Things to do in the Gippsland Lakes
Bairnsdale • Bruthen • Lakes Entrance • Lake Tyers Beach • Metung • Paynesville • Twin Rivers and surrounds
Discover the magic of the Gippsland Lakes with this curated guide to the best things to do and see in Lakes Entrance and across the region.
From cruising endless waterways and relaxing on the pristine shores of Ninety Mile Beach to outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, cultural heritage, and food and wine experiences, the Gippsland Lakes is packed with attractions for every kind of traveller.
Whether you’re searching for family-friendly activities, a romantic escape, or a nature-focused getaway, these 20 must-do experiences in Lakes Entrance and the Gippsland Lakes show why this coastal paradise is one of Victoria’s most unforgettable destinations.
1. Cruising Days
The Gippsland Lakes are the perfect boating destination, offering secluded inlets, tranquil rivers and safe and sheltered anchorages all year round.
Visit the Tambo, Nicholson and Mitchell Rivers; the pristine beaches along the 90 Mile Beach; Coastal National Parks; the seaside villages of Lakes Entrance, Metung, Paynesville and Raymond Island; and explore magical boating destinations such as Bunga Arm, Sperm Whale Head, Ocean Grange and Barrier Landing – most only accessible by boat!
You can bring your own vessel, climb aboard a tour boat or charter your own boat. Go fishing, bird-watching, dolphin spotting or jump off the side and take a refreshing dip.
2. Wine & dine
East Gippsland is truly foodie heaven.
Take a culinary tour of the local produce and artisanal foods at one of the regular Farmers’ Markets.
Dine at one of the many quality cafés and restaurants across the region in Bairnsdale, Metung, Paynesville, Lakes Entrance and surrounds.
With several award-winning wineries dotted across the region, there are many topnotch drops to imbibe. Cellar doors include Wyanga Park Winery in Lakes Entrance, Lightfoot Wines in Calulu, Tambo Winery in Tambo Upper, Ensay Winery and Nicholson River Winery.
3. Take to the water
Make a splash in East Gippsland with water sports on and in the lakes, rivers and ocean.
Sail a yacht around the peaceful inlets of the Gippsland Lakes. Paddle a kayak around the canals and waterways of Paynesville.
Surf the waves at Red Bluff, go kite surfing off the beach or canoe up the river. The options are endless!
4. Get festive
There is always something happening in the Gippsland Lakes region.
Regular Farmers’ markets, festivals, sporting events, live music and entertainment.
Check out our What’s on page for event information or ask at one of the friendly locals at our Visitor Information Centres.
5. Family fun
The region is perfect for families.
There is so much variety, from water-based activities such as tubing, paddle boats and rafting; to bicycle hire, mini golf, archery, indoor and outdoor recreational centres, cinema centres and sports clubs to entertain you.
6. Pedal power
On the East Gippsland Rail Trail you can weave your way from Bairnsdale to Orbost through undulating farmland, flood plains, across historic timber railway bridges and past winding rivers.
Take a trip to the Lakes via the Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail, that connects Lakes Entrance with Seaton Track in the Colquhoun Forest.
For something a little more adventurous, get on your bike and shred the 3 sets of great Mountain Bike Parks on offer in Nowa Nowa, Colquhoun Forest and Mount Taylor.
7. Gateway town
On the Great Alpine Road, Bruthen is a pretty village with a vibrant arts and music scene. A popular stop-off point on the East Gippsland Rail Trail, Bruthen is a destination in itself.
8. Island Bound
Visit Raymond Island, a nature-lover’s paradise. It’s just a stone’s throw from Paynesville and a quick trip on the regular car ferry, free for cyclists and passengers on foot.
Walk or cycle the Island’s Koala Trail and spot the resident koalas.
9. Feeling arty?
Take the Arts and Culture Trail around the Gippsland Lakes.
See designer jewellery, sculpture, prints and glass art.
Visit the East Gippsland Art Gallery in Bairnsdale, or take in a show at the Forge Theatre.
Gaze in wonder at the decorative murals in St Marys Church, Bairnsdale painted in the 1930’s by Italian artist Francesco Floreani.
10. Happy campers
Pitch a tent on the remote and tranquil Bunga Arm or one of the many other campsites around the Gippsland Lakes.
If something more central is your style, there are numerous caravan parks and holiday villages in towns and villages around the Lakes.
11. Cultural history
The Bataluk Cultural Trail will give you a new perspective on the landscapes of East Gippsland.
Discover the stories of the Den of Nargun and Legend Rock. View archaeological sites such as scarred trees and shell middens, some of which are over 10,000 years old.
The Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place in Bairnsdale houses a vast collection of artefacts, art and information on the Gunnai Kurnai culture.
12. From farm to plate
The Twin Rivers Farm, Food and Wine Trail will take you on a culinary journey through the Gippsland Lakes region.
From fruit farm gates to wineries, cafes and stores you can sample and buy gourmet wares along the way.
Enjoy old-fashioned country hospitality and a chat with the growers and producers.
13. Ninety Mile Beach
Look for fur seals and dolphins frolicking in the surf from one of the longest stretches of sand in the world.
Cast off with your surf rod to enjoy a Southern Ocean catch including gummy, flathead, whiting, salmon and tailor.
Or take a dip at one of two surf lifesaving patrolled beaches at Lakes Entrance: Main Beach and Eastern Beach.
14. Catch of the day
Enjoy fish and chips on the Lakes Entrance foreshore overlooking the fishing fleet that caught your meal or get on board one of the many fishing charter boats around the Gippsland Lakes and catch your own fish!
15. Treasure hunting
Find hidden treasures at one of the many antique and speciality stores dotted throughout the region.
Charnwood Antiques in Lakes Entrance offers a range of antiques and collectables galore.
16. Pamper yourself
Find some inner peace and let your worries fall away.
Metung Hot Springs‘ day spa provides massage and hot springs bathing, while the Illuka Day Spa in Lakes Entrance offer an extensive range of treatments including hydrotherapy, massage, wraps, scrubs and facials.
Koho Sauna specialises in contrast therapy, with guests cooling off with a dip in the Gippsland Lakes. Koho is perfectly orientated to enjoy sunset views from the sauna.
17. Silt Jetties
Visit the Eagle Point Bluff overlooking the Mitchell River Silt Jetties, the longest silt jetties in the world and home to fascinating wildlife.
18. Cast a line
Enjoy an onshore fishing adventure or explore the best fishing spots around the Gippsland Lakes.
Renowned for its fishing with visitors and locals alike, enjoy the abundant opportunities the Lakes has to offer.
19. Nyerimilang Heritage Park
Nyerimilang Heritage Park is on the shores of the Gippsland Lakes, situated between Lakes Entrance and Metung.
Take a leisurely walk around the old homestead and be sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the picturesque gardens.
The Park offers walks along bush and farm tracks with magnificent views across Reeve Channel and the Lakes beyond.
20. Walking adventure
Explore the best of the Gippsland Lakes by foot with a selection of short walks.
Paynesville to Eagle Point is a delight for spotting the local wildlife. Traverse wetlands ideal for bird-watchers and watch the resident kangaroos grazing on farmlands.
The Metung Boardwalk offers a leisurely stroll around the charming village right along the foreshore. The Entrance to the Lakes Walk at Lakes Entrance has spectacular views from Flagstaff Hill of the boats and fishing vessels crossing the bar.
Walk around the stunning Rotamah Island, accessible only by boat and wander through the wetlands, banksia woodland and pristine stretches of Ninety Mile Beach.
More to Explore
The 20 reasons to explore the Gippsland Lakes are just the start of what you’ll find in East Gippsland.
Visit the enchanting Buchan Caves or take a scenic drive up the iconic Great Alpine Road to East Gippsland’s High Country.
Find a beach to yourself in the spectacularly rugged Croajingolong National Park in the Coastal Wilderness or take an awe-inspiring walk to the Tulloch Ard Lookout across the mighty Snowy River.
Catch a bite to eat in the waters around Marlo and Cape Conran Coastal Park and boast about “the one that got away” in the Marlo Hotel.
These adventures and more await you in East Gippsland.
