Where To Stay On The Mornington Peninsula

Discover accommodation options, from charming motels to quirky beach houses, at this favourite holiday destination that blends the best of coast and country.

The Mornington Peninsula is to Melburnians what Palm Beach is to Sydneysiders. Or Rottnest Island to Perthites. A place of escapism conveniently close to the city. You can duck down for a day trip and still be back in time for dinner or make a long weekend of it.

Dotted among the seaside towns, local wineries, coastal walks and boutique eateries is a selection of incredible places to rest your head for the night. Here are our picks of the best places to stay on the Mornington Peninsula.

1. Portsea Hotel

Heralded as the wealthiest postcode in Australia, Portsea is home to a pub that puts you among Melbourne’s rich and famous.

the exterior of Portsea Hotel, Mornington Peninsula — The Tudor-style facade belies the modern interiors. (Image: Simon Shiff)

The little village is a sanctuary by the sea, and an upgrade to the Portsea Hotel was more than a lick of paint.

the restaurant at Portsea Hotel, Mornington Peninsula — The Portsea Hotel is known for its pub by the sea. (Image: Simon Shiff)

Standard hotel rooms offer traditional but elegant pub accommodation, featuring a queen bed, sink, TV and shared bathrooms. For a little extra space and an ensuite, choose from standard, deluxe, executive and Bayview suites.

a standard room with a queen bed at Portsea Hotel, Mornington Peninsula — The chic Standard Room.

Downstairs, find a spot on the panoramic deck under the blue and white umbrellas to enjoy the ocean views. There’s also a nautically themed dining room where you can replenish with wood-fired pizza and updated pub classics.

a cocktail drink on the table at Portsea Hotel, Mornington Peninsula — While away the afternoon on the deck with a cocktail in hand. (Image: Simon Shiff)

Address: 3746 Point Nepean Road, Portsea, Mornington Peninsula VIC

2. Peppers Moonah Links Resort

Peppers Moonah Links Resort is described as a modern country coastal oasis. Contemporary one-bedroom suites, Moonah Rooms and Open Rooms all feature stylish decor with a calming natural palette, plus they all have balconies or terraces overlooking the fairways.

The real drawcard with Peppers is it’s within the grounds of Moonah Links, featuring two 18-hole championship courses, so it’s perfect for the golf enthusiasts out there. The resort also offers an on-site spa, heated pool and the charming Pebbles Restaurant.

Address: Peter Thomson Drive, Fingal, Mornington Peninsula VIC

3. Port Phillip Estate

The natural world meets modern design at the family-owned Port Phillip Estate . Emerging from the native landscape and surrounding vineyards, this modernist structure houses a cellar door, winery and accommodation.

Six exclusive apartments feature king-size beds with leather headboards, spacious ensuites, plush Missoni bathrobes, glamorous furnishings and outdoor terraces with stunning views across the vines to the bay. With a discreet guests-only entry and car parking, privacy is guaranteed.

the modernist structure at Port Phillip Estate, Mornington Peninsula — The modernist Port Phillip Estate houses a cellar door, winery and accommodation.

Address: 263 Red Hill Road, Red Hill South, Mornington Peninsula VIC

4. Polperro Farmhouse

Set in Red Hill’s lush landscape, Polperro Farmhouse is a celebration of the 1950s holiday home, offering a sense of nostalgia and retro holiday charm.

the Polperro Farmhouse in Red Hill — Polperro Farmhouse is a charming holiday home in Red Hill.

The three-bedroom property sleeps six guests in total, having been renovated in conjunction with renowned design firm Hecker Guthrie. A social living space is at its core, with a resounding pull towards the natural elements: the surrounding Polperro vineyard, a backdrop of pine forest, European-style gardens and distant ocean views.

the European-style garden at Polperro Farmhouse — Unwind in the European-style garden.

Envisioned as both a summer and winter destination, the relaxed charm is carried through to the furniture, objects, styling and artwork. The property includes a fully equipped kitchen, open fireplace, luxury bath, extensive outdoor kitchen and fire cooking facilities, all presented with immaculate attention to detail.

the living room interior of Polperro Farmhouse — The relaxed charm is carried throughout the accommodation.

Address: 150 Red Hill Road, Red Hill, Mornington Peninsula VIC

5. Hotel Sorrento

This glorious limestone pile was built in 1872, but there’s very little that’s old-fashioned about Hotel Sorrento ’s rooms and suites. In 2023, a transformation of the building was unveiled. It included a 30-metre lap pool, day spa, terrace and 13 new suites, as well as a renovation of all existing rooms. The entry-level Classic Rooms make the most of the original limestone walls, adding contemporary furnishings, oak trims and French shutters. The new Sunset Suites are sleek and glamorous, with raw materials like travertine, timber and limestone used throughout and outdoor marble bathtubs.

poolside umbrellas and sun loungers at Hotel Sorrento — Lounge under the poolside umbrellas at Hotel Sorrento.

You can still get a pot of Carlton and a parma in the front bar, kick back in the beer garden or order a pub meal in the dining room, but there’s now also Cantonese eatery Shihuishi. Salt, a bar and live music venue, and a rooftop bar and expected to open in summer 2025.

the interior of Hotel Sorrento with an outdoor marble bathtub — Have a relaxing soak in the outdoor marble bathtubs.

Address: 5/15 Hotham Road, Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula VIC

6. Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate

Crittenden Estate is home to some of the oldest vines on the Mornington Peninsula, and the family-run business offers a relaxed stay for anyone looking for a weekend in the country. There are just three self-contained, stand-alone Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate , constructed entirely over the vineyard’s serene lake.

Each one has a king bed, a queen sofa bed that can be used by children, a well-equipped kitchen adjoining a dining room, and a spacious living area.

a car driving across a vineyard at Crittenden Estate — Go on a scenic road trip to Crittenden Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The stylish villas are decorated in a modern country style, with a palette matching the surrounding bushland. Enjoy breakfast on the balcony over the water then spend some time at the expansive cellar door tasting the diverse range of wines produce here.

an aerial view of the Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate — Head to the Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate for a relaxed stay over the water. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Address: 25 Harrisons Road, Dromana, Mornington Peninsula VIC

7. Quarters at Flinders Hotel

Just 100 metres from the coastline and at the foot of the historical Flinders village, Quarters at Flinders Hotel consists of 40 contemporary rooms that take inspiration from their setting. Make the most of the locale, by booking one of the rooms with a balcony or patio.

Whichever room style you decide on, you’ll be resting your head on a king-size bed with luxury linens, snacking on local produce from the mini bar or getting ready in your large bathroom to explore the region.

There’s an excellent onsite bistro where you can order a bowl of Peninsula mussels, a plate of traditional fish and chips, or a good burger.

Address: Corner Cook and Wood Streets, Flinders, Mornington Peninsula VIC

8. The Keith

If there’s anything Australian travellers have come to love, it’s an old roadside motel dolled up to make the most of its retro charm. The latest one to grace the Mornington Peninsula is The Keith .

a vintage car outside The Keith, Mornington Peninsula — The Keith is dolled up to make the most of its retro charm.

Its 16 spacious rooms, ranging from queen to family accommodation, were all in good condition before the renovation, so the designers were able to repurpose fittings and fixtures.

the picnic tables at The Keith, Mornington Peninsula — The picnic tables add to the summer camp vibes.

The light, bright rooms are decorated in pretty pastel shades, with timber furnishings and artwork by a local, Cath de Boise. Each room has kettle, toaster and Nespresso machine, but there’s a full outdoor kitchen, with Adirondack chairs and picnic tables adding to the summer camp vibes.

the bed at The Keith, Mornington Peninsula — Rooms have been swathed in playful pastel tones.

Address: 1929 Point Nepean Road, Tootgarook, Mornington Peninsula VIC

9. Sorrento Beach Motel

Everyone who visits the Mornington Peninsula inevitably stops at Rosebud or Dromana to take photographs of the colourful beach boxes. At Sorrento Beach Motel , there are just 19 ground-floor rooms. Choose one of the executive rooms, however, and you might be surprised by the facade, which has been styled to look like one of those charming attractions. Inside, these rooms are spacious, with timber floors, feature brick walls and contemporary furnishings.

the exterior of Sorrento Beach Motel, Mornington Peninsula — Sorrento Beach Motel has been styled to look like the famous beach boxes.

Staying here is a bit like stepping back in time: all guests are greeted warmly, there’s a free guest laundry and you can have breakfast delivered to your room in the morning.

the bedroom at Sorrento Beach Motel, Mornington Peninsula — The rooms are cosy with contemporary furnishings.

Address: 780 Melbourne Road, Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula VIC

10. The Nest Boxx

Set between the front and back beaches at Rye is this bespoke pod set among Moonah trees. The Nest Boxx is a gorgeous couple’s getaway, with vertical timber battens affixed to the exterior and an interior that’s completely original. The overall tone is sage green, with an eclectic selection of vintage and contemporary furniture and wallpaper featuring a leaf motif. There’s a smart TV with Netflix, and the host stocks the room with coffee bags, drip coffee, assorted tea, sprint water and fresh milk, so you’ve got the basics.

This cute stay is in a quiet location, close to Peninsula Hot Springs. This retreat is the perfect sanctuary to return to after a full day spent exploring the wineries, beaches and walking trails.

Address: Rye, Mornington Peninsula VIC

11. Logbox Red Hill

On top of a hill in the bush, you can stay in one of the three cabins offered at Logbox Red Hill . Each one is different, but all offer a casual, comfortable ambience for a relaxing stay.

the lush landscape at Logbox Red Hill — Logbox Red Hill is surrounded by a lush landscape. (Image: Madeleine Burke @madeleineburke)

The Green House is the largest of the cabins, sleeping four in two bedrooms. While it’s fitted with a modern kitchen and bathroom, it is furnished with rustic, vintage pieces.

a cabin at Logbox Red Hill — Cosy up in one of the cabins. (Image: Madeleine Burke @madeleineburke)

The Cabin, with its raw timber ceiling and kitchenette, is the cosiest space, sleeping two. The Dairy, which also sleeps two, has a wood heater, rustic furnishings and an excellent view. You can even lie in bed and watch the kangaroos outside.

This would be a great option for a group of friends who want to book out the whole property and go winery hopping (many of them are less than 10 minutes away). The cabins have outdoor barbecues and firepits for sunset get-togethers that stretch into the evening.

the outdoor seating area at Logbox Red Hill — Sit outside and watch for kangaroos.

Address: 151 Point Leo Road, Red Hill South, Mornington Peninsula VIC

12. Wattlebird Studio

Lovers of 1950s style will feel right at home at Wattlebird Studio , near Saint Andrews Beach. There are retro lounge suites, a Parker sideboard, plenty of potted plants to amp up the relaxed vibe, and a full kitchen built from recycled plywood if you feel like gathering and cooking some local produce. Borrow one of the studio’s books, make a cuppa and go sit out in one of the garden areas.

a close-up of the bed head board at Wattlebird Studio, Mornington Peninsula — Unwind in the 1950s-style Wattlebird Studio.

It’s in a great location, close to both Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs, St Andrews Beach Brewery, plenty of wineries and eateries, as well as beaches and bush trails. When you get back to the studio, play one of the board games or stream your favourite movie on the TV.

a retro lounge suite at Wattlebird Studio, Mornington Peninsula — Book a stay in one of the retro lounge suites at Wattlebird Studio.

Address: Saint Andrews Beach, Mornington Peninsula VIC

13. Flinders Nuthouse

It isn’t really surprising this cute retro seaside cottage with its bright ‘70s decor is popular for girls’ weekends. The Flinders Nuthouse is joyful, quirky and cosy all at once. It has two bedrooms – one with a queen bed, the other with single bunks – and a spacious living area with open fire.

The Flinders Nuthouse in Mornington Peninsula — Step into this retro seaside cottage.

There are lots of cute touches, like a record player, lots of vintage art and a Polaroid toilet roll holder. Hang out on the deck during the day then light a fire in the brazier when the sun goes down and roast some marshmallows.

the colourful interior of The Flinders Nuthouse — The Flinders Nuthouse is filled with eclectic finds and lashings of colour.

You can walk from the Nuthouse to Flinders town centre and to Flinders Pier. Jump in the car and you’re a short drive to ocean beaches and some of the peninsula’s best wineries.

a beach near The Flinders Nuthouse in Mornington Peninsula — You’re just a short drive to ocean beaches.

Address: Flinders, Mornington Peninsula VIC

14. The Red Hill Barn

On top of a hill, surrounded by manicured lawns, is this beautiful farmhouse. The Red Hill Barn has views of vines and olive groves, and your nearest neighbours are herds of cows and sheep.

the farmhouse among the vines at The Red Hill Barn, Mornington Peninsula — Experience bucolic bliss at The Red Hill Barn.

On the ground floor is an open-plan living area and kitchen with classic farmhouse styling, while upstairs has two bedrooms, the main one with doors to a balcony. The house is surrounded by a timber deck with plenty of little sitting areas from where to enjoy the view.

a look inside the farmhouse at The Red Hill Barn, Mornington Peninsula — Stay in a classic farmhouse with modern amenities.

The barn is located between Red Hill and Merricks North, so is surrounded by restaurants and wineries, including Polperro and Foxey’s Hangout, and is equidistant between the beaches of Port Phillip Bay and those of Westernport Bay.

the bedroom at The Red Hill Barn, Mornington Peninsula — Get cosy in The Red Hill Barn.

Address: Red Hill, Mornington Peninsula VIC

15. Hart’s Farm

There are two stylish accommodation options at Hart’s Farm : The Retreat is one of the biggest options for a couple on the peninsula. Cooks will love the huge fully equipped kitchen that comes complete with a fancy Wega espresso machine.

the Hart’s Farm in Mornington Peninsula — Hart’s Farm opens up to views of the bush.

The contemporary fit-out has worn-in leather couches, a long dining table, a fireplace and big glass doors that open to views of the bush and olive groves in the distance.

an accommodation at Hart's Farm surrounded by lush greenery — Hart’s Farm is set in a verdant landscape.

If you don’t need all that space, you can book just The Studio, which has a smaller living area, a queen bed with French linen and an ensuite with a huge bath and walk-in shower.

a look inside the dining and living room at Hart’s Farm in Mornington Peninsula — con Enjoy contemporary amenities and furnishings.

Breakfast provisions are supplied to the guests, along with a four-pack of Hart’s Farm award-winning ciders and a 500ml bottle of the property’s extra virgin olive oil.

the exterior of Hart’s Farm in Mornington Peninsula — Retreat into one of the contemporary stays at Hart’s Farm.

Hart’s Farm runs a farmgate every weekend, where guests can taste the different varieties of apple cider produced here and stock up on cider, olive oil, natural fruit cordials, preserves and seasonal produce.

a mini lake at Hart’s Farm in Mornington Peninsula — Escape the hustle and bustle at Hart’s Farm.

Address: 300 Tucks Road, Shoreham, Mornington Peninsula VIC

16. Lancemore Lindenderry

the Lancemore Lindenderry accommodation in Mornington Peninsula — Retreat into a stylish stay surrounded by manicured gardens. (Image: Lancemore Lindenderry)

Nestled within 34 acres of picturesque gardens and vines, Lancemore Lindenderry in Red Hill is a classic European-style retreat that boasts elegant rooms with modern country charm.

Situated close to idyllic beaches and cool climate wineries, it’s the perfect place to base yourself to explore the best of the region’s offerings – a stay will also give you complimentary access to Pt Leo Sculpture Park and a wine tasting at Foxey’s.

Make the most of your stay with a visit to the two-hatted restaurant The Dining Room to indulge in a paddock-to-plate feast.

Address: 142 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill, Mornington Peninsula

Discover the best things to do on the Mornington Peninsula.

Video credit: Tourism Australia

From coast to mountains, hiking in Gippsland offers a stunning array of landscapes, with trails that take you deep into the region’s heritage.

I step out onto the sand and it cries out underfoot. Kweek! I take another step and there’s another little yelp. Screet! Picking up the pace, the sounds follow me like my shadow, all the way down to the water. It’s obvious how this spot got its name – Squeaky Beach – from the rounded grains of quartz that make the distinctive sounds under pressure.

For many, Wilsons Promontory National Park is the gateway to Gippsland , and the best way to explore it is by walking its network of hiking trails, from coastal gems such as Squeaky Beach through to the bushland, among the wildlife. But it’s still just a taste of what you’ll find on foot in the region.

Venture a bit further into Gippsland and you’ll discover the lakes, the rainforest, and the alpine peaks, each changing with the season and offering summer strolls or winter walks. Just like that squeaky sand, each step along these trails has something to tell you: perhaps a story about an ancient spirit or a pioneering search for fortune.

The best coastal hikes in Gippsland

sunset at Wilsons Promontory National Park — Wilsons Promontory National Park is a sprawling wilderness with many coastal bushland trails. (Image: Mark Watson)

Wilsons Promontory National Park (or ‘The Prom’, as you’ll end up calling it) is an easy three-hour drive from Melbourne, but you might ditch the car when you arrive, with much of the park’s 50,000 hectares accessible only by foot. From the inky water of Tidal River (dyed dark purple by abundant tea trees), I like the easy walks along the coast, among lichen-laden granite boulders, to golden beaches and bays.

a couple on Mount Oberon — Panoramic views from the summit of Mount Oberon. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

The trail to the panoramic views at the summit of Mount Oberon is a bit harder, up steep timber and granite steps, but it’s a popular 6.8-kilometre return. The more remote hikes are found through the open banksia and stringybark woodland of the park’s north, or along the multi-day Southern Circuit , which ranges from about 35 to 52 kilometres, with sunrises and sunsets, kangaroos and cockatoos, and maybe even whales.

a golden sand beach at Wilsons Promontory National Park — Walk ‘The Prom’s’ golden sand beaches. (Image: Tourism Australia/Time Out Australia)

You might also see whales on the George Bass Coastal Walk , even closer to Melbourne on the western edge of Gippsland. This dramatic seven-kilometre trail along the clifftops takes in sweeping views of the wild ocean, occasionally dipping down from grassy green hills to coastal gullies and a secluded beach. It also now links into the Bass Coast Rail Trail for an extra 14 kilometres.

Over at the eastern edge of Gippsland, in Croajingolong National Park, you can wander along the lakeshores beneath koalas and around goannas (I keep my distance since one chased me here!). For those who are even more adventurous, the park is also the starting point for the 100-kilometre Wilderness Coast Walk , usually done over seven days.

the Croajingolong National Park, Gippsland — Wander along the lakeshores in Croajingolong National Park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The best bush hikes in Gippsland

the Baw Baw National Park — The alpine heath of Baw Baw National Park. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

Deep in the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine at Walhalla, mining guide Richard tells me how this small town in the mountains east of Melbourne boomed when prospectors found gold here in 1862. These days, you’ll find most of the town’s treasure – its heritage – above ground, with the Walhalla Tramline Walk a wonderful way to explore it.

Just seven kilometres long, the walk takes you through decades of Gold Rush history, following the original rail trail from lush bushland to the mining sites, and through the charming village of just 20 residents with its wooden cottages and old shopfronts adorned with turn-of-the-century advertising posters. Blazing a trail where trailblazers once opened up the region, this is also the starting point for the 650-kilometre Australian Alps Walking Track.

Nearby, Baw Baw National Park has walks through gnarled snow gums and alpine heaths that show off the colourful wildflowers in summer and the pristine carpet of white in winter. Several trails are perfect for snowshoes, including a 45-minute route from St Gwinear up to vast views across the Latrobe Valley.

Further up into the mountains, the Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls Loop Walk is an easy 2.2-kilometre path that serenades you with the sound of flowing water as you pass mossy rocks and tree ferns en route to two sets of waterfalls cascading over boulders in the remote wilderness.

The best cultural hikes in Gippsland

the Mitchell River National Park, Gippsland — Hike the Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

Across a pool in a natural sandstone amphitheatre, deep within a cave behind a waterfall, it’s said the Nargun has its lair. A fierce creature, half human and half stone, that abducts children and can’t be harmed by boomerangs or spears, the story of the Nargun has been told around the campfires of the local Gunaikurnai people for generations.

As a culturally significant place for women, hikers are asked not to go into the Den of Nargun, but a 3.4-kilometre loop walk leads you through a rainforest gully to the entrance where you can feel the powerful atmosphere here in Mitchell River National Park , along Victoria’s largest remaining wild and free-flowing waterway.

the bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park — Bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

The Den of Nargun is part of the Bataluk Cultural Trail , a series of important traditional Gunaikurnai sites through central Gippsland. Another location is Victoria’s largest cave system, Buchan Caves Reserve, with trails to important archaeological sites of human artefacts up to 18,000 years old. The FJ Wilson Interpreted Walk includes the naturally sculpted white limestone steps of the 400-metre-long Federal Cave, while the Granite Pools Walk goes among tall timber and moss-covered gullies.

the ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park — The ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park. (Image: Josie Withers)

Also important to the Gunaikurnai people is Tarra-Bulga National Park , known for its ancient myrtle beeches and enormous mountain ash trees. Just 40 minutes return, the Tarra Valley Rainforest Walk offers a taste of this verdant landscape, while the Grand Strzelecki Track takes you deep into the lost world of forest giants on an epic 100-kilometre trail rich with tradition.

A traveller’s checklist

Staying there

the WildernessRetreats in The Prom — Wilderness Retreats in The Prom. (Image: Christian Pearson)

Wilderness Retreats in Wilsons Promontory offers glamping-style tents with luxurious queen beds. Star Hotel is a reconstruction of a Gold Rush-era hotel from 1863 in the heart of heritage Walhalla. Caves House is a historic three-bedroom house with views over the Buchan River.

Eating there

the Carrajung Estate, Gippsland — Enjoy a post-hike lunch at Carrajung Estate. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

Kilcunda General Store serves great coffee and meals of local produce at the George Bass Coastal Walk. Alpine Trout Farm is located near Toorongo Falls in Noojee. Fish for your own lunch and barbecue it with the provided cookware.

Carrajung Estate is a short drive from Tarra-Bulga National Park. The winery’s restaurant offers a seasonal menu of regional ingredients and you can stay at The Lodge.

a seafood feast at Carrajung Estate, Gippsland — The table is set for a seafood feast at the estate.