Victoria is spoilt for choice when it comes to day trips. Cooling off by the coast or relaxing under a ferny forest, adventure is usually an hour or two away. But, don’t forget: a good trip is only as good as the snacks. You need to make sure the food fuels a day of exploring.
Here are our top picks for summer day trips where you can find adventure, plus a fresh meal.
The Dandenong Ranges, Ferntree Gully
Image: Visit Yarra Valley
Just under an hour from Melbourne, The Dandenong Ranges are the ultimate quick escape. It’s cooler and packed with nature trails.
In summer, this place makes a fantastic destination to pack your comfy walking shoes and breathe in the fresh mountain air. For a short walk (around 30 minutes), head to the Mt. Dandenong Arboretum among established trees.
If you have more time, try a one-hour walk in Birdsland Wetland Reserve in Belgrave Heights, a beautiful spot to meet kangaroos and wetlands. The place is dog-friendly, great for a fun exercise with your four-legged friends.
Before you go, pack bento boxes or sushi rolls from our Ferntree Gully store so you have lunch ready when you reach the picnic ground.
Mornington Peninsula
Image: Visit Melbourne
Can’t talk about summer without mentioning the Peninsula. It’s the classic Victorian playground for a reason.
Less than two hours from the CBD, the Arthurs Seat Eagle can give you a bird’s-eye view of Port Phillip Bay. On a clear day, the scenery is unbeatable. For a refreshing dip, head to the local beaches or stroll along Mornington Pier at Schnapper Point to enjoy the seaside vibe. If you’re further south, Cape Schanck Lighthouse provides dramatic cliff views and boardwalks that make for incredible photos.
Phillip Island
Image: Visit Melbourne
Now for a slightly longer drive, head to the ‘wild’ side of Phillip Island. You might have seen the penguins, but have you explored the island’s rocky edges?
Take the Cape Woolamai Circuit Walk. It is considered one of the best hiking routes on the island, offering admirable views of the cliffs and the ocean. As it’s a solid walk, bring water and good shoes. If you need a non-greasy takeaway to take along, swing by our store at Pika Sushi Cowes before you hit the trails.
If you’re chasing scenery, visit The Nobbies at the western tip of the island. Walk along the boardwalks to see the blowhole and Seal Rocks, where you may spot Australia’s largest fur seal colony.
Drouin and Warragul
Heading east? The Gippsland region lets you stop by in open space for fresh air, minus from the coastal crowds.
For a sunny active afternoon, try the Two Towns Trail, an 8 km path connecting Drouin and Warragul. Have a great walk or cycle between the town while enjoying the greenery. If you want to go deeper, don’t miss Mount Worth State Park, about 15 km south of Warragul. It offers beautiful rainforest hiking trails and giant Mountain Ash trees.
Afterward, indulge in a tranquil afternoon by the lake at Civic Park in Drouin. With its playground and BBQ areas, this place is the perfect picnic spot to unpack a shareable platter.
The Secret to A Good Road Trip
Nothing ruins a day trip faster than feeling drowsy and tired after a greasy lunch. That’s why Pika Sushi is your perfect stop for grabbing a pack of hand rolls to eat in the car, or a platter to share at the park. Our meals are designed to give you energy, not take it away.
Our stores are open in all these major hubs. So, wherever your summer adventure takes you, we’re ready to roll.
