Rye Accommodation from AU$114

Main Beach is, by far, the most popular beach in Rye. It's safe for swimming and boating and also has lots of picnic areas, a playground and walking tracks. Mornington Peninsula National Park is another popular picnic destination, offering great views and a chance to get up close and personal with the local native wildlife. While you're in Rye, be sure to visit White Cliffs. At the base of the cliffs, you'll find the reconstructed Lime Burners Kiln, built in the 19th century. Cape Schanck lighthouse is another trip highlight, as well as the Octopus' Garden Snorkelling Trail. While you're in Rye, you'll have plenty of opportunities to give kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, surfing, horse riding, surf fishing and/or charter boat fishing a go. You can also swim with dolphins or simply enjoy the scenic walking tracks. If you're here in summer, don't forget to swing by the Rye Carnival, which runs throughout the school summer holidays in December and January.

If a day of pampering is in order, head to the Peninsula Hot Springs, which is a day spa featuring natural hot springs. For some retail therapy, browse the shops along Dundas Street and, when you're done, indulge in some wine samples at the Cups Estate Winery. The Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Valley wine region are only about an hour away from Rye, too. Rye is 85km from Melbourne and you can catch a train or shuttle bus from the airport. There is a public bus that travels between the various beaches in the area, but a car will give you more freedom to plan your itinerary. So, check out our cheap flights to Melbourne, arrange your transport and book your Rye accommodation now.

Image credit Peter Campbell under Creative Commons