Make a Splash

Peninsula Paddle, Pinot and Pools tour

There’s one way to beat the summer heat and that’s by jumping into the cooling depths. Whether you’re by the sea or further inland, we’ve got a spot for you.

Paddle Power

Take a full day to explore the Mornington Peninsula on the Peninsula Paddle, Pinot and Pools tour. Starting at the nineteenthcentury McRae Lighthouse, this adventure includes a stand-up paddleboarding lesson and the chance to look for the local dolphins, a soak at Peninsula Hot Springs, a hike along the coast, some rock pooling, a picnic and an organic wine tasting. +wildadventuresmelbourne.com

Local Treasure

No one’s sure how the Macedon locals have managed to keep this place a secret. Middle Gully Reservoir, or what they simply call 'the Res', is a beautiful swimming lake hidden from the road. A couple of years ago it was even a location for the Hollywood movie, Blacklight. Need directions? Take the Macedon exit off the Calder Freeway, turn left into Nursery Road and, just before the railway bridge, you’ll see some bush car parks. Follow the track around the lake to the swimming spot, with its rope swing and shady trees.

Cascade Country

Just a 10-minute drive from Beechworth, discover Woolshed Falls. Water flows through rocks before plunging into a deep waterhole, where you can slip in for a swim. Otherwise pack a picnic to enjoy with the sound of falling water in the background and explore the old goldmining sites. +explorebeechworth.com.au

Creature Feature

Visit a seal rookery, check out the coastal landscape from the water then dive in with dolphins and the puppies of the sea during the Seal & Dolphin Swim half-day tour from Queenscliff. You don’t need to be a good swimmer to give it a go, and even small kids can take part if they’re accompanied by a parent. This is an incredible opportunity to get close to some of the ocean’s magnificent wild creatures. +dolphinswims.com.au

Dolphins in Port Phillip Bay

Woolshed Falls