Jutting out from a sheltered bay, this pier is an idyllic spot to cast a fishing line, take in bayside views and explore the underwater world with a snorkel.
The Portsea Pier is a modest wooden structure that protrudes into Weeroona Bay from the upmarket seaside village of Portsea on the Mornington Peninsula. Portsea’s glitzy mansions and resort villas may be a showy display of wealth, but for the Portsea Pier, the riches lie below the surface. Peer into the waters from the pier to spot rays gliding along the seabed or go diving around the pier’s wooden beams to catch glimpses of rare sea creatures. Take a seat on the historic wooden pier and enjoy a picnic while enjoying the stunning Port Phillip Bay views.
Portsea is situated on a narrow finger of land at the far western tip of the Mornington Peninsula. In this scenic town, you can see the wild ocean from the Portsea Back Beach on one side and the serene bay on the other. The Portsea Pier is flanked by sheltered beaches, which are ideal for spending a day swimming and snorkelling in the clear waters or relaxing on the sands.
Hire scuba-diving equipment or book a tour with one of the operators on the foreshore. Take the plunge from Portsea Pier and explore the magnificent underwater realm around it. You might spot the rare weedy sea dragon or see rays and pufferfish cruising around the reef systems. Be careful when diving around this area, as it has reasonably high boat traffic. More experienced divers might want to explore the offshore shipwrecks and outlying reefs, accessible via boat.
Drop a fishing line off Portsea Pier and try your luck reeling in snapper or squid. If nothing’s biting, pick up some snacks from the main coastal strip of Point Nepean Road, such as tasty local fish and chips. Bring your picnic down to the picturesque wooden pier and enjoy a meal while taking in stunning bay views. Alternatively, grab a hearty meal and regional wines at the iconic Portsea Pub.
Reach Portsea within 90 minutes driving from Melbourne along a toll road or within 2 hours along the scenic Nepean Highway. Connect with a local bus to Portsea from Frankston, 1-hour train journey from Melbourne.
