Staying local these school holidays on the Mornington Peninsula
School holidays always bring the same question: “What are we doing today?” For many families, the first thought is a trip to the city. Others start thinking about trips interstate or overseas. But is it really worth the traffic, the stress and the cost when the Mornington Peninsula already has everything your family needs?
This holiday, skip the hassle and enjoy what’s close to home. With open spaces, creative activities, and family-friendly attractions, the Peninsula is made for school holiday fun without the fuss.
Room to move
One of the best things about staying local is the freedom it gives families. No queues, no expensive parking, no long distances. Instead, there’s space to play, ride and explore.
The Bay Trail along Port Phillip Bay is perfect for scooters and bikes, while the Cape Schanck Lighthouse Reserve and Boardwalk offers families delightful walks with fresh air, ocean and lighthouse views and the chance to spot local wildlife in their natural habitat. At Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary, kids can go beachcombing, poking around in rockpools for crabs, shells and other marine life.
Local tip: Grab a walking map from the Visitor Information Centre to discover trails and reserves you might not have tried yet.
If you’re exploring the coast, keep an eye on tides and slippery rocks, and remind kids to tread carefully around marine life.
Experiences you won’t find in the city
The Peninsula shines during the holidays thanks to local businesses creating experiences families won’t find anywhere else.
At Pt Leo Estate, kids can join the Sip and Sketch workshop, taking inspiration from the sculpture park. Or at Jackalope in Merricks, budding bakers will enjoy the Rare Hare Little Bunnies Cookie Making Classes, while Steph’s Mini Chefs Cooking Class gives children the chance to roll up their sleeves and have fun in the kitchen.
Our attractions keep families coming back too. Moonlit Wildlife Sanctuary offers close encounters with native animals, while The Big Goose combines farmyard fun with reptile shows. At Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens and Enchanted Adventure kids can enjoy the gardens and test their sense of direction as they fine their way through tricky mazes. Boneo Discovery Park offers wetlands with outdoor play, while Locked In Escape Rooms is running its holiday-special Duck Invasion (22 September – 5 October), complete with hidden ducks, prizes and giveaways, perfect for families who love a challenge. And if you’re after a nostalgic touch, you can’t go past the heritage steam trains at Mornington Tourist Railway.
Families with older kids or teens might like a round of golf or two, Mount Martha Public Golf Course offers affordable rounds and fun indoor golf simulators.
Local tip: For the full program of workshops, special events, and holiday activities, check the Events and Activities calendar.
Affordable days out
Not every holiday outing needs a big budget. Some of the most rewarding days are the simplest.
Take a walk along the famous Millionaires’ Walk to enjoy sweeping bay views, or pack a picnic for Coolart Wetlands and Homestead, where kids can explore walking tracks and spot birdlife. The Peninsula’s playgrounds are destinations in themselves, with coastal play spaces overlooking the water, skate bowls for active kids, and bike-friendly parks that can fill an afternoon.
For a mix of nature and heritage, head to The Briars in Mount Martha. You can wander the homestead grounds, stroll the sanctuary boardwalks, or join one of the holiday programs often held there.
The Peninsula’s libraries are another great option. With free story times, craft sessions and interactive events, they’re perfect for rainy days or when you’re after something quieter.
And of course, food is always part of the adventure. Fish and chips by the pier, pizza at a winery while the kids run on the lawn, or a hot chocolate stop in the hinterland — sometimes it’s the little things that make a day feel special.
Local tip: Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for weekly school holiday ideas, local tips and updates from across the Peninsula.
Markets and villages to explore
Markets and villages bring the Peninsula to life during the holidays. A morning at the Hill and Ridge Community Market in Red Hill or one of the smaller township markets is a chance to meet makers, taste fresh produce and soak up the local atmosphere. Kids enjoy wandering the stalls, sampling treats and joining in the buzz of a community event.
Our villages and townships are worth setting aside time for too. Mornington and Sorrento mix cafés, shops and foreshore walks, while Flinders and Hastings bring their own charm with galleries, jetties and family-friendly dining. Each town has its own personality — and exploring them is one of the easiest ways to spend a day without a big plan.
Local tip: Check the Markets page before you head out.
For more information on things to do these school holidays, visit Explore the Mornington Peninsula or drop into the Mornington or Dromana Visitor Information Centres for local advice, free maps and the latest what’s on information.