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Okay Read MoreMildura in Summer: Hot Days, Cool Spots, and Local Secrets
1st November 2025
Summer in Mildura is about taking it easy and enjoying what’s close at hand. Fresh citrus, river dips and lazy afternoons make it one of regional Victoria’s most relaxed escapes. So, if you’re up for warm days, slow moments and a few local secrets, here’s where to start.
Credit: Visit Victoria
Heat, Sun and Slow Days
A weekend in Mildura feels like stepping into the warm heart of regional Australia. The red soil, the open sky, and the steady flow of the Murray set the pace for everything. This sweet little town only a short drive from the South Australian border asks you to slow down. The best moments here are simple ones: sitting by the river, tasting fruit straight from the farm, or sharing lunch under the shade of a gum tree.
But it’s no secret that the summers in Mildura don’t hold back. The days are hot and still, the air smells of dust, and the light makes the riverbanks glow. The secret is to move and adapt with it; early mornings, quiet afternoons, and long evenings by the water.
Easy Ideas for Hot Days in Mildura
Eat well, swim often, and follow the river. You’ll see why people fall in love with this part of Australia, regardless of the time of year. Here are a few ways to enjoy Mildura to the absolutely maximum in summer.
Cool Off by the Murray River
Wherever you happen to be in the world, the obvious choice is to make a beeline for somewhere there is water. Head down to Apex Beach, Mildura’s favourite swimming spot, where the gum trees offer natural shade and the current stays calm enough for a float.
Bring a picnic rug, pick up ice creams from the Riverfront Kiosk, and take a slow dip to escape the dry heat. Otherwise, if you’d rather stay dry, wander the Mildura Riverfront precinct with its cafés, lawns, and shady seating.
Credit: Visit Victoria
Cool Down with a Gin Tasting at Fossey’s Distillery
For a fresh take on a hot summer afternoon, duck into Fossey’s; Mildura’s small-batch gin distillery. The air-conditioning is of course a bonus, but it’s the gin that steals the show here.
Citrusy, floral, and full of local character, the gins are diverse and the staff super friendly. Try a tasting paddle or a cocktail made with house-made tonic and native botanicals. Talk about a refresh.
Step Inside the Mildura Arts Centre
When the sun’s high, the Mildura Arts Centre is a perfect escape from the heat. Explore local and touring exhibitions, stroll through the sculpture park, or relax in the shaded gardens overlooking the lagoon. If you’re lucky, you might also be around in time for some shows or concerts.
The on-site café is also great for a cool drink or light lunch before heading back out.
Credit: Visit Victoria
Go Wine Tasting Along the Murray
Mildura’s warm Mediterranean climate makes it one of Australia’s greatest wine regions, and summer is the perfect time to taste it.
Head to Trentham Estate, where the cellar door sits right on the riverbank, shaded by old gums and cooled by the breeze off the water. Try their crisp Vermentino or a glass of sparkling, and linger over a platter of local produce as paddle steamers drift by. Basking in the hot Mildura weather has never been so easy.
Take a Paddle-Steamer Cruise
Board the P.S. Melbourne or P.V. Rothbury to see Mildura from the river. The breeze keeps it comfortable even on the hottest afternoons, and you’ll pass red cliffs, river gums and plenty of birdlife along the way. Most cruises include short commentary on the Murray’s history and Mildura’s time as a busy river port.
There’s a small bar on board, so you can sit back with a drink and enjoy the slower pace of the water.
Credit: Visit Victoria
Discover Local Produce at Orange World
Just a short drive from Mildura, Orange World is a local favourite for a reason. Join the shaded tractor tour through rows of citrus trees and learn how the region’s famous oranges are grown and harvested.
After the tour, stop at the farm shop for fresh juice, marmalade and oranges grown just metres away from where you’re standing.
End the Day with a Riverfront Sunset
As the day cools, Mildura slows down and so should you. Locals head to the Mildura Riverfront or Lock 11 lawns with takeaway dinner, or settle into The Office Wine Bar for something chilled.
You could also take a stroll by the water and watch the Murray reflect deep golds and purples, or drop in for a meal at Mildura Golf Resort Bistro.
Where to stay in Mildura
Kar Rama
Right in the centre of Mildura, Kar Rama is modern, friendly and close to everything. The pool is a real advantage in summer; a cool break between exploring, eating out and walking the riverfront.
Mildura Golf Resort
Set among open greens on the edge of town, Mildura Golf Resort is a quiet spot to slow down between outings. The rooms are comfortable, the restaurant is easy to get to, and the golf course adds a sense of space you don’t often find so close to town.