Few places capture coastal beauty like the Mornington Peninsula — where wild ocean cliffs meet calm bay beaches and winding trails reveal one postcard view after another. Whether you’re after a quiet stroll or a challenging hike, these are the most breathtaking coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula and lookout spots worth adding to your itinerary.
1. Cape Schanck Boardwalk (Cape Schanck)
One of the most iconic coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula is the Cape Schanck Boardwalk. It delivers dramatic views over Bass Strait and Pulpit Rock. The 1.2-kilometre loop features timber steps descending to the beach, allowing visitors to experience the raw energy of the southern coastline up close. The nearby Cape Schanck Lighthouse is a must-see, offering guided tours and a fascinating look into the region’s maritime history.
This area is perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and those who appreciate Victoria’s rugged seascapes. Visit during late afternoon to catch the golden light that transforms the cliffs and ocean below.
2. Bushrangers Bay Walk (Cape Schanck to Flinders)
Starting from the Cape Schanck car park, the Bushrangers Bay Walk is a 5-kilometre return trail that rewards you with panoramic coastal views, windswept heathlands, and one of the most secluded beaches on the Mornington Peninsula. The trail winds through lush native vegetation before opening up to the pristine sands of Bushrangers Bay—a true highlight of coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula
It’s a favourite among locals and visitors for its peaceful atmosphere and the chance to spot kangaroos and native birds. The rock pools here are striking, though swimming is not advised due to strong currents. For the adventurous, continue the walk toward Flinders for even more spectacular vantage points.
3. London Bridge to Portsea Walk (Portsea)
A scenic 2.5-kilometre trail linking London Bridge Lookout and Portsea Surf Beach, this walk showcases dramatic limestone formations and turquoise water views. The London Bridge rock arch itself is a popular photo stop, and the short track along the coastline offers constant ocean vistas. This route is one of the essential short coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula.
This section of the Mornington Peninsula National Park is ideal for a morning walk followed by lunch in Portsea. Combine your visit with nearby Point Nepean National Park to make a full day of coastal exploration.
4. Point Nepean National Park (Portsea)
At the very tip of the peninsula lies Point Nepean National Park, home to some of Victoria’s most impressive coastal lookouts. The historical depth and natural beauty make the trails here unique among coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula. Trails like the Fort Nepean Walk and Cheviot Hill Lookout combine natural beauty with fascinating history — from old military tunnels to panoramic ocean views where Port Phillip Bay meets Bass Strait.
Cheviot Hill, in particular, is a standout, offering sweeping views and a connection to one of Australia’s most historically significant sites. Entry fees apply for vehicle access, but the walks are well maintained and suitable for most fitness levels.
5. Arthurs Seat Summit and Dromana Lookout (Arthurs Seat)
For a commanding view of the bay, head to Arthurs Seat Summit, the highest point on the Mornington Peninsula at 305 metres above sea level. While not a beach trail itself, the summit is the perfect starting or ending point for many coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula, offering a comprehensive perspective of the land and sea you are about to explore. From the summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views stretching across Port Phillip Bay to the Melbourne skyline and even the You Yangs on clear days.
You can reach the top via the Arthurs Seat Eagle, a scenic gondola, or drive up and stop at the Dromana Lookout on the way for another excellent photo opportunity. The summit gardens and picnic areas make it a peaceful place to unwind after a morning of exploring.
6. Greens Bush Lookout (Main Ridge)
Located within the Greens Bush section of the Mornington Peninsula National Park near Main Ridge, this hidden gem offers tranquil bushland trails with glimpses of the coastline. It represents the quieter, hinterland side of the coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula spectrum. The lookout provides elevated views through dense eucalypt forest — a great choice for those seeking a quieter experience away from the main tourist spots.
Wildlife sightings are common here, and the walking tracks link to the Two Bays Walking Track, giving more seasoned hikers plenty of terrain to explore.
7. Two Bays Walking Track (Dromana to Cape Schanck)
Stretching 26 kilometres from Dromana to Cape Schanck, the Two Bays Walking Track is the Peninsula’s most challenging and rewarding long-distance trail, a definitive option among the coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula. It traverses a diverse range of landscapes, from coastal heath to towering woodland, and offers multiple entry points for shorter walks.
Sections through Baldry’s Crossing and Greens Bush are particularly scenic, with wildflowers in spring and ocean glimpses throughout. This trail is well-marked, ideal for those who want to experience the region’s natural diversity in one extended adventure.
8. Mills Beach to Dromana Foreshore Walk (Mornington to Dromana)
For a gentler, bayside stroll, the Mills Beach to Dromana Foreshore Walk offers calm waters, colourful bathing boxes, and beautiful sunset views over Port Phillip Bay. This easy path provides one of the most accessible and relaxing coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula.
Starting at Mills Beach in Mornington, the pathway follows the coastline past small jetties and picnic areas, ending at Dromana’s lively foreshore. This is a great walk for families or those staying nearby in luxury accommodation who want to enjoy a relaxed evening along the bay.
9. McCrae Lighthouse Reserve (McCrae)
A lesser-known lookout, McCrae Lighthouse Reserve offers peaceful views across Port Phillip Bay and a bit of maritime history. The heritage-listed lighthouse, built in 1874, is one of the tallest on the Australian mainland and still guides ships today. The serene atmosphere makes it a perfect, quick detour on a day exploring the best coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula.
The grassy reserve surrounding it is perfect for quiet reflection and seaside picnics. Located just below Arthurs Seat, it’s easily accessible and makes a great addition to your coastal driving route between Dromana and Rosebud.
10. The Cups Lookout (Fingal)
Set among the coastal dunes of Fingal, The Cups Lookout overlooks the wild ocean beaches between Rye and St Andrews. It offers a unique vantage point on the rugged side of the coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula. The name refers to the undulating “cups and saucers” dune formations, and from the lookout you can see surfers riding consistent waves below.
This area is near The Cups Estate Winery and Peninsula Hot Springs, making it a perfect spot to visit before or after a relaxing spa session or wine tasting.
Other Coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula
- Diamond Bay (Sorrento): Known for its scenic rock formations and turquoise waters, ideal for photographers and coastal explorers.
- Number 16 Beach (Rye): A rugged surf beach surrounded by walking trails and rocky platforms — great for coastal views.
- Koonya Ocean Beach (Blairgowrie): A quieter coastal spot with cliffside walking paths and panoramic views of the wild ocean.
- Bridgewater Bay (Blairgowrie): Famous for its large rock pool and natural amphitheatre-shaped cliffs, popular in summer.
- Flinders Blowhole (Flinders): A short boardwalk leads to dramatic cliff views and the blowhole itself, especially impressive during high tide.
Plan Your Coastal Adventure
From windswept cliffs to serene bay shores, coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula capture the best of coastal Victoria. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, these destinations promise unforgettable views and a deep connection to the region’s natural beauty.
If you’re still figuring out your itinerary, and need accommodation that offers easy access to the best coastal walks on the Mornington Peninsula, we’ve got some of the best places to stay in Mornington where you can truly enjoy the experience. Booking with us is easy — every accommodation we recommend is carefully vetted, trusted, and curated by our local team.
