Hastings is the commercial capital of Western Port and the main industrial area of the Mornington Peninsula. Being a natural deepwater harbour fishing became a primary industry from the 1850's and is still an important local industry today.

Hastings has a multi-million dollar marina and the foreshore area includes cycling and walking tracks, picnic and barbecue facilities and a children's playground. The Pelican Park Recreation Centre is situated on the waterfront and houses a gym, an indoor heated lap pool, a gymnasium, spa & steam room and a kiosk. The recreation centre also houses the Pelican Pantry Cafe, open 7 days a week and offering indoor dining or seating outside overlooking the bay where pelicans congregate. Next to Pelican Park is the historic Hastings Jetty which is a popular spot for fishing. Take a stroll along the boardwalk and walking trail that connects Hastings to Jacks Beach to the south, through an expanse of White Mangrove. These are the most southerly Mangrove Forests in the world. There is also a very good market on each Sunday at the Bittern Railway Station Carpark.

In 1933 The Australian Navy established one of it's largest training facilities, HMAS Cerberus, at Crib Point. The base has a Museum that is open to the public featuring a wonderful display of military paraphernalia dating back to early European settlement . The base also has a golf course that is open to the public.

Below please find a quick reference for things to do, places to stay and places to eat in the area. If you enjoy reading about the history of the area, check out our Fascinating Historical Facts.