FRANKSTON

As a finalist in the Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards for 2022, Frankston City is proving it’s no longer just the gateway to the Mornington Peninsula but a destination drawcard in its own right. With its picturesque blend of city, bush and bay, it’s now a place to collect memories and Instagrammable moments.

First stop – the streets of the CBD, where the annual Big Picture Fest sees national and international street artists painting large-scale murals in public spaces. Get more of an art fix at the stunning McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery in Langwarrin, featuring more than 100 sculptures set in 16ha of native bushland and a gallery with 2600 artworks. Just down the road are the tranquil gardens of Cruden Farm, once the residence of the late Dame Elisabeth Murdoch. From there, soak up history at the 1855 French-style Ballam Park Homestead and 1920s American Colonial mansion Mulberry Hill.

Head to the glistening bay and award-winning beaches for sunbaking, swimming, diving, boating and water activities, or sit at Olivers Hill enjoying fish and chips, coffee or cocktails by the bay while the sun sets in spectacular fashion.

There’s plenty of free family fun too, with regular markets, festivals and workshops held from Seaford to Karingal, Langwarrin, Carrum Downs and Frankston.

Immerse yourself in nature at one of Frankston’s many beautiful flora and fauna sites, including Kananook Creek, Sweetwater Creek, Frankston Nature Conservation Reserve, the Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands, or the Yumarrala Wetlands just a short drive away in Somerville.

For a trek of a different kind, try the Beer and Spirits Trail. Start at Dainton Brewery, with six more stops including That Spirited Lot, Frankston Brewhouse and The Hop Shop. The restaurants and nightlife are next-level, with St Kilda’s Hotel Lona opening a new Frankston venue, and The Deck still providing good times.

If it’s been a while, drop into Frankston and expect the unexpected.

Things to see and do around Frankston

Take a wander along the Kananook Creek walking trail, starting near the Frankston Yacht Club. Climb Olivers Hill at sunset and take in the 180-degree view over Port Phillip. Enjoy the pop-up food and ice-cream vans.

Venture to McClelland Sculpture Park+Gallery for an arts adventure. Let the kids have a run and a play at George Pentland Botanical Gardens.

Shop ‘til you drop in Frankston’s bustling retail precinct whilst you take in the street art. You simply must get to this amazing beach, Frankston or Seaford, take your pick.