Mornington Peninsula National Park

Mornington Peninsula National Park is a stunning coastal reserve that wraps around the southern tip of the peninsula, offering dramatic cliffs, wild surf beaches, and lush heathlands. Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, it's a favourite escape for beach lovers, hikers, and wildlife watchers, with the iconic Cape Schanck Lighthouse and the famous surf break at Gunnamatta Beach drawing visitors year-round.

Highlights & What to See

• Cape Schanck Lighthouse – Climb this historic 19th-century lighthouse for panoramic views over Bass Strait and the rugged coastline. The short walk to the nearby Pulpit Rock lookout is a must.
• Bushrangers Bay Walking Track – A spectacular 6 km return hike through coastal heath and tea-tree forests, leading to a secluded pebble beach. Look for whales during migration season (June–October).
• Gunnamatta Beach – One of Victoria's best surf beaches, with powerful waves and wide sands. Perfect for experienced surfers or a bracing walk along the shore.
• London Bridge Lookout – A natural rock arch that once formed a double bridge before collapsing in 1990. The viewpoint offers dramatic photo ops of the eroded coastline.
• Flora and fauna – Spot echidnas, swamp wallabies, and over 100 bird species in the park's diverse habitats, including the rare southern brown bandicoot.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day exploring the park, combining a coastal walk with a visit to the lighthouse and a surf check at Gunnamatta. If you're short on time, a half-day can cover the lighthouse and a short stroll to Bushrangers Bay. For a deeper experience, consider an overnight stay at one of the nearby coastal towns like Sorrento or Portsea, allowing two days to tackle longer trails like the 30 km Two Bays Walking Track.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Portsea – A charming seaside village with the historic Portsea Hotel, safe swimming beaches, and the dramatic Portsea Back Beach.
• Sorrento – Known for its Mediterranean vibe, boutique shops, and the Sorrento Ocean Beach, plus ferry connections to Queenscliff on the Bellarine Peninsula.
• Point Nepean National Park – Just west, this park features historic fortifications, Quarantine Station ruins, and stunning views of the Rip, the entrance to Port Phillip Bay.
• Arthur's Seat – A scenic drive or chairlift ride to the summit for panoramic views of the peninsula and bay, with walking trails through the surrounding reserve.
• Red Hill – The heart of Mornington Peninsula's wine region, with cellar doors offering cool-climate pinot noir and chardonnay, plus farm gates and artisan producers.

Please check official sources for current details.