Victoria, Australia
The Mornington Peninsula does not have its own major airport. Travelers typically fly into Melbourne's airports. Melbourne Airport (MEL), also known as Tullamarine Airport, is Australia's second busiest airport and the main international gateway for Victoria. It is approximately 100-120 km (62-75 miles) north of the Mornington Peninsula. Avalon Airport (AVV) is about 120-140 km (75-87 miles) north-west, mainly serving domestic flights by low-cost carriers like Jetstar.
Flight prices typically peak during Australian summer (Dec-Feb), especially around Christmas and New Year. Australian school holidays (April, July, Sep/Oct) also see price increases. Shoulder seasons (Autumn & Spring) often offer more competitive fares. Booking flights well in advance (3-6 months, or earlier for peak periods) often secures better rates. MEL offers extensive facilities: duty-free, restaurants, car rental desks, currency exchange, free Wi-Fi. AVV is smaller with basic facilities.
Book flights 3-6 months in advance for better rates.
Car rental from Melbourne Airport (MEL) is the best option.
Expect higher flight prices during summer and school holidays.
Traffic is heavy on major roads (Nepean Highway, Peninsula Link) during peak hours, weekends, and public holidays. Allow extra travel time.
Kangaroos, wallabies, and other wildlife appear on roads, especially at dawn, dusk, and night in rural areas. Reduce speed in wildlife-signed areas.
During summer, monitor fire danger ratings. Roads close due to active fires or high danger. Check local news and CFA before setting out.
This is the only significant sea transportation link directly serving the Mornington Peninsula. It connects Sorrento (Mornington Peninsula) to Queenscliff (Bellarine Peninsula) across Port Phillip Bay. The ferry takes approximately 40 minutes. Departures are typically hourly during daylight hours, but check the timetable for seasonal variations. It transports both vehicles and foot passengers, useful for exploring both peninsulas.
No specific exit fees or taxes apply for tourists departing Australia; costs are typically included in airfare. For international flights from Melbourne Airport (MEL), arrive at least 3 hours prior to scheduled departure. Allow extra time during peak seasons or for Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) claims. For domestic flights, arrive 1-2 hours prior. Online check-in is recommended. Standard airport security procedures apply. For international departures, outbound immigration follows security.
Australian citizens and many eligible foreign passport holders use SmartGate.
Allow extra time for Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) claims at MEL.
3 hours before international flights, 1-2 hours for domestic.
Car rental is the most practical and flexible way to explore the Mornington Peninsula. It offers the freedom to visit wineries, secluded beaches, and regional attractions independently. Minimum age for rental is generally 21, with some companies imposing a "young driver surcharge" for under 25s. A valid non-Australian driver's license (in English or with IDP) and a major credit card in the main driver's name for a security deposit are necessary. Major companies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, Enterprise, and Thrifty operate here.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are limited on the peninsula itself. Private operators in towns like Sorrento, Rye, and Mornington offer bicycle rentals for local exploration. No widespread public bicycle sharing programs exist. Driving laws mean vehicles drive on the left. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. No handheld mobile phone use while driving. A 0.05% BAC limit for drivers is strictly enforced.
Wide selection, global presence. Can be pricier. Rates $50 - $120. Hertz Australia.
Reliable, good customer service. Similar pricing to Hertz. Rates $50 - $120. Avis Australia.
Often competitive rates. Slightly older fleet sometimes. Rates $45 - $110. Budget Australia.
Using a Car phone mount for your smartphone provides safe and convenient access to GPS navigation while driving.
