Mornington is a Highlight on the Peninsula

Mornington Beach
Photo: Dale Gillard

Of all the suburbs on the south eastern peninsula, Mornington is without a doubt one of the highlights.

A little over an hour from the Melbourne CBD, Mornington offers its residents an ideal coastal lifestyle without any unwanted isolation.

Renowned for its small town atmosphere, Mornington is a suburb where everyone seems to know everyone – which is perhaps because once you’re there, you never want to leave. If you find yourself spending a bit of time there, you can expect your local barista to remember your name.

Eating Out

When visiting Mornington’s Main Street – the suburb’s highpoint of shopping, eating and socialising – don’t be surprised if you find yourself overwhelmed by choice when it comes to grabbing your daily caffeine fix. Lilo Café is a popular spot with the locals, but if it’s the atmosphere you’re after, you can’t go past the friendly folk at pizza joint D.O.C. My Kitchen Rules even filmed there recently!

The Royal Hotel, one of Mornington’s many restaurants
Photo: Simon Yeo

As for restaurants, there’s plenty to choose from on Main Street (we have a few listed on Street News here). There are Italian, Modern Chinese, Mexican and Afghan cuisines, or you can opt for a classic pub meal. If it’s seafood you’re after, head straight for The Rocks and enjoy the delectable seafood menu and the stunning views of the marina.

On the weekends, Main Street tends to get very busy – so if you manage to score yourself a table at the Boyz 4 Breakie on a Sunday morning, you should thank your lucky stars!

Lifestyle

Mornington is a very pet-friendly place to visit. During the day several cafés and restaurants can be relied upon to leave a little drinking water out the front, in case you feel like bringing the dog. There are several designated “leash free” zones around Mornington, even an area on the foreshore of Royal Beach – a favourite with locals.

Locals enjoying Mornington Beach
Photo: Simon Yeo

Schools

In the way of schools, Mornington has a lot to offer. The suburb has three primary schools in its vicinity- Mornington Primary School, Mornington Park Primary School and St Macartan’s Primary School – a public high school, a special development school, and a co-ed private Catholic school, Padua College.

Community

Mornington’s local council is the Mornington Peninsula Shire, which puts a large focus on the arts and the importance of environmental sustainability – both reflective of strong community interests.

The council offers regular environmental educational sessions for adults as well as children through their school programs. The Briars Eco House is open to all, and demonstrates real life examples of sustainable living that people can incorporate into their own homes.

Culture

If you get the chance to visit Mornington, check out some of the local art galleries – you won’t be disappointed. Mbantua Gallery and Oak Hill Gallery exhibit some beautiful works rich in Australian culture, and the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery was delighted to announce that in 2014 they will have the honour of presenting the annual Archibald prize – the first gallery in Victoria to receive this opportunity.