Melbourne: Mornington Peninsula & Hot Springs Tour 8 pax max

Discover the Best of Mornington Peninsula in a Day

If you’re after a balanced mix of scenic beauty, gentle adventure, and relaxation, the Melbourne: Mornington Peninsula & Hot Springs Tour offers just that. Priced at $184 per person for around 10 hours, this small-group experience (limited to 8 people) takes you from the bustling city to the quiet, coastal wilderness of Victoria’s most loved peninsula. Led by friendly guides, you’ll explore dramatic coastlines, enjoy panoramic vistas from Arthurs Seat, hike along rugged coastal paths, and unwind in soothing hot springs.

What we love about this tour is the intimate size, which promises personalized attention and a relaxed pace, perfect for those who want a deeper connection with the landscapes. The guided hikes to Bushrangers Bay and Cape Schanck give a real sense of place—featuring wild oceans, rocky bays, and native wildlife—that often feels like discovering a secret corner of Australia. Plus, ending the day soaking in Peninsula Hot Springs provides an ideal mix of adventure and unwinding, especially after a full day of exploration.

A potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to plan accordingly or enjoy a meal at one of the award-winning cafes en route. Also, because of the small group size and outdoor focus, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with walking and who enjoy fresh air and scenic vistas. If you’re looking for a day trip that combines light hiking with relaxing hot springs, this tour hits the mark.

This experience really suits those who appreciate authentic outdoor scenery, small-group intimacy, and a well-balanced itinerary. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or someone craving a relaxing day in nature, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Limiting to 8 participants for a more personal touch
• Diverse highlights: From panoramic views to rugged coastal hikes and relaxing hot springs
• Guided hikes: Enjoy the scenic beauty without needing prior bushwalking experience
• Flexible schedule for unwinding: Two hours at Peninsula Hot Springs to soak and relax
• Includes entrance fees: Hot springs, national park, and guided walk are covered
• Additional costs: Lunch is not included, so plan for a cafe stop or bring snacks

In-Depth Review of the Mornington Peninsula & Hot Springs Tour

Getting Started – Meeting and Transportation

The tour kicks off at the Undercover Taxi Rank on St Kilda Road, a convenient spot just a short walk from Flinders Street Station, making it easy to meet your guide and hop into a modern, air-conditioned VW Caravelle. With a maximum of 8 people, you’ll find this setup both comfortable and intimate—perfect for lively conversations or peaceful reflection during the drive.

Having small-group transport means you’ll avoid the chaos of large bus trips, and the modern vehicle ensures a smooth ride through Victoria’s scenic countryside. The timing generally favors a morning start, so you’ll head out fresh and ready for a full day of exploration.

First Stop – Arthurs Seat: Panoramic Views and Morning Tea

Your first vantage point is Arthurs Seat, famed for its sweeping vistas over Port Phillip Bay. From the summit, you’ll see the sparkling waters stretching out toward the horizon—a stunning introduction to the day. The guide might offer some insights into the area’s history or geology, but mostly, you’ll just enjoy the breathtaking views and the cool breeze.

Here, you get a taste of what’s to come—beautiful scenery and a chance to stretch your legs. The stop includes a light morning tea, which gives everyone a moment to take in the scenery and snap some photos.

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Coastal Hike to Bushrangers Bay

Next, the highlight for many is the 5km return hike to Bushrangers Bay. This trail is a true showcase of the coast’s rugged beauty, with rocky cliffs, wild oceans pounding the shore, and a lighthouse at the end that makes for a perfect photo spot. The path is on a hardened or compacted surface, making it accessible for most and only gently undulating.

Along the way, you’ll spot native kangaroos and listen to the native bird songs—a reminder of the area’s thriving wilderness. The route weaves through undulating terrain and often offers stunning views of the rocky coastline and distant headlands. It’s a moderate walk but not overly challenging, with the guide providing local insights and pointing out flora and fauna.

One reviewer, Linda from the US, called the experience “a great day,” especially appreciating the guide’s hospitality. Another guest mentioned how the walk offered “unreal coastal scenery,” which truly captures how striking the area is.

Cape Schanck and Lighthouse Walk

After returning from the hike, the group heads to Cape Schanck for a shorter, more relaxed walk around the lighthouse precinct. The area is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and picturesque lighthouse, often surrounded by crashing ocean waves. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for soaking in the natural beauty of the coast.

Lunch Break at an Award-Winning Cafe

Refueling is essential after a few hours of hiking, and the tour stops at a highly acclaimed local café. While the tour doesn’t include lunch, you’ll likely find that the cafes’ reputation for delicious food matches their reputation for scenic views. This is a wonderful chance to sample regional flavors and enjoy some downtime before the next adventure.

Unwind at Peninsula Hot Springs

The final leg of the tour is at the Peninsula Hot Springs, a renowned natural hot springs and outdoor spa destination. Here, you’ll spend about two hours soaking in the warm mineral pools, which is a perfect way to relax tired muscles and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Guests often describe the hot springs as “awesome,” and the experience is enhanced by the tranquil environment and beautiful outdoor setting. The hot springs are equipped with towels, and the natural mineral waters are said to be beneficial for relaxation and wellbeing.

Returning and Reflection

The tour concludes back at the starting point after a full day of scenic exploration and relaxation. The experience provides a good balance of activity and downtime, making it suitable for a variety of travelers, especially those who appreciate authentic outdoor experiences.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $184 per person, the tour includes most of the major elements—guided hikes, entrance fees to the hot springs and national park, towels, snacks, and comfortable transportation. When you consider the cost of individual entries, transportation, and guided commentary, it’s a good deal for the value and quality of the experience.

The small group size allows for a more personalized experience, and the knowledgeable guides, like Andrew and Curtis, are often praised for their friendly approach and insights. As one reviewer noted, “The guide is joyful and has a good humour… and we loved how they waited for us when we were tired.” This personalized touch can make a big difference in how memorable your day becomes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who enjoy light physical activity in scenic outdoor settings but don’t want to hike for hours. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing yet active day, especially if they’re interested in coastal landscapes, native wildlife, and natural hot springs.

While not designed for those with limited mobility, the trail surfaces are manageable, and the pace is moderate. If you’re a couple, family, or solo traveler who enjoys small-group adventures with a relaxed vibe, this tour will suit you well.

The Sum Up

This Mornington Peninsula & Hot Springs Tour offers a genuine taste of Victoria’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning. The combination of guided coastal hikes, panoramic viewpoints, and a soothing soak in mineral-rich hot springs makes for a memorable day. It balances active exploration with relaxation, highlighting authentic landscapes and local hospitality.

It’s especially perfect for travelers who want to see a different side of Melbourne—a side where rugged coastlines meet peaceful hot springs, and small-group encounters foster genuine connections. If you appreciate friendly guides, scenic landscapes, and a well-rounded itinerary, this tour will deliver.

In essence, it’s a day of beautiful scenery, native wildlife encounters, and precious downtime—all at a reasonable price point. Whether you’re visiting Melbourne for a week or just passing through, this experience provides a meaningful way to connect with one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal regions.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most ages, it involves a 5km hike on a hardened trail. Children comfortable with walking and outdoor activities should be fine, but always check with the provider about specific age restrictions.

What should I bring for the hikes?
Comfortable shoes are a must. Also, bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, water, and possibly rain gear, especially if the weather looks uncertain. Swimsuits are needed for the hot springs.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll visit an award-winning café, so bringing some cash or a card for your meal is advisable.

How long do we spend at the hot springs?
You’ll have approximately 2 hours at Peninsula Hot Springs, enough time to soak and relax before heading back.

Are there any mobility restrictions?
The tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility, as the trails are on a hardened or compacted surface with gentle hills and occasional steps.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour strikes a rare balance—scenic, active, relaxing—and offers a personal touch that larger tours can’t match. If you’re after a memorable day exploring Victoria’s coast and soaking in natural springs, this experience is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: