Stay and play – Lakes Entrance, Victoria
With a bounty of waterways within arm’s reach and a warm holiday vibe that instantly radiates, this picturesque Gippsland town has long been a favourite.
Where is Lakes Entrance?
Lakes Entrance is 320km east of Melbourne (4hr drive) or 420km southwest of Canberra (5hr drive) in East Gippsland.
Why go to Lakes Entrance?
For the easiest of access to prized water sources: Lakes Entrance is perched on the edge of Ninety Mile Beach where Gippsland Lakes merges with the Southern Ocean. It’s also a great base for exploring leading attractions that should be on the itinerary for all Gippsland holidays.
The essentials – Lakes Entrance things to do
Aquatic-based leisure
Clearly, making the most of the abundant waterways surrounding Lakes Entrance is a must. Main Beach, part of Ninety Mile Beach, is among top picks for swimming, and it’s patrolled during summer. The calmer waters of nearby Lake Tyers Beach are another excellent choice.
A blissful cruise along the Gippsland Lakes is ideal for relaxing and being immersed in the area’s rich beauty. Cruises often allow glimpses of dolphins and seals.
Lakes Entrance fishing has its rewards with ample spots for anglers to try their luck. The Gippsland Lakes are also prime for the likes of waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding among other aquatic options.
Lakes Entrance walking tracks
All these sparkling waterways are perfectly suited to a stroll, and there are ample paths that showcase the scenic delights. Try The Entrance to the Lakes Walk, a popular 4.6km-return track complete with plenty of lakeside views. A short drive from Lakes Entrance is Nyerimilang Heritage Park, which teems with walking trails showcasing variable landscapes. The park is a top picnic spot, too.
Wyanga Park Winery
Taste a wide variety of reds and whites from this charming boutique winery, including its signature offering: A frozen Muscat. The accompanying restaurant has a food menu with a distinct emphasis on regional ingredients.
Griffiths' Sea Shell Museum & Marine Display
This interesting and somewhat eclectic attraction has a whopping 90,000-plus seashells of all shapes and sizes to view alongside various marine life and a model railway.
Suggested day trips from Lakes Entrance
While there are many Lakes Entrance attractions to keep visitors entertained, the town’s proximity to prized experiences enhances its appeal. These include:
- Metung: Cute seaside village with excellent eateries (20km east).
- Bruthen: Historical town home to a popular microbrewery (30km northeast).
- Raymond Island: Home to a sizeable wild koala population complete with dedicated walking trail. Reached via a short ferry ride from Paynesville (50km east to Paynesville).
- Buchan Caves Reserve: Daily tours of amazing limestone creations (55km north).
Random fact
The Gippsland Lakes is the largest inland network of waterways in Australia, covering more than 600 sq km.
Places to stay in Lakes Entrance
Searching for Lakes Entrance accommodation? BIG4 has two holiday parks in town with ample cabins and caravan and camping sites. See below.
Park type: Classic.
Prime real estate along the Lakes Entrance Esplanade makes BIG4 Waters Edge an excellent Gippsland accommodation option. From here, it’s a short stroll to cafés, restaurants, and other amenities as well as Ninety Mile Beach. The park’s features are led by a solar-heated swimming pool, playground, games room, and a shaded jumping pillow.
Park type: Holiday.
This park has an interesting past, having been built around an old rotunda that was once a community meeting place. The rotunda remains the centrepiece of BIG4 Whiters, which was first opened as a camp park in 1927. Today, it’s a modern holiday park and its highlights include a palm-fringed swimming pool, playground, tennis court, and games room alongside easy access to the town centre and beach.
NRMA Eastern Beach Holiday Park
Park type: Partner.
Ideally located in the heart of the Gippsland Lakes at Lakes Entrance. The waterfront location and fun facilities set the scene for an unforgettable adventure. A heated swimming pool, pedal go-karts and communal pizza oven to name a few.
Book your Lakes Entrance break now. Choose a park below.