Paddle Boarding Mornington Peninsula: 5 Coastal Adventures
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Right next to Melbourne, on its South side, is the infamous Mornington Peninsula, famous for its historic sea-towns, diverse marine life, and breathtaking coastline, perfect for a paddle boarding Mornington Peninsula trip to enjoy the scene. This location features a thrilling paddle board experience, letting you go on adventures alongside seals, penguins, and dolphins; there are zero paddler-nature lovers who can say no to this.
DISCLAIMER: Before traveling to a paddle location, ensure that the location still allows for paddle boarding and make yourself aware of any rules and regulations in place.
Why Choose the Mornington Peninsula?
Mornington Peninsula is a paradise for paddle boarding Mornington Peninsula lovers who are seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. Enjoy the hot springs with a glass of Mornington Peninsula’s renowned wineries, then jump on your stand up paddle board and glide on the waves alongside dolphins, seals, and even penguins.
5 Best Paddle Boarding Mornington Peninsula Heavens
We have got the “WHY”. Now, let’s check out the “WHERE” and plan your next trip to Mornington Peninsula, which has some top-picked locations below.
1. Safety Beach
First on the list is Safety Beach, a scenic coastal spot with a sandy foreshore, crystal-clear waters, and family-friendly amenities. This beach is a usual place for family boating and paddling activities.
- Water: calm bay, clear
- Level: all levels
- Launching points: you can start off from anywhere from the beach
- Amenities: boat and jet ski launch ramps, picnic spots, BBQ, cafés, public restrooms
- Unique for: dog-friendly areas at Tassells Cove and near Martha Cove boardwalk.
2. Sorrento
Sorrento Front Beach is a popular holiday destination, and also a departure point for the Queenscliff-Sorento ferry. This location offers stunning views and a sheltered atmosphere, another haven for a family paddle boarding Mornington Peninsula trip.
Source: Unsplash
- Water: relaxed, protected bay
- Level: all levels
- Launching points: you can start off anywhere from the beach
- Amenities: picnic and BBQ, boat launching and yacht facilities, cafes, accessible beach matting, public restrooms
- Unique for: stunning views of Melbourne, ferries, boats, and yachts mooring offshore
3. Port Phillip Bay
Port Phillip Bay is one of Victoria's most significant social, environmental, and economic assets. Famous for its expansive waters and rich marine life, this place provides great paddle boarding Mornington Peninsula opportunities with its mellow waters and stunning views.
- Water: immense, mostly shallow, and calm waters
- Level: all levels
- Launching points: any beaches and boat ramps on the bay
- Amenities: car parking, parks, recreational facilities along the shoreline
- Unique for: marine reserves, rich biodiversity, stunning views of Melbourne’s coastline, and historical sites
4. Balnarring Beach
Also known as Tulum Beach, is popular for its nature-filled surroundings, with well-vegetated sand dunes and pleasant waters, such a perfect place for paddle boarding.
Source: Freepik
- Water: gentle waters
- Level: all level
- Launching points: anywhere from the beach
- Amenities: camping and caravan parking, BBQ and picnic areas, boating facilities, public restrooms
- Unique for: awarded as ‘Cleanest Beach in Victoria’, walking tracks with stunning views along the coastline and around Merricks Creek.
5. Rye Ocean Beach
Listed last, but not the last choice - Rye Ocean Beach!
A wide, sandy bay beach located within the Mornington Peninsula National Park offers a wide, sandy bay beach with a large foreshore reserve and jetty.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
- Water: strong currents, big waves, submerged reefs
- Level: experienced
- Launching points: Ocean Drive’s dunes, the large car park at the end of Sandy Road
- Amenities: walking tracks, car parking, picnic and BBQ facilities, public restroom
- Unique for: being a part of a national park, home to the vulnerable Hooded Plover; natural dunes and extensive reef breaks
Tips for Paddle Boarding in the Mornington Peninsula
We have gone through the locations list for your next paddle boarding Mornington Peninsula trip, let’s talk about what we should know about this beautiful place.
Best Times to Go
The perfect timing for paddle boarding Mornington Peninsula plan is in the summer - December, January, and February (Yes, Aussie’s summer is winter and spring in most other countries). In this season, Mornington Peninsula showcases glowed at its finest; it’s buzzing with activities on land and out on the water; the sun helps polish the spectacular views from the lookout spots.
Source: Freepik
Renting vs. Bringing Your Own Board
- Peninsula Paddle Co
- Location: Mount Martha Nth Beach, Esplanade, Mount Martha VIC 3934
- Rental gears: SUP, Kayak
- Other services: gift card (40-250AUD)
| AUD/hour | AUD/additional hour (up to 3) | AUD/8 hours | |
|---|---|---|---|
| SUP/Single Kayak | 25 | 15 | 100 |
| Double Kayak | 45 | 25 | 200 |
| Sunset SUP | 45/1.5 hours |
- Mornington Boat Hire
- Location: Boatshed 7 Scout Beach, Schnapper Point Dr, Mornington VIC 3931
- Watercraft rentals: SUP, Kayak, Fishing boat
- Other services: group events, and personalized instructions
| AUD/hour | AUD/additional hour | |
|---|---|---|
| Single kayak | 30 | 25 |
| Double kayak | 40 | 30 |
| SUP | 30 | 25 |
| Reef board | 20 | 15 |
With the mentioned rental spots, it’ll be quite convenient for you and your family to do paddle boarding Mornington Peninsula, won’t it? However, the availability of the shops may be varied, especially during peak seasons, and we know that you would prefer a comfortable and trusted board to glide the water with you. What’s more comfortable than a SUP board of your own? With high-end quality and durable material, iROCKER’s inflatable paddle board can follow you anywhere in the form of a backpack and transform into a fully functional paddle board whenever you feel like it.
Local Regulations and Guidelines
When paddle boarding in Mornington Peninsula, please make sure you are following the regulations and guidelines properly for your safety.
- Lifejacket: you need to wear your PFD at all times when paddling, and level 50/50S PFD is required for when you go further than 400m from the shore
- Paddle craft lighting: prepare at least one white light that is/are clearly visible for paddling during twilight and night hours
- Always use the paddle board’s leash
- Have a waterproof communication device with you
Make Your Memories With Paddle Boarding Mornington Peninsula
Just around an hour from Melbourne, Paddle boarding Mornington Peninsula is a promising activity for your next travel plan. Offering a good balance between adventure and a calm, chill-out vibe for paddle boarding lovers with all easy-to-access locations. You can be so near to the marine life, paddling alongside dolphins and “bath” in the beauty of nature while standing on your paddle board, It is such a heaven. Just imagine it.
