A perfect day for people who like moving and relaxing. This all-inclusive Mornington Peninsula outing pairs a SUP lesson with a long soak at Peninsula Hot Springs, and it’s paced so you don’t feel herded around. The one thing to keep in mind is it does require good weather and you’ll want a moderate fitness level for the bushwalk.

I also love that you get the practical extras handled for you: towels, reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable bottle, plus coffee/tea and a boxed picnic lunch. It’s capped at a small group size (up to 9), and your guide style is part of the appeal. If you prefer a super quiet day with zero talking, you should still be fine, but the day is designed for group flow and schedule timing.

Key things to know before you go

• Up to 9 people makes this feel personal, not like a bus tour with paddles
• SUP on Port Phillip Bay includes equipment plus a lesson
• Bushwalk to a secluded beach and rock pools adds real nature time
• Peninsula Hot Springs entry and bathing is the recovery part of the day
• Winery picnic + wine tasting keeps the indulgence local
• WAM van transport helps you relax between stops

Mornington Peninsula, all in one smooth 9-hour loop

This tour is built for a specific kind of traveler: the one who wants the Mornington Peninsula highlights without having to plan four separate days. You get active time in the water, a guided walk with coastline views, a proper lunch, a hot springs reset, and then wine tasting to close it out. At $207.28 per person for about 9 hours, it’s not a cheap “snack and stroll” day, but the value comes from how much is bundled.

The day starts early (8:00am), and you’re back at the meeting point at the end. Pickup is offered, which matters because Mornington Peninsula driving can be slow once you’re out in the bayside roads. You’ll also be in a WAM van, described as a comfortable, retreat-on-wheels setup. That combination is what makes the whole schedule feel doable rather than exhausting.

One small practical note: this isn’t a “sit down and watch nature” experience. You’ll paddle and hike, then you’ll relax. If your fitness is moderate and you’re okay with moving through a day, you’re in the right place.

Price and what you actually get for $207.28

Let’s talk value, because this is the part people usually worry about. Your ticket includes a lot of things you’d otherwise pay for separately:

• SUP equipment and a lesson on Port Phillip Bay
• Guided hiking experience
• Entry and bathing at Peninsula Hot Springs
• Lunch (boxed picnic) plus coffee and/or tea
• Wine tasting and alcoholic beverages
• Towels, reef-safe sunscreen, and a reusable bottle
• Water and general fees/taxes

When you add up SUP rentals + instruction, hot springs entry, and winery tasting, the price starts looking less like “tour markup” and more like a day plan that’s been assembled so you don’t waste time (or money) coordinating logistics.

Also, the eco-friendly angle isn’t just marketing in this case. The day is organized to support local businesses and eco-conscious activities. The result is that you’re spending your time where it matters: on the water, on foot, and at local spots rather than parked in a lineup.

SUP on Port Phillip Bay: lesson, gear, and sea-creature spotting

The Mornington Peninsula starts with the water, and that’s a big reason this tour works. You’ll head to pristine sandy beach settings by the iconic bathing boxes for a SUP lesson and tour in the clear waters of Port Phillip Bay. If you’re new to stand up paddleboarding, the lesson is included, and you’re not expected to “figure it out” while you wobble.

The most praised part here is what SUP does to your sense of place. From the water you can actually look around instead of just watching from shore. You also get a real chance at spotting local wildlife. Guides point out sea creatures, and people highlight the thrill of seeing marine life while paddling. Even if you don’t spot dolphins, you’re still getting that water-level perspective that turns the bay into a living environment rather than a view.

A few practical tips so you enjoy it more:

• Wear swimwear you can move in comfortably.
• Bring sunglasses and consider a cap, since water glare is real.
• Reef-safe sunscreen is provided, which is great, but you’ll still want to reapply if you burn easily.
• Don’t underestimate the “core workout” part. Even with a calm pace, SUP uses more than you expect.

And because towels and a reusable bottle are included, you’re not juggling a messy bag of your own stuff right after the paddle. That matters when you’re going from active water time to lunch and then onto walking.

The coastal bushwalk and rock pools: where the day slows down

After the paddle, you shift to land, but it’s not just another “walk and look” stop. The day includes a guided coastal bushwalk along the southern coastline, ending at a secluded beach with rock pools described as magical.

This is the part of the itinerary that adds a sense of discovery. You’re going somewhere you probably wouldn’t choose on your own without doing planning. A guided pace helps too. Instead of sprinting through scenery, you’re moving far enough to feel like you earned the break, but not so fast that you lose the details.

What to expect physically: you’ll need moderate fitness. There’s hiking involved, and you’ll be doing it as part of a full day. If you’re someone who hates uneven ground, slippery rocks, or steep spots, this might feel more demanding than a casual nature stroll. On the other hand, it’s guided and scheduled, which usually means the route is chosen for a group dynamic rather than a solo-challenge test.

What you’re really looking for here is the reward: rock pools and coastline texture. Even without specifics about the pool locations, the tour’s structure makes sense. Paddle first, hike second, then picnic at a viewpoint. The hike sets up the lunch break as a real reset, not just a snack.

Picnic lunch at a beach viewpoint: simple, local, and timed right

By the time you reach the picnic, you’ve done enough that eating feels earned. You’ll stop at a beautiful beach viewpoint for a picnic full of fresh local produce, along with coffee and/or tea. It’s boxed lunch style, so you’re not stuck waiting for a table or worrying about restaurant timing.

I like this setup because it keeps the day flowing. You can eat, drink something warm or refreshing, and then get back to the schedule without the stress of finding food. Also, the viewpoint matters. You’re not eating in a parking lot with a sandwich. You’re eating where the scenery is part of the meal.

If you’re the type who hates waste, the reusable bottle inclusion is a quiet win. You’re less likely to buy throwaway drinks. And since you already have towels and sunscreen sorted, your picnic doesn’t turn into “where do I store wet stuff” problem solving.

A small tip: bring a light layer. Even if it’s sunny, coastal breezes can cool you down after activity.

Peninsula Hot Springs: the recovery you’ll actually feel

After SUP and hiking, your body wants a proper cooldown, and that’s exactly what Peninsula Hot Springs is for. You’ll finish at Peninsula Hot Springs with included entry and bathing. If you’ve ever left a day of outdoor activity wishing you could pause your muscles from screaming, this is that moment.

Hot springs are also a nice mental reset. SUP puts you in problem-solving mode (balance, direction, paddling rhythm). Hiking shifts you into noticing mode (coastline, footing, rock pools). At the hot springs, you switch into full relaxation. That contrast is why people call this a must-do part of the peninsula: it’s not optional afterthought bathing. It’s scheduled recovery.

One practical detail: lockers and gowns at the hot springs are optional and not included. That means you should plan to bring your swimsuit setup and basic swim essentials. If you’re unsure, check what you’re carrying and what you’d like to feel comfortable changing into.

Winery wine tasting at Kerri Greens: laid-back, local, and not rushed

The last chapter of the day is wine tasting at a laid-back winery experience at Kerri Greens Winery. Wine tasting is included, along with alcoholic beverages. This is where the day finishes with a social tone rather than a physically demanding one.

What makes this work well is pacing. A common fear with full-day tours is that you end up feeling “on” the whole time. Here, the mix of active and relaxing stops helps keep the energy steady. People specifically note that the day feels well paced, with time to talk when you want it and quiet when you want that instead.

The winery portion is also a nice way to connect the coastline adventure with Mornington Peninsula food and drink culture. You’re not just consuming alcohol as a payoff. You’re tasting something from the region after experiencing the region.

Stops along the way: lighthouses, state parks, and national-park scenery

Your day isn’t only water, food, and hot springs. The itinerary includes stops connected to the peninsula’s scenery and identity, including McCrae Lighthouse, parts of Mornington Peninsula National Park, and Arthurs Seat State Park.

Because the tour is designed around a full schedule, these are best thought of as scenic anchors rather than long sightseeing marathons. They help you understand where you are geographically, so your day doesn’t feel like disconnected scenes. You’ll get views and context as you move between activities.

Even if you’re not obsessed with landmarks, these stops do something valuable: they break up the day in small ways. That keeps your brain from getting tired from constant motion.

Timing, group size, and why you won’t feel pushed

This is a small group tour, with a maximum of 9 travelers, which is a big deal. In a group that size, your guide can actually manage pace, safety, and attention without turning the day into a conveyor belt.

Your guide’s style is also part of what people rave about. Nic is described as laid-back and professional, giving space for conversation and also giving space for quiet. That balance is rare. It means you can enjoy the experience socially, but you’re not forced into constant small talk.

The other pacing win is that everything is structured so that breaks feel intentional. SUP doesn’t drag. The bushwalk has a clear end point. Lunch is timed for energy. Hot springs comes after effort, and the winery arrives at the end when you’re ready to slow down.

If you’re worried about feeling rushed, this day is designed to avoid that. You’ll still cover a lot, but it doesn’t feel chaotic.

What to pack so the day feels easy

The tour provides several key comfort items, but you’ll still want to bring personal basics. I’d plan for a “swim + hike + hot soak” kind of day:

• Swimwear (and a way to keep it with you safely)
• A light change of clothes for after the hot springs
• Sandals or water-friendly footwear for around the water and beach areas
• Sunglasses and a hat for sun
• A light jacket for breezy coastal weather
• Optional: a small dry bag or waterproof pouch (helpful if you’re carrying a phone)

Because reef-safe sunscreen, towels, and a reusable bottle are included, you can travel lighter than you might on other tours. That’s one of those “small” things that actually makes a day more enjoyable.

Who this tour is for (and who might choose another)

This works best if you want an active day that still ends in real relaxation. If you like:

• stand up paddleboarding even if you’re a first-timer
• coastal walking with scenic rewards
• hot springs as a true recovery stop
• a local winery tasting finish

…then you’re probably going to love it.

It might not be your ideal match if:

• you don’t want to do any hiking
• you get uncomfortable with the idea of balancing on a SUP board
• you prefer fully independent touring where you set your own pace

Also, since it requires good weather, if you’re traveling in a season when rain is a frequent problem, keep your expectations flexible.

Should you book this Ultimate Peninsula Adventure?

If you want one ticket that strings together the Mornington Peninsula’s best mix of water time, nature time, and a proper soak, I think this is a smart choice. The value is strong because the essentials are included: SUP instruction and gear, a guided hike, lunch with coffee/tea, hot springs entry, and wine tasting. You’re paying for a complete day plan, not for a pile of separate reservations.

Book it if you’re the type who likes structured spontaneity: you show up, follow the guide, and leave with a story that feels bigger than just one activity. The small group size and the laid-back guide approach make the day feel human rather than mechanical.

Just make sure you’re comfortable with moderate fitness and that you’re okay with the fact that good weather matters. If those two boxes are checked, this is one of the most satisfying ways to experience the peninsula in a single day.

FAQ

What activities are included in this tour?

You’ll do stand up paddleboarding with a lesson and tour, enjoy a guided bushwalk, have a boxed picnic lunch with coffee and/or tea, visit Peninsula Hot Springs for included entry and bathing, and go to Kerri Greens Winery for wine tasting.

How long is the tour?

It runs for about 9 hours.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included as a boxed picnic, and coffee and/or tea are included too.

Do I get hot springs entry and bathing?

Yes. Entry and bathing at Peninsula Hot Springs are included.

Do I need to bring stand up paddleboarding equipment?

No. SUP equipment is included, along with a lesson and tour.

Is wine tasting included?

Yes. Wine tasting is included, and alcoholic beverages are part of the package.

What time does the tour start, and where does it begin?

The tour starts at 8:00am and begins at McCrae Lighthouse, 676 Point Nepean Rd, McCrae VIC 3938.

Is pickup offered?

Pickup is offered.

What items are provided during the day?

You’ll receive towels, reef-safe sunscreen, and reusable bottles for the day, plus bottled water.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour asks for a moderate physical fitness level due to the guided hiking portion.

What happens if weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.