Take the plunge on the Mornington Peninsula

Ask anyone who teaches SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) and they will tell you it is easier than it looks. Your first few minutes may be wobbly but you will be surprised how quickly you find your equilibrium. You are always aware, however, that beneath the board is water rather than dry land, and something about that knowledge puts all your senses on alert. Join one of Wild Adventures Melbourne’s Wild Peninsula SUP Safari Adventures along the area’s calmest waterways and you will find yourself drinking in the early-morning birdsong and spotting kangaroos grazing on the shore. You might even gaze up at white-bellied eagles soaring high above. With so much to take in, it is a great way to simply be in the moment, letting all other cares slip away. With two sessions at different locations included in the adventure, you will finish the experience feeling revived and refreshed.

The healing powers of mineral-rich waters have been known to humans for thousands of years, with cultures as far afield as Iceland and Japan developing rituals around enjoying hot springs. At Peninsula Hot Springs , let these geothermal waters work their magic through a variety of experiences. Settle in for a soak in one of the many outdoor baths – our favourites include the hilltop pool with its panoramic 360-degree views. There are plenty of other wellness experiences on offer too. You may want to try a session in the Turkish hammam or experience the reflexology walk that stimulates pressure points in your feet. Up for some more indulgence? You can also try hot-and-cold therapy by switching between the heated pools and the ice cave, enjoy a zen massage in the on-site spa, or even stay up late and indulge in some moonlight bathing.

They say there are few things that a good day at the beach can’t cure and Mornington Peninsula’s beaches cater for everyone. Tranquil types will enjoy the gentle waters lapping the sandy shore on the Port Philip Bay side, while surfers are drawn to the wild waves of the back beaches. There are more ocean adventures to enjoy than just swimming and surfing, however. Join a tour out to Chinamans Hat to embrace the thrill of swimming with friendly fur seals, playful creatures that are always curious about visitors. If you love to snorkel, you have come to the right place. There are plenty of underwater wonders to discover and you are never too far from a great snorkelling spot. Take to the water at Portsea pier, for instance, and you will encounter soft corals and sponges, weedy sea dragons, puffer fish and more. The nearby Popes Eye Marine Sanctuary is also a great choice (look for sea stars, rays and cuttlefish) while Rye is the place to go if you want to spot octopus and seahorse.

Image credits: Wild Adventures Melbourne, Peninsula Hot Springs, Visit Victoria