Our Favourite Things to do Around Sorrento

Discover the charm of Sorrento, a picturesque village where history meets elegance. Stroll down Sorrento’s village, lined with timeless limestone buildings, and indulge in a stylish shopping experience with over 60 unique boutiques, chic interior design stores, galleries, and antique treasures. Treat yourself to the finest local flavors at gourmet cafes, restaurants, and artisanal ice-cream shops, making your next visit to Sorrento a perfect mix of heritage and refined indulgence.


Explore Sorrento’s Breathtaking Beaches

Sorrento Back Beach

250 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento, Victoria 3943

Sorrento Back Beach is located around 1.5km south of the town of Sorrento. The beach is a popular location for activities such as surfing, swimming, walking and exploring the rockpools at low tide.

Highlights
  • Stunning ocean views and breathtaking coastal scenery.
  • Home to the Sorrento Surf Life Saving Club.
  • Access to scenic coastal walking trails offering panoramic views.
  • Designated spots for picnics with spectacular ocean vistas.

Sorrento Main Beach 

3278 Point Nepean Road, Sorrento, Victoria 3943

A picturesque, narrow beach perfect for a paddle or swim. With sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, it’s an ideal spot to snorkel, paddle board and kayak. The beach is lined with mature trees, offering a tranquil setting to relax and enjoy the sight of the Queenscliff ferry arriving and departing each hour.

Highlights
  • Short walk from Sorrento’s boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Located near the Sorrento-Queenscliff ferry terminal, making it convenient for day trips and exploring.
  • Calm, shallow waters ideal for families with young children.
  • Popular spot for recreational fishing off the pier or along the shoreline.

Koonya Beach 

93 Hughes Road, Blairgowrie, Victoria 3942

Stretched across a scenic 750-meters, Koonya beach is ideal for picnicking, rock pooling, and walking on the track. While perfect for beachcombing, surfing, and fishing, swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and submerged rocks. Don’t miss the nearby lookout for breathtaking coastal vistas and a tranquil spot to appreciate the natural beauty of the Bass Strait coast.

Highlights
  • Short stroll from the Koonya General Store.
  • Nearby walking paths and lookouts provide breathtaking views of the ocean and coastline.
  • Less crowded beach with a scheduled atmosphere.
  • Carparking available at the end of Hughes Road.

Cellar Doors & Breweries

The Mornington Peninsula isn’t just famous for its exceptional wines, it’s also a hotspot for breweries and distilleries. Explore a diverse range of local brews, ciders, and spirits in family-friendly, welcoming venues. Relax and savour a refreshing drink while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the Peninsula.

Sip and Savor at St Andrews Beach Brewery

Open 11:00am to 9:00pm everyday

Location

160 Sandy Road, Fingal, Victoria 3939

A former racehorse training facility turned unique brewery. Enjoy characterful beers in converted stables, including the old Melbourne Cup winners’ boxes. Just a 4-minute drive from our property Ocean Luxe Retreat at St Andrews Beach, this charming venue invites you to enjoy characterful beers brewed on-site in converted stables, including the historic Melbourne Cup winners’ boxes.

The brewery’s rustic ambiance and rich history create a memorable setting for savoring craft beers and delicious food. St Andrews Brewery offers a distinctive atmosphere where every visit becomes a cherished experience.


Discover the Award-Winning Flavors of Penni Ave Distillery

Open every Monday from 6:30am to 12:00pm | Tuesday to Friday from 6:30am to 12:00pm, 5:00pm 9:30pm | Saturday from 7:00am to 9:30pm | Sunday from 7:00am to 7:00pm

Location

43 Peninsula Ave, Rye, Victoria 3941

Nestled on the stunning Mornington Peninsula, only a short drive from our property Willowdene, Penni Ave Distillery is one of Victoria’s rare, dedicated vodka producers. With a wide range of flavored vodkas, crafted with sustainably sourced native botanicals, Penni Ave Distillery offers a taste of Australia’s natural beauty. Enjoy unique, handcrafted vodka that makes every cocktail a celebration.

Book now to explore their range of exceptional vodkas, learn about their sustainable practices, and enjoy a distinctive Australian experience that’s 100% local and 100% delicious!


Top Spots to Eat & Dine

One of life’s greatest pleasures on the Mornington Peninsula is exploring, discovering and sampling all the delicious secrets on offer at all of the region’s wineries, restaurants, cellar doors and cafes.  

Immerse Yourself in the Garden Charm of Sisters Sorrento Café

Open every day 8:00am to 3:00pm, until 3:30pm on weekends

Location

149/151 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento, Victoria 3943

Once a local nursery, Sisters Sorrento Café in Sorrento has been transformed into a charming kitchen garden café. Named after Sullivan’s Bay headlands, the “Sisters,” this inviting spot has been delighting visitors for over a decade. Located in the heart of Sorrento village, this café offers a delightful escape in a unique setting.

Only a 15-minute walk from Diamond Bay Villa, experience locally sourced ingredients, featuring seasonal produce and delightful culinary creations. The café’s lush garden setting provides a tranquil backdrop, perfect for relaxing with friends and family.


Step Back in Time at The Vanilla Slice Café

Open every day 8:00am to 6:00pm, until 6:30pm on weekends

Location

23 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento, Victoria 3943

Discover The Vanilla Slice Café, a charming gem on Sorrento’s main street, where Edwardian elegance meets exceptional flavor. Since 1983, this beloved café has been serving up divine vanilla slices paired with a specially crafted coffee blend. Located in the main Sorrento village centre, this experience is only a short 10-minute walk from Amalfi Dream.

Beyond the famous vanilla slice, the café offers a menu brimming with other sweet treats and savory delights, making it a perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon break. The nostalgic setting invites you to unwind and savor a moment of indulgence in a place that feels like a step back in time.


Savour Elegance at Shihushi Hotel Sorrento

Open Thursday to Saturday from 5:00pm until late

Location

Hotel Sorrento 5/15 Hotham Rd, Sorrento, Victoria 3943

Shihushi at Hotel Sorrento offers a distinguished dining experience that fuses traditional Japanese flavors with modern culinary artistry. Located within the elegant Hotel Sorrento, Shihushi draws guests with its sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance, perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

Known for its artful presentation and use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant delivers high-quality, flavorful dishes that captivate the senses. With exceptional service and a commitment to excellence, Shihushi stands out as a premier dining destination in Sorrento, providing a memorable experience for both locals and visitors alike.

Enhance your dining experience by staying at Sorrento Serenity, just a 5-minute drive away. This charming property provides the perfect retreat, allowing you to enjoy the exceptional cuisine at Shihushi while relaxing in comfort and tranquility.


Indulge in Modern Flavors at Bistro Elba

Open every day from 12:00pm to 11:00pm

Location

100-102 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento, Victoria 3943

Dine in a vibrant destination known for its relaxed atmosphere and contemporary Australian cuisine. Located in the heart of Sorrento, this bistro offers a menu that celebrates fresh, local ingredients with a modern twist. From delectable seafood and succulent meats to flavorful vegetarian options, Bistro Elba provides a diverse range of dishes designed to satisfy all palates.

The warm, inviting ambiance and attentive service create a welcoming environment, making it an ideal spot for casual meals, special occasions, or simply enjoying a delicious meal with friends and family.


Shop Local at the Markets!

Explore the vibrant local markets of the Mornington Peninsula, from the fresh produce and artisanal goods at the Portsea Market on Point Nepean. This experience provides a unique chance to support local vendors and experience the flavours of the region.

Point Nepean Portsea Market

Point Nepean Quarantine Station, Quarantine Station, Coleman Rd, Portsea, Victoria, 3944

The Point Nepean Portsea Market at the historic Quarantine Station is a vibrant event by the beach, showcasing expertly crafted goods from skilled stallholders. Browse unique jewelry, diverse linens, and fresh local produce. With an array of delicious food and high-quality crafts, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a delightful day by the sea.

The market is renowned for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with stallholders who take pride in their work and hospitality, making it a joyful experience for all who attend.

Highlights
  • Located at the historic Quarantine Station by the beach, offering scenic views.
  • Easily accessible with parking available close to the market.
  • Seasonal fruits, homegrown vegetables, and a variety of fresh, local foods.
  • Friendly stallholders and cheerful environment.

Local Walking Tracks & Spectacular Scenery

Discover Portsea’s scenic trails which includes Millionaires Walk, offering stunning bay views and historic mansions. The Point Nepean National Park Trails blend rich history with breathtaking landscapes, and the Tuckey Track takes you through coastal woodlands to St Paul’s Lookout.

Millionaires Walk

Lentell Avenue Sorrento Victoria 3943

This stunning cliff top walk stretched across Sorrento and Portsea, is rich in history known as the site where the Union Jack was first used to claim Australia. The walk offers breathtaking views of Port Phillip Bay, the Bellarine Peninsula, Melbourne, and Mount Dandenong, along with glimpses of Melbourne’s elite Summer mansions.

This walking track is also part of the Sorrento Portsea Artists’ Trail, featuring artworks by Sir Arthur Streeton, Arthur Boyd, and Ray Hodgkinson. The walk ends at Point King Road and takes less than an hour to complete.


Point Nepean National Park Trails

Ochiltree Rd, Portsea, Victoria 3944

At the southern tip of the Mornington Peninsula, these walking trails offer a rich blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Visitors can explore scenic walks with stunning views across Port Phillip Bay to Queenscliff, and discover historic sites like the Quarantine Station, Shepherd Hut, and Fort Nepean, which showcase the area’s early European settlement and military history.

The park, part of Boonwurrung country, also preserves evidence of thousands of years of Indigenous culture. Car parking is available at the Quarantine Station, with a hop-on/hop-off bus service for easy access throughout the park.


The Tuckey Track 

3157 Point Nepean Road, Sorrento, Victoria 3943

The Tuckey Track offers a unique walk across the Mornington Peninsula, starting at the Western Sister headland of Sullivan Bay in Sorrento. This trail takes you through Coastal Moonah Woodlands, past Diamond Bay, and ends at St Paul’s Lookout, offering stunning views of both Port Phillip Bay and the rugged Bass Strait coastline.

The route includes a mix of paved paths, sandy trails, and some steep sections, following the historic footsteps of Lieutenant James Tuckey and native Indigenous people. Along the way, informative signs provide insights into the area’s rich history and natural beauty.


Fun Day Out and About!

Dive Into Magic and Swim with Dolphins & Seals with Polperro

Open every day from 7:00am to 7:00pm

Location

Sorrento Pier, Esplanade, Sorrento, Victoria 3943

Experience the rare and magical joy of swimming with dolphins with Polperro Dolphin & Seal Swims. As the longest-serving guides in Port Phillip Bay, Polperro provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Their eco-friendly tours promise a respectful and unforgettable adventure, making it a must-do for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of marine life.


Saddle Up for an Adventure with Gunnamatta Trail Rides

Open every day from 7:00am to 6:00pm

Location

150 Sandy Rd, Fingal, Victoria 3939

Feeling like a horse-riding adventure? Then the St Andrew’s Beach and Trail Ride at Gunnamatta is for you! Experience a signature horseback adventure that takes you through scenic coastal bushland and high sand dunes with stunning ocean views. This ride includes a beach segment where you can walk alongside the gently lapping waves, with experienced guides ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.


Speak to a member of our team to learn more about what to do in and around Sorrento during your next Mornington Peninsula escape. We’re here to help you discover the perfect getaway!

Contact us at enquiries@holidayshacks.com.au


Posted

in

by

Tags: