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A crowd enjoys a silent disco
Photograph: Supplied: Frankston City CouncilPhoss Studio

Weekend getaway alert: Frankston is your destination for summer fun

This waterfront city comes alive in the warmer months, so what are you waiting for?

By Ashleigh Hastings for Time Out in association with Frankston City Council
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When was the last time you made the quick trip down the Nepean Highway to the coastal hub of Frankston? The beachside locale might be a bit of a jaunt from the centre of Melbourne, but you can rest assured that a visit to Frankston will be worth the mini road trip. 

If you like to have your cake and eat it too, then Frankston might just be your summer playground. This destination is the best of both worlds: A city-based experience with an incredible waterfront close by; a break from the hustle and bustle that’s actually just down the road. 

Frankston’s distinctive blend of urban and coastal delights makes for an action-packed getaway year-round, but the coastal city really comes to life in summer. There’s always something new to do in the warmer months, whether you feel like creating an Insta-worthy moment by the coast, checking out fabulous bars, climbing to new rooftop spots, or exploring colourful street art-filled laneways. All things considered, it’s no surprise that Frankston was named Victoria’s third Top Tourism Town in 2022 and 2023. Here’s why you should add Frankston to your weekend hit list this summer…

Dip your toes into Frankston’s coastal delights

This new hotel is housed in one of Frankston’s oldest buildings, but its chic rooftop bar and dining setup is nothing but up-to-date. Take in the exposed brick and bespoke wall art as you climb the stairs to the rooftop garden, before settling in for dining, drinks and everything in between. Sip on a French rosé as the sun dips below the horizon and snack on some popcorn cauliflower or truffle fries. Hotel Lona is open late with live music pumping seven days a week.

Frankston’s Street Art Walking Tours are a fantastic way to explore the city while enjoying incredible murals. In fact, they’ve won Best Street Art Tour two years in a row in the Australian Street Art Awards. Tours run all weekend, including morning tours or a twilight version kicking off at 6.30pm. Expert local guides will lead you on a colourful 90-minute journey through more than 70 murals, created by internationally renowned artists. Keep an eye out for augmented reality elements, too. Our top pick is the ‘art, beers and baos’ tour, which includes a visit to the Hop Shop for some local craft beers, matched with bites from the Bang Bang crew.

Get those classic coastal views and feel the sea breeze on your face at this beachside dining mainstay. Oliver’s Corner will provide the views, vibes, brunch treats and pub classics, so just bring yourself and some pals. They call themselves a ‘sunset beach bar’ for good reason – you’ll have arguably the best seat in town to enjoy the sparkling colours. Prams, bikes, big groups and furry friends are all welcome at this popular local spot.

Turn up the volume on your regular waterfront stroll with a disco walk hosted by Pohss Studio. Pop on your headphones and connect with the grove at this silent disco/mobile wellness studio/self discovery workshop sashaying along the Frankston foreshore. Owner Sophie Gill will help you come out of your shell to dance the way you feel (or feel the way you dance). Pohss Studio hosts disco walks as well as dance and dip sessions. If your visit aligns, head down to Seaford Pier for a monthly moon moves session.

This new wine bar and bistro in Seaford is the brainchild of local chef Dylan Murray. With more than 17 years of hospitality experience, Murray wanted to create a space that put fresh, local produce in the spotlight for the local community to enjoy. Nab a table just metres from the Seaford foreshore and share some plates to complement your wines of choice. We like the look of the oysters with Peninsula Larder mignonette, the local snapper ceviche and the hasselback potatoes.

If you’ve never tried a waterbike, you’re in for a delightful adventure when you rock up to Waterbikes Australia for an aquatic tour of Frankston run by this locally owned business. Picture yourself gliding across the water on a floating bike that’s surprisingly easy to ride (and quite a bit of fun). If you’re lucky, you might even spot a dolphin.

You can find even more of Frankston's waterfront delights at the Discover Frankston website.

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