Tucked into a vast network of inland waterways in eastern Victoria, Lakes Entrance is a primary gateway to the Gippsland Lakes. Families flock to the beaches, bustling esplanade and museums, while anglers take fishing expeditions year-round.

Things to do

The Gippsland Lakes comprise over 600 square kilometres of lagoons, lakes and marshes with coastal dunes and thriving marine life. Thousands of dolphins, swans, coots and pelicans populate the marshes, sand spits and lakes. Don’t miss climbing the dunes at Ninety Mile Beach, which separate the lakes from the ocean.

The lakes also harbour archaeological sites, such as burial grounds and shell middens. At Jeremy Point Lookout on Princes Highway, you can get sweeping views of the water and Bass Strait and learn about Aboriginal legends. Feel like getting out onto the lakes? Rent a kayak, paddle boat, aquabike, catamaran or paddle skis at the footbridge leading to Ninety Mile Beach.

Get some sun and fun at Lakes Entrance Beach and stroll the lively esplanade along the water’s edge. Keep an eye out for wooden sculptures depicting famous scenes from World War I. Stop by the cellar door for Wyanga Park Vineyards and Winery and bring the kids along to enjoy its playground, pet pigs and bird aviary.

The kids will also love seeing blue-ringed octopuses at Griffiths Sea Shell Museum. Enjoy a family day out at Kinkuna Country Fun and Fauna Park, with a wildlife park, waterslides, miniature golf, jumping castle and toboggan rides.

Getting around

Rental cars are available in Bairnsdale, about 38 kilometres from Lake Entrance. To traverse the numerous lakes, you can hire a self-drive boat or take a ferry or water taxi. Taxis and buses provide convenient transportation in town.