13 Most Highly Rated Tours & Experiences In Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula is one of Victoria’s top getaways, offering a mix of stunning coastlines, lush gardens, and world-class food and wine. It’s a place where you can go from spotting kangaroos at Seawinds National Park to sipping local wines in boutique cellars, all within a short drive from Melbourne. We love how the region’s diverse experiences let visitors connect with nature, indulge in local flavors, and unwind at hot springs or spas. For example, the Full-Day Penguins and Wildlife Nature Experience from Melbourne combines Australian wildlife with the iconic Penguin Parade, giving you a full day of memorable encounters []. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, relaxing spa days, or gourmet food, this list has something to match your interests.

Quick Overview

Our list features 13 fantastic tours, including wildlife safaris, self-guided bike adventures, luxurious hot springs visits, scenic cruises, and personalized private tours. Some highlight nature and wildlife with visits to Moonlit Sanctuary and Cape Woolamai, while others focus on food and wine, like the Ultimate Mornington Peninsula Food and Wine Small Group Tour. For those seeking active fun, the guided e-bike tour offers scenic trails, while the spa experiences provide complete relaxation. Each experience is carefully selected for its unique appeal and excellent reviews, making sure you find the perfect fit.

1. Full-Day Penguins and Wildlife Nature Experience from Melbourne

This full-day tour takes you outside Melbourne to encounter native Australian wildlife and witness the famous Penguin Parade. It includes visits to the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, where you can feed kangaroos, wallabies, and see Tasmanian Devils. Later, you’ll head to Phillip Island for the Penguin Parade, a magical sight as little penguins waddle ashore after sunset. The tour runs around 12 hours, with pickup options in Melbourne’s city center, making it a hassle-free way to combine wildlife and coastal scenery in one day. The guides are praised for their knowledge and relaxed style. Expect to see koalas, reptiles, and various birds at Moonlit Sanctuary, and enjoy the lively seaside vibe of Cowes.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or wildlife lovers wanting a comprehensive day tour with guaranteed animal encounters and the world-famous penguin parade.

2. The Explorer – Cranbourne Gardens

For a quick, comfortable glimpse of Australian flora, the The Explorer offers a 25-minute bus tour through Cranbourne Gardens’ sprawling landscapes. It’s ideal for families, seniors, or visitors with mobility issues who want to enjoy the diverse Australian plant life without walking miles. The tour features highlights like the Red Sand Garden, Ian Potter Lake, and Arid Garden, with live commentary providing insights into the cultural and ecological significance of each. It’s a great way to get a taste of Australia’s unique landscape before heading further afield or exploring on your own. Guests consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the ability to hop off at various stops.
Bottom Line: An easy, engaging intro to Australian flora that’s perfect for a quick visit or as part of a larger day exploring the gardens.

3. Mornington Peninsula Self-Guided Bike Tour | Food & Wine Region

If cycling is your thing, the Self-Guided Bike Tour lets you explore the region at your own pace, visiting Berry farms, wineries, breweries, and cheese producers. Starting from Arthurs Seat, you’ll enjoy scenic rides along the Red Hill Rail Trail down to Merricks Beach, with plenty of stops to sample local treats. The tour is entirely self-guided, but bikes, helmets, and route info are provided. Highlights include wallaby-spotting in Seawinds National Park and tasting fresh cider at Mock Red Hill Orchard. It’s ideal for those who prefer flexibility and want to indulge in the region’s gourmet offerings on their own schedule. Reviewers appreciate the ease of riding and the chance to explore hidden spots.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, tasty way to see Mornington Peninsula’s food and wine scene while enjoying the outdoors.

4. Mornington Peninsula Day Tour. Your Day Your Way. Your group only

This private, bespoke tour is perfect if you want a personalized experience. The Your Day Your Way takes you around the region with a dedicated guide, customizing stops along the coast, vineyards, or historic villages. You’ll visit highlights like Arthurs Seat and Sorrento, with flexible timing and private transport. Reviews highlight guides like Karin, praised for their local knowledge and friendliness. This tour is ideal for families or groups who want to craft their own itinerary without the fuss of planning. Expect a relaxed pace, with time for coffee, sightseeing, and exploring hidden corners.
Bottom Line: Offers tailored sightseeing with the comfort of private transport for travelers who value customization.

5. Ultimate Mornington Peninsula Food and Wine Small Group Tour

For a full day dedicated to gourmet delights, the Ultimate Food and Wine Tour delivers visits to top wineries like Pt. Leo Estate and Stonier Wines. The small group setting ensures personalized tastings and a delicious 2-course lunch featuring local produce. Enthusiasts love how guides like Nicci tailor the experience based on their preferences, and reviews often mention the excellent quality of wines and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The tour runs about 8 hours, making it suitable for those who want to indulge in the region’s culinary scene without rushing. It’s best for wine lovers who appreciate expert tastings and a relaxed lunch in beautiful settings.
Bottom Line: A rewarding experience for wine and food connoisseurs wanting a curated, intimate tour.

6. Mornington Peninsula guided e-bike tour

If you prefer active exploration, the Guided E-bike Tour combines scenic trails with the ease of pedal-assist bikes. Covering Arthurs Seat State Park, Merricks village, and the Red Hill Rail Trail, this tour offers a perfect mix of nature and light exercise. Bikes, helmets, and a skilled guide make it accessible for beginners, with reviews praising how easy and fun it is—even for those new to e-bikes. Highlights include stunning views from Arthurs Seat and the chance to explore local farms and vineyards en route. It’s suitable for active travelers wanting a flexible, eco-friendly way to see the region.
Bottom Line: A fun, low-effort way to enjoy Mornington Peninsula’s landscapes on two wheels.

7. From Melbourne: Hop On Hop Off Mornington Peninsula

This flexible hop-on-hop-off service offers the freedom to explore Mornington Peninsula at your own pace. Starting from Melbourne, you can choose from numerous stops like Crittenden Wines, Paringa Estate, and Mornington itself. It’s an economical option, costing around $66.67, and perfect for travelers who want a DIY approach to wine tasting, sightseeing, or simply enjoying the coast without a strict schedule. Reviews highlight its convenience and the friendly driver, with the ability to tailor your day with multiple stops. Keep in mind some venues require reservations, so plan ahead.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, flexible way to see the region on your own terms.

8. Peninsula Hot Springs Spa Experience and Express Transfer Shuttle

This luxurious spa day at Peninsula Hot Springs offers over 50 bathing experiences, from geothermal pools to massages. The included transfer from Melbourne makes it easy to relax without driving, and reviews emphasize how well-organized and comfortable the experience is. You can soak in mineral-rich waters while enjoying views of the coastline—perfect for unwinding. The 6.5-hour trip is best suited for those wanting a spa-focused escape, with optional treatments available if booked in advance. It’s a great option for couples or anyone craving a pampering day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for relaxation and wellness, especially if you’re short on time and want a seamless experience.

9. Ultimate Peninsula Adventure: Stand Up Paddle, Hot Springs, Hike, Lunch & Winery

For the active traveler, this all-in-one adventure combines paddleboarding, bushwalking, hot springs, and wine tasting. The tour includes SUP at Port Phillip Bay, a picnic lunch, and a visit to Peninsula Hot Springs. Reviewers love the variety and how smoothly everything is organized, with many saying it offers a perfect balance of activity and relaxation. It’s suited for those who want an energetic day with plenty of diverse experiences in nature and vineyard settings. Towels, sunscreen, and lunch are included, making it hassle-free.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, active day for those looking to pack in multiple experiences without the planning fuss.

10. Cape Woolamai Sightseeing Cruise from San Remo

This 1-hour sightseeing cruise offers a different view of Phillip Island’s coast, focusing on Cape Woolamai’s stunning cliffs and marine wildlife. Perfect for short visits, the cruise includes chances to see seals, seabirds, and possibly dolphins, with informative commentary from the captain. The reviews mention the scenic scenery and the comfort of indoor/outdoor seating, making it a great option for families or travelers with limited time. The cruise highlights the region’s rugged coastline and marine life in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: A compact, scenic boat trip ideal for a quick, immersive coastal experience.

11. Peninsula Hot Springs and Beach Boxes Day Trip from Melbourne

Combining hot springs relaxation with iconic Bathing Boxes, this day trip is ideal for those who want to experience both wellness and summer sights. The tour includes a generous 3-hour soak at Peninsula Hot Springs, plus a photo stop at the famous colorful beach boxes. The easy transportation and reviews praising the comfortable bus and friendly guide make it a popular choice. It suits travelers seeking a balance of leisure and sightseeing, with enough time to unwind and take photos.
Bottom Line: A rewarding mix of relaxation and iconic photo opportunities.

12. Chef Jacqui’s French & Indigenous Australian Cooking Experience

Food lovers will appreciate this intimate cooking class with Chef Jacqui, who shares her expertise in French and Indigenous Australian cuisine. Spend about 5 hours preparing dishes like crepes, kangaroo steaks, and scallops, then enjoy eating what you’ve made. Reviewers mention Jacqui’s warmth and generosity with her knowledge, making it both educational and delicious. It’s perfect for culinary enthusiasts or couples seeking a hands-on experience. The small group setting ensures personalized attention.
Bottom Line: An enriching, hands-on cooking class ideal for foodies wanting authentic flavors and skills to take home.

13. Whisky Distillery Tour with Whisky Tasting & Cheese Platter

For those with a taste for spirits, this whisky distillery tour offers an hour and 40 minutes of guided insight into whisky production, paired with tastings of four single malts and a cheese platter. The owner-distiller shares detailed knowledge of the process, making it an educational treat. Reviewers appreciate the passionate presentation and the chance to test whisky straight from the cask. It’s best suited for adults who enjoy spirits and want to learn about local distilling traditions, with a small takeaway bottle included.
Bottom Line: A craft spirits experience for whisky lovers keen to learn more about Victorian distilling.

How to Choose Your Perfect Mornington Peninsula Tour

When selecting among these options, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For example, if you want a full wildlife adventure with a sunset spectacle, the Full-Day Penguins and Wildlife Nature Experience is unmatched []. If food and wine are your passion, the Ultimate Food and Wine Tour or private Your Day Your Way offers tailored, intimate experiences. For relaxation, the Peninsula Hot Springs Spa Experience provides an indulgent day, while active travelers might prefer the guided e-bike tour or stand-up paddleboard combo.

Booking early is wise, especially for popular experiences like the Penguin Parade or Hot Springs, particularly during peak seasons. Think about combining a couple of shorter tours if your schedule allows, such as the Cape Woolamai cruise paired with an afternoon at the Bathing Boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Mornington Peninsula offers a wide range of memorable experiences, whether you’re craving wildlife, scenic beauty, gourmet tastings, or pure relaxation. For a well-rounded day, the Full-Day Penguins and Wildlife Experience or the Ultimate Adventure provide action-packed options, while couples or wellness seekers may prefer the Spa Day or private bespoke tours. Budget travelers will find the Cranbourne Gardens or Hop On Hop Off tours excellent choices, offering flexibility without breaking the bank.

No matter what your travel style, these tours bring the region’s best to life. Be sure to book early, especially during busy times, and prepare for a trip full of authentic Australian charm, delicious flavors, and stunning scenery.