Mallacoota Genoa Holiday 3-Day Itinerary
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From secret beaches to wild peaks, Mallacoota serves nature at its finest.
Welcome to East Gippsland's Coastal Wilderness
Tucked away on Victoria’s far eastern coastline, Mallacoota is a place where untouched landscapes meet coastal charm. If you are envisioning a tranquil holiday with quiet trails that meet jaw-dropping lookouts, this is the place for you. Just inland, Genoa offers its own slice of wilderness with amazing waterfalls and summit views worth the climb.
This three day itinerary brings together the very best of both. Whether you’re here to relax by the beach, explore heritage sites, or chase that next adventure, you’ll find Mallacoota and Genoa deliver the kind of escape that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
Explore Mallacoota
Day 1
The charming town of Mallacoota is nestled beside a stunning network of lakes and waterways.
After checking in to your accommodation, pick up essentials from the local shops and supermarkets, then set out on foot to explore the town.
Visit the Mallacoota Arts Space, a community-run gallery showcasing high-quality artwork by local artists.
From the main street, wander down to the Mallacoota Boat Ramp and Jetty, where resident pelicans are often seen paddling about. Information on boat cruises is available here.
Spend the rest of the afternoon discovering some of Mallacoota’s most scenic walks. The Foreshore Boardwalk winds along the water’s edge, while the shared pathway along Lakeside Drive allows you to walk or bike all the way to Bucklands Jetty. Enjoy beautiful views across the lake from anywhere along the boardwalk.
Beaches
Spend your afternoon enjoying some of Mallacoota’s most scenic walking trails. Start with the Foreshore Boardwalk, which winds along the edge of the water and offers lovely lake views. Take the shared path along Lakeside Drive and you can walk or ride a bike all the way to Bucklands Jetty, where you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views across the lake.
When you’re ready to relax, head to one of the town’s beautiful beaches:
Betka Beach is perfect for families and has public toilets and picnic facilities.
If you’re after something more rugged, try Quarry Beach, known for its striking rock formations.
For peace and quiet, Pebbly Beach is a tranquil place to sit, wander, or just listen to the waves.
Learn about local history and spot native wildlife
Day 2 - Morning
A visit to Bastion Point is a must. This lookout provides sweeping views over the ocean and along the Croajingolong coastline, where surfers are often seen catching waves below.
Inland from Bastion Point, discover one of Mallacoota’s historical sites—the World War II Operations Bunker. This concrete structure once housed radar equipment and military personnel who monitored the coastline for enemy activity. It now stands as a heritage site, with interpretive signage explaining its vital wartime role in protecting Australia’s eastern shores. The bunker is open every Tuesday from 9:30 to 11:30, or by appointment.
Croajingolong National Park, which surrounds Mallacoota, is one of Victoria’s most ecologically significant areas. Just minutes from town, access some of the park’s easier walks, such as the Double Creek Nature Walk.
Gabo Island
Day 2 - Afternoon
For a truly unique experience, visit Gabo Island—a windswept, pink-granite island just off the coast, accessible only by boat or light aircraft. Arrange boat tours in advance through local operators. Take a guided tour to the top of the lighthouse for spectacular views. The island is also an important wildlife sanctuary, and lighthouse tours must be booked in advance through Parks Victoria.
Reconnect with Nature at Genoa
Gipsy Point, a short drive from Mallacoota, is where the Genoa River meets the top of the inlet.Â
During your visit, make time to explore Genoa Falls and Genoa Peak. Genoa Falls is a short walk from the roadside, while the trek to Genoa Peak is more adventurous. The two-kilometre return trail features a steep ascent through eucalypt forest, becoming increasingly challenging near the rocky summit. The final section includes ladders leading to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views.
Day 3 - Morning
Mallacoota Lakes
