ST ANDREWS BEACH TO FLINDERS

Located on the Bass Strait side of the southern extremity of the Mornington Peninsula, the delightful suburb of St Andrews Beach offers long stretches of pristine beach coupled with wild nature. Its unique topography creates an ideal environment for golf courses; it’s also known for good surf and is home to the St Andrews Beach Brewery, making for an intoxicating combination.

Drawing visitors from across the state is the tiny town of Fingal, home of the Peninsula Hot Springs, where visitors take in the tranquillity of the bush while soaking in one of the many geothermal heated pools dotted throughout.

For the more adventurous, Gunnamatta is a place of high-energy and action, being the home of Gunnamatta Trail Rides, with gentle horses traversing beautiful coastal bushland and spectacular beaches. For water activities, the beach itself stretches 3km and is exposed to strong westerly wind and big waves, with the best surf breaks around. Deep rip holes, reefs and rocks offer excellent fishing opportunities, but swimming is hazardous with strong rips close to shore.

Perched on rocky cliffs, the Cape Schanck Lighthouse was built in 1859 using Peninsula limestone and features a rare spiral staircase made from stone. Take a tour then follow the 2.6km Bushrangers Bay Track to see some of the best coastal scenery. Time your visit for low tide so you can venture down to the beach to explore the marine life. For a touch of luxury, head to the RACV Cape Schanck Resort and National Golf Club –they’re regarded as the heart of the community.

For beach-lovers who prefer holiday destinations that commercial development seems to have forgotten, Flinders fits the bill, with numerous historical buildings complemented by antique shops and several art galleries. Dine out at popular gastro pub The Deck at Flinders Hotel or devour authentic Italian fare at Donna Maria.

Check out the region for yourself and you’ll soon see why residents choose it over the hustle and bustle of busier beach towns.