An exciting transformation unfolding at the Frankston Waterfront
Published on 13 July 2026
Frankston's waterfront precinct continues to evolve, driven by major hospitality investment, returning summer attractions and a pipeline of development activity that is shaping an exciting future for one of Victoria's most iconic bayside destinations.
From the upcoming opening of Roccella Lido at the Long Island venue to the proposed Pier Promenade hospitality precinct and broader investment across the foreshore, significant projects are progressing that continue to strengthen Frankston City’s appeal as a place to live, visit, invest and enjoy.
These developments, together with the return of popular summer attractions and events including the Beach Club, Waterfront Festival, Australian Sand Sculpting Championships and Australia’s Most Accessible Beach, as well as new public art installations, will contribute to an exciting program of activity across the waterfront in the lead up to summer.
At the heart of this activity is the upcoming opening of Roccella Lido, a new southern Italian-inspired restaurant overlooking Port Philip Bay above Oliver’s Corner Cafe and the Frankston Yacht Club, which remains on track for an expected August opening.
Fit-out works are progressing well, including construction of a new external staircase providing direct access between the venue and the beach, further strengthening the connection between the restaurant and Frankston City’s relaxed coastal setting.
With anticipation building, the venue has already secured several wedding bookings and is receiving strong enquiries for private functions and events. Recruitment is also well underway, with leadership positions currently being filled alongside the broader team that will welcome locals and visitors through the doors in the coming months.
Bruno Ceraso, Director of Roccella Group, said anticipation is building ahead of opening.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the response from the local community, and we’re excited to bring Roccella Lido to Frankston. We look forward to welcoming locals and visitors through the doors in August to experience this incredible waterfront location,” he said.
Planning is also progressing at the Pier Promenade venue, formerly home to Sofia’s Restaurant and the Frankston Visitor Information Centre (VIC), where Council is currently assessing a planning permit application to transform the site into a vibrant multi-venue hospitality destination.
The proposal from Ecco Enterprises Group features a Mediterranean-style restaurant with an outdoor bar, alongside a fish and chip shop and ice cream venue designed to complement the foreshore experience.
Before any works can commence, the proposal must go through a comprehensive assessment and approvals process with public notice, involving both Council and the Victorian Government. Given the site's unique coastal location on Crown land, the assessment is ensuring any future development delivers the best possible environmental, design and community outcomes.
The redevelopment follows the closure of the Frankston Visitor Information Centre in 2025, making way for new hospitality opportunities that will activate more of the waterfront for residents and visitors to enjoy. Visitor information continues to be available through the Imagine Frankston website, social media and digital wayfinding kiosks, along with information available at Council’s Customer Service Centre, libraries and community facilities.
Beyond the foreshore, investment continues along the Kananook Creek corridor, where residential and mixed-use developments are strengthening connections between the city centre and the waterfront, while creating opportunities for cafés, restaurants, and local businesses that will add to the area's vibrancy.
Together, these projects represent a once-in-a-generation transformation one of the city’s greatest natural assets into an even more vibrant destination for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
Frankston City Mayor Sue Baker said the precinct is entering a strong period of growth and change.
“For a city blessed with one of the most spectacular waterfronts in Victoria, this investment signals ongoing confidence in Frankston City’s future,” she said.
“There is a real sense of momentum building, with new hospitality experiences, major events and investment creating exciting opportunities for our community and local economy.
“From exciting new dining experiences and major events to public spaces that invite people to stay longer and explore more, we’re creating a waterfront that locals are proud of and visitors want to return to. This momentum is helping cement Frankston City as one of Victoria’s most exciting bayside destinations.”
IMAGE CAPTION: Bruno Ceraso, Director of Roccella Group, says anticipation is building ahead of the opening of Roccella Lido on the Frankston Waterfront next month.