Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula National Park has long been a favourite for summer holidays. Covering 2,686ha, its diverse coastal environments range from the basalt cliffs at Cape Schanck to the native bushland of Greens Bush and the roaring surf of Gunnamatta. Historic Point Nepean has old fortifications interpreted by displays and soundscapes, and spectacular views of the Port Phillip Heads.
Things to see and do:
- Swim or surf at the ocean beaches (for safety swim at patrolled beaches or in rockpools)
- Try the Bushrangers Bay Nature Walk, starting at Cape Schanck, or the Farnsworth Track at Portsea
- Explore Point Nepean's historic fortifications and enjoy fabulous ocean and bay views
- Have a beach picnic
- Walk the ocean beaches or along the Main Creek Track through Greens Bush
-Tour the Cape Schanck Lighthouse (adjacent to the park)
-Enjoy the panoramic view from Arthur's Seat
A wide range of hotels, motels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts and camping and caravan parks are available in and around the townships of Dromana, Rosebud, Rye, Sorrento, Portsea, and Flinders. You can also stay in the lighthouse keeper's quarters at the Cape Schanck Lighthouse.
In the Directory
Photos
- Dolphins - Photo courtesy of Tourism VIC
- Seals - Photo courtesy of Tourism VIC
- Yachts Moored - Photo courtesy of Tourism VIC
Underwater Recommendations
There are so many dive sites to choose from that there will always be a few that suit the current weather conditions. Explore the wrecks of the J-Class submarines. Interact with Australian Fur Seals. The seals are very comfortable around divers and will come up close to check you out. This area offers wonderful shallow water dives, teeming with life. Have a look at the small things and find sea stars, zoanthids, nudibranchs, crustaceans and sea spiders.
Getting There
The 90km drive from Melbourne via the Nepean Highway and Peninsula Freeway takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, go by train from Melbourne to Frankston, then by bus to Portsea. Ferry services operating between Queenscliff and Sorrento cater for car, bicycle and personal transport.
In the Directory
Shopfront
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Tank Rattle
- Stainless Steel Tank Rattle - used to attract attention whilst underwater.
- $AU 39.95
- 10% Cardholder's Discount!
Articles
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Human Dim Sim in space - or how not to use your SMB!
by Ric Mingramm
- A useful safety device for most divers is the surface marker buoy. In essence it is an easily seen surface float which is connected to the diver by means of a thin, strong line, usually carried on a reel.
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Dad is it possible to dive in brown corduroys?
by Ric Mingramm
- ... Well this was to be an exciting one Son Fletcher had recently attained his PADI Advanced Open Water and Enriched Air Specialty qualifications, so this was to be a deep(ish) dive on Nitrox. Conditions were surgy but not too unpleasant on the dive boat ...
