Victoria, Australia
Located directly across Port Phillip Bay, the Bellarine Peninsula is easily accessible via the Sorrento-Queenscliff Ferry.
Attractions include charming coastal towns (Queenscliff with its Victorian architecture, Portarlington known for mussels), more wineries, and relaxed beaches. It is a similar, yet distinct, coastal experience to the Mornington Peninsula.
These destinations are close to the Mornington Peninsula and excellent for day trips.
Famous for its iconic Penguin Parade and other wildlife attractions.
Phillip Island is a popular destination easily reached by car.
Plan your day trips carefully, especially those with significant driving, to fully enjoy each destination without feeling rushed.
For those seeking more extensive natural immersion, several parks and landscapes are within reach, though some may warrant an overnight stay.
Victoria's largest coastal wilderness area, known for stunning white sand beaches, granite mountains, and diverse wildlife.
These iconic coastal formations on the Great Ocean Road are sometimes part of a very long day trip from Melbourne, or a multi-day extension.
Accessible via passenger ferry from Stony Point. This large, undeveloped island is largely national park, known for its koala population.
Approx. 2.5-3 hours drive from Mornington Peninsula. Best as an overnight or multi-day trip due to distance and park size.
Approx. 3-4 hours drive one way from the Mornington Peninsula. Better as part of a multi-day Great Ocean Road trip.
Extend your cultural exploration beyond the peninsula with trips to historically rich cities and rural villages.
An award-winning open-air museum that recreates an 1850s gold mining town from the Victorian gold rush era.
Victoria's second largest city, located at the head of Corio Bay. It has a revitalized waterfront precinct.
Drive east from the peninsula into the South Gippsland region for a taste of rural Victoria.
These excursions offer diverse experiences beyond the peninsula.
A few tips to enhance your day trips and cultural explorations.
Checking opening hours and booking tickets for popular attractions ahead of time is wise.
Factor in driving distances, notably for further destinations like Ballarat, to maximize your time there.
Consider a local guide or tour for insights into the cultural and historical sites.
These excursions offer a look into Victoria's diverse landscape and history. Plan ahead for travel times.
For those with more time, extending your trip to these regions expands exploration and complementary experiences to the Mornington Peninsula.
A classic multi-day trip (2-3 days minimum) is ideal for exploring this iconic coastal drive. It means leisurely experience of the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, the Otway Rainforest, and charming coastal towns.
For hiking, waterfalls, and Aboriginal cultural sites. At least 3 days are ideal to fully explore its offerings. It is approximately a 4-hour drive from Melbourne.
Combine a visit to Victoria's other renowned wine region with scenic drives, the historic Puffing Billy steam train, and quaint villages. This is a 1-2 day trip from Melbourne, or approx. 2+ hours drive from Mornington Peninsula.
Start at the Mornington Peninsula → take the Sorrento-Queenscliff Ferry to the Bellarine Peninsula → continue to Geelong → then embark on the Great Ocean Road → and finally return to Melbourne. This is a comprehensive coastal and city experience.
Mornington Peninsula → Phillip Island (for penguins and koalas) → Wilsons Promontory (for pristine wilderness and hiking). This route focuses on Victoria's natural wonders.
Combine your peninsula stay with a trip to Ballarat for an experience of the gold rush history and heritage.
