16 Best Things To Do In Frankston, Australia

things to do in frankston australia
Adrian Chew
Adrian Chew 
Updated
| 8 min read

Though it feels like a world away from Melbourne, Frankston is just an hour drive from bustling Melbourne along the coastline. It is the gateway to the Morningston Peninsula towards the south. As you enter Morningston Peninsula at Frankston, you will pass through a city of art scene, historic homes, entertaining events and beautiful beachfront activities. While at Frankston, you get to explore the sheltered bay beaches, ocean bay beaches and the stunning coastal scenery. The city has been a popular seaside destination. Moreover, the beach is recognized as one of the cleanest in Australia. It is the home to one of the largest exhibitions of sand sculpting in the Southern Hemisphere. Check out all the best things to do in Frankston, Australia.

1. Frankston Beach

Frankston beach
Source: Photo by Flickr user cveres used under CC BY-ND 2.0

If you’re wondering what to do in Frankston, then head to the beach! Easily accessed, Frankston Beach is one of the world’s most unspoilt beaches. The sand is kept beautifully clean and the water is shallow and safe enough for the kids to swim. The beach is only a 10 minute walk from the Frankston railway station. Besides that, this popular spot is a favourite among the locals because of its ample parking space. It also offers a good array of restaurants, lovely walkways to promenade, and a good sand sculpture sheltered playground, which make it an ideal place to take the kids. This is what makes Frankston beach so special.

Frankston Beach

Address: Frankston, Victoria, Australia

Opening Hours: You can go at anytime

Access: Within walking distance from Frankston train station

Contact: +61 359866684

Website: Frankston Beach

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2. Mile Bridge

Bridge at Frankston Waterfornt (November 2007)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user NouvelleAuteur used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Get your camera ready if you’re planning to explore Frankston’s Mile Bridge. You can take photos on the bridge or explore nearby viewing spots for a full shot of the structure. This suspension bridge has had a long history, beginning in 1875, with how a certain Mark Young decided to build a path that would give his guests at Pier Hotel a convenient way to reach his sea-baths. Over the years, more guesthouses sprouted near the creek until such time that a more permanent bridge was deemed necessary. Thus, Mile Bridge came into existence. Just a little bit of trivia, did you know that a young girl’s ghost was once known to haunt this spot?

Mile Bridge

Address: Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Website: Mile Bridge

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3. Street Art Walking Tour

Participating in the Street Art Walking Tour is a fantastic way to see Frankston while having a great time. Walk around Frankston’s alleys and streets, and you’ll be blown away by the incredible works of art displayed by local and visiting artists. With artworks done by local and international artists, the Street Art Walking Tour is one of the best ways to explore the local urban culture.

Stop by the city’s central craft beer bar, The Hop Shop, or The Cupcake Queens on Station Street Mall for a delicious cupcake or milkshake.

Do note that bookings must be made in advance!

Street Art Walking Tour

Address: Streets and laneways of Frankston City

Website: Street Art Walking Tour

Opening hours: Depends on the date of booking

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4. Frankston Arts Centre

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Frankston Arts Centre on Thursday, 2 March 2017

Frankston Arts Centre is one of Australia’s art centres comprising of theatre galleries, the Creative Arts Hub and Function Centre. The Frankston Arts Centre is a unique premier arts and performance venue situated in Melbourne’s South East. Its main theatre seats a maximum of 800 patrons at one sitting and is fully air conditioned. If you have any queries relating to events at the arts centre, you can refer to the ticketing and patron policy on the website. It is an interesting place to visit if you are interested in performing arts. Time for you to destress yourself and watch some live performance or listen to some music.

Frankston Arts Centre

Address: 27-37 Davey Street, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Price: Depending on exhibitions and festivals

Opening Hours: 9am - 5pm (Monday-Friday), 9am-2pm (Saturday), Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Duration: About 1-2 hours

Access: Within walking distance from Frankston train station

Contact: +61 397841060

Website: Frankston Arts Centre

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5. Wells Street Market

Editor’s note: Establishment is permanently closed

Visitors can graze their way through food, beverages and produce, as well as taking in colours and characters every Thursday and Saturday night from 9am to 2pm at this market. Well Streets Market is located in between the cinemas and the Bayside complex on Well Street. Every Thursday, the road is closed off to traffic and open to producers, growers and artisans to make way for them to use the street for five hours. The whole street comes alive and buzzes with activities. The market offers you the chance to buy, see and drink while walking around and have a closer look at the items for sale. Food options are also immense and you will be spoiled for choice. Apart from that, farm produce is fresh from farms and is priced reasonably. This place is just another lovely bustling and friendly place to visit.

Wells Street Market

Address: Wells St | In between Bayside Shopping Centre and the cinemas, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Price: Free entry

Opening Hours: 9am - 2pm every Thursday

Duration: About 1 hour

Access: Between Bayside complex and cinemas along Well Street

Contact: +61 359763266

Near by Food: Plenty to choose from at the market

Website: Wells Street Market

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6. Brialyn Boathouse Gallery

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

All weekend I had people call me to make a booking for the Boathouse Restaurant and they were very saddened to hear that...

Posted by Original Oz Art at the Boathouse Gallery on Thursday, November 19, 2020

Another notable stop in Frankston will be Brialyn Boathouse Gallery. Do not be taken aback by its name as it is not a gallery or museum, but it is actually a restaurant. Discover the more well kept secret on the way to the boathouse restaurant, a cosy gallery with beautiful artworks, prints, cheerful collectibles and many goodies. There is also the cosy boathouse restaurant. This restaurant can be easily found as it is strategically situated along the Neepan Highway and opposite of Frankston Officeworks.

Brialyn Boathouse Gallery

Address: 368 Nepean Hwy, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Price: Depending on what you order or buy

Opening Hours: 11am - 5pm (Tueday-Sunday). Closed on Monday

Duration: Between 1-2 hours

Access: Opposite Frankston Officeworks

Contact: +61 397706119

Website: Brialyn Boathouse Gallery

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7. Oliver's Hill Lookout

Get a romantic view across Port Phillip Bay on top of Oliver’s Hill Lookout. From the lookout, the stunning view of the sky, sea and the sunset is really a sight to behold. You can even look across the bay and see the city. Apart from that, you would feel that you are on top of the world and it is worth a stop on a good day. Besides that, this point of interest offers visitors a perfect opportunity to snap pictures of the scenic view. Do you know that this place has been an inspirational site for noted artist? The lookout can be reached by various means of transportation such as bus, by private vehicle or walking.

Oliver's Hill Lookout

Address: 600 Nepean Hwy, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Price: Free access

Opening Hours: You can go at anytime

Duration: 1 hour-2 hours

Access: Within walking distance from Nepean Highway or by car from Frankston Central Business District

Contact: +61 1300322842

Website: Oliver’s Hill Lookout

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The following content is contributed by Trip101 writer, Laarni

8. Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Celebrate the end of term with us at Pines tonight! The sun is shining, school is finished for the year, and...

Posted by PARC - Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre on Thursday, December 16, 2021

Stick to your fitness regimen while on a holiday by visiting Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre. The place offers a variety of activities that will keep you moving whether on water or dry land. Join the health club to gain access to programs managed by professional trainers or sign up for group classes that will help motivate you to remain on track with your wellness goals. Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre is also family-friendly. You can enrol your kids for swimming lessons or everybody can simply head over to Aquatic Playground for many hours of fun and games in the water. You can even host a birthday party here!

Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre

Address: 16N Cranbourne Rd, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Website: Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre

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9. George Pentland Botanic Gardens

If you’re looking for free things to do in Frankston, then make your way to George Pentland Botanic Gardens. Feel relaxed the moment you step into the premises of the gardens. Check out the ornamental lake and take in the peace and quiet. But be sure to keep an eye on your kids. There are picnic areas and barbecue facilities that you can use, but you have to come early as these spaces can’t be reserved ahead of time. Public toilets are also available at George Pentland Botanic Gardens.

George Pentland Botanic Gardens

Address: 41N Williams St, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Website: George Pentland Botanic Gardens

Opening hours: 7am - 6pm (daily)

Price: free

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10. Frankston Foreshore

View of Frankston pier and foreshore - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user ozzmosis used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Frankston holds the title of being ‘the gateway to the Mornington Peninsula.’ Thus, it can be expected that some of its best spots would be located facing the water. Frankston Foreshore is best explored on the 3-metre (9.8-feet) wide boardwalk facing the waterfront. From here, you can take lovely pictures of the scenery, and you don’t have to worry about leaving after dark as the boardwalk is illuminated at night. There are barbecue facilities and picnic areas nearby should you wish to have a little get-together with friends. Food and drinks are also available to keep you energized and hydrated if you didn’t bring any provisions with you.

Frankston Foreshore

Address: 555 Nepean Highway, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Website: Frankston Foreshore

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11. Ballam Park Homestead

Homestead driveway
Source: Photo by Flickr user Jessica Cross used under CC BY 2.0

If you’re asking why Ballam Park Homestead should make it to your itinerary while in Frankston, the answer is quite simple. This two-storey brick house is the oldest house that’s still standing in the city. The sandstone structure was constructed for a pioneering family in 1855—the Liardets. Indeed it is fascinating how the French-style farmhouse’s appearance has been successfully preserved despite being around for 165 years. Here you’ll find a museum and a resource centre to give you a glimpse of life back then. Should you feel a little hungry after your tour, the cafe on-site will be more than happy to serve you.

Ballam Park Homestead

Address: 280R Cranbourne Rd, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Website: Ballam Park Homestead

Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed from Mon - Sat)

Price: 2.75 USD onwards

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12. Frankston Waterfront Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Treat yourself to some world-class food and book a table at Frankston Waterfront Restaurant. You can choose to dine indoors or enjoy your meal out in the open air, where you’ll have the best view of the sea. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner - whichever you prefer, you are guaranteed to have a gastronomic experience like no other. Don’t hesitate to order from the seafood menu as you can be sure all the items will be fresh. If you’re craving some red meat instead, Frankston Waterfront Restaurant boasts juicy steaks as well. Bring the whole family along, so you can bond over delicious entrees while marvelling at the lovely surroundings.

Frankston Waterfront Restaurant

Address: 2 Kananook Creek Blvd, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Website: Frankston Waterfront Restaurant

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 5pm - 9pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm (closed on Mon)

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13. Shaxton Reserve

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Spend some time in nature when you visit Frankston by exploring Shaxton Reserve. The highlight of this destination is a beautiful lake, which makes the surrounding area a suitable spot for wildlife to thrive. If you can bring a pair of binoculars, do so. You can observe the variety of birds that call this place home. Invite some friends or family members to come along, and pack some light snacks and cold drinks for a picnic. Park benches are available throughout, where you can relax and simply appreciate the peaceful surroundings. Just remember to clean up afterwards to help preserve the pristine state of this location.

Shaxton Reserve

Address: 25R Shaxton Cir, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Website: Shaxton Reserve

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14. Bayside Shopping Centre

Bayside Shopping Centre - Looking Towards Kmart
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Lakeyboy used under CC BY-SA 3.0

When you have a checklist of things to buy, it’s understandable that you’d prefer someplace where you can get everything in one go. Bayside Shopping Centre makes this possible with over 200 stores on-site. Whether you’re into fashion and accessories, electronics, sports and fitness, hobbies and crafts, or beauty and health, just to name a few, you can find virtually everything here. If you’re visiting with friends or family, indulge in a bit of fun and entertainment by checking out Strike Bowling Bar or Tunza Fun. Then when everyone starts to get hungry, take your pick from the numerous restaurants and cafes that are just all waiting to serve you.

Bayside Shopping Centre

Address: 28 Beach St, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Website: Bayside Shopping Centre

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

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15. Strike Bowling & Laser Tag

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional bowler or someone who’s still learning the sport, Strike Bowling & Laser Tag invites everyone to indulge in a friendly game with family and friends. One of the things that makes this place unique from others of its kind is the top-notch sound system always pumping out lively beats as you try to hit a strike. Of course, with all the moving around, you and your crew are bound to get hungry. No worries! The in-house bar and kitchen are just waiting for your orders. So book a lane now and get ready for hours of fun.

Strike Bowling & Laser Tag

Address: 21 Cnr Wells St & Thompson St, Bayside Entertainment Centre, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Website: Strike Bowling & Laser Tag

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16. Bunarong Park

Regular walking offers many benefits. Aside from its obvious positive effect on people’s health, this simple activity can also help relax the mind and release feel-good hormones. So make your way to Bunarong Park, where you can wander around two tracks that are 2 kilometres (1.24 miles) in length. The whole park covers a whopping 9.3 hectares (23 acres) of land and features sand dunes dating back as far as the Ice Age. Thus, you can indulge in a bit of sightseeing while burning calories. After your workout, head over to the elevated lookout platform to end your visit with a splendid view of Frankston.

Bunarong Park

Address: Wattle Tree Ln, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia

Website: Bunarong Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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A great accessible place

Frankston CBD and Pier
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user NouvelleAuteur used under CC BY-SA 4.0

With its easy reach to Melbourne, Phillip Island and Yanna Valley, Frankston is an easily accessible destination and a great place to explore. And whether you’re looking for fun activities in the city or things to do near Frankston, you will not be disappointed. Frankston is the vibrant urban waterfront destination where arts, cultural experience and sports meet. Moreover, the city hosts the biggest sand sculpting competition every year. Additionally, there are many other events going on over the summer in Frankston and Mornington Peninsula. Travellers can experience the colours, atmosphere and excitement and the great value at many varied markets in Frankston. Travellers are amazed by the native flora and fauna, superb beaches, magnificient parks, gardens, galleries and eateries right at the doorstep. This makes Frankston really unique and a popular holiday retreat for everyone.

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Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Frankston, Australia


  • Which are the top attractions to visit in Frankston?

    Frankston has a range of attractions to appeal to every kind of visitor. The top attractions to visit in Frankston are Frankston Beach, Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre, Ballam Park Homestead, Bunarong Park and George Pentland Botanic Gardens.

  • Which are the best outdoor activities in Frankston?

    Several outdoor activities can be enjoyed in Frankston. Spend time swimming or sunbathing at Frankston Beach or go for a brisk jog at Bunarong Park. You could also take a relaxing stroll in George Pentland Botanic Gardens or enjoy birdwatching at Shaxton Reserve.

  • Which are the most popular things to do with kids and family in Frankston?

    Frankston is a very family-friendly destination. Take your kids to the sheltered sand sculpture playground at Frankston Beach or enrol them for swimming lessons at Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre. Enjoy outdoor barbecues and picnics at George Pentland Botanic Gardens and Frankston Foreshore with your family or go bowling at Strike Bowling & Laser Tag.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Adrian, originally hailing from the small town of Muar in Johor, Malaysia, was born and raised there. Following his parents' marriage, he made the transition to Kuala Lumpur and now resides in...Read more

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