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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

3.9 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

4.5 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

5.2 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

6.1 km away

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

6.3 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

7.1 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

7.2 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

8.0 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

8.6 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

8.9 km away

Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park — Image credit: Pt. Leo Estate

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park

Discover one of Australia's most remarkable cultural experiences at Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park, set on Victoria's beautiful Mornington Peninsula, just over an hour from Melbourne. Spanning 16.5 acres, this ever-evolving outdoor gallery brings together more than 70 original works by celebrated Australian and international artists. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and cinematic ocean views, it is a cultural destination unique in its collection, scale and spectacular setting. The remarkable collection includes Yayoi Kusama's iconic Pumpkin, KAWS' SHARE 2020, Jaume Plensa's Laura and works by Takashi Murakami, Antony Gormley, Henry Moore, Reko Rennie, George Rickey, Tony Cragg, Inge King and Deborah Halpern, to name a few. Designed for all, accessible pathways welcome wheelchairs, walkers and prams. Whether seeking a creative escape, family adventure or quiet moment in nature, Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park offers something for everyone. For deeper discovery, Guided Sculpture Park Tours and creative experiences including Sip and Sketch offer new ways to engage with the collection. The experience continues inside Pt. Leo Estate's main building, with artworks throughout the Cellar Door and three restaurants: luxury fine dining restaurant Laura, the iconic Pt. Leo Restaurant and alfresco Wine Terrace. Open daily, discover world-class art, spectacular gardens, dining and wine in one remarkable destination.

Merricks VIC

8.9 km away

Pt Leo Beach — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board

Natural Attractions

Point Leo Beach

Point Leo is one of the Mornington Peninsula's famous surf beaches providing excellent waves for beginners and experienced surfers. It as also a prime spot for leisure and fishing. The low, vegetated basalt bluffs form the surrounds of Point Leo with wide stretches of sand and extensive inter-tidal rock platforms at each end and some rock reefs offshore. The beach is 500 metres long and faces almost due south, however its location several kilometres inside the wide entrance to Western Port Bay affords considerable protection from higher ocean waves. Strong rips are also in this area (even on calm days) and therefore this is a surf beach patrolled by lifesavers. Care should be taken to swim between the flags. Point Leo also has its own Surf Life Saving Club (formed in 1955) and Boating Club, and there is camping available in the adjacent foreshore reserve.

Point Leo VIC

11 km away

Hut Yoga & Wellness

Spas and Retreats

Hut Yoga and Wellness

The Hut Yoga and Wellness is a luxury wellness sanctuary located on a working farm and vineyard in Red Hill on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula. Blending yoga, breathwork, meditation, sound healing and immersive retreat experiences, The Hut offers a modern space for restoration, connection and conscious living. Inspired by the rhythm of the land, The Hut provides thoughtfully curated experiences that encourage guests to slow down, reconnect and embrace the present moment. Every detail—from the architecturally designed studio and infrared warmth to aromatherapy, premium Manduka equipment and post-class tea rituals—has been intentionally created to support wellbeing and relaxation. Founded on the philosophy of accepting imperfection, impermanence and simplicity, The Hut has become a destination for locals and visitors seeking a meaningful balance of movement, mindfulness and community in a beautiful natural setting.

Red Hill VIC

11 km away

Red Hill Station Reserve — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

Parks and Gardens

Red Hill Station Reserve

Surrounded by the beauty of tall eucalypt trees, the Red Hill Station Reserve sits at the hub of an expansive network of trails for walkers, horse riders and bike riders alike. Located in the hinterlands of the Peninsula, the reserve seeks to preserve some of the heritage features of the Red Hill Railway. Designed to be in harmony with its natural surrounds, children can play on nest swings, swings or crawl through tunnels to explore. Picnic tables and barbecues make the reserve a beautiful environment to share feasts with loved ones.

Red Hill South VIC

11 km away

Endeavour Fern Gully

Natural Attractions

Endeavour Fern Gully

Walk the Fern Gully Trail through Mornington Peninsula’s original temperate rainforest—a diverse habitat teeming with unique flora and fauna. While there, visit the Nearkey Biik Environmental & Education Centre, now available for community and educational hire. Visit a rural bushland remnant of rain forest, a meandering creek and lush fern gully. Open free all year round the Gully is rich in local flora and fauna, including kangaroos, wallabies, possums, Powerful Owls, orchids and colourful fungi. The Gully is one of the few known sources of Austral Mulberry, used by the local Indigenous community to make djiel warrk or firesticks. Of the 27-hectare property, 9.5 hectares are gradually being re-vegetated by volunteers. This bushland provides an important biolink in an area of habitat fragmented by urbanisation. Open daily, the property includes a 30 – 45-minute, 2 km loop walking track with interpretive signage.

Red Hill VIC

12 km away

Truffle Hunt — Image credit: Red Hill Truffles

Agritourism

Red Hill Truffles

The Mornington Peninsula’s Red Hill Truffles offer gourmet adventures throughout the year with truffle hunts and tastings of the famed Périgord black winter truffle along with spring, summer and autumn varieties. The aromas and flavours of each match perfectly with seasonal produce. Truffle hunts include an engaging overview of the fabled fungi, a guided walk through the truffière of oak and hazelnut trees with talented truffle-hunting dogs, and the opportunity to unearth the gnarly, aromatic truffles. Preparing and shaving some of the freshly harvested truffle on a wood-fired pizza completes an experience to treasure.

Red Hill VIC

12 km away

'Pointing Girl' by Matt Calvert

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Montalto Sculpture Trail

At Montalto, they have built an amazing collection of contemporary sculptures showcasing the best of (mainly) Australian artists. 20 of these pieces were winners of the annual Montalto Sculpture Prize, with another 15 additional works acquired over the years. From 2003 through to 2023, the changes in form, material and scale are a reflection of the art form: unique and inspiring. This collection now permanently represents Montalto's first 20 years of sculpture at Montalto, with some curated movements to reward visitors with a comprehensive journey over time. The Montalto Sculpture Trail permanent collection will always remain free to all visitors – they feel passionately that as many people as possible can continue to enjoy these incredible works each and every time they come to visit. It is recommended to allow one hour to enjoy the Sculpture Trail across the estate. The trail is approximately one kilometre and suitable for most ages and abilities.

Red Hill South VIC

12 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

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

12 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

12 km away

Shoreham Beach Surf — Image credit: Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board

Natural Attractions

Shoreham Beach

Shoreham Beach is in two parts and offers a wide stretch of sand and views across to Phillip Island. The 700 metre long Shoreham Beach faces almost due east and Stony Creek flows into Western Port at the northern end of it. A foreshore reserve runs along behind the beach with a picnic area. It's a fantastic beach for swimming, exploring rocky bays towards Flinders and playing in the creek. At the southern point of Shoreham beach, known as the Pines to surfers, surfing is popular off the reasonably exposed point break that has reasonably consistent surf. There is no surf lifesaving offered and so care must be taken. A tranquil walk below rocky cliffs brings you to another sandy bay located below the sheltered camping ground. This section is known as Shoreham camping Beach. It is 1.5 kilometre long and curves around to face south-east. Both beaches are very protected and usually have no waves. Extensive sand and reef flats front both beaches and, as a result, the beaches have deep water only at mid to high tide. The tidal flats, and often seaweed, are exposed at low tide.

Shoreham VIC

13 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

13 km away

Phillip Island Sauna — Image credit: Phillip Island Sauna

Spas and Retreats

Phillip Island Sauna

Phillip Island Sauna offers a deeply restorative wood-fired sauna experience set beside the ocean at Cowes Jetty on Phillip Island. Designed around simplicity, warmth and connection, each session invites guests to slow down and embrace the natural rhythm of heat, cold and rest. The sauna is heated by fire, creating a soft, even heat that encourages relaxation and release. Guests move between the sauna and the surrounding coastal environment, with the ocean providing a natural cold-water immersion. Sessions are hosted, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for both experienced sauna users and those trying sauna for the first time. Phillip Island Sauna focuses on small group experiences, allowing space for quiet reflection, gentle conversation, or simply sitting with the warmth and the view. Seasonal elements, herbal teas and small touches enhance the experience without overcomplicating it. Located in one of Victoria's most iconic coastal destinations, Phillip Island Sauna is an ideal addition to a weekend getaway or wellbeing-focused escape. The experience celebrates contrast — hot and cold, stillness and movement — and offers a grounding pause from busy schedules and everyday life. Bookings are essential and available for public sessions, private group bookings and special events. Each session runs for approximately 75 minutes, providing the perfect amount of time to unwind, reset and recharge.

Cowes VIC

14 km away

Red Hill Candle Co - Handmade — Image credit: Red Hill Candle Co

Shopping and Markets

Red Hill Candle Co. & Perfumery

Shop candles, local gifts and homewares, join in a candle making workshop , perfume making workshop or charm bar experience. This is more than just a shop, it's an experience. Red Hill Candle Co produces eco-friendly soy candles, room sprays and diffusers that locals and visitors alike love. In an exciting first of its kind in Victoria, visitors to their store can create their very own custom fragrance by choosing a blend from more than 40 scents in their Scent Library (held daily) and more in-depth sessions in their Scent Lab on weekends cater for groups of up to 30 and makes for the perfect memorable day out whether it's a Hen's Day, birthday or corporate incentive. Red Hill Candle Co is located within walking distance from Bass and Flinders Distillery, Two Bays Brewery, Rahona Valley Cellar Door and Boat Shed Cheese, and a two-minute drive from Jetty Road Brewery, JimmyRum Distillery and Mr Little Cider. So whilst you wait for your custom soy candle to set why not uncover some of the best flavours of the Mornington Peninsula? You can also shop their range of products online, including designing your own custom fragrance candle.

Dromana VIC

14 km away

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