Things To Do
in Somerville

Fresh local catch from Western Port or nearby bays; best enjoyed on the foreshore at Hastings or Mornington.

Must-Try!

Classic bakery options available at local bakeries and cafés—comfort food for a quick, affordable meal.

Western Port oysters and other local shellfish appear on many menus around the peninsula, especially at seaside towns and seafood-focused eateries.

Simple Aussie BBQ dishes—steaks, lamb and sausages—are common at pubs and family restaurants.

Regional markets (on various days across the peninsula) are the best places to buy seasonal produce, cheeses, baked goods and small-batch pantry items—check local listings for timings.

Somerville and neighbouring towns sometimes host small weekend stalls selling baked goods, coffee and ready-to-eat snacks—great for grabbing a casual bite.

Australians are generally informal and direct—greet with a friendly ‘hello’ or ‘g’day,’ use first names in conversation and expect a relaxed atmosphere.

People respect queues and personal space; don’t cut lines and keep interactions polite and patient.

The area is on Boonwurrung country (Traditional Owners). It’s respectful to acknowledge Traditional Owners and learn about local Indigenous history when visiting cultural sites.

Sun protection is taken seriously—wear hats, sunscreen and protective clothing; also respect nature reserves by sticking to marked paths and taking rubbish away.

Tipping is not obligatory in Australia; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is appreciated but uncommon in pubs and casual cafés. Many places pay staff properly, so tips are a personal choice.

Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express in many places), contactless payments (tap and pay) and mobile wallets are widely accepted; carry some cash for small stalls or weekend markets that may be card-optional.

Warm to hot weather (Dec–Feb), long daylight hours and beach crowds on sunny weekends; bring sun protection and expect busier coastal roads and parking.

Mild days and cool evenings with beautiful autumn foliage on walks and in vineyard areas; a pleasant time for outdoor activities and tastings.

Cooler, wetter and occasionally windy (Jun–Aug); quieter tourist numbers, good deals on accommodation, but bring warm layers and a waterproof jacket.

Mild temperatures, wildflowers and migration of birdlife; variable weather—pack layers for sunny spells and sudden showers.

Offers several walking tracks with panoramic coastal views, native bushland and options for short walks or longer hikes to lookout points.

Coastal walking route that traverses scenic headlands and beaches across parts of the Mornington Peninsula—sections can be done as day walks.

Dramatic coastal cliffs and secluded beaches with established trails—suitable for moderate hikes and rewarding coastal vistas.

Gentle paths through wetlands and around historic homestead grounds; excellent for birdwatching and family-friendly walks.

Families who commute to Melbourne or nearby employment centres; attracted by affordable housing and local schools.

The peninsula is popular with retirees seeking a coastal lifestyle and quieter communities.

The area is part of the traditional lands of the Boonwurrung people—there is an active Indigenous heritage and cultural presence in the region.

Locals involved in agriculture, hospitality, retail and trades serving the peninsula and surrounding towns.

Cafés and many pubs offer vegetarian options (salads, veggie burgers, grain bowls). Larger towns nearby and specialty cafés are more likely to have dedicated vegetarian choices.

Vegan options are available but limited in smaller outlets—look for plant-based cafes in Mornington or Frankston for best variety; call ahead if you have strict requirements.

Most cafés can provide gluten-free alternatives (breads, pastries) but cross-contamination can occur—ask staff about preparations if you have celiac disease.

Standard Australian food-safety practices are followed; always notify restaurants of severe allergies and check ingredient lists at markets and stalls.