The Best Things To Do In Rye

Rye is a coastal town nestled between Tootgarook and Blairgowrie on the Mornington Peninsula. The main beach in Rye is a safe place to swim and is ideal for boating. In the summertime, Rye’s popular carnival comes alive which is located beside the pier.

Rye is one of the bigger towns on the Mornington Peninsula with a population of around 8,500 people. This grows substantially during the summer months as Melburnians flock to the seaside town, as well as interstate and international visitors.

From Melbourne, it’s only a 90-minute drive to Rye and there are plenty of things to see and do down on the Mornington Peninsula. Not only are there lots of water and hiking activities to do for the adventurous type but also lots of wineries and restaurants to check out.

In this guide, we’ll highlight the best things to do in Rye including:

– Places to visit

– Beaches to see

– Restaurants to eat at

– Places to stay

– Fun date ideas

Popular Places to Visit in Rye

Peninsula Hot Springs

This is by far one of the biggest attractions for people making a trip down to the Mornington Peninsula. From Rye, it’s only a 10-minute drive to the Peninsula Hot Springs. In 2018, the Hot Springs had a huge $13 million development including seven new geothermal pools and the newly built Bath House Amphitheatre.

In total there are 50 geothermal pools to explore and for those looking for more wellness activities, there are also yoga, pilates, meditation and tai chi sessions. If you’re looking for  accommodation near the Hot Springs, check out this article.

White Cliffs Outlook

The lookout platform 9.8 metres above sea level in Rye delivers panoramic views across Port Phillip Bay. There are also plenty of walking trails that start from here including the Bay Trail (12.4 km), which follows the foreshore all the way to Dromana. If you follow the trail in an easterly direction you’ll spot a reconstructed Lime Kiln nestled in the cliffside and picnic tables to have a bite to eat before you start your trek.

Bass and Flinders Distillery

While Mornington Peninsula is famous for its pinot noir and chardonnay, for those who prefer the harder stuff head to Bass and Flinders Distillery which was the first artisanal distillery on the Peninsula. Take one of their gin masterclass experiences where you get the opportunity to create your own gin. Not only do you get to explore the interesting world of gin production but you’ll get to taste plenty as well. Gin masterclasses are held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The Dunes Golf Links

The Dunes opened in 1995 and has consistently ranked in the top 20 golf courses in Australia. This 27-hole public golf course is located in the heart of Rye and every November they hold their annual tournament known as The Cups Classic, which is arguably the best nine-hole tournament in Australia.

Best Beaches in Rye

Number 16 Beach

From Rye Ocean Beach you can walk to Number 16 Beach and it’s about a 90-minute return trip. Number 16 Beach is a sandy, surf beach and you’ll find beautiful rock pools. It’s popular with surfers, photographers, and beach goers. If you’d prefer to drive there, there is parking available with direct access to the beach.

For people looking for a long walk, you can start the historic Life Saving Track from Number 16 Beach which is 9 km in total which will take you all the way to Sorrento.

Dimmicks Beach

If you’re looking for a beautiful secluded beach, head to Dimmicks Beach which is also part of The Coastal Walk. There are timber seats overlooking the beach where you’ll be able to get some great snaps of the ocean and the rock formations. Be careful of the slippery rocks as sometimes they can be covered in seaweed.

Best places to eat in Rye

Peninsula Pantry

Sucker for a good vanilla slice? Then look no further than the Peninsula Pantry. It’s off the main strip if you’re looking for a quiet spot to sip on your morning coffee and read the paper. The chocolate eclairs are also great but there are plenty of savoury options if you’re not into cakes.

Best places to stay in Rye

Coast & Country has a number of  holiday accommodation in Rye. All our holiday rental properties are centrally located so you’re never far away from the action. We have holiday homes with pools, spas and even pet-friendly accommodation. For those planning on bringing their four-legged friend, please contact us before booking to arrange this as we also charge an $80 cleaning fee.

If you’re looking for something unusual, you might be interested in our SeaSalt Beach House. It was designed by award winning Ben Lance Architects. This property has 4 bedrooms so it’s perfect for big groups. You’ll find all the necessary amenities as well as an outdoor entertainment deck.

Fun date ideas in Rye

Bathe and dine package

Looking for a romantic getaway? On Friday and Saturday nights the Peninsula Hot Springs has a bathe and dine package which includes dinner, glass of wine, tea or coffee and a bathing session in the Spa Dreaming Centre.

Winery picnic

Many wineries in Mornington Peninsula have private picnic packages that you can book in advance. Not only will be able to enjoy each other’s company but you’ll have amazing views of the vineyard as you sip your wine.

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