The best Mornington Peninsula markets for local treasures

These are the indoor and outdoor markets to include on your shopping list if you’re after the best the locals have to offer.

Exploring the wonderful array of things to do on the Mornington Peninsula wouldn’t be complete without diving into its vibrant market scene. Whether you need to stock the pantry for your beachside break or are looking for a piece of the peninsula to take home, you shouldn’t miss these Mornington Peninsula markets. This is where farmers bring their finest berries or goat curd, local artists sell their impeccable arts and crafts, and snacks, coffee and entertainment are all part of the ritual. There are options every weekend for farmers’ and craft markets and even a few indoor markets that open daily. Don’t forget your shopping bags.

Farmers’ markets

Seaford Farmers Market

When: Third Sunday of every month, 8am – 1pm

Before you head home (or at the beginning of your week on the Mornington Peninsula) stock up on locally grown produce direct from the farmers and other producers at Seaford Farmers Market . When you’re done, you’ll be enjoying free-range eggs, fresh fruit and veggies, and fresh and smoked meats, as well as pickles, conserves, pasta and other tasty treats.

 Address: Broughton Street Reserve, Station Street, Seaford, Mornington Peninsula 

Mt Eliza Farmers’ Market

When: Fourth Sunday of every month, 9am – 1pm

This is the only farmers’ market on the Mornington Peninsula accredited by the Victorian Farmers’ Market Association, which means its stalls are only stocked with food and produce from local farmers and specialty makers. Your first stop at Mt Eliza Farmers’ Market should be Fire & Stone for warm scones with jam and cream before you fill your shopping bags with Flinders Sourdough, Mumma Made jams and relishes, Red Hill Apples, Blue Bay cheese and more.

Address: Corner Mt Eliza Way and Canadian Bay Road, Mt Eliza, Mornington Peninsula 

Bottles of tea found in one of the Mornington Peninsula Markets. — Taste the difference of local goodness at Mt Eliza Farmers’ Market.

Saturday markets

Pearcedale Community Market

When: Third Saturday of every month, 9am – 1pm

You could buy yourself the perfect picnic at pretty Pearcedale Community Market , shaded by towering eucalypts. There’s freshly baked bread, locally harvested honey, jam made from strawberries grown on the peninsula and plenty of other produce created nearby. Plus, there are craft stalls, potted plants, and delicious snacks and coffee to enjoy while you’re browsing.

Address: Pearcedale Public Hall & Gardens, 45 Pearcedale Road, Pearcedale, Mornington Peninsula 

A stall in Pearcedale Market. — Enjoy craft stalls, snacks, and coffee under the eucalypts.

Rye Foreshore Market

When: First Saturday of every month, 7.30am – 1pm

This market, a community fundraiser for the Rotary Club, is the way to get your weekend off to a brilliant start. Rye Foreshore Market classifies itself as a “make, bake and grow" market, meaning it has at least 70 per cent homegrown or home-made goods and produce. There are more than 80 stalls of the best the peninsula can offer, from seasonal fruit (the summer berries in this part of the world are excellent) to handmade soap. Don’t bother with breakfast before you arrive because the bacon and egg rolls are *chef’s kiss*.

Address: Opposite Rye Hotel, 2415 Point Nepean Road, Rye, Mornington Peninsula

Somerville Saturday Market

When: Second Saturday of every month (except January), 8am – 12.30pm

The old-school Somerville Saturday Market brings the community together, encourages local creatives to sell their work, and helps resource the church. There’s a great sausage sizzle, as well as coffee and tea, along with stalls selling books, plants, cards, cakes, gifts and bric-à-brac. The church op shop is also open.

Address: St Andrew’s, 2 Eramosa Road West, Somerville, Mornington Peninsula 

Stalls filled with books at Somerville Saturday Market. — Support local creatives and enjoy a classic market day at Somerville.

Boneo Community Market

When: Third Saturday of every month, 8am – 12.30pm

Whether you’re filling the fridge or looking for a memento of your visit to the Mornington Peninsula, you’ll find it at the Boneo Community Market . This area is renowned for its market gardens, so fresh fruit and veg are top quality. You can also buy Merricks Farm jams and conserves, Pure Peninsula Honey and fresh flowers. Ask the growers about their produce and pick a sweet treat for later. There are also lots of beautiful arts and crafts, including locally produced jewellery and ceramics. Plus, if you’ve got the kids with you, they’ll love the animal farm.

Address: Boneo Recreation Reserve, Limestone Road, Boneo, Mornington Peninsula 

Stalls set up at Boneo Community Market with a sign that leads to the mobile farm. — Chat with growers and stock up on top-quality produce at Boneo Market.

Little Beauty Market

When: Final Saturday of the month, usually 9am – 2pm, although occasionally at twilight (check on the website)

Frankston is considered the last point on the Victorian ‘mainland’ before you get to the Mornington Peninsula, so if you’re driving down on a Saturday, it’s worth stopping at this makers’ market set around a lake in the park. Little Beauty Market has more than a hundred stalls selling handcrafted items, art, homewares, vintage clothes, collectables, kids’ outfits and toys, farm produce and food carts serving street food from around the world. There’s also a bar and live music. 

Address: Beauty Park, Spring Street, Frankston

A sea of people at Little Beauty Market. — Explore over 100 stalls and enjoy live tunes at Little Beauty Market.

Sunday markets

Bittern Community Market

When: Every Sunday, 8am – 1pm

Get your fresh fruit and vegetables, check out the locally created homewares and gifts, and rummage through second-hand goods and bric-à-brac at the Bittern Community Market , which has been operating for more than 30 years. Need a coffee or something to eat? There are stallholders that will sort out that for you, too.

Address: Bittern Railway Station, Frankston–Flinders Road, Bittern, Mornington Peninsula 

Mornington Racecourse Craft Market

When: Second Sunday of every month, 9am – 2pm

If you like handmade, original treasures, you’ll love what’s on offer at Mornington Racecourse Craft Market . Everything here has been designed and made in Australia; much of it is from Victoria. Of course, there are also produce and locally created food items, as well as street food from a selection of vendors and live music setting the ambience.

Address: Mornington Racecourse, Racecourse Road, Mornington, Mornington Peninsula 

People checking out stalls in the Mornington Racecourse Craft Market. — For handmade goods lovers, shop unique creations and enjoy live music at Mornington Market.

Shoreham Market

When: Third Sunday of the month (September – May), 9am – 2pm

This market is as much about the community as it is about commerce. Even if you don’t buy anything at the dog-friendly Shoreham Market , you can take part in a yoga class, take the  younger members of the family to enjoy some children’s activities, or kick back and enjoy some music. There are lots of great stalls, of course, selling food to eat on site, food and produce to take away, and beautiful crafts, fashion and homewares.

Address: 67–85 Byrnes Road, Shoreham

Bring the family and unwind with music at dog-friendly Shoreham Market.

Moorooduc Station Market

When: First of the month from October to March (plus June and August), 10am – 2pm

It’s worth heading to Moorooduc Station Market just to grab a bite from Geez That’s Good Toasties to enjoy beneath the gum trees. There are more than 60 stalls featuring local makers and their ranges, as well as street food and drink trucks. It’s set next door to the old railway station and the kids might enjoy a ride on the vintage train to Mornington and back.

Address: 460 Moorooduc Highway, Moorooduc, Mornington Peninsula 

A lady with her stall of bags at Moorooduc Station Market. — Moorooduc Station Market is where family fun, street food, and local stalls come together.

Occasional markets

Point Nepean Portsea Market

When: See website for upcoming dates

The Point Nepean Portsea Market has it all: a picturesque coastal location, surrounded by historical buildings and vast lawns, and endless reasons for you to stick your hand in your pocket. Everything you see in the stalls has been made or grown by the stallholder. Crafts and treasures are in plentiful supply, but there’s also food vans serving up delicious food to eat picnic-style, tables of fresh produce to take away, and live music to create an unbeatable atmosphere.

Address: Point Nepean Quarantine Station, Coleman Road, Portsea, Mornington Peninsula 

The view at Point Nepean Portsea. — Enjoy a picturesque coastal location with handmade treasures and delicious food. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Mt Martha South Beach Market

When: Victorian public holidays, 10am – 2pm

Perched on a hill overlooking Port Phillip Bay, this has become one of the most popular markets in the region. And it’s not all about that view. The organisers of Mt Martha South Beach Market pride themselves on bringing together more than 60 stalls selling high-end goods, including fashion, beauty, art, homewares, homemade goods and pet products. Plus, you’ll be able to fill your belly with tasty dishes and drinks from a number of food vans.

Address: Mount Martha House, 466 Esplanade, Mount Martha, Mornington Peninsula 

A landscape image of Mt Martha South Beach Market that includes the coastal view. — Fill your basket with high-end goods and take in the coastal view at Mt Martha South Beach Market.

The Mount Martha Briars Market

When: Every couple of months, 9am – 2pm

It’s not every day you can enjoy shopping some well-stocked stalls and visiting a wildlife sanctuary in one spot. The Briars is a historical homestead and conservation park that plays host to the much-loved Mount Martha Briars Market . In the morning you can browse the homemade and home-grown wares, from fresh produce to eye-catching homewares, then snaffle something tasty for lunch. Afterwards, spend some time walking the Briar’s trails and visiting the native animals. Check the website for upcoming dates.

Address: 450 Nepean Highway, Mount Martha, Mornington Peninsula 

Stalls at Mount Martha Briars Market and a view of the beach. — Browse homemade wares, wander the trails, and enjoy the wildlife at The Briars.

Permanent markets

Dromana Indoor Market

When: Daily 10am – 5pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm (closed Tuesdays in winter)

Get a fix of the best of everything Mornington Peninsula markets have to offer at this big warehouse with more than 90 stalls offering a wide range of ever-changing treasures. Dromana Indoor Market has plenty of vintage and antique pieces, from toys and collectables to designer clothing and furniture. Grab a read for your break at one of the book stalls or stock your fridge with local produce. If you love to browse this is a great way to spend a few hours, especially on a gloomy day.

Address: 110 Nepean Highway, Dromana, Mornington Peninsula 

A display of vinyls at Dromana Indoor Market. — Spend hours browsing vintage finds and local produce at Dromana Indoor Market.

Flock of Seagulls Indoor Market and Cafe

When: Monday to Saturday 10am – 4.30pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm

There’s plenty to rummage through at the more than 50 stalls at Flock Rye . There are vintage objects and clothing items galore, as well as locally made fashion, gifts, homeware and candles. Check out the work of peninsula artists in the gallery, stop for coffee and cake at the cafe, or book a session with the onsite hairdresser, masseuse or reiki master.

Address: 2211 Point Nepean Road, Rye, Mornington Peninsula 

Discover the best beaches on the Mornington Peninsula

There’s no better place to unwind than the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges – a leafy and idyllic region shrouded in mist, fern-filled gullies and a peaceful atmosphere.

Wrapped in the crisp mountain air, ancient ferns and ethereally verdant landscapes of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges , you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in another world (or at least another part of the planet).

But this gorgeous pocket is under an hour from Melbourne, a mix of top-notch food and wine, boutique stays and forested scenery that make for an easy weekend away or even a midweek escape. In fact, visiting during the week can offer a deeply relaxing experience, with fewer crowds and more space to linger.

If you’re keen to unwind, here’s how to spend your time in this idyllic neck of the woods.

Where to eat

From farm gates to cosy eateries, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges house a plethora of places to feast. Start your day with a leisurely brunch and coffee at Ripe . This local hangout combines warm hospitality and hearty cafe fare against a backdrop of the hills’ iconic tree-fern canopies. It’s also nestled in the heart of Sassafras, the quaint village that best captures the Dandenong Ranges’ old-world charm.

Next, take yourself on a gastronomic adventure. Visit Yarra Valley Dairy , a regional favourite doing handmade cheeses, or Cherry Hill Orchards , where in summer you can pick your own cherries and enjoy them in the farm’s picturesque grounds. Treat yourself to a tasting at one of the Yarra Valley’s renowned wineries to finish – Rochford , Re’em and De Bortoli are standout picks for a sample of the region’s signature drops.

By night, book a table at either Citrine in the mountain town of Olinda or restaurant 1309 at Balgownie Estate in the Yarra Valley. Both do elevated seasonal fare paired with excellent drinks.

And if you’re simply in the mood for a tipple, you’re spoiled for choice. The Alpine Hotel in riverside Warburton is a historic and character-filled spot pouring pints and locally made drinks, while Four Pillars is a must for gin lovers. The distillery’s award-winning spirits are famed nationwide, but here you can try them right from the source.

Things to do outdoors

two people walking through Dandenong Ranges National Park — Wander the Dandenong Ranges National Park.

A motley patchwork of misty rainforest, rugged bushscapes and beautifully tended gardens, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges are some of Melbourne’s most scenic pockets. No visit to the region would be complete without a wander through its lush surrounds, either by bike or on foot.

The Ngurrak Barring trail stretches 39 kilometres through the Dandenong Ranges, connecting the towns and fern-filled forests that make the hills so unique. Along the way, be immersed in thought-provoking art installations and cultural stories, sharing a different perspective of this ancient landscape.

While in the area, wander through Cloudehill Garden & Nursery and the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens , situated in Olinda. The cooler climate, rich volcanic soil and consistent rainfall offer both gardens ideal conditions for vivid and vibrant flora.

Over in the Yarra Valley, the 40-kilometre Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is a flat and family-friendly path perfect for leisurely bike rides and longer walks. It takes you through vine-lined scenery and towns like Seville and Wandin. Biking enthusiasts should head to the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination, a network of 160 kilometres of trails that traverse through untamed terrain.

For a more laidback outing, Alowyn Gardens encompasses seven acres of themed gardens perfect for a meandering stroll. The nearly 100-metre-long wisteria archway that connects different garden zones is a highlight – especially in October, when the lilac blossoms are in spectacular bloom.

The arts and culture scene

Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges are havens for arts and culture thanks to their inspiring landscapes and thriving creative community. Naturally, a slower escape should include a visit to some of the region’s best studios and galleries.

The TarraWarra Museum of Art in Healesville showcases modern and contemporary Australian art, with both a permanent collection and a rotating display of thoughtful exhibitions. The building and grounds are well worth exploring: a striking architectural landmark amid landscaped lawns and open-air sculptures overlooking the Yarra Valley.

Delve into the area’s rich history at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum , a treasure trove of more than 13,000 unique pieces. See everything from Indigenous artefacts to archival photographs and historical objects that tell the region’s story.

On your way back to the city, stop by the leafy enclave of Eltham to discover Montsalvat . This five-acre artistic playground is Australia’s oldest continuous art community, combining galleries, Gothic-style buildings and expansive heritage gardens.

Stay at a local retreat

Re’em yarra valley accommodation — Re’em is an ideal pick for an indulgent stay.

No matter your style, and no matter your budget, you’ll find a suitable spot in the region to rest your head. If the weather is warm and the sky is clear, set up a tent at BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park or Pine Hill Cabin & Caravan Park. The former has secluded camping spots surrounded by tranquil bushland and local wildlife, along with glamping pods and cabins. The latter has powered and unpowered sites suitable for all kinds of campers, and is pet-friendly if you’re travelling with your four-legged friend.

Or, book yourself into the RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort – a sprawling retreat complete with stylish rooms and luxe amenities that invite you to unwind. Relax at the day spa, tee off at the 18-hole golf course, or recharge with a round of tennis or a few laps in the pool.

And if you’re after something truly indulgent, Re’em is an ideal pick. A boutique collection of just 16, the luxuriously appointed rooms feature plush linens, high-end amenities and oversized baths with panoramic views across the estate. A gourmet breakfast showcasing gorgeous local produce is also included.

Start planning your reset getaway at visityarravalley.com.au.