Tucked quietly on the southeastern fringe of Melbourne’s coastline, Frankston is an Australian beach town often overlooked in favor of its more glamorous neighbors on the Mornington Peninsula. But that’s precisely what makes it special.
With its award-winning beachfront, revitalized town center, rich arts and culture scene, and a growing list of entertainment options, Frankston is quietly redefining what it means to be a modern seaside destination. There are a lot of things to do in Frankston, making it a perfect stopover when you're traveling to Melbourne in Australia!
It blends the best of small-town charm with city-style experiences—all without the heavy crowds. When you're looking for a relaxing coastal escape, a cultural outing, or an active holiday, Frankston delivers far more than meets the eye.
General Public Frankston: The Ultimate Entertainment Hub
If you’re in town and looking for somewhere to eat, drink, play, or hang out with friends, General Public Frankston is the place to be.
Located on Playne Street in the heart of the city, this two-level “eatertainment” venue has transformed the way locals and visitors spend their evenings. It's part arcade, part bowling alley, part bar, and fully fun.
HyperBowling lanes give the classic sport a futuristic twist, while retro arcade games and pinball machines add a nostalgic punch. There are also darts, pool tables, and a massive indoor slide, all integrated into an open-plan social space.
Add two bars and a full-service kitchen serving burgers, pizzas, and share plates, and you’ve got a spot that caters to families during the day and groups of adults at night. It’s a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience Frankston’s modern, energetic side.
Frankston Beach & Pier: Clean Waters, Golden Sands
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Stretching along the edge of Port Phillip Bay, Frankston Beach is easily one of the cleanest and most accessible beaches near Melbourne.
The golden sand, gentle waves, and scenic surroundings make it ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding on a warm afternoon. The iconic Frankston Pier—dating back to the mid-1800s—extends into the bay and is a favorite for fishing, evening strolls, and photography.
What sets this beach apart is its family-friendly vibe and cleanliness. Lifeguards patrol the waters during summer months, and the adjacent boardwalk connects to a vibrant foreshore precinct with picnic areas, barbecue pits, and cafes.
You can easily spend a whole day here enjoying everything from sandcastle building to sunset walks.
Mcclelland Sculpture Park And Gallery: Art In Nature
Source: Wikimedia.
For something a little more refined, Frankston delivers with the McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery.
Located just a short drive from the city center, it features over 100 large-scale sculptures scattered throughout 16 hectares of bushland and landscaped gardens. Walking through this park feels like an immersive blend of art and nature, where every corner offers a new visual surprise.
Inside, the gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.
Admission is free, and the on-site café is a great place to relax after an afternoon of exploration. It’s an unexpected cultural gem that adds depth to Frankston’s personality.
Frankston Arts Centre: Heart Of The Local Creative Scene
With an 800-seat theatre, intimate performance spaces, art galleries, and workshop studios, it plays host to everything from big-ticket musical productions and symphony concerts to community plays and local art exhibitions.
One of the center’s most important features is its dedication to making the arts accessible.
Whether you're into ballet, live music, comedy, or children's performances, there’s always something on the calendar.
It proves that Frankston isn’t just about sun and surf—it’s also a city that values storytelling, performance, and artistic expression.
George Pentland Botanic Gardens And Ballam Park: Urban Green Escapes
If you're craving a more relaxed pace, head to George Pentland Botanic Gardens.
This peaceful space is filled with native Australian flora, meandering paths, and shaded lawns perfect for picnicking or quiet reading. It’s a green sanctuary just minutes from the beach.
Meanwhile, Ballam Park is more active and family-focused. Featuring large open fields, playgrounds, sporting facilities, and even a historic homestead, it’s a great place to spend a day outdoors. The park is especially popular with local families, offering a blend of recreation and local history.
Oliver’s Hill Lookout: Breathtaking Bay Views
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For panoramic views that truly impress, Oliver’s Hill Lookout is a local treasure.
Perched just above the coastline, this scenic vantage point offers sweeping views of the entire bay, from the city skyline in the distance to the curve of the Mornington Peninsula. It’s a popular spot for photographers at sunrise and sunset.
From the lookout, you can descend into smaller, quieter beaches or link up with local walking trails like the Sweetwater Creek Nature Walk—a tranquil route through native bushland with creeks, bridges, and spots to stop and reflect.
It’s a refreshing contrast to the busier waterfront areas and gives visitors a different perspective on the natural beauty surrounding Frankston.
Local Events & Festivals: Year-Round Celebration
Frankston knows how to put on a show.
The city's annual Waterfront Festival in February attracts thousands with live music, food trucks, beach sports, and fireworks. Later in the year, the Christmas Festival of Lights transforms the town center into a festive wonderland complete with parades, carol singing, and market stalls.
One of the more unique events is the Greek Epiphany celebration in January, where community members dive off the pier to retrieve a ceremonial cross.
Sand sculpting exhibitions and summer concerts also liven up the beach throughout the warmer months. These events give Frankston a strong community vibe and provide plenty of reasons to visit year-round.
Bayside Shopping & Dining: Urban Convenience By The Sea
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For those who enjoy shopping and food discovery, Bayside Centre and Karingal Hub offer a modern retail experience with over 200 shops, cafes, and entertainment venues.
From local boutiques and national brands to multicultural eateries and cozy cafés, the retail scene in Frankston is more vibrant than ever.
Popular local restaurants like The Hop Shop (craft beer and small bites), The Cheeky Squire (pub with bay views), and Ceylon Girl’s Café (Sri Lankan fusion) offer something for every palate.
There’s also a growing live music scene, with venues like Singing Bird Studio hosting everything from indie gigs to all-ages events.
Wrapping Up
Frankston is not just a beach town—it’s a town with beaches, culture, creativity, nature, and soul. For too long it has flown under the radar, but things are changing.
As new developments spring up and community spaces thrive, Frankston is carving out a reputation as an affordable, vibrant, and highly livable destination.
If you’ve never considered it for a holiday or weekend escape, now’s the time to rethink what you know. You might just discover that Frankston isn’t underrated—it’s just undiscovered.
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