If you’re planning a long weekend on the Mornington Peninsula, chances are you’ve already Googled “best spot to stay on the Mornington Peninsula” and tried every Airbnb filter to narrow down a shortlist. With so many options—from cozy cottages to luxury beach houses—it can feel overwhelming. I know the feeling.

The good news? With a little guidance, it’s easier than you think to find the perfect holiday rental.

Over the years, my husband, our dogs, and I have stayed in dozens of short-term rentals all over the world with family too, from bustling city apartments to quiet coastal retreats. Through these experiences, I’ve learned firsthand what makes a stay feel seamless, comfortable, and enjoyable.

In this guide, I’ll share practical tips and insider insights to help you find a Mornington Peninsula rental that suits your family, your style, and your holiday vibe.

Mornington Peninsula Locations:
Which Area is Best?

The Peninsula isn’t one-size-fits-all. Where you stay will shape your entire trip—so it’s worth thinking about the vibe, activities, and convenience of each area before booking your Airbnb or holiday rental.

Sorrento & Portsea
These classic beachside towns are perfect for families who love to walk everywhere. With calm bay waters on one side and waves at the back beach on the other, you can spend your mornings paddling safely or catching a surf. Sorrento and Portsea are the furthest points from Melbourne, but once you arrive, it feels like a world away.

Nearby activities: Explore walking tracks at Point Nepean National Park, be inspired by the homes on Millionaire’s Walk, tee off at Portsea Golf Club, surf the back beaches, play in the calm front beaches, or enjoy a ferry trip to Queenscliff.

Vibe: Boutique shopping, impressive beach homes, and charming cafés make it a peaceful yet activity-filled spot for your coastal stay.

Red Hill & Main Ridge
If you’re after rolling hills, vineyards, and a foodie’s paradise, this hinterland is your ideal base. Curl up in front of a fireplace on King’s Birthday weekend, play boules in your private garden under the summer sun, or hop in the car to discover award-winning wineries, breweries, and restaurants.

Family-friendly options: Truffle hunts, strawberry picking at Sunny Ridge Farm, or a short drive to either coast—Dromana for a calm bay swim or Point Leo for surfing. Note that most walks are in national parks and aren’t dog-friendly.

Adventure for kids & daredevils: Arthur’s Seat Adventure Park offers mazes, tree surfing, and more.

Vibe: Romantic, outdoorsy, and indulgent—a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Mt Martha, Dromana & Safety Beach
For those who love sun, sand, and water-based fun, the coastal towns between Mornington and Dromana deliver exactly that. Picture days of stand-up paddleboarding in the bay, casting a line at Fishy’s, shopping in small boutiques, building sandcastles, indulging in too many ice creams, or sipping a spritz with an ocean view.

Extra tip: Rye is worth considering in summer, especially for families who love carnival rides and seaside festivals.

Vibe: Relaxed, active, and full of charm—ideal for families or anyone wanting a classic beachside holiday.

✨ Insider tip: Wherever you stay, choosing a property with a mix of indoor comfort and outdoor space will give you both the ease of family living and plenty of opportunities for capturing unforgettable holiday memories—no matter what weather Victoria throws at you!

Family photoshoot during picnic in Mornington Peninsula hinterland

Property Style:
What Kind of Mornington Peninsula Stay Suits You?

The Mornington Peninsula offers a wide variety of short-term rentals—from modern, designer homes to charming historical cottages full of character. The style of your property can completely shape your holiday experience, so it’s worth thinking about how you want to spend your time.

Luxury Ocean-View Villas
Perfect for multi-generational families or groups who want space, comfort, and a touch of indulgence. Think multiple bedrooms, expansive living areas, private pools, and outdoor entertaining spaces. These homes often feature stylish interiors and professional staging, making them ideal for relaxing in comfort—or capturing gorgeous family photos.

Charming Cottages & Character Homes
If you love cozy vibes and unique touches, a cottage or historic home can give your stay a personal, homey feel. Expect fireplaces, outdoor gardens, and quirky features that make every corner of the house feel special. These properties are perfect for couples, small families, or anyone wanting a quieter, more intimate holiday.

Ultimate Activity Bases & Outdoor Living Spaces
If you plan to spend most of your time at home, look for properties that support indoor and outdoor fun. Even in summer we should be prepared for cool, rainy days. Thankfully, almost all homes will have Netflix, many include board games, and some even offer pool tables or arcade games! Prefer a quiet nook? Seek out cozy corners bathed in natural light—the perfect spot to get lost in a book.

Victoria’s famous four-seasons-in-one-day weather means a chilly morning could become a glorious day—so outdoor spaces are just as important as the indoors. Look for homes with decks, BBQs, pools, or gardens where you can soak up the sun, enjoy alfresco meals, or let the kids run freely. Many family-friendly Airbnbs include these features, making them ideal for long summer days—or rainy afternoons indoors.

💡 Expert Insight: Tom, Lively Properties
To add some local expertise, I asked Tom, founder of Lively Properties, a luxury holiday rental management company on the Mornington Peninsula, what makes a property truly memorable. He shared:

Family playing cards on a weekend away from Melbourne

Amenities That Make a Difference

Choosing the right amenities can transform a good holiday rental into an unforgettable Mornington Peninsula escape. Whether you’re travelling with kids, a multi-generational family, or just want a touch of luxury, checking the details before you book can make a huge difference.

✨ Personal experience: On a month-long stay in the Croatian mountains, my husband and I had no idea how much fun we’d have with the provided badminton equipment—we ended up playing daily and are even considering joining a local team back home! We also loved arriving to a huge supply of pre-cut wood and a Weber with charcoal to grill fresh fish. Thoughtful extras like these turn a rental into a truly memorable getaway.

Family-Friendly Features

High chairs, cots, and safety gates
Fenced gardens or outdoor play areas
Toys, games, or beach gear for stress-free packing

Luxury & Comfort Extras

Spa baths, fireplaces, or heated pools
Stunning outdoor decks, terraces, and ocean-view balconies
Well-equipped kitchens and outdoor BBQs

Practical Must-Haves

Laundry facilities and a stocked kitchen (essentials like oil and salt are a bonus)
Secure parking for day trips
Good heating or cooling systems for Victoria’s unpredictable weather

Extras for Fun & Relaxation

Games, pool tables, or arcade machines for family fun
Cozy nooks or sun-soaked corners for reading or relaxing
Wi-Fi and streaming options for movie nights or catching up on work

📌 Pro tip: Before you start browsing “Mornington Peninsula Airbnb” or “weekend holiday rentals near Melbourne with a pool,” make a checklist of must-have amenities—or download mine for free! This will save time and ensure your chosen home fits your family’s needs and style.

The Host Matters:
Private vs. Professional Hosts

When it comes to choosing the best Airbnb or holiday rental on the Mornington Peninsula, the property itself is only half the story—the host can make or break your experience.

Private Hosts

Often renting out their own home or holiday house
Cozy and personal, sometimes with thoughtful extras like pantry basics or beach gear
You might even open a cupboard and find some of their belongings—it’s part of the charm

From our experience, private hosts can be a mixed bag. Some have gone above and beyond—we’ve stayed with hosts who even bought desks for the house at our request! On the other hand, we’ve also encountered stays so poorly maintained that we left early—including one property where, believe it or not, a tree had grown through the shower (definitely not an aesthetic choice)

Private hosts can provide a wonderful, homely experience, but consistency depends on the individual.

Professional Hosts / Property Managers

Manage a curated portfolio of premium Mornington Peninsula holiday homes
Maintain consistently high standards of cleaning, check-in, and communication
Ideal for families, larger groups, or anyone planning a special trip
Often provide concierge-style extras: local dining tips, in-house chefs, babysitting, or activity recommendations

Professional hosts have systems in place to ensure your stay is seamless—they rely on 5-star reviews to keep their properties at the top. That consistency and attention to detail make all the difference when you’re travelling.

💡 Insider Tip: If your dream rental is managed by a property manager, check their website—you’ll often save on booking fees.

✨ Photographer’s Tip: Professionally styled homes are not only a joy to stay in—the well considered furniture and the aesthetic that drew you too it also makes it a perfect settings for family portraits, whether you’re capturing candid moments or posed shots to treasure forever

*Consider the services and activities you’d like to do, like cooking classes- maybe your property manager can get you a bonus!*

Budget & Booking Tips for Mornington Peninsula Stays

Even for a luxurious escape, a few thoughtful strategies can help you secure the ideal Mornington Peninsula rental and make your stay effortless.

Book Early for Peak Seasons
Summer and school holidays are the Peninsula’s busiest periods. Premium rentals—especially those with pools, ocean views, or expansive spaces for families—can book out months in advance. Early planning ensures you have first choice of the finest properties.
Consider Mid-Week or Off-Peak Stays
Mid-week or off-peak stays can offer a more serene experience. Avoiding school holidays and public holidays means fewer crowds at beaches, cafes, and attractions, giving you more space to relax and enjoy the Peninsula.
Be Aware of Additional Fees
Most rentals will itemise extra fees that aren’t included in the base price. These can include cleaning, pets, or additional services. Always review the listing details carefully so there are no surprises.
Personal experience: One stay added €50 per night for our dog on a rental that was only €90 per night! The fine print simply stated, “Pets allowed for a fee.” We usually pay around €10, so now we always confirm any pet fees upfront. Even with high-end rentals, checking all fees ensures your stay feels seamless.
Booking Direct Can Offer Advantages
If the property is managed by a professional host or property manager, check their website. Booking direct often avoids platform fees and may include extra perks like concierge recommendations, late check-out, or special touches prepared for your arrival.
Look for Exclusive Access and Booking Bonuses
The best property managers can organise additional services that go beyond the basics. Guests often receive special bonuses or discounts, and sometimes even exclusive access to local attractions or experiences. These can include private chefs, in-home spa treatments, babysitting, curated local experiences, or even bespoke photographic coverage to capture your holiday memories, as I provide at Classico Portraits Australia.

💡 Photographer’s Insight: I work closely with the concierge and property team to manage logistics, so you have less to think about. They know your schedule and planned activities, which allows me to suggest moments to capture naturally—ensuring your most important memories are beautifully preserved.

*Wall art to make you smile, taken by Classico Portraits*

Creating Memories at Your Mornington Peninsula Holiday Home

At the end of the day, your holiday home isn’t just a place to sleep. It’s where family meals are shared, laughter fills the air, and all the little in-between moments happen. The space you choose can have a big impact on your trip, so pick one that feels uplifting, comfortable, and inspiring.

✨ If you’d like to preserve those moments—whether it’s a quiet morning with your partner, playful chaos with the kids, a multi-generational family gathering, or even your furry friends enjoying the beach—I’d love to help. My photography sessions are designed to fit naturally into your holiday, giving you timeless images that celebrate the people (and pets!) you love, alongside the beauty of the Mornington Peninsula.

Free Download
Holiday Rental Comparison Checklist

Sometimes it’s the little things that make a holiday unforgettable. From a badminton set to a Weber grill with pre-cut wood, the right extras can turn a nice stay into a truly memorable one.

Our free Mornington Peninsula Holiday Rental Checklist helps you spot these must-have amenities before you book, so you never miss the details that make all the difference.

Get My Free Checklist

Hi, I’m Kirstie

Photographer and Adventurer

My husband and I (plus our dogs!) spent our final year in Europe living in Airbnbs and short-term rentals across the continent. That experience, along with childhood holidays on Victoria’s coast and weekends at the family farm, taught me just how much the right property can shape a trip.

When a house feels welcoming and full of character, it becomes part of the holiday—not just the place you sleep.

During that year, I also flew back and forth to photograph families on holidays in Tuscany, where my business had been based for the years prior—again witnessing firsthand the impact of the perfect accommodation.

Now living back in Victoria, I continue to help families preserve meaningful memories through relaxed photo sessions and heirloom artwork, letting you relive them for years to come—just as I have for the past 14 years.

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How to Choose the Best Airbnb or Short-Term Rental on the Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula Locations: Which Area is Best?

Property Style: What Kind of Mornington Peninsula Stay Suits You?