The Mornington Peninsula coastal resorts of Dromana, Rosebud and Rye will tempt you to abandon city life with their safe bay beaches, ocean surf beaches, and great golf courses.

Travelling to Dromana, Rosebud and Rye, just an hour from Melbourne, is an annual summer tradition for many Melbourne families thanks to the carnival atmosphere and safe bay swimming. There is a wide range of accommodation to suit every holidaymaker, from beach camping spots to self-contained cottages, luxury abodes and B&Bs.

Sandbars extending up to 200 metres from the shore and the clear, calm water of the beautiful bayside beaches create ideal conditions for safe swimming. Explore the Octopus’s Garden underwater marine trail beneath Rye pier, or set out into the depths of the bay on a charter boat or hired catamaran. Surfers head directly to Gunnamatta Ocean Beach for some of Victoria’s best waves.

Take a break from the beaches to tour Dromana’s lauded wineries, including Dromana Estate, Hickinbotham of Dromana, and Crittenden Estate. Enjoy drinks and dinner in the growing crop of sophisticated wine bars and cafes from Dromana through to Rye.

You will also find some of the region’s best golf courses, with major resort-style courses like Moonah Links or the Dunes Golf course only minutes away.

Stroll around the magnificent grounds of Heronswood with its sweeping views of Port Phillip Bay and garden-grown produce. Tour McCrae Homestead, one of Victoria’s oldest country homes for some local history.

The Heronswood Garden Festival is held in March and November. The Peninsula Short Film Festival is held every February.

Rye is approximately one hour from Melbourne along the coastline from Melbourne via Frankston. For a faster journey take the M1 and join the Eastlink tollway, the Mornington Peninsula Freeway and then the Moorooduc Freeway.