Once called Schnapper Point, this little town was transformed with the entrepreneurial vision of 70 townsfolk to build a pier to attract the growing tourist trade in the 1850s. They won their request and soon the township became the social and economic heart of the Mornington Peninsula, an entry to the region for fishing, supplies, paddle steamers and twice weekly ferries bursting with visitors.
Today Mornington remains a destination worth considering for your next holiday when we can explore again.
Find your perfect sip at any one of the local wine bars or pubs while listening to live music that makes you want to move. An international delight, foodies can discover dining destinations for breakfast, lunch and beyond from every corner of the globe with a plethora of choice – quick tapas bites, long lunches or relaxed shared meals with friends and family.
Meander the monthly markets of Craft Markets Australia at Mornington Racecourse. Open the second Sunday of the month, meet the makers, the bakers and the growers - everything sold is handmade, homemade or homegrown. A foodie delight, make sure you bring your appetite to relax on the lawn and enjoy live music while you tuck in.
Mornington Racecourse is home to iconic local events in the region, race days and Peninsula Picnic amongst those fun days out worth adding to the calendar.
Be inspired by Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery a must-visit destination teeming with exhibitions shaped to spark creativity. While in the industrial precinct, drop in for a beer, or perhaps a paddle at Mornington Peninsula Brewery, a local crafted brew well worth sampling.
As you walk Main Street, remnants of time past are abundant, buildings reminding us of eras gone at the Old Courthouse or Post Office Museum.
Let little ones sample the flavour sensations of gelato, one scoop at a time from any one of the many ice creameries, play at being pirates in Mornington Park on the epic ship of imagination, or dip salty little toes in at Mothers Beach despite your calls to stay dry.
Take your furry friend for a run, leash free year round on Royal Beach, downstairs to a pebble and sandy beach opposite the Royal Hotel.
We look forward to welcoming you back to play like the locals and live the life of a holiday maker with a visit to Mornington when we can all explore again.
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