Secret gems on the Mornington Peninsula: 1 day Itinerary

Discover the perfect blend of stunning coastal views, relaxing outdoor activities, and indulgent treats on this carefully curated one-day itinerary. Whether you’re soaring above the treetops on Arthur’s Seat Eagle, picnicking on the shores of McCrae, or exploring the mysterious Fort Nepean, your day at Mornington Peninsula offers a seamless balance of excitement and tranquility. With hand-picked coffee stops, gourmet deli finds, and unique activities, this day trip is the ultimate getaway from the city hustle—just over an hour from Melbourne.

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Mornington Peninsula: 1-Day Itinerary

8:30 AM – Depart from Melbourne

• Drive: 1 hour 15 minutes (~85 km) via the M1 and M11 to Mornington Peninsula.

10:00 AM – Morning Tea at Commonfolk Coffee Company (Mornington)

• Location: 16 Progress St, Mornington VIC 3931

• Stop Duration: 45 minutes

•Details: Start your day at this local favorite with a great vibe. Commonfolk Coffee serves ethically sourced coffee roasted on-site and offers light pastries and snacks.

10:45 AM – Depart for Arthur’s Seat Eagle

• Drive: 20 minutes (~16 km) via Nepean Hwy and Arthurs Seat Rd.

11:05 AM – Visit Arthur’s Seat and the Eagle Gondola

Location: 795 Arthurs Seat Rd, Arthurs Seat VIC 3936

• Stop Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Details: Ride the scenic gondola up to the summit of Arthur’s Seat for stunning panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay and the surrounding hinterland. Take in the scenic walking trails at the top for some light exploration.

Arthurs Seat Eagle - Base Station

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12:20 PM – Depart for McCrae Foreshore

• Drive: 10 minutes (~5 km) via Arthurs Seat Rd and Nepean Hwy.

12:30 PM – Picnic Lunch at McCrae Foreshore

• Location: Point Nepean Rd, McCrae VIC 3938

• Stop Duration: 1 hour

• Details: Enjoy a relaxing picnic on the beautiful McCrae foreshore, with its crystal-clear waters and soft sandy beach. Find a spot under the trees or on the beach and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

• Picnic Supplies: You can stop at D.O.C. Mornington Delicatessen (Mornington) on your way to Arthur’s Seat to pick up gourmet picnic items. They have delicious Italian cold cuts, cheeses, and fresh bread.

1:30 PM – Depart for Point Nepean National Park

• Drive: 35 minutes (~25km) via Point Nepean Rd.

2 PM – Explore mysterious Point Nepean

• Location: Ochiltree Rd, Portsea VIC 3944

• Stop Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Details: Point Nepean National Park is a scenic coastal destination located at the tip of the Mornington Peninsula, offering a mix of natural beauty and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore its walking trails, enjoy panoramic views of Bass Strait, and visit historic military forts and tunnels.

Costs:Entry: Free

Shuttle service: $12 adult / $8 child (optional) otherwise you are welcome to walk throughout the park for free.

Highlights along the way:

1. Fort Nepean – Historic fort with tunnels and military artifacts.

2. Cheviot Beach – Site of former Prime Minister Harold Holt’s mysterious disappearance.

3. Gunners Cottage – Start of scenic walking trails with views of the coastline.

3:10 PM – Depart for Peninsula Hot Springs

• Drive: 15 minutes (~10 km) via Purves Rd and Browns Rd.

3:30 PM – Peninsula Hot Springs

• Location: 140 Springs Ln, Fingal VIC 3939

• Stop Duration: 2 hours

• Details: Wind down your day at Peninsula Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural geothermal pools amidst a serene environment. Opt for the general bathing area for public access or book a private spa session for extra relaxation.

5:30 PM – Explore Gunnamatta Beach

Explore littkk look e known Gunamatta Ocean beach and the Boag Rocks.

6:30pm - Dinner at the Portsea Pub

7:30pm - Depart for Melbourne

• Drive: 1 hour 30 minutes (~110 km) via the M11 and M1

What to Pack

- Swim wear

- Sunscreen

- Picnic set

- Picnic rug

- Walking shoes

- Hat and Sunscreen