This northeastern stretch of the Peninsula coastline adjoining Western Port Bay is characterised by its coastal wetlands, saltmarsh and mangroves. From Stony Point to Somerville, this region contains some of the most southerly mangroves found anywhere in the world.

The significance of these intertidal mudflats for flora and fauna is internationally recognised and it forms a large portion of the Western Port Ramsar Site. It also holds culturally significant and sensitive sites and places, important to the Bunurong/Boon wurrung people.

Residents and visitors enjoy in this unique coastline in a range of ways. Numerous well-loved jetties and piers enable fishing, boating, and wildlife spotting. The Coastal Wetlands Boardwalk at Bittern traverses the length of Warringine Park offering a foreshore walk. Hastings bustling foreshore of shows its historic fishing village roots, with a marina, yacht club. Port areas of this region, found in Hastings and Crib Point, are key to the region’s economy. Other key facilities in this region include Stony Point Pier which hosts passenger ferries to French Island and Phillip Island.

Coastal wetlands and mangroves of this region currently provide a natural buffer against coastal hazards, such as erosion, and inundation in lower-lying coastal areas. Various coastal structures have been introduced in efforts manage hazard risks. Coastal and marine environments are expected to become even more dynamic, with rising sea levels and will experience more frequent and intense storms.