This itinerary will lead you to some fun, local gems around the Gippsland Lakes.

Welcome to East Gippsland. Upon entering Bairnsdale, take the time to let the kids stretch their legs. The All abilities playground and adjacent Bairnsdale Skatepark is the perfect place for this and while you’re in town, ensure you grab a bite to eat or a coffee from one of our favourites. If there is anything you need to stock up on or just feel the need for a little holiday retail therapy - you have plenty of choices in Bairnsdale to do this.

Add more adventure: Howitt Park – Home of the big yellow slide and the iconic flying fox. Or head to Benchelo’s indoor play centre

Bairnsdale - Paynesville (20 Minutes)

Take the scenic route along the Mitchell River as you get your first glimpse of our magical Gippsland Lakes. Paynesville welcomes you with a seaside vibe. Boats moore along every jetty, swans wander and the locals say hi.

Are you ready to spot some cute and fuzzy friends? Well wait no longer and catch yourself a ferry ride to Raymond Island. A free service for pedestrians and bike riders, or drive your car for a small fee. Once the ferry journey is over, it’s only a few steps to the start of the Koala Trail.

Add more adventure: Ride the Koalas / Sail Safari

Eagle Point

Eagle Point is just around the corner from Paynesville (5 minute drive) or take the scenic Bike ride / Walk and offers up some real treats. The Mitchell River Silt Jetties are worth the look.
Local tip: The silt jetties make for an easy family bike ride too.
Eagle Point Bay is a popular water play area with sandy lakeside beaches; it's great for a whole bunch of water activities.

Add more adventure: Parks Vic offer school holiday activities at the Mitchell River Silt Jetties

Paynesville to Buchan (via Bruthen) (60 minutes)

Take a short drive to our low-lying Alpine town of Bruthen. This little township hosts some great festivals if you are lucky enough to catch one. It’s the perfect place to take a break with a range of antique and collectable stores, a beautiful gallery, cafe, bakery, teahouse and brewery! Ok. A brewery may not come across as kid friendly, but Mum and Dad will certainly like a visit and they cater well for the little ones with their surrounding deck area and special kids menu.

Next stop - Buchan.

This little town has it’s very own underground world. Dating back millions of years you can take a tour of a real cave! The caves themselves are absolutely
astonishing and will keep little minds ticking away for hours. The surrounding park area is filled with kangaroos, gorgeous deciduous trees - changing the scenery throughout the year, a selection of short walks, perfect for little legs and if you are keen and you can even camp the night here in one of their picturesque campsites.

Events to pencil into the calendar: Buchan Rodeo / Picnic Races

Buchan - Lakes Entrance (Via Nowa Nowa) (40 minutes)

Enjoy the bush landscapes as you travel the road to Nowa Nowa. This town features a series of short walks with artistic flair dotted along the way. If your kids are still bouncing with energy and enthusiasm, you can access the East Gippsland Rail Trail for walking or bike riding.

We know all this fresh air and activity is going to make you hungry - so make sure you refuel your bodies with a Hamburger from Mingling Waters Cafe.

Add more adventure: Nowa Nowa is home to an epic Mountain Bike park. Pack your pedals and get your ride on.

* If you have time to take a short (5 minute) detour, Lake Tyers Beach is well worth it! 

Lakes Entrance will welcome you with a stunning vista over the magnificent Ninety Mile Beach. You can spend your days soaking up the sun, sand and salt water or exploring the Lakes. The kids are sure to be impressed by the array of mini-golf courses in town and we cannot guarantee the competitive stakes which will present.

Next stop we recommend is the Griffith’s Seashell Museum. And of course you must enjoy some local fish and chips by the seashore. A perfect place for this is the Apex Foreshore Playground. This place will keep the kids entertained for hours!

Add more adventure: Saltwater Creative offer a super-fun school holiday program

Lakes Entrance - Metung (25 minutes) 

Enjoy the drive along the Nungurner road and swing by Nyerimilang Heritage Park. This park takes you back in time and the surrounding gardens are a great place to enjoy some fresh air with gorgeous views and walks to exert some of that little energy. 

Metung features even more opportunities for water play. Pack a picnic from The Local and roll out the picnic mat on the shoreline as the kids trample in the water, collect shells and rocks or cast a line. The village also sneaks in a quaint splash park, natural focused playground and surrounding green lawns which pair perfectly with a latte for Mum and Dad.

Still needing to burn some energy? Metung has kilometers of lakeside boardwalks, popular for fishing and walking, with a high chance of spotting dolphins playing in the Lake.