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A 3-day Itinerary For A Perfect Girls Trip in Mornington Peninsula (2026 Update)

A Mornington Peninsula girls trip brings together everything we love about Victoria’s coastal wine country – vineyard lunches overlooking rolling hills, mineral-rich hot springs, artisan food, and breezy seaside moments that feel worlds away from city life.

If you are looking for things to do on the Mornington Peninsula, we’ve curated the ultimate three-day itinerary to help you and your closest friends savour the very best of this remarkable region.

Why Is Mornington Peninsula Ideal for a Girls’ Getaway?

A Mornington Peninsula girls trip offers that rare balance of indulgence and ease — the kind of place where you can shift from ocean breezes to cool-climate Pinot Noir to mineral-rich hot springs without ever feeling rushed. What makes it perfect for a girls weekend:

  • A world-class wine region only 90 minutes from Melbourne: Cool-climate varietals thrive here – elegant Pinot Noir, citrus-driven Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and lesser-known European styles.
  • Relaxation at its finest – thermal bathing, spa rituals, wellness escapes: Home to both Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs, the region offers restorative experiences that feel luxurious yet grounded in nature.
  • Coastal villages with charm and character: From Sorrento’s seaside sophistication to Red Hill’s vineyard serenity, each township offers a different flavour of Peninsula life.
  • Dining shaped by regional produce: Menus highlight local olive oil, fresh seafood, heirloom vegetables, estate-grown ingredients and artisan cheeses – all complemented by thoughtful wine lists.
  • Beautiful beaches and dramatic headlands: Whether it’s soft-sand mornings at Mills Beach or rugged cliff views at Cape Schanck, the coastline is endlessly photogenic.
  • Designed for groups: The Peninsula’s mix of wineries, outdoor experiences, boutique shops and relaxed coastal scenery makes it effortless for groups of women to unwind together, without long travel days.

Day 1 – Vineyard Indulgence, Art & Sunset Drinks

Morning: Wine Tasting at Pt. Leo Estate

  • Address: 3649 Frankston–Flinders Rd, Merricks VIC
  • Hours: 11am–5pm
  • Best for: Lovers of design and Chardonnay with coastal tension
  • Unique experience: Floor-to-ceiling windows framing Western Port Bay and rolling vines
  • Local tip: Book a terrace-table wine tasting – the ocean breeze enhances the aromatics beautifully.

A striking blend of architecture, vineyard views and refined winemaking, Pt. Leo Estate offers a more polished, sculptural take on the Peninsula experience. The cellar door feels like a gallery in itself.

If you’re weighing up where to book lunch, see our guide to the best restaurants in Mornington Peninsula for curated vineyard dining recommendations.

Wine Tasting at Mornington pensiula

Afternoon: Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park

  • Address: Onsite at Pt. Leo Estate
  • Hours: 11am–5pm
  • Best for: Art lovers, photographers and those who enjoy contemplative walks
  • Unique experience: Large-scale contemporary sculptures set against horizon-wide ocean views
  • Local tip: The late-afternoon sun casts warm shadows across the installations — the park becomes a natural light studio.

The Sculpture Park elevates the winery into a cultural destination, blending landscape, light and art in a way that feels both grand and grounding.

Evening: Sunset Drinks at St Andrews Beach Brewery

  • Address: 160 Sandy Rd, Fingal VIC
  • Hours: 11am–7pm (later on weekends)
  • Best for: Groups wanting a relaxed, sun-soaked finish to the day
  • Unique experience: Enjoying craft beer while sitting inside beautifully repurposed horse stalls
  • Local tip: Order a tasting paddle – the lighter styles pair perfectly with sea air drifting across the paddocks.

Housed in a former horse training facility, St Andrews Beach Brewery preserves its original character, with circular stables converted into relaxed drinking spaces.

St Andrews Beach Brewery

Want to go on a wine tour? Consider this full-day plan instead

Morning

  • Pick-Up by Vinetrekker: Start your day by being picked up at your hotel or a convenient central location in Melbourne by Vinetrekker Wine Tours. The full-day tour will take you across some of the best vineyards on the Mornington Peninsula.
  • Yabby Lake Vineyard Tasting: Begin your journey at Yabby Lake Vineyard, one of the region’s top producers of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris. Enjoy a guided tasting, exploring the vineyard’s history and the nuances of its wines.

Late Morning

  • Crittenden Estate Vineyard Tasting: Your next stop is Crittenden Estate, known for its Italian and Iberian grape varieties. Established in 1984, this family-owned winery offers a wide range of unique wines, from cool-climate classics to lesser-known European varieties.

Lunch

  • Lunch at Merricks General Store: Enjoy a delicious lunch at the iconic Merricks General Store, a heritage building turned bistro, art gallery, and wine cellar. Savour a main course from the à la carte menu paired with a glass of local wine, followed by tea or coffee.

Afternoon

  • Quealy Vineyard Tasting: After lunch, head to Quealy Vineyard, known for its quirky take on Italian winemaking styles. Sample their unique blends and enjoy the intimate, welcoming atmosphere of this Balnarring-based vineyard.
  • Ten Minutes by Tractor or Stonier Wines: Depending on your group’s preference, you’ll wrap up the day with a visit to either Ten Minutes by Tractor or Stonier Wines. Both offer exceptional wines and breathtaking views of the Mornington Peninsula vineyards.

Note: The full-day Mornington Peninsula wine tour by Vinetrekker includes transportation, all tastings, lunch, and a guide with local knowledge. It’s a perfect day for wine lovers and a great way to explore the Mornington Peninsula’s wine region without any hassle.

wine tour by Vinetrekker

Day 2 — Thermal Hot Springs, Spa Rituals & Regional Produce

Morning: Peninsula Hot Springs

  • Address: 140 Springs Ln, Fingal VIC
  • Hours: From 5am
  • Best for: Classic geothermal bathing
  • Unique experience: Hilltop pool with 360° panoramas
  • Local tip: Book early morning sessions for tranquillity

Peninsula Hot Springs, one of the best hot springs in Mornington Peninsula, offers over 70 bathing experiences — caves, sauna rituals, stone baths and sweeping views — making it a longstanding wellness favourite.

Peninsula Hot Springs

Afternoon: The Cups Estate

  • Address: 269 Browns Rd, Fingal VIC
  • Hours: 11am–5pm
  • Best for: Vineyard views and Mediterranean-inspired dining
  • Unique experience: Estate-grown olive oils
  • Local tip: Sample the olives harvested from the onsite grove

Nestled among coastal dunes and olive trees, The Cups Estate offers a rustic, produce-led lunch ideal after a morning of bathing.

Evening: Rare Hare

  • Address: 166 Balnarring Rd, Merricks North VIC
  • Hours: Lunch daily; dinner Fri–Sat
  • Best for: Share plates with vineyard ambience
  • Unique experience: Wood-fired, seasonal flavours
  • Local tip: Outdoor seats make dusk particularly memorable

Rare Hare offers a lively dining room set against vineyard views — perfect for long, chatty evenings.

Day 3 — Beaches, Boutiques & Coastal Views

Morning: Walk around Mornington Beach (Mother’s Beach)

  • Address: The Esplanade, Mornington VIC
  • Best for: Sunrise walks
  • Unique experience: Colourful bathing boxes
  • Local tip: Low tide creates wider foreshore and softer reflections

Mornington Main Beach, one of the best beaches in Mornington Peninsula  offers pastel dawn skies, making this walk a serene start to your final day.

Late Morning: Mornington Town Boutiques & Cafés

  • Best for: Artisan makers, homewares and coffee
  • Unique experience: Independent boutiques with coastal flair
  • Local tip: Commonfolk Coffee is a local favourite

Browse boutique stores, galleries and skincare brands — a relaxed way to enjoy the Peninsula’s creative side.

Afternoon: Cape Schanck Lighthouse & Boardwalk

  • Address: Cape Schanck Rd, Cape Schanck VIC
  • Best for: Coastal scenery
  • Unique experience: Dramatic volcanic cliffs
  • Local tip: Wear sturdy shoes — some paths are steep

Cape Schanck’s rugged cliffs and boardwalk trails reveal the Peninsula’s wild, elemental beauty.

Evening: Alatonero

  • Address: 671 Point Nepean Rd, McCrae VIC
  • Hours: Daily from 12pm
  • Best for: Mediterranean share plates
  • Unique experience: Beachfront taverna energy
  • Local tip: Outdoor seating is best at golden hour

Alatonero is a joyful place to end your girls’ getaway with wine and coastal breezes.

Dinner at Alatonero

Where Should Girls Stay During a Trip to Mornington Peninsula?

Choose your base depending on the mood of your group:

  • Jackalope Hotel: A design-forward boutique stay overlooking vines. Best for groups wanting luxury and artful interiors.
  • Lindenderry at Red Hill: A tranquil countryside estate surrounded by gardens. Ideal for those craving restful mornings.
  • Flinders Hotel: A coastal boutique stay close to the water and artisanal shops.

For dining guidance during your stay, we have prepared a curated list of the best winery lunch in Mornington Peninsula – perfect for pairing your accommodation with a memorable midday feast.

Best Time to Visit Mornington Peninsula & What to Pack

Late spring to early summer offers the most pleasant mix of sunshine, mild temperatures and fresh seasonal produce. If you’re planning around weather patterns, our best time to visit Mornington Peninsula guide breaks down conditions month by month.

Things you should pack:

  • Light layers
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Swimwear for the hot springs
  • Smart–casual outfits for winery dining
  • Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
  • A compact crossbody bag for markets and boutiques

Trip Tips for a Smooth Girls Weekend in Mornington Peninsula

  • Book hot springs and winery lunches 2–3 weeks in advance.
  • Choose accommodation with shared living spaces for group connection.
  • Allow downtime – don’t overschedule your days.
  • Share costs via a group app to keep things simple.
  • Create a shared photo album to document your weekend.

Budget Allocation Suggestion for a 3-Day Mornington Peninsula Girls Trip

A girls weekend on the Mornington Peninsula can be tailored to suit different comfort levels, but here’s a realistic guide to help with planning:

Category Estimated Cost (Per Person) What This Covers Local Tips
Accommodation $250–$400 2 nights in a boutique hotel, vineyard stay or shared villa Prices rise in summer; shared villas lower cost per person
Dining & Wine $150–$250 per day Winery lunches, casual dinners, wine tastings, snacks Winery lunches average $60–$90; tastings $15–$30
Hot Springs & Spa $70–$250 Thermal bathing, spa treatments, day packages Sunrise bathing often quieter; book treatments early
Activities $20–$120 Chocolaterie, Arthurs Seat Eagle, lighthouse tours, markets Many coastal walks and beaches are free
Transport $30–$100+ Fuel share, parking, occasional rideshares Rideshares limited in Red Hill; consider one driver or guided tour
Shopping & Extras $50–$150 Local skincare, artisan goods, homewares, gifts Leave room in the budget for unexpected finds
Total Estimated Spend $850–$1,600 Full 3-day girls getaway Varies based on accommodation style and dining choices

Note: All prices are in Australian dollars (AUD).

Ready to Make Your Girls’ Trip to the Mornington Peninsula Unforgettable?

Elevate your girls’ getaway with Vinetrekker’s fully hosted wine experience. Our Mornington Peninsula Food & Wine Day Tour brings together premium tastings, seasonal vineyard dining and the region’s most expressive cool-climate wines.

Book your Mornington Peninsula wine tour and indulge in a day shaped by the Peninsula’s finest vineyards and coastal charm.

Aerial view at Montalto Vineyard, Mornington Peninsula

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mornington Peninsula good for a girls trip?

Yes — the region is one of Victoria’s most popular destinations for women travelling together. It offers wineries, hot springs, beaches, boutique dining and scenic walks, all within easy reach of Melbourne.

How many days do you need for a Mornington Peninsula girls getaway?

Three days is ideal. It allows time for a full wine day, a spa morning, coastal highlights and unhurried dining.

Do you need a car to explore the Mornington Peninsula?

A car makes the trip easier, especially for wineries and coastal areas. If you prefer not to drive, consider a guided wine tour or staying in a walkable area like Sorrento.

What’s the best time of year for a girls weekend in the Mornington Peninsula?

Late spring to early summer (November–December) offers ideal weather for wineries, coastal walks and outdoor dining. Autumn is also excellent for wine lovers.

What are the top things to do on a girls trip?

Popular picks include thermal bathing, winery lunches, coastal walks, boutique shopping in Mornington, art at Pt. Leo Estate, and beach time at Sorrento or Dromana.

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Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we travel through
and recognise the deep connection that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to the land.
We pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging and respect their stories, knowledge and traditions.