Nearly 150 years ago, John Boswell Clarke and his family built a humble lodging place for visitors drawn to the scenic beauty of Port Phillip. We now know it as Koonya Hotel.
Constructed in 1876 from sturdy local limestone, Mornington Hotel, as it was then known, overlooked the tranquil waters of Sorrento. Evolving from its modest beginnings into a cornerstone of Sorrento’s hospitality scene, by 1913 it had expanded with the addition of a veranda and balcony, welcoming even more guests to enjoy its seaside charm.
For nearly 80 years, the Clarke family managed the hotel, living next door and witnessing its gradual transformation. The hotel eventually changed ownership in 1952, and with that change came a new name: Koonya, derived from an Aboriginal word meaning ‘seagull’.
While the 1990s saw developers attempting to modernise the area with apartment buildings that threatened the stunning views, the community rallied, preserving a portion of the land as a public park and ensuring Sorrento’s natural beauty would be protected for future generations. By the time Koonya Hotel underwent restoration in 2001, it had narrowly avoided becoming a forgotten relic of the past and was reborn as part of a broader development that sought to honour the hotel’s rich history.
Today, Koonya Hotel is not only a link to the past but a lively destination where thirsty punters can enjoy great food and drinks with stunning views of the bay. The recent revival of the building has embraced this rich heritage, delivering a taste of old-world charm to its modern patrons. You can still appreciate the solid limestone walls that have stood since the late 1800s, but now they do so in the comfort of a fully restored venue.
From the public bar, private dining room, lounge bar or bistro, every aspect of the Koonya exudes authenticity, with a deliberate effort to maintain a laid-back, unpretentious atmosphere. Julian Gerner, the publican, has been committed to preserving the ‘anti-trend’ appeal of the place, offering a relaxing break from the more polished, upscale establishments that have become common across the Mornington Peninsula.
Koonya Hotel’s charm lies in its simplicity. The outdoor waterfront seating, inspired by photos of the 1960s beer garden, is a favourite among customers who enjoy sipping ice-cold pots of Carlton Draught while basking in the afternoon sun. The Norfolk pines across the road and pastel hues of the sea create the perfect backdrop to unwind beside the beach. As the ferry makes its hourly journey to Queenscliff and the couta boats sail by, sit back and revel in the gentle hum of coastal life.
The hotel’s atmosphere is laid-back and has that familiar Aussie seaside pub feel where everyone is welcome. Locals gather to catch up for ‘happy hour and a half’ over $5 pots and $10 glasses of Mornington Peninsula wine every day from 4pm, while older locals are specially catered for with the great-value seniors’ plate, and tradies drop in after a long day for a cold one. It’s a special place for families too, with primary school kids and prams a common sight in the relaxed outdoor area where dogs are equally welcome.
Koonya Hotel embraces its nostalgic side, from the hand-painted signs and tartan carpets to the brass sea-themed decorations subtly displayed beneath a framed cricket bat signed by the legendary Sir Don Bradman and his 1938-39 Aussie cricket team. There’s a feeling of the human touch here, and an attention to detail that is surprisingly comforting in its authenticity.
Dining at Koonya Hotel is equally satisfying. The bistro offers everything from freshly shucked oysters to pub classics like fish and chips, burgers and parmas. The menu is curated yet accessible, blending the pub’s traditional roots with a touch of modern flair. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a great meal without any pretence, making it ideal for families, groups of friends, and anyone looking for a quality casual dining experience.
Drinks flow as freely as the conversation, with all your favourite beers on tap and available in ice-cold pots, pints and crowd-pleasing jugs that are perfect for sharing on a sunny day. Koonya Hotel is also proud of its connection to the Peninsula’s renowned wine scene, offering a selection of local wines that complement the food perfectly. If you’re in the mood for something different, the Aperol Spritz and Curatif cocktails are a popular choice, while the range of non-alcoholic spirits ensures that everyone can join in the fun. As the sun sets over the bay, the energy at the Koonya rises.
With its rich heritage and relaxed atmosphere, Koonya Hotel is a seaside haven that invites you to sit back, enjoy good, honest food, and raise a glass to the simple pleasures in life. There’s something undeniably special about spending a day at the Koonya, where the beer is cold, the views are breathtaking, and the spirit of Sorrento is alive and well.
With a catchphrase that feels like a friendly invitation, Koonya Hotel is the perfect destination for anyone who has ever thought "I do love a beer beside the seaside”.
Opening hours: daily from noon; check website or social media for closing times
The Koonya Hotel
1 Esplanade, Sorrento
P: 5984 3121
www.koonyahotel.com.au
INSTA: koonyahotel