The Mornington Peninsula is Victoria’s premier romantic escape — where rugged coastlines meet rolling vineyards, and secluded beaches pair perfectly with fine dining and luxury stays. Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, it offers couples a rare blend of adventure, indulgence, and intimacy.
Whether you’re planning a proposal, celebrating an anniversary, or sneaking away for a spontaneous weekend, these ten romantic experiences promise moments you’ll never forget.
1. Soak Together in Natural Hot Springs
No list of romantic things to do would be complete without Peninsula Hot Springs — the Peninsula’s most iconic couple’s destination. The hillside property features over 20 thermal pools, from intimate cave pools to the hilltop pool with sweeping views.
Book a private bathing pavilion for the ultimate indulgence: your own geothermal pool, day bed, and uninterrupted serenity. For extra peace, visit midweek or choose the adults-only Spa Dreaming Centre. The twilight bathing sessions offer magic — soaking under the stars while the pools glow softly around you.
2. Watch Sunrise from Arthur’s Seat Summit
Few experiences match the romance of watching the sun rise over Port Phillip Bay from Arthur’s Seat’s 305-meter summit. The Arthur’s Seat Eagle gondola begins operating at 10am, but dedicated couples can take the short 20-minute walking track to reach the summit for sunrise—arriving to find yourselves alone above the awakening peninsula.
For those who prefer a gentler start, return during the day for the scenic gondola ride, then explore the Enchanted Adventure Garden at the base—the hedge maze and tree surfing create playful moments together. End with lunch at Arthur’s Restaurant, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame those same spectacular views.
3. Discover Secluded Beaches and Coastal Walks
The peninsula’s ocean-facing coast hides some of Victoria’s most romantic beaches, each offering its own character. Start with Sorrento Back Beach—a sweeping curve of sand backed by dramatic cliffs and ti-tree, where you can walk for kilometers without seeing crowds. The rock pools at the southern end create natural exploration together.
For a true hidden gem, seek out Bushrangers Bay via the walking track from Cape Schanck. This secluded cove, framed by towering cliffs and accessible only by foot, feels like your own private paradise. The Mills Beach to Mornington Pier walk offers something different—a gentle sunset stroll along the bay shore, where calm waters lap against colorful beach boxes and the iconic pier stretches into the bay. Finish with fish and chips from Mornington Pier or a more refined meal at The Rocks Mornington.
Other romantic coastal spots:
- London Bridge rock formation at Portsea (dramatic and wild)
- Flinders Beach for sunrise and the adjacent coastal golf course views
- Rye Beach for calm bay swimming and beachside cafes
4. Indulge in Wine Tasting and Vineyard Lunches
The peninsula’s cool climate vineyards produce exceptional wines, but more importantly, they provide some of Australia’s most romantic settings for couples to share long lunches overlooking vine-covered hills.
- Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove elevates winery dining to an art form. Their sculpture trail winds through 26 acres of vines, wetlands, and contemporary art installations. The restaurant’s seasonal menu showcases estate-grown produce, while their cellar door introduce you to their acclaimed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
- Paringa Estate offers what many consider the peninsula’s most romantic lunch setting. Dine on the veranda overlooking manicured gardens and vines, or inside the elegant restaurant where every table has views. Their wine bar provides a more casual tasting experience.
- Ten Minutes by Tractor brings together three distinct vineyards (Wallis, McCutcheon, and Main Ridge) with a restaurant that’s earned its reputation for romance. The open kitchen, seasonal menu, and carefully curated wine flights make this a special occasion destination.
Create a wine trail: Start with morning coffee at Rare Hare (farm-to-table café with vineyard views), mid-morning tasting at Port Phillip Estate (impressive cellar door with bay views from the hilltop), lunch at one of the above, then afternoon tastings at smaller boutique wineries like Quealy Winemakers or Stonier Wines.
5. Experience the Drama of Cape Schanck Lighthouse
Standing on the windswept cliffs at Cape Schanck, you’ll understand why the Cape Schanck lighthouse has guided ships since 1859. The raw power of Bass Strait crashing against the cliffs, the historic lighthouse standing sentinel, and the boardwalks winding through coastal scrub create an atmosphere of wild romance. In winter, this is a prime spot for whale watching—Southern Right and Humpback whales migrate past from June to September.
The surrounding Cape Schanck Coastal Park provides several walking options. The boardwalk to the lighthouse itself takes just 10 minutes, but the longer Cape Schanck to Bushrangers Bay track (3km one-way) ranks among the peninsula’s most spectacular coastal walks. Pack a picnic to share at one of the clifftop lookouts.
Combine with: Dinner at Riva St Kilda or Polperro Winery on your return journey
6. Wander Through Lavender Fields and Garden Mazes
The peninsula’s gardens offer romantic escapes into beauty and tranquility, perfect for couples who prefer peaceful strolls to adventure activities.
Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens transforms depending on the season. In summer, twenty acres of lavender bloom in purple waves, creating one of the peninsula’s most photographed scenes. Walk hand-in-hand through the fragrant rows, challenge each other in the hedge maze (Australia’s oldest), and explore the rose maze’s 1,200 rose bushes. The circular rose maze has a pavilion at its center—a secluded spot many couples choose for proposals.
Red Hill Lavender Farm offers a more intimate lavender experience. The smaller scale means fewer crowds, and the farm shop sells lavender products. Visit in January when the fields are at peak bloom.
For year-round garden beauty, Heronswood presents a romantic estate garden with heritage roses, kitchen gardens, and a moon gate that frames views perfectly for couples’ photos. The garden shop and café make this easy to spend several hours exploring together.
7. Dine at Intimate Beachside Restaurants
The peninsula’s dining scene ranges from casual beachside cafes to fine dining establishments, but these spots excel at creating romantic ambiance with spectacular settings.
Brae in Birregurra (just north of the peninsula) holds three Michelin stars and ranks among Australia’s finest restaurants, but Pt. Leo Estate brings similar ambition to the peninsula itself. The architectural restaurant overlooks vineyards and sculpture park, with a seasonal tasting menu that celebrates Victorian produce.
For beachside romance, Riva St Kilda in Sorrento offers alfresco dining steps from the water, with Italian-inspired seafood and sunset views. The relaxed atmosphere suits both casual date nights and celebrations.
The Baths provides something truly unique—Middle Eastern-inspired dining in a converted 1920s bathhouse directly on the beach. Watch the sunset over Port Phillip Bay while sharing mezze plates and local wines. In summer, the beach club atmosphere buzzes with energy; in winter, the enclosed spaces feel intimate and cozy.
Hidden gem: Max’s Restaurant at Red Hill Estate combines bay views, seasonal menu, and a more relaxed atmosphere than the famous names—equally romantic but often easier to book.
8. Book a Luxury Accommodation for Two
The peninsula specializes in romantic accommodations, from boutique hotels to private retreats. While this isn’t an “activity,” choosing the right place to stay transforms your entire experience.
- Jackalope Hotel stands as the peninsula’s most striking property—modern architecture, dramatic interiors, and the 8-meter Flinders sculpture rabbit make this an Instagram favorite. The rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking vines, deep soaking tubs, and luxury amenities.
- Stillwater at Crittenden offers just seven luxury suites on a working vineyard. Each suite features a double-sided fireplace, deep spa bath, and private deck overlooking the vines. You can literally open your curtains to vineyard views and walk to the cellar door.
- Lindenderry at Red Hill provides a country estate atmosphere with individually decorated rooms, rolling lawns, and the acclaimed Lindenderry Restaurant on-site.
Budget-friendly romance: The peninsula has dozens of private cottages and beach houses perfect for couples. Search for properties in Rye, Blairgowrie, or Flinders with water views and wood fireplaces.
9. Take a Sunset Dolphin or Sailing Cruise
Experience the peninsula from the water with cruises departing from Sorrento and Mornington piers.
- Polperro Dolphin Swims offers something rare—the chance to actually swim with wild dolphins in Port Phillip Bay. The tours depart early morning, and while swimming isn’t guaranteed, simply watching these playful creatures in their natural habitat creates magical shared moments.
- Moonraker Dolphin Swims provides an adults-only sunset cruise option. Watch the sun set over the bay while dolphins play in the boat’s wake—no swimming required, just sparkling wine and water views.
- Mornington Sailing School offers private yacht charters for couples who want a more exclusive experience. Sail across Port Phillip Bay, watch the Melbourne skyline catch the sunset light, and toast with champagne as your captain handles everything.
- The Queenscliff-Sorrento Ferry provides a simpler but still romantic option—the 40-minute crossing offers beautiful water views and you can explore Queenscliff’s historic streets together before catching the ferry back.
Best time: Summer months (November-March) for calmer seas and warmer swimming
10. Explore Charming Village Streets and Artisan Shops
The peninsula’s small towns each offer distinct character, perfect for leisurely morning strolls browsing galleries, antique shops, and artisan stores together.
Sorrento blends beach town charm with historical significance. Ocean Beach Road lines up galleries, boutiques, and cafes leading to the Continental Hotel’s iconic corner. Browse contemporary art at Sorrento Gallery, discover vintage treasures at Sorrento Vintage, then grab coffee at Lala Land Coffee Co. Don’t miss the Sorrento Museum housed in the limestone mechanics institute—it’s small but tells fascinating stories of the area’s history.
Red Hill village might be tiny, but it punches above its weight for romance. The Red Hill Produce Store sells local gourmet products, while Red Hill Cheese offers tastings of their handcrafted cheeses. Red Hill Gallery showcases local artists, and the Red Hill Brewery provides a casual lunch spot with a relaxed vibe. This is perfect for a lazy Sunday morning browsing together.
Flinders offers a more laid-back coastal village atmosphere. The main street features galleries, homewares stores, and the excellent Flinders Bakehouse. Walk down to Flinders Pier and watch boats bobbing in the yacht club, or drive five minutes to Flinders Golf Club for lunch overlooking the dramatic coastline.
Ready to Plan Your Stay?
Whether you’re soaking under the stars, sipping wine in the hills, or walking hand-in-hand along a quiet beach, the Mornington Peninsula turns simple moments into lasting memories.
If you’re still mapping out your getaway, explore our curated collection of romantic Mornington Peninsula accommodations — each personally vetted and selected by our local team. Booking with us is effortless, and every stay promises comfort, charm, and a touch of indulgence.
