Best Time to Visit Mornington Peninsula

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When is the best time to visit the Mornington Peninsula? Winter, Spring, Summer or Autumn?

The Mornington Peninsula, with its stunning coastal landscapes, rolling vineyards, and charming villages, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. But to truly experience the best of what this picturesque region has to offer, timing can be of the essence. 

I’ve lived on the Mornington Peninsula since 2018, so I’ve had the chance to experience everything this glorious location has to offer during every season. 

Many would say that Summer is the best time to visit, as that’s when you can swim most comfortably in our beautiful beaches.

But there’s so much more to the Mornington Peninsula than just its beaches.

Each season has something unique to offer, and I want to share what that is with you, so that no matter what time of year you visit, you’ll have plenty to do.

So here’s your guide on what the Mornington Peninsula can do for you and your holiday, all year round. Whether you’re chasing sun-kissed beaches, vibrant festivals/markets or cosy, pampering, winter escapes, there’s something here to delight in, no matter what time of year.

But in essence with the title of this post, I will of course cap this article off with my recommendations on the best time of year to visit the Mornington Peninsula, so make sure to read through to the end.

Mornington Peninsula Summer – Sun, Sand & Sea

DATES – December, January and February

Victorian School Holidays – Mid December until the end of January

Summer is peak season on the Mornington Peninsula, and for good reason. The weather is warm, the days are long, and the peninsula’s stunning beaches are at their best. If you’re looking to soak up the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, or explore the vibrant coastal towns, this is the perfect time to visit.

• Beaches: Head to Sorrento, McCrae, and Rye for some of the best bay-side beach experiences. Or try out one of the many hidden beaches for something unique. Explore the rock pools of Bridgewater Bay or Bushranger’s Bay. Grab your board and check out Mornington Peninsula’s best surf beaches. Whether you’re swimming, surfing, rock-pooling or simply lounging, the peninsula’s beaches offer something for everyone.

• Outdoor Activities: Summer is ideal for outdoor adventures. Try stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling at Portsea’s Pier, or hiking along the coastal trails of the Mornington Peninsula. A must do summer hike is to Bushrangers Bay.

• Festivals, Carnivals and Markets: Enjoy the festive vibe with the Christmas markets which are held all over the Peninsula. An absolute fave is Emu Plains Market in Balnarring. The Rye Foreshore Carnival is in full swing and check out live music such as the Peninsula Summer Music Festival.

Tip: While summer is bustling, it’s also the busiest time of the year, especially over school holidays. Book your accommodation well in advance, and be prepared for crowds, especially in popular spots like Rosebud, Rye and Sorrento.

Mornington Peninsula Autumn – A Burst of Colour

DATES – March, April and May

Victorian School Holidays – Lasts for two weeks and normally runs over Easter (specific dates dependent on when Easter falls)

As the summer crowds fade away, autumn brings a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere to the Mornington Peninsula (except over Easter when hectic takes over again!).

The weather remains very warm over March, so swimming and water activities are still a must.

It’s often not until mid April, when Summer temperatures start to drop and Autumn begins to paint the leaves amber and gold. The peninsula’s milder temperatures and Autumn colours, make it the perfect time for hiking and exploring the Mornington Peninsula.

• Wineries: This is harvest season in the region’s vineyards. Visit the wineries in Red Hill, Main Ridge, and Merricks for wine tastings, and experience the autumnal beauty of the russet, vine-covered landscapes. There are some beautiful wineries you’ll even find luxury accommodation at.

• Hiking/Walking: With cooler temperatures, autumn is a fantastic time for hiking. Explore the scenic trails of Cape Schanck, Point Nepean or the Red Hill Rail trail. A must is to explore the gardens and trails of Arthurs Seat State Park, which is where you’ll see some of the most beautiful displays of autumn trees on the Peninsula.

• Wellness Retreats: The Mornington Peninsula is known for its wellness offerings. Autumn’s serene ambiance is perfect for a relaxing spa day at the Peninsula Hot Springs or an indulgent stay at a wellness retreat.

Tip: Autumn is ideal for those seeking a more peaceful getaway. It’s also a great time to take advantage of off-peak rates on accommodation. Just keep in mind though, that Easter crowds can be equally as hectic as the summer crowds.

Mornington Peninsula Winter – Cosy and Romantic

DATES – June, July and August

Victorian School Holidays – Runs for two weeks, generally around the end of June to the middle of July

Winter on the Mornington Peninsula is all about cozying up and enjoying the region’s more intimate side. While it’s too chilly for swimming, unless you’re into cold plunging, there’s still plenty to do. It’s actually a splendid time for a romantic getaway with your other half.

• Food and Wine: Warm up with a visit to one of the peninsula’s many award-winning restaurants at wineries like Montalto or Pt Leo Estate. Enjoy a pint of beer while warming up beside the fire at St Andrews Beach Brewery. Dig into a hearty pub meal at the Sorrento Hotel. Or cosy up with great coffee, local wines and supurb meals made with fresh local ingredients at Merrick General store. Honestly, the food and wine options are endless here, and winter is the perfect time to indulge!

• Hot Springs: There’s no better time to visit the Peninsula Hot Springs than in winter. The steamy, mineral-rich waters are the perfect antidote to the winter chill. And if you’re on a romantic getaway, then this is not to be missed.

• Winter Walks: The coastal scenery takes on a dramatic beauty in winter. Rug up and take a walk along the rugged cliffs of Cape Schanck or Coppins Track. Alternatively, wander the peaceful trails of Greens Bush, The Briars or the Mornington Peninsula Rail Trail.

Tip: Winter is the quietest time on the peninsula, so you’ll have many attractions to yourself. It’s also an excellent time to enjoy the region’s luxury accommodations at reduced rates.

Mornington Peninsula Spring – Gardens and Markets

Spring breathes new life into the Mornington Peninsula, with blooming gardens, fresh produce, and mild weather making it an appealing time to visit.

Spring is a shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds. The weather can be temperamental at this time of year and it’s likely you may experience fours seasons in one day! But, it is a fantastic time to explore the peninsula’s natural beauty without the peak season rush.

• Gardens: The peninsula’s gardens come alive with fresh blooms in Spring. Visit Seawinds Garden, Ashcombe Maze and Heronswood, or book in a tour of Belleura House and Gardens for a fresh burst of colour.

• Outdoor Markets: From September onwards, the market scene comes alive on the Peninsula. Each week a different market seems to surface; from Shoram to Rye, from Hastings to Mount Martha, they’re everywhere. Shop for crafts, jewellery and hand-sown clothing at Emu Plains market in Balnarring. Sample local cheeses, fruits, and artisanal products at my favourite market on the Peninsula, the Red Hill Market. Or be a part of tradition and wander Mornington’s Main Street Farmers’ Market which is on every Wednesday and has been running for over 40 years!

• Outdoor Adventures: With the weather warming up, spring is perfect for outdoor activities. Grab your bike and hit the Peninsular Link Trail or go bush and cycle through Mornington Peninsula’s hinterland, and through some wineries, on the Red Hill Rail Trail. Hire a kayak and get a unique perspective of the cliffs that line the coast of Port Phillip Bay. You might even say hi to some dolphins as you cruise the bay!

My Recommendation on the Best Time to Visit Mornington Peninsula

While every season has something unique to offer, I do believe that the warmer seasons are best for visiting here. 

But what about the summer crowds?

Well, that’s easily solved.

The best time of year to visit the Mornington Peninsula is early Autumn (March & April), outside of Easter and school holidays of course. 

The weather in Autumn, especially if you visit in March, is still quite hot, so it’s warm enough to swim at the beaches or dive into the hidden rock pools.

School holidays are over (at least until Easter) and the crowds have dissipated.

As April rolls in, the temperatures will begin to drop, think mild 20-23 degree days, but rainfall is not nearly as high as spring time, so you’ll likely have the perfect temperate, dry days for hiking the many walking trails here or wandering the cute townships.

All the markets are still up and running and the foliage of the grape-vines and Arthurs Seat state park are transforming the landscape into a kaleidoscope of colour.

Early Autumn, in my opinion, is the perfect time to vist and experience absolutely everything the Peninsula has to offer.

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