Lakes Entrance: Where the Gippsland Lakes Meet the Southern Ocean

A beloved Victorian coastal escape, Lakes Entrance blends wide‑open beaches, shimmering waterways and a relaxed seaside rhythm that instantly slows your pulse. Set at the meeting point of the vast Gippsland Lakes and the wild Southern Ocean, this destination invites you to breathe deeply, explore freely and savour the simple pleasure of being by the water. Whether you’re chasing sun‑soaked adventure, gourmet seafood, or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, Lakes Entrance delivers a premium coastal experience with a distinctly Australian soul.

Why Visit Lakes Entrance

The town’s unique position—where the lakes system flows into Bass Strait—creates a landscape that feels both expansive and intimate. Think golden sand stretching along the iconic Ninety Mile Beach, calm waterways perfect for cruising, and a working fishing port that brings the freshest seafood straight from the trawlers to your plate. Lakes Entrance is the kind of place where mornings begin with pelicans gliding over still water and evenings end with pastel sunsets reflected across the lakes.

Things to Do

Cruise the Gippsland Lakes
Step aboard a scenic cruise and drift through Australia’s largest inland network of waterways. Expect birdlife, gentle breezes and a sense of calm that stays with you long after you return to shore.

Get Active on the Water
Summer brings a burst of energy to the foreshore. Hire a paddleboat, kayak or catamaran and explore at your own pace. The sheltered lakes are ideal for beginners and families.

Cross to Ninety Mile Beach
A charming footbridge leads you to one of the world’s longest uninterrupted beaches. In summer, lifesavers patrol the surf, making it a safe spot to swim, bodyboard or simply stretch out on the sand.

Walk to the Entrance
For a dose of coastal drama, take the walking track to the entrance channel where the lakes meet the ocean. It’s a favourite for photographers and anyone who loves the raw beauty of nature.

Take in the Views at Jemmy’s Point Lookout
A short drive rewards you with sweeping panoramas of the town, the lakes and the entrance itself. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular.

Indulge in Local Flavours
Lakes Entrance is synonymous with seafood. Visit the trawler fleet, buy straight from the boats, or enjoy a seafood feast at local eateries. For something special, cruise aboard the Corque winery boat and enjoy tastings or a long lunch at Wyanga Park Winery.

Explore Nearby Gems
Use Lakes Entrance as your base to discover:

• Nyerimilang Homestead & Park – a historic estate with walking trails and lake views
• Lake Tyers Township & Forest Park – a tranquil escape with pristine bushland and waterways

Play a Round (or Two)
Golfers can choose between two scenic courses, while families can enjoy a fun challenge at one of the mini‑golf parks.

How to Get There

Lakes Entrance sits around four hours east of Melbourne along the Princes Highway, making it an easy and scenic road trip. For those travelling by public transport, daily rail services run from Melbourne to Bairnsdale, with connecting coaches continuing on to Lakes Entrance. Local buses operate between Bairnsdale and the town, ensuring smooth onward travel.

Best Time to Visit

Lakes Entrance shines year‑round, but each season brings its own charm:

• Summer: Perfect for beach days, boating and family holidays
• Autumn: Mild weather, golden light and quieter walking trails
• Winter: Crisp mornings, dramatic coastlines and cosy seafood dining
• Spring: Wildflowers, wildlife and ideal conditions for outdoor adventures

A Coastal Escape That Stays With You

Lakes Entrance isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. The salt air, the endless water, the gentle pace of life… it all comes together to create a place you’ll want to return to again and again. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer lakeside retreat, this iconic Victorian town offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and natural beauty.