Peninsula Hot Springs: Geothermal Pools on Melbourne's Mornington Peninsula
- Dr. K.
- Aug 19
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
I had known about Peninsula Hot Springs for years—it was one of those “someday” places. On this trip to Melbourne, I finally made it happen.
The springs have been operating for more than twenty years on the Mornington Peninsula, about 90 minutes from the city. I grabbed something to eat before boarding the shuttle near the Regent Theatre at 8 a.m., not wanting to waste time eating once I arrived. If I’d had more time—or stayed overnight—I would have eaten there, because both menus looked tempting.
Visiting the Peninsula Hot Springs
Q. What wellness benefits come from soaking in thermal springs?
A. Soaking in mineral-rich thermal springs can improve circulation, ease muscle tension, and support stress reduction. The heat also enhances relaxation and may help detoxification via increased sweating.
Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting from the U.S. and not used to driving on the left, skip the rental car. The Viator shuttle from Melbourne CBD was easy, comfortable, and in hindsight the better choice—it made the day feel like part of the experience instead of a stress test.
Pools Across the Grounds
There are pools spread across the property, some in the open air, others tucked into bushland.
The first pool near the change rooms was crowded, which made sense—it was literally the first one people saw when they came out. I skipped it quickly and wandered further in. Another pool had an overhead shower where water poured straight down onto your shoulders. I hesitated, asked another guest if it was hot or cold, and she said, “Give it a go.”
The hilltop pool was the only one with a short wait. Set at the highest point, it held about a dozen people and opened up to wide views of the Mornington Peninsula. Some people timed their stay at ten minutes; others lingered a little longer.
The Footbath Pathway
The acupressure walk was a mix of therapy and endurance. A shallow channel of warm water runs over stones, and you walk across it barefoot. My first steps were an ouch moment, but I kept going because it felt like the kind of thing that was good for your feet. You move slowly, balancing each step, and it’s oddly satisfying once you make it across.
Native plants edged the pathway, and in spots you could see geothermal water streaming directly into the pools.
The Ice Cave
I went into the ice cave—a plunge into cold therapy I wasn’t sure I’d manage. My first instinct was to back out, but I stayed. Three minutes later, I walked out surprised at how manageable it was, more invigorating than intimidating.
Watching How People Used the Space
Hardly anyone had phones out.
I noticed a boy sitting with his feet in the water for nearly twenty minutes, just sitting still. Three generations of women—grandmother, daughter, and two young girls—moved from pool to pool with towels draped around their shoulders. People seemed comfortable sharing the space.
Beyond the Pools
I booked a lemon myrtle oil massage. There’s also the Spa Dreaming Centre, a fire-and-ice experience, hammocks where people rested or read, sun bathing areas, clay and sound baths.
Two restaurants—one café-style, one more formal—were both busy during the school holidays. Filtered water stations were easy to find, staff were attentive without hovering, and signage was minimal but clear.
Wellness Visitors Often Ask…
What is contrast therapy and how does it work?
Contrast therapy alternates between hot and cold immersion, which stimulates circulation and reduces muscle tension. The sudden temperature shifts are also linked to improved mood and stress resilience.
How long should you stay in an ice cave or plunge pool?
Most guides recommend 1–3 minutes, especially for beginners. The key is to focus on calm breathing and listen to your body rather than pushing for endurance.
Are thermal springs safe for families?
Yes — many pools are shallow and family-friendly, with water temperatures that are gentle enough for children. Some areas may be restricted to adults, so it’s best to check the property’s guidelines before visiting.
If You Go
Getting there: Viator shuttle from Melbourne CBD (~90 minutes). Driving is fine if you’re used to left-side roads.
When to arrive: Early mornings are calmer; by midday, the pools are busy.
Bring: Slides or flip-flops and a refillable water bottle.
Rentals: A bathrobe, towel, and locker package costs about $25 AUD. It’s convenient and 100% worth it.
Book ahead: Massages and spa treatments sell out quickly.
Extras: On-site retail shop and accessibility carts are available.
🎥 Prefer to watch?
I filmed my visit to Peninsula Hot Springs on my GoPro. Here’s the full experience in video if you’d rather see it than read it:
Consider these Viator experiences
Peninsula Hot Springs Spa Experience and Express Transfer Shuttle - This is official Peninsula Hot Springs shuttle provider, you can opt for either a morning or twilight experience - This is the one that I did, chose a morning experience!
Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs Spa Day Tour from Melbourne - They pick you up around 8 am and drop you back off by 3 pm.
Peninsula Hot Springs is designed for slowing down. You choose a pool, sit for as long as it feels right, and move on when you’re ready. Between the geothermal pools, the hilltop view, the ice cave, and the spa options, it’s a wonderful half-day that leaves you refreshed and ready for the ride back to Melbourne.
