjoy a casual walk, soaking up the surroundings of the busy area. A Visitor Centre is located in the old fish shed on the pier, providing visitors with inspiration for their day out. There is a waterfront cafe nearby. Pelicans can normally be seen in this area and are fed daily by local fishermen. Angling is most productive at high tide, those who are keen could expect to catch a variety of fish including: King George whiting, Australian salmon, silver trevally and flathead. Hastings is located on a crescent-shaped bay opening onto Western Port. It is probably the safest small boat harbour on Western Port, as it is easily accessible, and protected from prevailing winds. The mudflats support significant mangrove forests, these being the most southerly species of mangrove in the world. Jacks Beach Walk takes hikers through and over the mangroves via a series of boardwalks. The mangrove forests are natural fish hatcheries, important for the maintenance of good fish populations in the bay. A significant area of Western Port north of Hastings has been declared a Marine National Park.

Hastings VIC

1.4 km away

Warringine Park — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

National Parks and Reserves

Warringine Park

Warringine Park is one of the best-kept secrets on the Mornington Peninsula. Declared a conservation park in 1994, the park is divided into four sections: Coastal, Wetland, Creek and Woodland, and is located between Hastings and Bittern. Each section has its own special value. Managed primarily for conservation purposes, the park provides wonderful opportunities for passive recreational activities and has walking tracks through the coastal and creek sections. The beauty of the park can be quite subtle so take the time to pause and observe your surroundings – you won’t be disappointed. As you stroll through the park you will discover: a bird watchers paradise with over 110 bird species including the endangered Great Egret and Lewin’s Rail; a haven for other native fauna species including the threatened Swamp Skink and Southern Brown Bandicoot; vegetation communities that include open woodland, coastal heathland, paperbark scrub, saltmarsh and one of the southern most stands of mangroves in the world. There are two walking tracks - Bittern coastal foreshore 3.7km and the creek section 1.7km. Warringine Park offers you a chance to walk through some of the unique vegetation and coastal features of Western Port. Dogs are not permitted.

Bittern VIC

2.6 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

7.3 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

7.7 km away

Stony Point Jetty, Crib Point — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire

Natural Attractions

Stony Point Pier

Stony Point Pier is located on the western side of Western Port, and the eastern side of the Mornington Peninsula. It acts as a port for various vessels including passenger ferries to French Island and Phillip Island. The pier is popular for fishing. It provides food and habitat for fish of all sizes so casting away from the pier is not always required. Fishing for a few hours on either side of high tide is best. Catches may include squid, King George whiting, Australian salmon, silver trevally, yellow-eye mullet, flathead, and snapper There are boat ramps, public toilets and a car park nearby and the general store is across the road. The Stony Point Caravan Park provides accommodation for those wishing to stay in the area. Please note that swimming, diving and scuba diving are prohibited in this area.

Crib Point VIC

8.9 km away

Coolart Wetlands and Homestead

National Parks and Reserves

Coolart Wetlands and Homestead

Coolart Historic Area features a magnificent late Victorian era historic farming property with diverse natural habitats including significant wetlands. The Coolart Homestead is a beautiful example of late Victorian architecture, dating from 1895. The Homestead is open to the public, and includes a display of historic photographs, letters and drawings. The surrounding formal gardens and lawns feature native and exotic plants, perfect for a stroll or a picnic. Sweeping views of the wetlands through the one-way glass windows of the Observatory are a perfect hideaway for spotting ducks, swans, swamphens, grebes, Marsh Harriers and many other bird species. Make use of the wetland ‘hides’ to catch a glimpse of these delightful locals, and keep an eye out on the Woodland Walks. These loop tracks start at the Visitor Centre and vary from a quick 30 minute stroll to a two hour exploration of the wetlands and Luxton Lagoon. Coolart Historic Area is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Bunurong People. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. Before your visit, please check the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website for updated changes of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable. For information about fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Somers VIC

10 km away

Conservation in Action Show — Image credit: Moonlit Sanctuary

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

Melbourne's award-winning Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park invites you to come and visit and get an up-close look at Australia's amazing animals. Explore the bushland while feeding kangaroos and wallabies, petting friendly koalas and enjoying encounters with colourful birds, reptiles, dingoes and many other animals including endangered species. More than 60 Australian species are waiting to meet you at Moonlit Sanctuary. Just 50 minutes from central Melbourne, Moonlit Sanctuary is the ideal place to learn more about the fascinating animals that call Australia home with their free keeper presentations and shows every 30 minutes. And don't forget to stop at the Koala Encounters to snap a photo with one of their cuddly little Australian icons. At night, Moonlit Sanctuary comes alive with their magic night tours. Join them on this unique wildlife safari and you'll get up close to pythons, potoroos, tiny feathertail gliders, endangered quolls and many other animals in their natural nocturnal environment.

Pearcedale VIC

11 km away

Somers Beach — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board

Natural Attractions

Somers Beach

Somers Beach is 3 kilometres long, running between the eastern bluffs and rocks and the mouth of Merricks Creek. The beach is often narrow and steep with deep water at high tide, and sand and reef flats exposed at low tide, and small yachts and sail boats are commonly seen off the beach. There are three sections to the beach - the central area with the Somers Yacht Club at the Alexandra Avenue end, the South beach adjacent to the historic Coolart property, and the eastern end accessed from Mirimar Road via the staircase with over a 100 steps, with its popular 200 metre long sandy leash-free dog zone (make sure to check signage as there are sometimes restricted leash free times). All three sections of the beach face south into the Western Passage of Western Port and overlook Phillip Island. Nearby Coolart is a 87.5 hectare historic farming property and homestead surrounded by significant wetlands, that face onto the South section of the beach. There are a series of walking tracks throughout the park and wetlands which allow you to explore the coastal woodlands, wetlands, lagoons, and formal gardens surrounding the homestead.

Somers VIC

11 km away

Mornington Tourist Railway

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Mornington Tourist Railway

The Mornington Tourist Railway is located on the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia. They offer a number of exciting experiences. The Heritage Train Rides operate most Sundays and are perfect for young children and families to experience a bygone era of rail travel. The return ride has a duration of approximately 50 minutes. This beautifully restored timber body carrier known as 'Red Rattlers' is over 100 years old. Open the windows and listen to the clickety clack as the train takes you back in time. The Heritage Train is usually hauled by 1941 vintage steam locomotive K163. On other days, trains are hauled by heritage diesel-electric locomotives of 1950-60s vintage. Driver Experiences are available where you have the opportunity to take control yourself under supervision of the experience locomotive crews. This is a full day activity including safety briefing, preparing and starting the locomotive, shunting and two trips to Mornington and return. You can even invite friends and family on board to ride on your train. Children's Birthday Party's can be booked on board their dedicated Party Carriage which comprises two compartments with capacity of 35 and 40 respectively. Can be up to two hours on board the train if desired. Special events operate throughout the year such as Santa Specials, Easter Eggs-Press, Superheroes Trains and many more.

Mount Eliza VIC

12 km away

Mulberry Hill

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Mulberry Hill

A place of art, creativity and culture – visit Mulberry Hill the home of Daryl and Joan Lindsay – where the Australian literary classic Picnic at Hanging Rock was written. Located 45 minutes from Melbourne, the house sits in a bushland setting and was designed by renowned architect Harold Desbrowe Annear, who renovated the house using salvaged and reclaimed building materials. The art collection includes the work of Australia's foremost artists of the twentieth century and the home reflects the Lindsay's contribution to Australian culture. Joan Lindsay is most remembered for her classic Australian novel Picnic at Hanging Rock. Her autobiographical book Time Without Clocks reveals the couple's life together at Mulberry Hill and includes commentary about the arts and social history of the time. Sir Daryl Lindsay was director of the National Gallery of Victoria from 1941 to 1956, and was knighted in 1957 for his services to Australian art. A member of the famous Lindsay family of artists, he was also an accomplished painter. On open days, join a guided tour of Mulberry Hill led by a National Trust guide. Please visit their website for tour timings. Please note that entry to the house is available only through a guided tour.

Langwarrin South VIC

12 km away

Balnarring Beach — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board

Natural Attractions

Balnarring Beach

Balnarring Beach, also known as Tulum Beach, features sweeping crescents of coastline and a foreshore reserve which offers safe swimming along sandy stretches of the coast. Race horses are trained on the beach early in the morning six days a week. Balnarring Beach holds the award for the 'Cleanest Beach in Victoria' from the Keep Australia Beautiful committee. Merricks Creek joins Western Port at Balnarring, forming a narrow peninsula of land which is traversed by walking paths and footbridges around the shallow creek. One of the most scenic parts of Balnarring Beach is around Cliff Road which is situated on a bushy headland. A walking track winds its way down the cliff face to the sandy beach below, offering spectacular views along the coast. Balnarring Beach foreshore is a 70 hectare nature reserve bordered by Merricks Creek and Western Port. It forms part of the Western Port Biosphere and internationally recognised Ramsar site (wetland) and is managed for conservation.

Balnarring Beach VIC

12 km away

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

13 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

13 km away

Hamish and Grant on the hot glass floor — Image credit: Gordon Studio Glassblowers

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gordon Studio Glassblowers

Established in 1990 by Eileen Gordon and Grant Donaldson, Gordon Studio Glassblowers is a hot glass studio and gallery based in Red Hill. Representing the Gordon Family, the Gallery encompasses art glass ranging from exquisite traditional cameo and contemporary carved and engraved glass, to colourful hand-blown vases, bowls, platters, bottles and animals. Magnificent indoor and outdoor art glass sculptures and commissioned work are also displayed. From the Gallery, there is a viewing mezzanine where you can watch the glassblowers when they are working, times and days do vary from week to week so best to ring in advance for specific blowing times. This ancient form of art is created using molten glass which they make in the furnace from sand and other ingredients, it is heated up to 1300 degrees Celsius, to melt into clear glass. Colours, shape and forms follow. Glass blowing is one of the most expensive forms of art to produce and the hardest to learn.

Red Hill VIC

14 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

14 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

14 km away

Merricks Beach — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board

Natural Attractions

Merricks Beach

Merricks Beach is a fairly narrow, steep strip of clean white sand over a more rocky tidal bay area. It lies on Western Port Bay and overlooks Phillip Island. From Palmers Bluff in the north east (accessed via a small path from near #15 Cliff Rd) the beach meanders for over two kilometres towards the south-west, eventually ending up at East Creek, Pt Leo. The beach is buffered by a long area of bushland known as the Merricks Beach Bushland Reserve. A low dune backs the northern section of Merricks Beach, giving way to 10 to 20 metre high vegetated bluffs in the southern section. This area is home to the endangered Red-Capped Plover. The Merricks Yacht Club is about halfway along the beach and can be accessed from the end of Merricks Beach Road. There are picnic facilities and a toilet block here. There is also access via a small walking track opposite #7 Bluff Road. The beach is fairly protected and receives low wind waves and very rare ocean swell. There is deep water at high tide and exposed sand and reef flats at low tide. You can walk along the beach at low tide to Balnarring Beach in the north-west. There is no access to Point Leo Beach as the beach is divided by East Creek which can flow quite deeply.

Merricks VIC

14 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

14 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

15 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

15 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

15 km away

Baluk Arts

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Baluk Arts

Based in Mount Eliza, Baluk Arts has a gallery space showcasing artwork by Aboriginal artists local to Mornington Peninsula, Frankston and Southeast Melbourne. Artworks are all locally made, handmade and come with authenticity certificates. Artworks range from works on paper, sculpture, paintings, jewellery and products such as books, and cards. As Baluk Arts is a not-for-profit, all profits go back to the art centre to provide services and professional development for member artists and the local Indigenous communities. Baluk Arts was created by a group of Aboriginal people as a way to share culture, re-learn culture and pass on culture to each other in a supportive positive environment. The artists are from diverse Aboriginal backgrounds from all over Australia and most have been impacted by the stolen generation. As Baluk Arts grew more successful and a strong group of artists formed they opened a large communal studio space with a small gallery in the front to gather, create works and share with the public. The Centre presents open days, workshops and tours and is open Monday to Saturday. For any further information please contact Baluk Arts or view their website.

Mount Eliza VIC

15 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

16 km away

The Lake — Image credit: Cruden Farm

Entertainment Venues

Cruden Farm

Cruden Farm, located less than an hour from Melbourne, is one of Victoria's most enchanting green spaces - a perfect blend of nature, history, and serenity. With over 80 years of growth, this breathtaking garden, once the heart of a working farm, offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of city life. Stroll through lush lawns, explore winding paths through vibrant flower beds, and discover rare plants and trees that make Cruden Farm truly unique. Whether you're seeking peaceful walks by the lake or planning a family picnic in scenic surrounds, Cruden Farm has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the garden's seasonal wonders. From the vibrant blossoms to the ever-changing landscapes, every visit brings a fresh and unique experience. Plan your visit to Cruden Farm today and discover the beauty and serenity that Dame Elizabeth Murdock left for all to enjoy. See their socials and website for more information on their opening hours and public holiday closures.

Langwarrin VIC

16 km away

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