Flinders is a beautiful and historic coastal village overlooking Western Port, located at the point where Western Port Bay meets Bass Strait. Flinders is a 73 km drive south of Melbourne’s Central Business District.
Flinders is an appealing holiday destination due to its scenic coastal location amongst rolling green hills and the fact that commercial development seems to have forgotten this town, instead preserving the area’s natural beauty and scenic views.
The town was named by George Bass after his friend, the explorer and British naval officer Matthew Flinders. Settlement commenced in 1854 and many pioneers and settlers are buried at the Flinders cemetery. Flinders Post Office opened on 7 March 1863 as the population grew.
Fishing and providing timber for the railways were important early industries. Fishermen settled in cottages on the beach near the jetty, where the catch was kept alive in floating coops before being sent to market.
A number of historical buildings exist within the town, complemented by several antique shops, restaurants and cafes, chocolate maker, a village store and the 125 year-old Flinders Hotel, with adjoining hotel.
At the most recent 2021 census, Flinders had a population of 1,103.
In recent times, Flinders has become a hub for the arts with seven galleries along the main street.
Attractions along the coast include Bass Park which provides spectacular views down to the Flinders Jetty and across Western Port, as well as being home to a monument dedicated to George Bass and Matthew Flinders who were the first explorers in the area.
The weedy sea-dragon, whose habitat is beneath the Flinders Pier, attracts snorkelers from around the world to view this unique marine creature. This area is also popular for sailing, fishing, and other watersports.
The Flinders Golf Course is situated above the cliffs and ocean beaches to the south, overlooking the Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary and bordering the Mornington Peninsula National Park. To the west of Flinders, just off Boneo Road, is The Blowhole which includes walking tracks along the rocky coastline and over huge bluestone boulders.
Around 12 kilometres west of Flinders is the small community of Cape Schanck, known for its golf courses and the historic lighthouse situated at the rocky southernmost tip of the peninsula.
After petitions and protests from locals, the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council voted unanimously on 7 September 2021, to save the Flinders Pier from demolition to the inner section, because of significant historical, social, aesthetic, and environmental reasons.
Coffee safari
Flinders General Store
4/33 Cook St
Take a break from your grocery shopping and enjoy a delicious freshly brewed coffee at the coffee bar. Sit down or takeaway.
Village Cafe & Wine Bar
49 Cook St
This family-owned and run business prides itself on its house-roasted coffee, great meals (eat in or take-away), famous house made cakes and extensive wine list. Sit by the toasty fire in the winter or enjoy the sun filled courtyard on warmer days.
Pier Providore Flinders
38b Cook St
Lovely cafe with superb coffee. Indoor and outdoor seating available with a fabulous alfresco area at the back with lots of tables and toys to occupy the kids. Excellent breakfast menu and gourmet goods.
What to do
Located close to the southern tip of the Mornington Peninsula, Flinders is an appealing holiday destination due to its scenic coastal location and nearby rolling green hills. Enjoy leisurely strolls on the beach or pier, a hit of golf overooking the ocean, The Blowhole, food and wine galore at restaurants, cafes and nearby vineyards, and browsing local stores and art galleries.
Photos Yanni
