Day Trips From Melbourne
Take a day trip from Melbourne to explore nature and enjoy scenic views, walks, cycling, and opportunities to relax with a cup of tea or a picnic in a shaded area.
These parks are located within a two-hour drive from Melbourne, making them easily accessible for spontaneous visits.
Mornington Peninsula
To get to Point Nepean National Park, take a train and a bus. Once there, rent an e-bike or take the shuttle to see the coastal landscape and views. For a walk with great coastal scenery, follow the Bushrangers Bay track from the eastern carpark at Cape Schnack. Ready for an adventure? Arthurs Seat State Park boasts an epic network of mountain bike trails guaranteed to get your heart racing!
Additional day trip suggestions are available for the Mornington Peninsula.
- Discover the rocky platforms at Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary.
- Experience diving at Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park by joining a dive at Portsea Hole.
- One can surf at the ocean beaches of Mornington Peninsula National Park.
Daylesford and Macedon Ranges
Visit the summit of Macedon Regional Park.
Experience the beauty and history of Mount Macedon with a visit to the War Memorial Cross, followed by a delicious meal at the charming Top of the Range tea rooms. Hepburn Regional Park surrounds Daylesford and Hepburn Springs. Discover mineral springs and remnants of gold mining. Trentham Falls is one of Victoria’s longest single-drop waters. Make a stop and see it for yourself.
Additional options for day trips in the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges area include:
- Escape to the magical Mt Franklin Reserve, where you can indulge in a picturesque picnic amidst a breathtaking array of conifers and deciduous trees.
- Andersons Mill is available for tours on the first day trip Sunday of every month from 12 pm to 4 pm.
- One can observe a single pine tree located on the granite summit of Mount Beckworth Scenic Reserve.
Dandenong Ranges
Embark on an epic adventure through the enchanting wonderland of Dandenong Ranges National Park, where breathtaking waterfalls, exhilarating hikes, and majestic trees await your discovery. Step into the serene oasis of Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens, where you can frolic with your furry friend, indulge in a delightful waterfront picnic, or marvel at the magnificent aquatic wonders. Embark on an enchanting journey through William Ricketts Sanctuary and let the captivating audio tour guide you through the park’s stunning 92 sculptures.
Additional day trip options are available in the Dandenong Ranges.
- Experience the seasonal color changes at Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens.
- The RJ Hamer Arboretum offers visitors the opportunity to take a tranquil stroll along the designated walking paths.
- Discover additional gardens to visit in the Dandenongs, such as Pirianda Gardens and George Tindale Memorial Gardens.
Goldfields
Castlemaine Diggings Heritage Park takes visitors back in time. Discover the hidden treasures of shady Box-Ironbark woodlands, where abandoned mines and settlements await your exploration! The city of Bendigo is surrounded by Greater Bendigo National Park and Bendigo Regional Park, perfect for bushwalking, horse riding, nature observation, cycling, and picnicking. Maldon Historic Area is a well-preserved historic village worth seeing.
Here are additional suggestions for day trips in the Goldfields.
- Experience the ultimate day out at St Georges Lake Picnic Area, nestled within the picturesque Creswick Regional Park, where you can enjoy a delightful picnic and take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
- Panoramic views can be enjoyed from Mount Alexander Regional Park.
- The newest park in Ballarat is Woowoorarung Regional Park, which is worth visiting.
For those seeking to explore more, we have suggestions for extended road trips.
Day trips from Melbourne
Don’t let a lack of preparation rain on your outdoor adventure parade! Remember to pack water, give yourself ample time, and check the weather forecast before embarking on your journey.
Indulge in the divine pairing of Yarra Valley's exquisite wine and enchanting wildlife.
The Yarra Valley is one of the most popular day trips from Melbourne. Located only an hour’s drive away, it offers an abundance of natural beauty, lush green hills, and beautiful views. The wine scene in the region is also world-renowned, making it the perfect place for a Yarra Valley Wine Tour.
On your tour, you can explore a number of local wineries and taste some of Australia’s finest wines. You’ll also have plenty of time to stop at local food and cheese producers such as the Yarra Valley Dairy, or for something sweet, you can visit the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie.
Whether you’re looking to explore the wine scene, take in the stunning views, or simply enjoy a day away from Melbourne, a Yarra Valley Wine Tour is one of the most enjoyable and popular day trips from Melbourne.
If you’re looking for something a little more active, the Yarra Valley also has plenty to offer. There are many cycling and walking trails, as well as kayaking and canoeing on the lake. The region is home to some of Victoria’s best wildlife reserves and national parks, where you can get up close to native Australian animals in their natural habitat.
Unleash your sense of wonder and explore the breathtaking beauty of Phillip Island!
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting day trip from Melbourne, head to Phillip Island. Located just 140 kilometers southeast of the city, the island is known for its beautiful beaches, natural habitat, native animals, and popular Day tours.
One of the most famous attractions on Phillip Island is Penguin Parade. Every night hundreds of adorable penguins come up from the surf to nest on land. The entrance at Summerland Beach opens an hour before sunset and visitors can witness this incredible natural spectacle. You can also take a guided tour that will bring you closer to the penguins and teach you more about their fascinating lives.
The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Victoria and an experience not to be missed. With its stunning scenery, wildlife, and amazing sunsets, this island paradise is sure to make your day trip memorable.
Apart from the Penguin Parade, visitors to Phillip Island can experience a variety of activities. From swimming and surfing in the pristine waters of the island’s many beaches to exploring its lush forests, there is something for everyone.
For those interested in discovering more about Phillip Island’s native wildlife, there are several guided tours on offer. These tours will bring you face-to-face with some of Australia’s most beloved creatures including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and little penguins.
Ballarat
Located just an hour and a half away, this park is the perfect place to experience the rich history of Australia’s gold rush towns during the 1800s.
The park offers an up-close-and-personal look at some of Australia’s most iconic wildlife species as well as interactive activities that let you observe their natural behaviors in various habitats. From kangaroos and koalas to emus and wombats, you’ll be able to encounter some of Australia’s most beloved animals in their natural habitat.
In addition to the wildlife, Ballarat Wildlife Park also offers an informative look at the history of the gold rush era. You can explore historic buildings like miners’ cottages and watch a re-enactment of one of the area’s old gold rushes. There are also interactive displays that provide further information on the area’s gold rush past.
Discover the hidden gem of Hanging Rock Reserve in the breathtaking Macedon Ranges.
If you’re looking for a fantastic day trip from Melbourne, look no further than the Dandenong Ranges. This stunning natural landscape offers incredible views and plenty of activities to enjoy. From mountain biking to spectacular views of Hanging Rock, there’s something here for everyone.
The Dandenong Ranges are located just an hour away from Melbourne, making it a great option for a full-day tour. The area is filled with lush forests and picturesque trails, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the area on foot or by bike, or even take a scenic drive to some of the most incredible views in Victoria.
The iconic Hanging Rock Reserve is an absolute must-see when visiting the area. This stunning landmark is well known for its spectacular views and fascinating history. There are plenty of walking trails here, as well as picnic facilities and lush gardens to explore.
The Grampians National Park
The Grampians National Park is a beautiful day trip from Melbourne. Located in the western region of Victoria, it offers stunning natural scenery and wildlife encounters.
The park is home to many different species of plants and animals, including kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, echidnas, reptiles, parrots and over 140 species of birds. It also has some spectacular rock formations – the Grampians Range is made up of sandstone cliffs that provide breathtaking views and amazing photo ops.
The Grampians are also home to an abundance of beautiful wildflowers, which bloom throughout the year. In Spring, they transform into a carpet of colour and beauty. You can explore this wonderful landscape by taking various bush walks and trails that meander through the area.
Indulge in the seaside paradise of Mornington Peninsula's coastal havens!
Indulge in the seaside paradise of Mornington Peninsula’s coastal havens!
If you are looking for some fun day trips from Melbourne, look no further than the Peninsula Hot Springs. Located south of Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula, this natural mineral spring is a great way to relax and enjoy some beautiful scenery. The hot springs offer a range of packages including single-use tickets and group spa experiences.
After you have relaxed in the thermal pools, head over to Squeaky Beach. This golden beach is named after the squeaking sound created by its quartz sands when walked on. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or take a dip in the ocean.
For more adventure, you can explore some of the nearby waterways and national parks. The area is filled with stunning views and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
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FAQ
What are some popular natural attractions for day trips from Melbourne?
- Point Nepean National Park: Explore the coastal landscape by e-bike or shuttle.
- Arthurs Seat State Park: Experience mountain bike trails.
- Trentham Falls is Victoria’s longest single-drop waterfall in Daylesford and Macedon Ranges.
- Dandenong Ranges National Park offers hiking trails and waterfalls.
- Grampians National Park is known for its diverse wildlife and sandstone cliffs.
Can I see wildlife on these day trips?
What are some unique experiences in the Mornington Peninsula and Dandenong Ranges?
- Mornington Peninsula: surfing at Mornington Peninsula National Park, diving at Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park, and exploring Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary.
- Dandenong Ranges: Visit the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens, explore the William Ricketts Sanctuary, and see the seasonal colour changes at Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens.
Are there any tips for planning these day trips?
Are there any recommended activities for wine enthusiasts near Melbourne?
The Yarra Valley, an hour’s drive from Melbourne, is ideal for wine enthusiasts. It offers wine tours where visitors can taste local wines and visit food and cheese producers, like the Yarra Valley Dairy and Yarra Valley Chocolaterie.