11 Mornington Peninsula Hidden Gems 2024 (a local’s guide)
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Looking for some Mornington Peninsula hidden gems to explore? Well you’re in the right place.
The Peninsula covers an area of over 700 square kilometres. Tucked in along its windy roads, that traverse both the seaside and the inland hills, are sooooooo many hidden gems, that you don’t want to miss.
So, it’s time to get off the well beaten tourist track and share with you some of the Mornington Peninsula experiences that us locals know and love. Actually, not even some of the locals know about the places I’m about to share with you!
In this post I’m going to list some of my favourite things to do on the Mornington Peninsula that aren’t as well known as the bigger tourist attractions, but are definitely places you need to add to your Peninsula bucket list.
I’ll include some of my favourite beaches, hikes, wineries and of course, my favourite places to eat and get coffee. And if you have kids, well I’ve got you covered too! Think your children would like to explore some secret wildlife parks? Of course they would!
So let’s go, it’s time to reveal some Mornington Peninsula secrets…
BEACHES
1. Bridgewater Bay
Not only is Bridgewater Bay a hidden gem, but given its wow factor, it’s probably my favourite beach on the whole of the Mornington Peninsula!
It’s located at the back of Blairgowrie with access available at the end of a dirt road called St John Woods Road. It’s a very tight squeeze for parking on a hot summer’s day.
From here, it’s about a ten minute walk over sand dunes to reach the cliffs overlooking the beach. It’s not a strenuous walk, my then four-year old walked it quite easily. This is definitely not a wheelchair friendly path, and no dogs are allowed either.
Once you reach the top of the dunes, you’ll be struck by a spectacular view looking down upon the ampitheatre of Bridgewater Bay. The cliffs and rock formations truly are rugged and striking.
From here you’ll spy the Blairgowrie jumping rock to the far left, with jumping platforms of various heights. Both kids and adults can dive or belly flop off the platforms into the deep rock pool below.
You’ll now descend a steep staircase to access the bay. Make sure to wear well-supported footwear, as once you hit the bottom of the staircase, you’ll be traversing both sharp and slimy rocks to reach the jumping rock and its adjacent beach. It’s a whole lot of fun though!
There’s so much to explore here! You may like to bring your goggles and snorkels as there’s plenty of deep rock pools with crystal clear waters for swimming in and spying on marine life.
Make sure to pack food and water as there are absolutely no amenities here, including no toilets.
And lastly, check out the local tides prior to going as the rock pools and rock jumping, are only for exploration during low tide. There are no beach patrols here and it’s definitely safest to swim in the rock pools as the ocean is rough and quite dangerous.
2. McCrae Beach
I find most tourists flock to the beaches of Sorrento, Rosebud, Rye, Mt Martha and Mornington, while McCrae beach is little less popular and less of a tourist hot-spot.
But us locals love McCrae beach!
With its white sands and crystal clear waters, you’d be excused for thinking you’re on a beach in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, when lazing away the day at McCrae beach.
One of the best things about McCrae Beach is its family-friendly atmosphere. The calm, shallow waters make it an ideal spot for kids to splash around safely, while the wide expanse of sand is perfect for building sandcastles, playing beach cricket or enjoying a picnic.
The infamous Mornington Peninsula beach boxes dot the edges of the sand here and the historic McCrae lighthouse (non-operational) makes for an interesting backdrop.
There’s even a small playground at the back of the beach, with a mini replica of the lighthouse, plus swings and climbing frames, for kids to play on.
McCrae beach is located between Dromana on the East and Rosebud on the west. You’re also smack bang in the middle of the Bay Trail, so if the fancy takes you, you can walk beach side in either direction to visit the neighboring towns.
McCrae beach is accessed via Point Nepean Road. There is some beach side parking, but if this is full, there’s an empty block of land a short way down Bartels Street to park in.
There is access to public toilets and there are local cafes and restaurants on the other side of Point Nepean Road for food and drinks. In fact, the Merchant and Maker cafe, just opposite the playground, is a must visit, the coffee here is top notch!
Dogs are allowed at certain times of the day. Check here for rules and guidelines.
3. Diamond Bay
This jaw-dropping beach is located in the Mornington Peninsula town of Sorrento.
On a clear day, the waters of Diamond Bay are aquamarine, which make for an awesome contrast to the 30m high, bright orange, sandstone cliffs that enclose the bay.
Diamond Bay is part of the Mornington Peninsula National Park.
It is one of Sorrento’s back beaches, which means it’s on the ocean side of the Peninsula and can be influenced by tides and beach swells. So unless it’s a calm day and low tide, this is not really a beach you’d take your kids to for a day of family beach play. It is however, great for fun and adventure.
You can swim here, but it’s unpatrolled and there are no toilet amenities close by.
Make sure to explore the cliff-top boardwalks which have observation decks built into them.
My favourite place to stop while walking, is St Paul’s Lookout. Here you’ll be graced with the drop-dead, gorgeous view of the Bay of Islands. Truly glorious.
Diamond Bay is at the end of Diamond Bay Road which is extremely narrow. There is very little car parking available.
From the car park, you’ll take a sandy path upwards and walk for approximately five minutes until Diamond Bay reveals itself with its breathtaking view.
This is definitely not a wheelchair accessible beach.
FOOD AND DRINK
4. Commonfolk Cafe & Roaster
You can’t get more ‘hidden gem’ than Commonfolk Cafe and Roaster. It’s burried in the back streets of Mornington’s industrial estate in a large open air, factory-style building on Progress Street.
As soon as you walk inside, and I know this sounds a little cheesy, but I’m going to say it, your whole senses will be awoken.
The first thing that will hit you, is the smell of coffee! These guys not only brew coffee, but they roast it as well. You can even watch them roasting on any given day, as the machinery and roasters are located in the back corner next to the tables and chairs where you eat and drink.
The food here is exceptional, trust me, I’ve eaten here well over a dozen times.
They cater for all dietary requirements. You’ll always find a range of options including something for the health conscious and vegans too. They even grown some of their own produce in the outdoor seating area.
The menu changes regularly, but at one point, my favourite was their pork belly benedict, with crispy crackling, served on some sort of dreamy and creamy potato rosti (insert drool).
One thing worth noting, especially if you visit on a weekend, is that Commonfolk is loud! But this is part of its attraction (for some anyway). The music is loud, the staff are young and fun.
The cafe is a mesh of inner Melbourne hipster meets laid-back surfer dude, if that makes sense!
There’s plenty of parking on the street here, but it’s a tight fit as Commonfolk is surrounded by other factories, mechanics and the like.
While you’re here, make sure to also visit Obtanium Antiques and Vintage Wares just across the street or Thrift Op Shop a couple of doors down.
5. Chocolat
Chocolat is up there in my Top 5 places to eat on the Mornington Peninsula. Big call, I know!
Chocolat is reminiscent of a quaint pastry shop you’d find roaming the streets of Paris. It’s small and tucked away just off the Main Street of Mornington on Barkley Street (a couple of doors down from my favourite book shop, Farrells).
If you’re getting here early in the morning, just follow your nose, as the scent of freshly baked croissants hits you before you even enter the store.
From flaky, buttery croissants and Danishes, spongy doughnuts filled with lemon curd or nutella, to decadent cakes and cream filled eclairs, each sweet treat is truly a masterpiece.
My favourite from the sweets cabinet, is the almond croissant, which is covered in toffee almonds and is approximately the size of your head!
If sweets aren’t your thing, then never fear! Try the beef bourguignon pie, sausage rolls, quiches or filled baguettes.
And in case you’re wondering, yes they make coffee too!
The actual shop itself is quite small, with a small amount of seating inside and outside under the eaves. But even if the tables are full (which they usually are as it’s exceptionally popular with the locals), make sure you drop in and buy something to take away. Trust me, you’ll be sorry if you don’t!
6. Polperro Winery
Intimate and a wee bit fancy, Polperro winery is an indulgence worth experiencing. The perfect Mornington Peninsula hidden gem for couples.
It’s not as grand or expansive as the bigger wineries the Mornington Peninsula is well known for, such as Pt Leo Estate or Montalto.
Instead it’s quaint and unassuming, and even though it’s a little fancy, it’s homely and warm.
Polperro winery is located in Red Hill. As you drive down its dirt driveway, you’ll see it nestled amongst the vines and gum trees on the 25 acre property.
You’ll stroll through veggie boxes and herb gardens to reach the tasting rooms and restaurant.
Polperro is known for its Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. I am not normally a huge red wine drinker, but let me tell you, I very happily sat there in the evening and polished off a whole bottle of their pinot noir with my partner. It was devine!
Polperro has two options for dining. You can book into their cosy restaurant, with a fine-dining like vibe, or choose the more casual option, and sit out on the deck amongst the vines and gum trees and enjoy a snack and a sip (no bookings for this option).
What’s most impressive about Polperro’s food, is that its fresh produce is grown on their very own, certified organic, biodynamic, small-scale regenerative farm, about a kilometre away from the vineyard. Impressive!!!
When we visited, we were very lucky to also stay a night in one of their onsite luxury villas. Perfect for a night away without the kids! It was extremely romantic. Each of the villas features an open fireplace, private deck overlooking the vineyard, continental breakfast basket and best of all, a huge spa bath located right in the middle of the room!
🍇 Treat yourself and book your Luxury Polperro Accommodation here. 🍷
7. Cycling Vine Tour
This is truly an immersive and fun way to explore a collection of Monrington Peninsula attractions in one adventure packed day!
Collect your bikes from Seawinds Gardens at the top of Arthur’s Seat, which is also Mornington Peninsula’s highest viewpoint. From here you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking scenes of Port Phillip Bay. Truly stunning!
This self-guided bike tour will take you along cycling tracks (mainly down hill) all the way to Merricks Beach.
You’ll cycle through one of my favourite inland towns on the peninsula, Red Hill. Red Hill is famous for its wineries, breweries, berry farms and array of cafes, restaurants and stores selling Peninsula produce and crafts..
Stop anywhere you like for coffee, wine, cheese or a bite to eat.
Keep your eyes open for wildlife as you ride on the tracks and down country paths, you may be lucky enough to spot a koala amongst the gum trees, or a wallaby jumping by.
Kind of obvious, but wear comfy clothing! This bike trip may have you riding up to 30km. But there is no rush to get anywhere, this is a leisurely ride, not the tour de France. The trails and paths are easily navigated.
If you’re looking for good food and wine, and a little bit of adventure…
If you want to get off the beaten track a bit and amongst the romantic bushland of the Peninsula…
Then you must book into this hidden gem of an activity!
🚲 Book your Vine Cycling Tour here, a not to be missed Mornington Peninsula hidden gem!
8. Dromana Habitat
When you think of an Industrial Estate, you don’t really think of hidden gems. But in this scenario, Dromana Industrial Estate (also known as Dromana Habitat) is a treasure trove of rare gems.
Out the back of Dromana, away from the beaches and hidden out of site, amongst the factories and mechanics, is a collection of Mornington’s finest distillers, wine makers and food producers.
Assign your designated driver for the day and make your way from brewery, to rum distillery, to coffee roaster, to cheese merchant, to gin distillery, to winery…and more!
I’ve ventured into this area numerous times and must say my favourite places for a drink are Jimmy Rum Distillery, Bass and Flinders Distillery and Rahona Valley. Rahona Valley specialise in the production of cool climate sparkling wines that are phenomenal!
And for our gluten free friends (i.e. my fiance) Two Bays Brewery is completely gluten free – both their beers and their pizzas!
While drinking and eating your way around the estate, don’t forget to do some shopping for plants at Verdant Dwellings and candles at Red Hill Candle Co.
Not to mention, my favourtie Mornington Peninsula coffee roasters, Little Rebel, have a roasting warehouse here with a store and cafe.
If you’re staying for the weekend, also stop off at Peninsula Fresh Seafood for some dinner supplies.
While you won’t find the scenery here nearly as drop dead gorgeous as what you’ll ride through on the Vine Cycling tour, you will find some of the best Mornington produce all in one spot, and that’s something you don’t really find anywhere else on the Peninsula.
GARDEN PARKS AND WILDLIFE
9. Panorama Garden Estate and Wildlife Sanctuary
Panorama Estate is such a hidden gem, that not even a lot of the locals know about it! The amount of times I tell my friends about this place and they say, “I’ve never heard of it!” is astounding.
Trust me when I say, this place has to be seen to be believed!
It’s located in a secret location in Boneo. So secret, that they don’t even give you the address until you purchase tickets online from their website!
The gardens have been developed for over 20 years by the owners and cover more than 18 acres. Over the years they’ve planted over 20,000 plants to develop the nineteen separate garden areas which are surrounded by lakes, streams and waterfalls.
The estate includes a wildlife sanctuary which houses the very rare albino kangaroo, emus, alpacas, ponies, goats, pigs, swans and more.
As you explore, you’ll find something new and astonishing around every corner. And, it’s all set against a sweeping panoramic view overlooking the ocean! A million times, wow!
Panorama Garden Estate is on private property, and you can only visit by purchasing very affordable tickets from their website. Kids 5 and under are free.
A word of advice, when you do visit, just go slow as you approach the dirt road the sanctuary is located down, as it’s very easy to drive straight past the dirt road, and it’s difficult to turn around and go back.
10. Coolart Wetlands and Homestead
Hidden away down Lord Somers Road in Somers, is Coolart Wetlands and Homestead, which brings together historical charm and natural beauty.
It’s the perfect place for a romantic stroll with your partner, a picnic with your family or a great spot to get some snaps if you’re a photographer! You can also bring your elder friend/relatives (i.e. grandparents), as most of the gardens and paths around the homestead are very easy to navigate.
Park your car in the large dirt car park and then wonder through the formal gardens of both native and exotic plants to reach the Coolart Homestead.
The homestead is an example of late Victorian architecture (from 1895) that will have your jaw dropping, well mine did when I first saw it, its grandness was very unexpected, but highly appreciated.
You can no longer enter the homestead, but you can walk around it. From its ground floor balcony, you can look out to the wetlands and observe the bird life, including ducks, swans, greges and Marsh Harriers.
You can explore the wetlands, including Luxton Lagoon, by following the pathways that will take you on walks that last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
This historic farming property is an absolute must visit for young and old.
WALKS
11. Balcombe Estuary Boardwalk
One of my most favourite walks to do on the peninsula is the Balcombe Esturary Boardwalk.
The main entry to this walk is located in Mt Martha, just off the esplanade. The walk is quite secluded and you won’t find any sign posts directing you towards it, hence why it’s a hidden gem!
It’s a simple walk, about six kilometres, with no hills, just narrow boardwalks that wind their way along Balcombe Creek.
The boardwalks are engulfed by gum trees and scrubland, giving the setting an almost mystical and magical feeling. For me, it conjures up imaginings of gumnut babies and bush fairies making mischief just out of eyesight.
The walk will take you from The Esplanade in Mt Martha to The Briars on Nepean Highway. You can park at either end, but the bigger car park is located in Mt Martha.
At the Mt Martha end there is a playground, picnic tables, a toilet block and a little jetty stretching out into the creek. It’s very picturesque.
From the picnic tables and playground area, follow a dirt path which eventually turns into boardwalks that zig-zag their way to Nepean highway. There are plenty of little side branches along the way with viewing platforms where you might find the odd fisherman trying their luck.
If you’re walking towards Nepean Highway from Mt Martha, follow the sign posts that say, ‘The Briars’ and if you’re walking towards Mt Martha from Nepean Highway, follow the signposts that say ‘Beach’.
Feel free to take your dogs! Dogs must be on lead while walking, but there are two off-leash areas along the way.
This walk is definitely kid friendly and you can take prams. It might be quite tricky for wheelchair access though.
MAP OF MORNINGTON PENINSULA HIDDEN GEMS
Click on the partial square icon in the top right corner of the map to open a larger view.
Closing Thoughts on Mornington Peninsula Hidden Gems
The list of tourist attractions to visit on the Mornington Peninsula is huge! It’s taken me years to see so many of them. And often, especially in summer time, the main attractions are jam packed!
I would never recommend skipping the main attractions all together, but cut down on the stress of crowds, and definitely scatter in some of the hidden gem activities mentioned above while exploring The Ninch.
And yes, some of the hidden gem attractions mentioned above do get crowded in summer too, they will however, afford you a unique experience of The Peninsula that is sadly missed out by most.
I mean who wants to miss out on swimming in the aquamarine rock pools of Bridgewater Bay or cylcing through the hidden paths of Red Hill, or exploring a secret wildlife park that took the owners 20 years to build? Not you!
FAQ’S about Mornington Peninsula Hidden Gems
How do I get to the hidden gems attractions?
The fastest and easiest way (and certainly the way I would definitely recommend) to visit the Mornington Peninsula hidden gems, is drive your car or rent a car.
There is a bus service on the Mornington Peninsula which can take you to some of the attractions mentioned in this post. It is however slow and some walking would be involved in getting to the hidden gems, like Bridgewater Bay or Diamond Bay.
Which of the hidden gems mentioned are free?
– All the beaches mentioned
– Coolart Wetlands and Homestead
– Balcombe Creek Estuary Walk
Where can I book accommodation on the Mornington Peninsula?
There is a range of options, to suit various budgets, when it comes to accommodation on the Mornington Peninsula: camping, glamping, hotels, motels or rental of private houses.
To find the right accommodation for you, zoom in and out on the map below to see accommodation listings. Click on a price tag to explore the accommodation in more detail.
RELATED POSTS
You might also like to learn about:
- Hidden Beaches on the Mornington Peninsula that are favourite with the locals
- Hidden Gems to visit on the Mornington Peninsula that aren’t as ‘touristy’ as the hot-spots
- Find out all the other amazing attractions the Mornington Peninsula is well known for and add them to your Mornington Peninsula bucket list!
