Here’s your up-to-date local beach conditions and safety overview for the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston area.
Beach conditions and hazards
Bluebottles reported across beaches
Beachgoers are being warned that bluebottles (Portuguese man o’ war) have been reported across a wide stretch of foreshore, including from Seaford and Frankston down through Mornington Peninsula beaches. These marine stingers can deliver painful stings even when washed ashore. Sightings have been shared by community members and local groups.
Swimmers and families should exercise caution, avoid touching bluebottles on the sand or in the water, and adhere to any lifeguard or local signage indicating stinger hazards.
Read: Peninsula Wide Bluebottle Jellyfish Warning
Sewage spill advisory – Sweetwater Creek and Frankston Beach
South East Water confirmed a sewage spill at Fenton Crescent, Frankston South, on Friday 26 December, with overflow entering Sweetwater Creek and extending downstream to Frankston Beach. As a precaution, the public and pets are advised to avoid contact with water in the creek and along the affected section of the foreshore near the boat ramp until water quality results are received. Advisory signs are being installed in the area.
South East Water said the spill has been contained and crews are clearing tree roots identified as the cause of the blockage. The Environment Protection Authority Victoria has been notified.
Beach water quality forecasts
Water quality at Port Phillip Bay beaches, including Frankston and Peninsula locations, is monitored and forecast by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria through the Beach Report system. The forecasts help residents decide where and when to swim based on bacterial and pollution risk. Beach Report forecasts are updated regularly and can be accessed online or via SMS alerts.
Swimming within 48 hours after heavy rain is generally discouraged because runoff can increase bacterial levels in the water.
Lifeguard patrols and safety
Patrolled beaches such as Frankston-Carrum operate with red and yellow flags indicating the safest places to swim. Lifeguards also provide advice on hazards such as rip currents and changing surf. The BeachSafe service lists patrol times, hazard levels and swimming advice for local beaches including Frankston-Carrum and nearby Mornington Peninsula sites.
Shark sightings and official warnings
At the time of publication there are no active shark warnings or alerts for beaches in the Mornington Peninsula or Frankston on the official emergency services portal. Anyone concerned about real-time sightings should refer to official sources such as VicEmergency and Marine Safety apps.
Water quality and forecast tools
- EPA Beach Report provides regular forecasts and water quality data for Port Phillip Bay beaches. Users can sign up for alerts to be notified when water quality is rated as poor.
- BeachSafe offers comprehensive information on local beaches, including patrol hours, hazard ratings and safety tips.
Quick local tips
- Always swim between the red and yellow flags at patrolled beaches.
- Watch for flag changes as conditions evolve throughout the day.
- Avoid swimming near stormwater outlets or after periods of heavy rain.
- If you see bluebottles or feel stings in the water, exit calmly and seek first-aid if needed.
- For the latest water quality forecasts and alerts, check the EPA Beach Report before heading to the beach.
