Balnarring is a town situated on the Mornington Peninsula, with its coastal part, fronting Western Port Bay, approximately a one hour and 15-minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD.
The Aboriginal meaning for Balnarring is ‘camp in open places’.
The population of Balnarring area in 2021 was 5149 (including Balnarring, Merricks, and Somers).
Balnarring Beach, also known as Tulum Beach, lies at the mouth of Merricks Creek and overlooks Phillip Island.
The formation of the Balnarring village came with the opening of the post office in 1866, a school in 1871, and a church in 1881.
In 1924, the Harley Davidson motorcycle club built a clubhouse at the beach and it is still there today. The club members met at the Cheero Tearooms at Balnarring presumably after they had been beach racing at Balnarring Beach. The local council prohibited beach racing around 1930, so the club members then used Bob and Frank Myers property (who were local members) for racing. In 1926 Milledge Bros. Pty Ltd of Elizabeth St Melbourne purchased 2 lots of land from the Balnarring Beach Estate for the use of the Harley Club. Milledge Bros. were the importers of Harley Davidsons at the time. Club rooms were built on this land and were opened in December 1928. From 1930 until the mid-1950s Mr. K.J. Rattray Wood of East Brunswick was listed as the owner of the land and he rented it to the Harley Club. Today, although the board over the gate still says ‘The Harley Club’ the house is privately owned. This is certainly an unusual piece of Mornington Peninsula’s history.
On 23 August 1899, the Balnarring Mechanics’ Institute was opened by the Hon. F.S. Grimwade (MLC North Yarra, 1891–1904). It was a timber hall, used as a community hall and social centre by the community until the 1960s. A new hall was built in 1969. In 1970 the Mechanics’ Institute building burned down, and in 1979 a reserve was declared in its original location.
The Balbirooroo Community Wetlands border the commercial centre and include a lagoon and walking trails.
Balnarring Beach has won prestigious cleanliness awards, including “Cleanest Beach in Victoria” multiple times and the national title of “Cleanest Beach in Australia” in 2006 from the Keep Australia Beautiful Council.
Just to the east of Balnarring on the coast in neighbouring Somers are the Coolart Wetlands. This nature reserve surrounds the historical Coolart Homestead which was built in 1895 and includes a lagoon where thousands of Australian white ibis nest every year, plus attractive picnic and BBQ areas.
From 1857 onwards, the Government created a number of Land Acts designed to open the land, offering blocks to small-scale farmers. The Parish of Balnarring was surveyed in 1865, as part of the “Agricultural Area of Mount McMahon”. Most of the selectors were orchardists although dairy farmers also took an interest in the area. In the 1920s, the construction of cool stores at Red Hill increased their ability to trade their produce further afield.
What to do
From the sands and gentle waves of family-friendly Balnarring beach, perfect for a morning walk or a relaxing arvo picnic, to the tranquil wetlands teeming with native birdlife, there’s plenty to explore for nature lovers. The town centre offers a welcoming vibe, with local cafes serving top-notch coffee, and charming boutiques featuring unique gifts and artisan products. For a taste of local flavour, you can’t go past the fresh produce and gourmet fare at the weekend Emu Plains market, while the Coolart Homestead provides a fascinating glimpse into the area’s history and heritage. For those who appreciate good wine, the nearby boutique wineries offer tastings of some of the Mornington Peninsula’s finest drops, making Balnarring a true gem for visitors and locals seeking relaxation and adventure.
Coffee safari
PHASE TWO
Shop 11, Balnarring Village, 3050 Frankston-Flinders Road
With a flavourful all-day menu, locally roasted coffee and friendly service, this cafe has become a firm favourite in Balnarring Village and is loved by locals and weekend visitors alike.
VILLAGE PEOPLE BALNARRING
Balnarring Village 3050 Frankston-Flinders Road
A great spot to chill out for breakfast with excellent coffee and vegan options available. An outdoor seating area under the trees is also available, which makes it very pet friendly.
TULUM STORE
181 Balnarring Beach Road
A beachside gem supporting the peninsula and Western Port through their menu and wine list. Offering specialty coffee, fresh pastries, dine-in and takeaway food in a cosy and relaxed atmosphere.
THE RED HILL BAKER
1/3000 Frankston-Flinders Road
More than just a bakery, this bustling cafe also stocks a variety of deli items, take-home meals and gourmet food products. You can also enjoy live music on Sunday afternoons.
