Mornington Peninsula: SUP, Hike, & Hot Springs Trip w/ Lunch

If you’re looking for a day that combines adventure, scenery, and relaxation in one neat package, this Mornington Peninsula tour might just be what you’re after. From paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters to savoring local wines and unwinding at a thermal hot springs, it offers a well-rounded taste of what makes this part of Victoria so appealing.

What really catches our attention is how this trip balances active experiences like SUP and coastal hikes with leisurely indulgences like wine tasting and soaking in hot springs. Plus, it’s a small-group experience, which means you’ll get a more personalized touch—something often missing in bigger tours.

One thing to consider is the physical activity involved; it requires a moderate level of fitness and isn’t suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility issues. Still, for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor fun and downtime, this day trip tends to hit the sweet spot.

Overall, it appeals most to travelers who want a diverse, engaging day out that showcases the natural beauty and local flavors of the Mornington Peninsula. If you love combining active pursuits with relaxing moments, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary offers both adventure and relaxation, ideal for a full-day escape.
• Small group format ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Diverse activities include paddleboarding, hikes, wine tasting, and hot springs.
• Incredible scenery at beaches, coastal trails, and scenic viewpoints.
• Good value, considering the variety of experiences packed into one day.
• Weather dependent, so be prepared for possible schedule changes if conditions aren’t ideal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Experience

This tour offers a comprehensive look at the Mornington Peninsula, blending nature, wildlife, food, and wellness into one seamless day. It’s thoughtfully crafted to give you a true sense of this stunning region, not just the typical highlights but also some hidden gems.

Starting at McCrae Lighthouse and Port Phillip Bay

Your adventure kicks off next to the iconic McCrae Lighthouse, a lovely spot with panoramic ocean views. From here, you’ll head out onto the water for stand-up paddleboarding—a favorite among many travelers. The lesson and guided tour are suitable even for beginners, thanks to the certified instructor. Keep an eye out for dolphins—many guests report spotting these playful creatures nearby, adding a magical touch to the experience.

Paddleboarding and Marine Encounters

The SUP segment lasts around 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to get comfortable on the board while enjoying the calm, clear waters of Port Phillip Bay. We loved the way this activity combines gentle exercise with breathtaking scenery. If you’re new to paddleboarding, the lesson ensures you’ll feel confident, and if you’re already experienced, it’s a relaxing way to see the coastline from a different perspective.

Coastal Hike and Wildlife Spotting

After your water adventure, the trip continues with a drive to the Mornington Peninsula National Park. Here, you’ll have about two hours for a guided bushwalk or coastal hike — perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the natural beauty. Expect sweeping ocean vistas, rugged cliffs, and chances to spot wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas. The hike is manageable for most, but some level of fitness is needed, especially if you want to enjoy the full experience.

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Delicious Local Lunch

Next up is a highlight: a picnic lunch filled with fresh, regional produce at a scenic beach viewpoint. The lunch is thoughtfully prepared with ingredients sourced directly from an organic farm gate, so it’s a good opportunity to taste the region’s flavors and appreciate the local craftsmanship. Many travelers mention how this meal offers a satisfying break and a chance to relax with stunning ocean views.

Wine Tasting with a View

Post-lunch, the journey takes you to a relaxed winery with panoramic vistas—an ideal setting for sampling some of the best wines the peninsula has to offer. The tasting experience is laid-back, and the views make it even more memorable. Many guests comment on the quality of the wines and the friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Relaxation at Peninsula Hot Springs

The grand finale is a two-hour soak at the renowned Peninsula Hot Springs. Set amidst natural surroundings, the thermal pools and saunas provide a soothing end to your day. There are over 50 bathing experiences, from geothermal pools to ice caves and hammocks. Guests often describe it as a peaceful, almost meditative experience—a perfect way to unwind after a busy day of activities.

Return to McCrae Lighthouse

Your day concludes with a scenic drive back to the starting point, leaving you with plenty of photos and memories of a well-rounded adventure.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits combined with leisure. It’s a good pick for travelers who want to sample a bit of everything—beach activities, nature, wine, and wellness—without needing to organize each part separately.

It’s ideal for adventure lovers who don’t mind moderate physical activity and are comfortable with water-based activities. If you’re traveling with children under 12, or have mobility issues, you might need to look for alternatives.

For couples, friends, or even solo travelers looking for a day of exploring and unwinding, this trip offers a fantastic taste of the region’s highlights without feeling rushed or superficial.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Meet at McCrae Lighthouse

The tour begins at this iconic, picturesque spot. Its location by the beach offers an immediate sense of the coastal vibe that defines Mornington Peninsula. From here, the group heads out on the water for paddleboarding.

SUP in Port Phillip Bay

The paddleboarding session is one of the most praised parts, with reviews highlighting the friendly, knowledgeable guide. Many describe the experience as “well worth what we paid,” with some mentioning that they saw dolphins nearby. Even if you’re new, the instructor’s full lesson helps you get comfortable on the board, making it accessible for beginners.

Coastal and Bushwalks

Post-paddle, you’ll head inland to explore the peninsula’s natural beauty. The guided hike takes you through eucalypt forests, along coastal trails, and to secluded bays with natural rock pools. Expect to see native wildlife and enjoy views that make every step worthwhile. The walk is flexible; some opt for a bushwalk, while others choose a coastal trail with ocean vistas.

Picnic Lunch

The lunch stop is thoughtfully curated, focusing on local produce and regional flavors. Many reviews emphasize the quality and freshness of the ingredients. The setting—a scenic beach viewpoint—adds a special touch to the meal, making it more than just fuel for the day.

Vineyard Visit and Wine Tasting

In the afternoon, the tour visits a “laid-back” winery with sweeping views. The wine tasting is relaxed, with many guests praising the quality of wines and the friendly staff. It’s a great way to slow down after the active morning and enjoy some of the region’s best vintages.

Relax at Peninsula Hot Springs

Nothing beats ending a day with a soak. The hot springs complex offers over 50 experiences, including geothermal pools and saunas. Guests consistently mention how peaceful and restorative the experience is. It’s a perfect way to unwind, reflect, and soak away any residual fatigue.

Return and Reflection

The trip wraps up with a scenic drive back to McCrae Lighthouse, giving you some time to process and enjoy the coastal views one last time.

Is It Good Value?

Considering the diversity of activities packed into this single day—paddleboarding, hiking, wine tasting, and relaxing hot springs—the price seems quite reasonable. The small group size ensures personal attention, which many travelers appreciate. The inclusion of a regional, fresh lunch adds further value, especially when compared to standalone activities that might cost more separately.

Our Overall Impression

We love how this tour manages to blend adventure with relaxation, showcasing Mornington Peninsula’s natural beauty, culinary delights, and wellness options. The mix of guided activities and free time means you get both structure and flexibility, making it suitable for most travelers who enjoy being active but also want to unwind.

The knowledgeable guides receive high praise, often described as friendly and well-informed, making the experience both educational and fun. The stunning vistas and chances to see local wildlife add a special element that many visitors cherish.

That said, it’s worth noting that this trip does require some physical effort, so it’s best suited to those in moderate health and fitness levels. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit.

Overall, if you’re after a day that hits all the right notes—adventure, scenic beauty, good food, and relaxation—this tour offers a well-rounded and memorable experience.

FAQs

Is paddleboarding suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a full lesson with a certified SUP instructor, making it accessible even if you’ve never tried it before.

How long does the paddleboarding activity last?
It lasts about 1.5 hours, giving ample time to learn, practice, and enjoy the water.

Are the hikes suitable for all fitness levels?
The hikes are guided and manageable for most, but some physical fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the walks and trails.

Can I expect to see wildlife?
Yes, many guests report spotting dolphins during paddleboarding and native animals like kangaroos and wallabies during hikes.

What’s included in the lunch?
A picnic with fresh, regional produce, sourced from an organic farm gate, served at a scenic beach viewpoint.

Is there enough time at the hot springs?
Yes, you get around two hours to relax and enjoy the over 50 bathing experiences available.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, change of clothes, rain gear, water shoes, and sportswear are recommended.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Not suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility impairments, due to the nature of activities.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
If weather conditions aren’t suitable, some activities like paddleboarding might be replaced with inland options such as biking.

How many people will be on the tour?
It’s a small group, limited to nine participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

In Short: This full-day Mornington Peninsula tour offers a lively mix of ocean adventures, scenic hikes, wine tasting, and restorative hot springs—all wrapped up in a friendly, small-group setting. If you’re into active days with plenty of downtime, it’s a solid choice for a memorable escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: