Live in the home of hot springs, world-class wineries and golden surf beaches with a pooch, or thinking about house sitting as a pet sitter in Mornington Peninsula? Stick around and explore our ultimate guide to dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula - where you’ll find the wineries, beaches, walking spots and more where your furry mate is welcome.
Dog-friendly wineries on the Mornington Peninsula
Mornington Peninsula is loved for its Pinot Noir, and what if we told you that there’s no need to leave your furry friend at home next time you want to book a tasting? Below, explore the dog-friendly wineries Mornington Peninsula has to offer, and be sure to book ahead to check they’re happy for dogs to join you.
Yabby Lake Vineyard
For a pet-friendly wine tasting with a view, try Yabby Lake Vineyard which is $10 per tasting at the cellar door. And with a perfectly curated dinner menu packed with fresh produce, herbs and veggies, it’s easy to see why this spot just a 10-minute drive from Mornington Peninsula is so popular with locals and visitors.
Location: 86-112 Tuerong Rd, Tuerong VIC 3915, Australia
Stumpy Gully Vineyard and Restaurant
Now run with passion by the second generation of wine makers, Stumpy Gully is one of the longest-standing dog-friendly wineries on the Mornington Peninsula. Book a tasting and enjoy views of the lush gardens with your pup, sip on estate-grown wines and order from the Asian fusion menu.
Location: 1247 Stumpy Gully Rd, Moorooduc VIC 3933, Australia
Dromana Estate Winery
Known for its cool climate varietals, Dromona Estate Winery is a popular, dog and child-friendly spot with a wine menu of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Shiraz. From its stunning wine menu, charming gardens and 1900s building, why not grab a table under the 100 year-old elm tree for a truly relaxing afternoon with your furry friend?
Location: 555 Old Moorooduc Rd, Tuerong VIC 3915, Australia
Phaedrus Estate
Like many Mornington Peninsula wineries, Phaedrus Estate is a family-run operation with a focus on cool-climate varieties. So, why not book an outdoor table with your pup to try the Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Shiraz or Fiano?
Location: 220 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Moorooduc VIC 3933, Australia
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Vineyard in Mornington Peninsula
Dog-friendly beaches on the Mornington Peninsula
It’s hard to beat a beach stroll with your furry pal running alongside - or better - getting the chance to splash about in the waves of Port Phillip Bay and the Bass Strait. So below, check out a few of the beaches around the Mornington Peninsula where your pup is welcome, and always check the rules and signage before entering any beach with your dog.
Fosters Beach
Roughly a 15-minute drive from Mornington Peninsula is Fosters Beach - a lead-free beach all year round, perfect for letting your pup burn off some energy. The beach is between Craigie Beach and Linley Point, offering rugged views of the sandstone bluffs above.
Location: Fosters Beach, Victoria 3931, Australia
Flinders Dog Beach
If you’re looking for a beach where your pup can run free all year, look no further than Flinders Dog Beach. Just a 30-minute drive from Mornington Peninsula, the designated off-lead beach is located north of Dodds Creek, so be sure to keep your pup on a lead until you reach the dog park.
Location: Flinders VIC 3929, Australia
Mothers Beach
Popular with families and locals for its calm waters and soft sand, Mothers Beach is in a prime location - just around the corner from Mornington Marina and Main Street’s Cafes. If you’d like to experience Mothers Beach with your pup, note that there are restrictions in place. Currently, dogs are allowed before 10am and after 6pm across December, January and February, and on a lead for the rest of the year.
Location: Mothers Beach, Victoria 3931, Australia
Mount Martha Beaches
Just a 20-minute drive from Mornington Peninsula, it’s easy to see why pet parents flock to Mount Martha for a breath of sea air with their pups. Just note that there are restrictions in place throughout the year. At the moment, dogs are allowed off-lead on Hawker Beach between Augusta Street and Helena Street throughout the year, and on a lead south of Augusta Street, between Helena Street and Morrisons Avenue and north of Bay Vista Close. On Dava Beach and Birdrock Beach (between Bay Vista Close and Morrisons Avenue), dogs aren’t allowed between 10am and 6pm during December, January and February, but are welcome off-lead throughout the rest of the year.
Location: Mount Martha Beach, Victoria 3934, Australia
Tassells Cove
Located on the northern end of Safety Beach on the Mornington Peninsula, Tassels Cove is the perfect spot to let your dog run free. As a designated dog park with stretches of sand, pet parents can feel safe letting their dog off the lead - with the rock wall on one side, and calm water on the other. Along with sprints along the beach, pet owners and their pups can also enjoy exploring the caves, or the 1.4km loop that runs along the cliff top’s walking track.
Location: Marine Dr, Safety Beach VIC 3936, Australia
Somers Dog Beach
Somers Dog Beach is less than 25 minutes by car from Mornington Peninsula, and dogs are currently welcome to explore year-round, off-lead east of the yacht club, between South Beach Road and Kelburn Court.
Location: 121 Miramar Rd, Somers VIC 3927, Australia
Rosebud Beach Off-lead Area
Under a 30-minute drive from Mornington Peninsula is Rosebud Beach, where you’ll find an off-lead area where dogs are welcome to explore and enjoy themselves on the sand and in the water. In the blue zone, dogs are allowed off-lead at any time, except from December, January and February. And naturally, always check the signage before entering any beach with your dog.
Location: Point Nepean Rd Service Rd &, Beverley Rd, McCrae VIC 3938, Australia
Fossil Beach Off-Lead Area
How about a spot of fossil hunting while your dog gets the freedom to splash about in the waves? Check out Fossil Beach Off-Lead Area - a rocky beach filled with fossilised coral, shells and large rocks. Just be aware that you’ll need to descend a set of steep stairs to get to this spot.
Location: 630 Esplanade, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Mornington Peninsula
Dog-friendly walks on the Mornington Peninsula
Want to explore more of what Mornington Peninsula has to offer - besides its golden sands and wineries? Below, check out a few dog-friendly hikes in Mornington Peninsula, and remember to keep your pup under control if you spot local wildlife.
Dromana Bay Trail
If you’re looking for a simple stroll with incredible sea views, check out the classic Dromana Bay Trail on the Mornington Peninsula. Follow the shared path that’s popular with hikers, dog walkers and cyclists, and stretches for 17km from Dromana to Sorrento. And if you’re new to the area, keep your eyes peeled for the McCrae Lighthouse and Anthony's Nose headland.
Location: Mornington Peninsula, Victoria 3931, Australia
Mills Beach to Fishermans Beach Walk
Looking for a moderate walk to get your heart rate up? Follow the trail from Mills Beach to Fishermans Beach, and enjoy views of the bay and Tanti Creek Estuary, as well as the 72-metre elevation gain.
Location: Mills Beach, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Balcombe Creek Estuary Boardwalk Circuit
If you can draw yourself away from the sea views, check out the Balcombe Creek Estuary Boardwalk circuit - a popular stroll and easy walking track that follows the creek from the beach. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including wetland birds including pelicans and herons, as well as short-beaked echidnas and even koalas. Naturally, keep your dog on a lead at all times, and under control around local wildlife.
Location: Watson Rd, Mount Martha VIC 3934, Australia
Red Hill Rail Trail
From Merricks to Red Hill, pups on a lead are welcome to explore the easy terrain with their humans. Enjoy the views of local vineyards and olive groves, as well as the Western Port to Port Phillip Island.
Location: 155 Shoreham Rd, Red Hill South VIC 3937, Australia
Flinders Coastal Circuit
For dramatic views across the Bass Strait and Western Port Bay, check out Flinders Coastal Circuit - a 3km looped trail where dogs are welcome on a lead. Along with epic sea views, look out for the historic Flinders Pier, as well as the World War II memorials.
Location: Flinders VIC 3929, Australia
Dog-friendly restaurants on the Mornington Peninsula
After all of that walking, swimming and wine tasting, you’re bound to be on the lookout for somewhere deliciously dog-friendly to eat. So below, get a taste of the dog-friendly restaurants Mornington Peninsula has to offer, and remember to call ahead to check your pup is still welcome.
Wildgrain Mornington
If you’ve got a taste for Mediterranean cuisine, Wildgrain keeps things fresh with zucchini salad, baked trout fillets, Pacific oysters, Tuerong Farm sourdough and zingy pestos. Plus, dogs are welcome to join you at the outdoor seating area.
Location: 1 Blamey Pl, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Loosie's Diner and Bar
Loosie’s Diner has the classic retro feel that pairs perfectly with a burger and fries - so why not take a seat in the outdoor patio area with your pup, next time you pass by hungry?
Location: 97 Beleura Hill Rd, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Green Olive at Red Hill
If you’re a lover of local produce, fresh food and wine grown nearby, look no further than Green Olive at Red Hill. Book a table on the deck to soak up the vineyard views, and try the menu that showcases the olives, grapes, lemons, herbs and veggies grown on site.
Location: 1180 Mornington-Flinders Rd, Main Ridge VIC 3928, Australia
The Pig & Whistle Tavern
Just a 30-minute drive from Mornington Peninsula is The Pig & Whistle Tavern - a dog-friendly restaurant nestled in the heart of Main Ridge, just a stone’s throw from Arthur’s Seat. Expect pub classics including burgers, pies and fish of the day.
Location: 365 Purves Rd, Main Ridge VIC 3928, Australia
Barmah Park Restaurant
Or why not check out Bamrah Park restaurant? Pet parents can sit back, relax and unwind on the sunny deck area, choosing from refined Australian dishes that celebrate fresh ingredients.
Location: 945 Moorooduc Hwy, Moorooduc VIC 3933, Australia
Counting House Bar & Grill
Set up in a restored bank, Counting House Bar & Grill is an easy-going spot where simple food done well is at the heart of the menu. Swing by to try local wine varietals, or even for brunch with your furry friend.
Location: 787 Esplanade, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Two Buoys
Make the short trip to Dromana for the lively, welcoming atmosphere of Two Buoys - a restaurant that believes food is for sharing. So, gather your friends, family and furry pals to mix and match delicious tapas plates, flatbreads and local wines.
Location: 209 Point Nepean Rd, Dromana VIC 3936, Australia
Dog-friendly cafes in Mornington Peninsula
Looking for your next morning coffee stop - where your furry friend can come along for the ride? No worries - explore the dog-friendly cafes Mornington Peninsula has to offer below, and you’ll soon have a furry coffee catch-up locked in!
Miss Drew's Dog Cafe
First on the list of dog-friendly things to do in Mornington Peninsula should be to swing by for a coffee at Miss Drew’s Dog Cafe. We doubt you’ll have come across a more dog-loving spot - drooling at the table is encouraged, and the cafe will even host parties for your pup’s birthday! And naturally, dog-friendly treats are served that your furry mate will love - including pup-cakes, doggie ice-cream, and even doggie beer.
Location: 14 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Tyabb VIC 3913, Australia
Merchant & Maker
This award-winning Australian cafe-come-restaurant just outside of Mornington is known for its Asian fusion brunch dishes that celebrate fresh ingredients. From poke bowls and soba noodles to club sandwiches and eggs benedict, this spot has something that’ll sort everyone’s brekky cravings.
Location: 675 Point Nepean Rd, McCrae VIC 3938, Australia
2 Left Sisters
Head to this warehouse-style breakfast eatery for fluffy pancakes, an indulgent slice of date loaf or go all out with a brekky burger - all to be enjoyed under Mornington’s sun at the outdoor seating area with your furry friend by your side.
Location: 98 Watt Rd, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
The Winey Cow
Want somewhere your pup can enjoy a few treats, too? Well as you choose from a freshly-cooked all day brunch menu and pressed juices, your furry pal could be tucking into beef bully sticks, and sipping on a lactose-free puppuccino.
Location: 39A Main St, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Dreamer Cafe
At Dreamer Cafe in Mornington, you’ll find pups and their owners at the outdoor tables enjoying a morning brew, fresh smoothies and brunch just the way they like it under the adorable striped shop front.
Location: Shop 2/25 Dava Dr, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Commonfolk Mornington
If you’re serious about your coffee and you’ll only accept wholesome, nourishing food for brekky, check out Commonfolk. In a warehouse-style setting, dogs are welcome in the courtyard, where you can choose from a brunch-focussed menu of chilli-scramble, beef bennies, sandos and more.
Location: 16 Progress St, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Wombat Cafe & Store
Attracting cyclists, families and pet owners, Wombat Cafe is 100% vegan and offers up delicious coffee, fluffy pancakes, zingy avo toast, and a vegan pantry perfect for stocking up.
Location: 230 Boundary Rd, Dromana VIC 3936, Australia
Nordie Café
Nordie Café in Red Hill welcomes pups in their dog-friendly courtyard, where they’ll have trees to sniff and grass to roll around in. Swing by for your morning coffee, and treat yourself to a flaky apple turnover or a loaded sando.
Location: 1008 Mornington-Flinders Rd, Red Hill VIC 3937, Australia
Dog parks in Mornington Peninsula
Aside from blustery on-lead beach walks and trips to wineries, your pup - let’s face it - just wants to be let off the lead to socialize with their own kind. So below, explore a few of the designated dog parks Mornington Peninsula has to offer, which are ideal for games of fetch, and giving your dog the freedom to have a splash in the ocean.
Royal Beach Off-Lead Area
Does your pup have a thirst for adventure? Check out Royal Beach Off-Lead Area - a beach where your dog can roam freely throughout the year, and explore the rock pools and shallow waters safely.
Location: 774 Esplanade, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Civic Reserve Fenced Dog Park
Open 24 hours a day, Civic Reserve Fenced Dog Park is a spacious green space complete with a saltmarsh boardwalk, a canine obstacle course, water taps and communal barbecues.
Location: 1 Billabong Cl, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Pine Avenue Reserve Fenced Dog Park
Located in Pine Avenue Reserve, the dog park is the perfect place to unleash your pup if they need to burn off some steam before you stop off at a local dog-friendly cafe.
Location: 36 Mariners Retreat, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Hawker Beach Dog-Friendly Off-Lead Area
If your pup prefers the coast, you don’t have to travel far to find an off-lead beach near Mornington Peninsula. Check out Hawker Beach’s dog-friendly area, where canines are free to roam, sniff and splash about to their heart’s content.
Location: 539 Esplanade, Mount Martha VIC 3934, Australia
Summerfield Reserve Fenced Dog Park
Just in-land from Fossil Beach Off-Lead Area and Royal Beach, you’ll find Summerfield Reserve Fenced Dog Park - a grassy space that’s ideal for a game of fetch (or three).
Location: 19 Lakeview Grove, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Dog-friendly pubs in Mornington Peninsula
Keen for a cold one with your dog? No problem - check out the dog-friendly pubs, brewhouses and taprooms Mornington Peninsula has to offer below (and be warned that they also sell dangerously yummy bites to go alongside your beverage).
Tar Barrel Brewery & Distillery
Named by the road builders who used to store tar barrels in the area, this place is owned by self-confessed dog lovers, making it the perfect place to hang out in a beer garden with your pup. Along with the brewery, Tar Barrel are now loved for their gin and whiskey distilleries, serving the community lovingly crafted drinks alongside wood-fired pizza.
Location: 72 Watt Rd, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
Deadwood Dromana
Down the coast in Dromona is Deadwood bar - a relaxed hangout loved by locals for its Texan vibe, eclectic cocktail menu and mouth-watering bar snacks. And naturally, dogs are totally welcome at the outdoor seating area.
Location: 355 Point Nepean Rd, Dromana VIC 3936, Australia
The Dubliner
Experience a taste of Ireland in The Dubliner’s sunny courtyard and outdoor seating area with your pup, where you’ll find Guinness, Kilkenny, Furphy and Little Creatures on tap.
Location: 65 Octavia St, Mornington VIC 3931, Australia
TWOBAYS Brewing Co.
For a gluten-free beer without the compromise, check out TWOBAYS Brewing Co. in Dromana, where you can choose from IPA, stout, rice lager and more - without the upset stomach!
Location: Unit 1/2 Trewhitt Ct, Dromana VIC 3936, Australia
Jetty Road Brewery
A stone’s throw away from Safety Beach, Jetty Road Brewery welcomes pups and their humans in the outdoor seating area for pale ale, lager, IPA, and all-round good vibes in a warehouse-style setting.
Location: 12-14 Brasser Ave, Dromana VIC 3936, Australia
John Butler Reserve Fenced Dog Park
This double-gated dog park is just a stone’s throw away from Earimil Creek Reserve, and offers up spacious surrounds for games of fetch, zoomies and quality time with your pup.
Location: 130 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza VIC 3930, Australia
Tips for pet parents: Important things to know about Mornington Peninsula
- Check the beach rules. Even some off-lead beaches have restrictions in Mornington Peninsula, so never assume you’re good to go. Check the local rules and signage, and only enter a beach (or let your dog off the lead) if you’re sure it’s the right place and time of year.
- Plan a winery trip. If you’re new to Mornington Peninsula, you might not know that the area is renowned for its wine - specifically Pinot Noir. And with so many local wineries welcoming four-legged friends, it’s worth booking a table to see what the land has to offer!
- Plan ahead for your vacation. Mornington Peninsula is a great place to own a dog, but what about when the time comes for you to book a vacation? Well as vets agree pets are happier at home, consider welcoming an in-home pet sitter to take care of your furry best mate while you’re away. Click below to find out how it works.
Connecting with pet sitters in Mornington
Tips for pet sitters
- Check out Mornington’s cafe scene. Nothing quite says ‘living like a local’ like finding your new favourite (dog-friendly) coffee shop, so see what’s around and the barista will soon know your order!
- Explore the local beaches. While dogs certainly aren’t allowed at the hot springs, there are heaps of dog-friendly beaches near Mornington Peninsula. So, if the pet parents are happy with their pup at an off-lead dog beach, why not check one out, and spend your days splashing about with your new furry friend?
- Explore Mornington Peninsula through house sitting. Ready to soak up the views of Port Phillip and the Bass Strait, with a furry tour guide by your side? Sounds like it’s time to get your house sitting adventure started! Click below to learn how it works.
House sitting in Mornington
More dog-friendly travel guides near Mornington Peninsula
Thinking about house sitting near Mornington Peninsula, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.
Dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula: FAQs
Do dogs need to be on a lead at Mornington Peninsula beaches, and are there seasonal restrictions?
It depends on the beach - some beaches are off-lead all year round, like Fosters Beach currently, whereas others only permit dogs that are on a lead and with seasonal restrictions, like Mothers Beach. Check the specific beach you plan to visit with your pup, and ensure you’re always following up-to-date rules.
Are dogs allowed at Mornington Peninsula wineries, and do you need to book dog-friendly tables in advance?
Dogs are currently allowed at some of the wineries in Mornington Peninsula, including Yabby Lake Vineyard and Dromana Estate, but always call ahead to make sure that pups are still welcome, and book a table so that staff are aware you’ll be joining with your dog.
Can I take my dog on the ferries around the Mornington Peninsula?
Dogs are allowed on some ferries around the Peninsula — check the rules for the transport you want to take before heading out.
Where can I find off-lead dog parks or fenced areas on the Mornington Peninsula?
Mornington Peninsula is packed with dog parks and off-lead beaches, including Fosters Beach, Flinders Beach, Civic Reserve Fenced Dog Park, and Pine Avenue Reserve Fenced Dog Park.
What should I pack for a dog-friendly day out on the Mornington Peninsula (especially in summer)?
The summers on the Mornington Peninsula can get seriously hot, so only head out for the day with your dog if it’s safe. Bring plenty of water (e.g. a portable dog bowl), dog-safe sunscreen, a cooling mat, treats, dog poo bags and paw balm to protect your dog’s paws.
