Imagine waking up to shimmering blue water stretching as far as the eye can see, surrounded by coastal wilderness, friendly pelicans, and some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Victoria. Sounds pretty amazing, right? Welcome to the Gippsland Lakes, one of Australia's largest and most spectacular networks of inland waterways, and a destination that deserves a top spot on your travel bucket list.
Whether you're planning your first visit or just starting to research your options, this guide has got you covered. The Gippsland Lakes can feel a little overwhelming at first, simply because there is so much to see and do across such a wide area. But don't worry, that's exactly why we put this list together.
From the best towns to base yourself in, to the top activities, hidden gems, and practical tips for first-time visitors, we're breaking everything down into easy, bite-sized pieces. By the time you finish reading, you'll feel confident, excited, and completely ready to start planning your Gippsland Lakes adventure. Let's dive in!
What Are the Gippsland Lakes?
If you've ever looked at a map of Victoria's eastern coastline and noticed that enormous stretch of water sitting just behind Ninety Mile Beach, you've spotted the Gippsland Lakes. This remarkable waterway system is Australia's largest network of inland navigable waterways, and it's every bit as impressive as that title suggests.
The lakes are made up of three main connected bodies of water: Lake King, Lake Victoria and Lake Wellington. These are joined by a sprawling network of rivers, lagoons, estuaries and wetlands that together cover a vast area of south-eastern Victoria. Five rivers feed freshwater into the system, with the Latrobe and Avon flowing into Lake Wellington, and the Mitchell, Nicholson and Tambo flowing into Lake King. That constant mix of freshwater from inland catchments meeting saltwater influences from the sea creates a genuinely unique estuarine environment unlike anywhere else in Australia.
What separates the lakes from Bass Strait is a thin ribbon of coastal dunes and sand that runs along Ninety Mile Beach. The only opening to the ocean is a man-made entrance channel at the township of Lakes Entrance, which was permanently established in 1989. This single connection to the sea is part of what makes the whole system so ecologically special, and so calm and protected for boating, fishing and paddling.
The Gippsland Lakes hold Ramsar wetland status, which is international recognition of their exceptional ecological value. The site is home to significant populations of waterbirds and migratory species, and the surrounding habitat supports remarkable biodiversity. Much of this surrounding environment is protected within the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park and Lakes National Park, which preserve the dune systems, bushland and coastal habitats that make the whole region so visually stunning and ecologically important.
The lakes didn't appear overnight. They formed gradually over thousands of years through a combination of river sediment deposits building up from inland catchments and natural coastal processes shaping the dune barriers along the shore. The result is a living, breathing landscape that continues to evolve, and one that has supported human life in this region for more than 24,000 years, with the Gunaikurnai people holding deep cultural connections to this country long before European arrival.
Where Are the Gippsland Lakes?
The Gippsland Lakes sit within the East Gippsland region of Victoria, spreading across a vast stretch of country that runs roughly from Bairnsdale in the west out toward the Snowy River mouth in the east. It's a generous slice of Victoria, and the Lakes themselves are just one part of a much bigger landscape worth exploring.
A handful of towns act as natural bases for visitors to the area, and each one has its own personality. Lakes Entrance is the most well-known, offering easy water access, fresh seafood and a lively holiday atmosphere. Metung is quieter and more intimate, popular with those chasing a relaxed waterfront experience. Paynesville sits on a pretty peninsula and has a strong sailing culture, while Bairnsdale serves as the regional hub for East Gippsland. Further east, the tiny town of Marlo sits at the mouth of the Snowy River and has a beautifully remote, end-of-the-road feel to it.
This country holds deep significance for the Gunaikurnai people, whose connection to this landscape stretches back more than 24,000 years. Acknowledging that history adds a meaningful layer to any visit here.
East Gippsland as a whole extends all the way to the NSW border, taking in Victoria's longest and least-developed coastline, ancient rainforests and wild river country. It's a genuinely expansive region.
Getting here is straightforward. The Gippsland Lakes are well signposted along the Princes Highway (A1), making a self-drive trip from Melbourne simple to plan and easy to navigate at your own pace.
How to Get to the Gippsland Lakes from Melbourne
Getting to the Gippsland Lakes is a genuinely easy trip, and for most Melbourne visitors, that's half the appeal. The most straightforward route follows the Princes Highway (A1) east through the heart of Gippsland, passing through Warragul, Traralgon, Sale and Bairnsdale before arriving at Lakes Entrance. From Melbourne's CBD, allow around 4 to 4.5 hours driving time, depending on traffic and where you stop along the way. The terrain is relaxed and mostly flat, with no mountain passes or tricky roads to contend with.
Stops Worth Making
Breaking the drive up makes the journey part of the adventure. Sale is a natural halfway point and a good spot to grab a coffee and stretch your legs. Bairnsdale, about 50 kilometres before Lakes Entrance, is the practical gateway to East Gippsland and the place to stock up on supplies, fill the tank and get your bearings. If you have time for a short detour, the small town of Bruthen is a charming stop on the way, and it also sits at the start of the Great Alpine Road, which offers a spectacular alternative route home through Omeo and the Victorian High Country.
Travelling Without a Car
If you'd prefer not to drive, V/Line train and coach services run regularly from Melbourne's Southern Cross Station through to Bairnsdale. From there, local transport or car hire can get you the remaining distance to Lakes Entrance. Fares are genuinely affordable, making this a budget-friendly option for solo travellers or those happy to take things slowly.
Campervans and Caravans
The Melbourne to Lakes Entrance corridor is a popular run for caravans and campervans, with powered and unpowered sites available at parks along the route and around the Lakes themselves. It's a comfortable, well-serviced drive with plenty of overnight options if you want to take your time getting there.
Things to Do on the Gippsland Lakes
Once you're out on the water, it quickly becomes clear why the Gippsland Lakes have such a devoted following. There's genuinely no shortage of ways to enjoy them, whether you're chasing fish, paddling through quiet backwaters or simply soaking up the scenery from the deck of a boat.
Boating and cruising are the classic starting point for most visitors. The interconnected waterways offer calm, sheltered conditions that suit everything from a lazy afternoon in a hired tinnie to multi-day houseboat adventures. Scenic cruises depart from Lakes Entrance and wind their way through the system, with guides pointing out wildlife along the way, including dolphins and pelicans that are frequently spotted on the water. The sheltered nature of the lakes makes conditions manageable even for those without a lot of on-water experience.
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding open up a completely different side of the lakes. Smaller craft can slip into reed-lined inlets, shallow estuaries and narrow channels that larger boats simply can't reach. A kayak along the Mitchell River Silt Jetties near Eagle Point gives paddlers access to remarkably calm water alongside extraordinary birdlife, with conditions often described as gentle and unhurried. Guided tours are available from operators around the lakes if you'd prefer a bit of local knowledge to lead the way.
Fishing is a serious drawcard for plenty of visitors. The lakes are regarded as one of Victoria's premier fishing destinations, with bream, flathead, perch and trevally among the species regularly caught from both boat and foreshore. Ninety Mile Beach adds surf fishing to the mix for those who prefer casting from dry land.
Birdwatching is genuinely outstanding across the system. The Ramsar-listed wetlands attract large numbers of pelicans, herons, egrets, cormorants and royal spoonbills, along with migratory shorebirds that pass through seasonally. A single morning on the water can produce a surprisingly long species list.
Finally, the Mitchell River Silt Jetties near Eagle Point are worth a dedicated visit. These narrow ridges of river sediment extend several kilometres into Lake King, and are rated among the longest naturally formed silt jetties in the world. You can walk them, fish from them or admire the unusual geography from the water itself.
Food, Drink and Local Experiences Around the Lakes
The food and drink scene around the Gippsland Lakes is genuinely one of the region's best-kept secrets, and it's quickly becoming a destination in its own right. Whether you're after fresh seafood with water views, a cold craft beer in a riverside setting, or a slow soak in natural geothermal pools, there's something here that goes well beyond the usual regional fare.
Off The Wharf Cafe in Lakes Entrance is a firm favourite for good reason. Perched with views over the water, it's the kind of place visitors return to specifically for a meal. Locally caught fish and flathead are consistently popular choices, and there's something genuinely satisfying about eating fresh seafood this close to where it was caught. It's casual, relaxed and exactly what a Lakes Entrance lunch should feel like.
Out near Marlo, Sailors Grave Brewing has quietly built a following that stretches well beyond the region. This small-batch craft brewery sits beside the Snowy River in one of East Gippsland's most peaceful pockets, and the whole experience reflects the unhurried character of the Lakes area. It's the kind of place you stop in for one beer and end up staying for the afternoon.
Then there's Metung Hot Springs, which has become one of the most talked-about experiences across the entire region. The geothermal pools sit in a tranquil lakeside setting that's equally suited to couples, small groups and solo travellers who simply need to switch off properly.
Beyond these standout spots, East Gippsland is genuinely rich in local produce. Artisan cheese, smoked fish, oysters and fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables are all available through farm gates, delis and weekend markets scattered across the area. The Visit East Gippsland eat and drink guide is now in its fifth edition, which reflects just how seriously the region takes its food tourism offer. The current 'Spring Tastes Different in East Gippsland' campaign reinforces this, encouraging visitors to think about the Lakes region as a food destination worth planning a trip around, not just passing through.
Where to Stay Around the Gippsland Lakes
One of the most memorable ways to experience the Gippsland Lakes is from the water itself. Hiring a houseboat lets you cruise the interconnected waterways at your own pace, mooring wherever takes your fancy for the night. It's a genuinely special option for families and groups, combining accommodation and adventure in one. Waking up to still water and birdsong, with nothing on the agenda but deciding which stretch of lake to explore next, is hard to beat.
If you'd prefer solid ground but still want to be close to the water, lakeside cottages and self-contained holiday homes are scattered throughout the quieter towns in the region. Metung and Paynesville are particularly popular for this style of stay, offering a more relaxed and private experience away from the main tourist strip. You'll find everything from compact one-bedroom retreats to larger family-friendly homes with jetty access, undercover decks and bush surroundings. Towns like Paynesville also put you within easy reach of Raymond Island, where a short passenger ferry ride leads to one of the best free koala walks in the state.
For first-time visitors, Lakes Entrance is the most practical base. The town has the widest range of accommodation in the region, from holiday parks and motels through to apartments and resort-style stays, suiting everything from budget breaks to something a little more comfortable. Being based here also gives you easy access to both the lakes and Ninety Mile Beach, which is a real bonus.
Glamping and eco-stay options are also on the rise around the lakes, with glamping sites near Lakes Entrance offering a closer connection to nature without giving up comfort. Tiny homes, bush retreats and waterfront escapes are all part of the mix.
Gippsland Holidays lists accommodation options across the Lakes region, making it easy to browse stay types and find something that fits your group size, travel style and budget in one place.
Best Time to Visit the Gippsland Lakes
The Gippsland Lakes are worth visiting in any season, but each time of year brings a different flavour to the experience. Here's a quick guide to help you pick the timing that suits you best.
Summer (December to February)
Summer is peak season for good reason. Long warm days, calm water conditions and that unmistakable holiday energy make December through February the most popular time to visit. It's ideal for boating, swimming, kayaking and long lunches at waterfront spots. The flip side is that accommodation fills up fast, particularly around Christmas and the school holidays. If you're planning a summer trip, booking well ahead is genuinely important rather than just good advice.
Autumn (March to May)
Autumn is arguably the most underrated time to visit the Gippsland Lakes. The weather stays warm and pleasant well into April, the summer crowds ease off after Easter, and the bush around Metung and the river inlets takes on warmer, richer tones as the season changes. It's a wonderful time for walking, cycling and getting out on the water without the peak-season bustle. If you're visiting in May, keep an eye out for whales migrating along the coast near Ninety Mile Beach and Lake Tyers Beach.
Spring (September to November)
Spring is growing in popularity across East Gippsland, with wildflowers, migratory birds arriving at the wetlands and some excellent fishing conditions drawing more visitors each year. The 'Spring Tastes Different in East Gippsland' campaign has helped put this season firmly on the radar, and it's easy to see why. Shoulder season pricing and quieter roads are a bonus.
Winter (June to August)
Winter is quiet and cool, but there's real appeal in that. The Metung Hot Springs are particularly worth a visit when the temperature drops, and the lakeside towns take on a more peaceful, unhurried character. Accommodation rates are generally lower, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travellers.
A Note on Weather
Rainfall around the Gippsland Lakes is reasonably spread across the year, and easterly weather systems can bring wet spells in any season. It's always worth checking the Bureau of Meteorology forecast before you head off, just so you can pack accordingly and make the most of your time on the water.
The Towns Around the Gippsland Lakes Worth Getting to Know
The lakes might be the drawcard, but the towns dotted around them are where you really get a feel for the place. Each one has its own personality, and knowing the difference helps you pick the right base for your trip.
Lakes Entrance is the obvious starting point for most visitors, and for good reason. It's the largest town on the lakes system, built along The Esplanade above the entrance channel, with a solid mix of restaurants, cafes, accommodation options, boat hire and shops all within easy walking distance. A footbridge from the town centre takes you directly across to the dunes of Ninety Mile Beach, which is a genuinely lovely way to start a morning. If it's your first time in the region, Lakes Entrance makes a practical and enjoyable home base.
Paynesville sits on a peninsula jutting into Lake Victoria and has a quieter, more local feel than its busier neighbour. It's a proper boating town, with waterfront dining and a relaxed pace that suits visitors who want to slow down a little. From Paynesville, a free ferry crosses to Raymond Island, which is home to a resident koala population. It's a short trip that rewards the effort, particularly for families or wildlife lovers.
Metung is the one that surprises people. This small village is tucked onto a narrow peninsula with water on three sides, and it has a refined, unhurried character. Galleries, boutique accommodation and good food all feature, and the arrival of the Metung Hot Springs has brought fresh attention to the town in recent years. It's well worth an overnight stay if your itinerary allows.
Marlo, at the mouth of the Snowy River, is the kind of place that rewards curiosity. It's a finalist in the Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards (Tiny Towns category) and home to Sailors Grave Brewing. Visitors who make the effort to reach it rarely regret it.
Finally, Bairnsdale is the western gateway to the region and worth a stop in its own right. The Krowathunkoolong Keeping Place holds significant Gunaikurnai cultural artefacts and history, offering genuine insight into the First Nations heritage of this country. The Visit East Gippsland website is a good place to plan your route through all these towns before you go.
Visiting on Gunaikurnai, Bidawal and Monero Country
Before you dive into the lakes, the beaches and the local food scene, it's worth taking a moment to understand whose country you're visiting. The Gippsland Lakes sit within the traditional country of the Gunaikurnai people, specifically within Tatungalung Country. The Gunaikurnai are made up of five clans whose deep connection to this landscape stretches back tens of thousands of years, long before the lakes had an English name. The broader East Gippsland region also extends across the country of the Bidawal and Monero peoples, whose relationship with the land and waterways of the east is equally profound.
The lakes themselves are known in Gunaikurnai language as Talikatoor (also recorded as Tarli Kar Tor). These waterways weren't just a backdrop to daily life; they were a major food source and a transport network, with Gunaikurnai ancestors navigating the system by bark canoe. Evidence of this long occupation, including midden sites, artefact scatters and scar trees, is present throughout the Lakes National Park and Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park, which is now jointly managed with the Gunaikurnai under a formal agreement. Approaching these places with curiosity and genuine respect adds a layer of meaning to the experience that's hard to put a price on.
If you'd like to learn more before or during your visit, the Krowathunkoolong Keeping Place in Bairnsdale is the most accessible starting point. Open to the public and listed on the regional tourism platform, it has housed a significant collection of Gunaikurnai cultural materials since 1994 and provides real context for the country you're travelling through. It also forms part of the broader Bataluk Cultural Trail, which connects multiple significant Gunaikurnai sites across the region.
A good first step for any visitor is simply learning the names of the Traditional Owners of the country you're on. It's a small gesture, but it's increasingly standard practice in responsible Australian travel, and it genuinely enriches the experience.
Practical Tips for Your Gippsland Lakes Trip
A little planning goes a long way when it comes to getting the most out of your Gippsland Lakes visit. Here are five practical tips worth keeping in mind before you go.
1. Book accommodation well ahead of peak season
If you're planning a summer trip or heading up over Easter, don't leave your accommodation to chance. The Gippsland Lakes are genuinely popular during these periods, and quality lakeside properties, houseboats and waterfront stays tend to fill up months in advance. Booking early gives you far more choice and helps avoid settling for somewhere that isn't quite right for your trip.
2. Pack for changeable conditions
The Lakes region can serve up warm, sunny days alongside cooler, overcast stretches at almost any time of year. A light rain jacket is always worth throwing in the bag. In summer, UV levels in Victoria are high, so sunscreen and a hat are non-negotiable. For evenings near the water, insect repellent is a smart addition as midges and mosquitoes can be active, particularly around the shallows and wetland edges at dusk.
3. Know the fishing rules before you cast
Fishing is one of the most popular activities across the Lakes system, but regulations apply and vary by species. Before you head out, check the current Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide on TripAdvisor's Gippsland Lakes page or the Victorian Fisheries Authority website for current bag limits and size requirements.
4. Get out on the water, even if you've never hired a boat
Being on the Lakes is a genuinely different experience from viewing them from shore. The early morning light across the water, the birdlife, the quiet channels between lake systems; it's well worth hiring a kayak or small vessel even if you're not a seasoned boater. Many hire operators cater to beginners and can point you in the right direction.
5. Bring a car
The Gippsland Lakes stretch across a wide area. Towns like Lakes Entrance, Metung, Paynesville and Marlo are all worth exploring, but they're not within walking distance of each other. Public transport connections between these towns are limited, so having your own vehicle makes the whole trip significantly easier and more flexible.
Ready to Discover the Gippsland Lakes?
The Gippsland Lakes are one of Victoria's most genuinely rewarding destinations, and yet somehow they still fly under the radar for many travellers. That's good news for those who make the trip. About 4.5 hours from Melbourne, the Lakes offer an accessible escape that feels a world away from the city, whether you're chasing a long weekend, a week on the water, or a proper summer getaway with the family.
What makes the Lakes so appealing is how much variety they pack into one region. You can ease into a self-contained lakeside stay in Metung, settle into a resort in Lakes Entrance, or find a quiet apartment base in Paynesville. Every town has its own character, and no two visits feel quite the same.
If you're ready to start planning, Gippsland Holidays has a range of accommodation options across the Lakes region to help you find the right fit. The Gippsland Lakes reward visitors who give them a little time and genuine curiosity. Start exploring, and chances are you'll be planning your return before you've even unpacked the car.
Conclusion
The Gippsland Lakes is truly one of Victoria's most rewarding destinations, offering something special for every type of traveller. To recap the essentials: choose your base town wisely to suit your travel style, prioritise getting out on the water, leave time for the hidden gems tucked away from the crowds, and plan ahead during peak season to secure the best accommodation.
Whether you're craving adventure, relaxation, wildlife encounters, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, this remarkable region delivers on every front.
Now it's time to stop dreaming and start planning. Bookmark this guide, share it with your travel companions, and start mapping out your perfect Gippsland Lakes itinerary. Your shimmering blue horizon is waiting, and trust us, it looks even better in person.