8 Enchanting Places to Visit in Frankston for Every Type of Traveller

Frankston, nestled along the shores of Port Phillip Bay in Victoria, Australia, offers a delightful mix of coastal charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty. This laidback city, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, makes for a perfect day trip or weekend getaway. Whether you’re a beach lover, art aficionado, history buff, or nature enthusiast, Frankston has something to enchant every type of traveller. Here are 8 unmissable frankston tourist attractions to add to your itinerary.

 

1. Soak Up the Sun at Frankston Beach

Frankston Beach is undoubtedly the star attraction of this seaside city. Stretching over 5 kilometres, this clean, sandy beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely strolls. Key features include:

• Wide, sandy shoreline with calm, inviting waters

• Picturesque boardwalk for walking, jogging or cycling

• Nearby cafes, restaurants and BBQ facilities

• Hosts several events and festivals throughout the year

Frankston Beach is patrolled by lifeguards during summer months, ensuring a safe swimming experience. Don’t forget to catch a stunning sunset over the bay before heading back.

 

2. Admire Art at the Frankston Arts Centre

For a dose of culture, head to the Frankston Arts Centre. This premier arts venue hosts an eclectic mix of performances, exhibitions, and events. Highlights include:

• 800-seat theatre for plays, concerts, and comedy shows

• Multiple gallery spaces showcasing local and international artists

• Workshops, classes, and educational programs for all ages

• Onsite cafe serving light meals and refreshments

Check their website for the latest shows and exhibitions. The centre is located just a short walk from the Frankston Railway Station.

 

3. Step Back in Time at Frankston Historical Museum

Dive into Frankston’s rich past at the Frankston Historical Museum. Housed in a charming old post office building, this volunteer-run museum offers a glimpse into the region’s history through a collection of artefacts, photographs, and interactive displays. Must-sees include:

• Exhibits on early settlers, industries, and military history

• Vintage household items, toys, and clothing

• Historic photographs and newspapers

• Guided tours available upon request

Entry is free, but donations are welcome. The museum is open on Sundays from 2pm to 5pm or by appointment.

 

4. Explore the McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery

Art and nature intertwine beautifully at the McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery. Set amidst 16 hectares of native bushland, this open-air gallery features over 100 permanent sculptures by renowned Australian and international artists. Visitors can enjoy:

• Diverse range of sculptures in various materials and styles

• Scenic walking trails through the bush and wetlands

• Indoor galleries with rotating exhibitions

• Onsite cafe overlooking the sculpture park

The park is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Guided tours and workshops are available for a fee.

 

5. Unwind at the George Pentland Botanic Gardens

For a tranquil escape, visit the George Pentland Botanic Gardens. These lush gardens, spanning over 4 hectares, showcase a diverse collection of native and exotic flora. Key attractions include:

• Themed gardens like the Native Garden and Ornamental Lake

• Picnic areas with BBQ facilities and shelters

• Walking tracks and boardwalks through the gardens

• Playground and open lawns for kids to run around

The gardens are open daily from dawn to dusk. Entry is free, making it a budget-friendly outing for families.

 

6. Discover the Frankston Waterfront

The Frankston Waterfront is a hub of activity and scenic beauty. This picturesque stretch along the coast offers a range of experiences for visitors. Highlights include:

• Pier promenade with stunning bay views

• Jetty for fishing and boat watching

• Playground, exercise equipment, and BBQ facilities

• Restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops

The waterfront hosts various events like the Frankston Waterfront Festival and Sand Sculpting Australia exhibition. Check the local event calendar for details.

 

7. Immerse in Nature at Frankston Nature Conservation Reserve

Experience the beauty of Australian bushland at the Frankston Nature Conservation Reserve. This 98-hectare reserve protects a significant tract of native vegetation and wildlife habitat. Visitors can enjoy:

• Walking trails through different vegetation communities

• Bird watching and spotting native animals like wallabies

• Picnic areas and seating along the trails

• Educational signage about the flora and fauna

The reserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Wear sturdy shoes and carry water, as the trails can be uneven and exposed.

 

8. Shop and Dine at Bayside Centre

For some retail therapy and culinary delights, visit the Bayside Shopping Centre Frankston. This vibrant shopping precinct offers a diverse mix of stores, eateries, and entertainment options. Key features include:

• Over 130 specialty stores across fashion, beauty, homewares, and more

• Major retailers like Target, Woolworths, and Priceline

• Food court with international cuisines and cafes

• Cinema complex and arcade for entertainment

The centre is open daily, with extended hours on Thursdays and Fridays. Check their website for special events and promotions.

 

Restaurants in Frankston

Frankston boasts a thriving food scene with a range of cuisines to suit every palate and budget. Some popular restaurants in frankston include:

Restaurant	Cuisine	Specialties
Waves on the Beach	Modern Australian	Seafood, steaks, seasonal specials
Frankston Brewhouse	Pub fare	Craft beers, burgers, parmas
Eeny Meeny	Cafe	All-day breakfast, coffee, light meals
Bahn Mii	Vietnamese	Pho, rice paper rolls, banh mi
Dosa Hut	Indian	South Indian dosas, curries, thalis

 

While american food frankston options are limited, you can find classic burgers and fries at fast food chains like McDonald’s and KFC.

 

Frankston Shopping Scene

In addition to the Bayside Centre, shopping in frankston includes several other precincts and markets. Some notable ones are:

• Wells Street Market: Outdoor market with fresh produce, artisan goods, and street food every Thursday

• Station Street Mall: Pedestrian mall with boutiques, gift shops, and cafes

• Karingal Hub Shopping Centre: Another major shopping complex with over 120 stores

Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, trendy fashion, or everyday essentials, Frankston’s shopping scene has you covered.

 

Getting Around Frankston

Frankston is well-connected by public transport, with regular trains and buses serving the city. The Frankston Railway Station is the main transport hub, located in the heart of the city. From there, you can easily walk to most of the attractions or catch a connecting bus.

 

For those driving, there are several car parks available in the city centre and near popular attractions. Some key parking areas include:

• Frankston Foreshore Car Park: Close to the beach and waterfront

• Playne Street Car Park: Central location near the Frankston Arts Centre

• Bayside Shopping Centre Car Park: Free parking for centre customers

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available in Frankston.

 

Where to Stay in Frankston

Frankston offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some recommended hotels and holiday parks include:

Accommodation	Location	Amenities
Quest Frankston	City centre	Apartments with kitchenettes, gym, parking
Frankston Holiday Park	Seaford	Cabins, camping sites, pool, BBQ area
Long Island Apartments	Frankston South	Self-contained apartments, beach access, tennis court

 

For budget travellers, there are also several backpacker hostels and Airbnb options in and around Frankston.

 

Tips for Visiting Frankston

To make the most of your trip to Frankston, here are some handy tips:

• Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.

• Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses when visiting the beach or gardens, as the Australian sun can be intense.

• Book accommodation and tours in advance during peak seasons like summer and school holidays.

• Carry cash for smaller purchases at markets and some cafes that may not accept cards.

• Be respectful of the environment and wildlife by not littering and sticking to designated trails.

Stay Connected with Airtel Postpaid in Frankston

To ensure you stay connected with friends and family while exploring Frankston, consider opting for Airtel’s Postpaid International Roaming plans. These plans offer affordable data and calling options across Australia.

 

With features like in-flight connectivity and 24/7 customer support, Airtel keeps you seamlessly connected throughout your travels, making it easier to navigate, book tickets, and share your Frankston adventures on the go.

 

From pristine beaches to artistic wonders, Frankston offers a delightful escape for every type of traveller. With this guide to the top frankston tourist attractions, you’re all set to embark on a memorable journey through this charming coastal city. Whether you’re soaking up the sun at Frankston Beach, admiring sculptures at McClelland Gallery, or indulging in local flavours at restaurants in frankston, you’ll find plenty of reasons to fall in love with this Victorian gem. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the many facets of fabulous Frankston.