Things To Do
in Frankston
Frankston is a coastal suburb of Melbourne set on Port Phillip Bay, known for its long foreshore and family-friendly vibe. The town offers beaches, parks, a thriving local arts scene, and easy access to the Mornington Peninsula. Visitors can stroll the waterfront, explore the town centre, and use Frankston as a base for day trips to nearby nature reserves.
With a mix of cafes, markets, galleries, and outdoor activities, Frankston provides a relaxed Australian coastal experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Frankston and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe while overlooking the picturesque bay. Take a stroll along the Frankston Foreshore to soak in the coastal views.
Spend the afternoon at Frankston Beach, where you can relax on the sand or take a dip in the refreshing waters. Explore the nearby botanic gardens, which offer beautiful walking paths and a diverse collection of plants. Grab a light lunch at a beachside eatery.
As the sun sets, head to a waterfront restaurant for a delightful dinner featuring fresh seafood. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Frankston pier area, where locals gather to unwind. Cap off the night with a walk along the beach, basking in the tranquility of the ocean sounds.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of Frankston's popular cafes before embarking on a bike ride along the scenic coastline. Revel in the fresh morning air as you ride through the beautiful Frankston waterfront precinct. Stop at the various parks along the route for some quick photos.
After your bike ride, treat yourself to lunch at a local bistro. Then, explore the Frankston Arts Centre and take in some local exhibitions or performances. Discover the local shops and galleries, where you can find unique Australian art and crafts.
Indulge in a social evening at one of Frankston’s cozy bars or pubs, enjoying local wines or craft beers. Take in the lively atmosphere and perhaps join in a trivia night or live music performance. Afterward, enjoy a moonlit walk along the beach, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $2-3 |
| 🍷Glass of wine (local bar) | $8-12 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal vibe with easy access to nature and beaches
- Family-friendly with a growing arts and café scene
- Good base for day trips to the Mornington Peninsula and nearby reserves
- Nightlife is more low-key compared with central Melbourne
- Peak-season parking and traffic can be busy
- Certain attractions require short drives to nearby towns
Places to Visit in Frankston
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views over Port Phillip Bay, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography and dramatic coastline shots.
Classic seaside imagery with the pier, boats, and broad water views along a spacious promenade.
Vibrant street scenes and urban textures that capture local life and art.
Lush greenery and wildlife habitat with native plant life and tranquil trails.
Food in Frankston
Frankston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh local barramundi fillet served with golden chips and lemon; commonly found at waterfront fish shacks and seafood restaurants along the Esplanade.
Must-Try!
A Melbourne staple, usually served with salad and chips at pubs and casual eateries around Frankston.
Shared platter featuring locally caught prawns, calamari, and fish at waterfront restaurants.
Traditional savory pies from local bakeries, perfect for a quick bite on a walk along the foreshore.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekend market along the waterfront offering fresh produce, street food, and local crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Australians value friendliness and direct communication; say please and thank you, queue politely, and respect personal space.
Observe local rules about swimming zones and wildlife protection; respect closed areas and dispose of rubbish properly.
Follow local smoking regulations in public spaces; keep pets on leashes where required and pick up after them.
Safety
Tipping in Frankston
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia. Service charges are uncommon; if service is exceptional, a small tip is appreciated but not expected.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is accepted at most places. ATMs are common around town centres.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with lots of sun. Expect beach crowds and UV radiation; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan water-based activities in the cooler mornings or evenings.
Mild daytime temperatures and cooler nights. Pleasant for outdoor strolls and coastal walks; coastal winds can be brisk.
Cool and often wet, with occasional sunny spells. Layers are essential; the coast stays dramatic and quiet, great for moody photography.
Temperate and increasingly sunny, with blooming flora around reserves and parks. Ideal for hiking, cycling, and outdoor markets.
Frankston at Night
Hiking in Frankston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trails and native flora with opportunities for birdwatching and peaceful walks just outside Frankston.
Coastal walks with sweeping bay views and photo opportunities at sunrise or sunset.
Airports
How to reach Frankston by plane.
Major international and domestic airport located about 60-75 minutes by car from Frankston, depending on traffic.
Secondary airport serving Melbourne’s south-west region, about 60-90 minutes by car from Frankston, depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of families attracted by beaches, parks, and good schools.
Commuters and students drawn to affordable housing relative to inner Melbourne and easy access to the city.
A steady retiree population that enjoys coastal living and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A regional passion with local clubs and weekend matches; community clubs in and around Frankston participate actively.
Seasonal games and club cricket are common in parks and local grounds.
Popular community sports with local clubs and school facilities available for public use.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Frankston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafes and restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as veggie pastas, salads, and grilled vegetables; ask for modifications and check for vegan options or oat milk where relevant.