Things to do in Lakes Entrance: Where to Eat, Drink, Play & Stay
From fresh seafood to beach hopping, these are the best things to do in Lakes Entrance for your next weekend getaway.
Sporting beachy charm, beautiful natural landscapes and an abundance of local seafood, Lakes Entrance is a tried and true holiday destination here in Victoria. If you want to step away from the city and into regional territory, this is the place to do so.
We’re here to supercharge your itinerary with a handy guide to all the best things to see, do and eat while you’re down there – both on water and on land.
Things to do in Lakes Entrance: Stay
Idle Lake House
Reminiscent of slow and salty days, Idle Lake House is a stunning floating accommodation on the waterfront of Gippsland Lakes. This retro Californian-inspired retreat offers guests a unique escape, combining comfort with a connection to the local saltwater culture.
Enjoy private access to a two-bedroom apartment that sleeps four, complete with breathtaking water views and your own bathhouse. Idle Lake House is also an enchanting venue for events, from birthdays to corporate meetings to intimate weddings and elopements.
Western Boat Harbour, 160 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
Go glamping at Metung Hot Springs
Experience pure relaxation in Metung Hot Springs' premium glamping accommodation, sitting pretty just over twenty minutes from the heart of Lakes Entrance. Surrounded by serene natural surroundings, each luxurious safari-style tent features an ensuite bathroom, a king-size four-poster bed, and elegant furnishings.
Unwind on your private deck with a bathing barrel overlooking the peaceful lagoon or native landscape. With glamping reserved for guests 18 and older, enjoy exclusive access to tranquil hot springs bathing experiences throughout your stay, making it the perfect retreat for a rejuvenating getaway with your mother, sister, lover or bestie.
73 Storth Ryes Avenue, Metung
Eight Acres
Immerse yourself in nature at Eight Acres, a tranquil farmstay that also serves as a charming wedding venue. With acres of lush bushland, a giant games garden, and sun loungers by the pool, it’s a perfect retreat between exploring all the best things to do in Lakes Entrance.
Choose from seven cosy two-bedroom cottages, each with a fully equipped kitchen, outdoor deck, and fire pit, or stay in one of five glamping tents offering all the comforts you need. Evenings here invite stargazing and toasting marshmallows by the fire, creating magical memories under a glittering sky.
303 Colquhoun Road, Lakes Entrance
The Mariner
Ocean Blue Coastal Retreats' The Mariner is another beautiful boutique stay in Metung. A sense of excitement awaits as you open the door here, as you enter a different world of ships and history, where you can be the captain of your own adventure.
This is the ultimate stay no matter the season; on chilly, rainy days, there are cosy nooks aplenty, lots of books to curl up with and a gorgeous fireplace to stoke. On sunny days, open the doors and sit on the deck looking out to the lake and the water.
The best part? It's dog-friendly!
Metung
Bellevue on the Lakes
For a no-fuss regional weekend getaway, Bellevue on the Lakesis the perfect accommodation, no matter if you're a couple or a family. This Lakes Entrance hotel is equipped with an indoor pool or spa, so you can enjoy some R&R no matter the weather.
There's a barbecue area if you feel like getting your grill on, otherwise, it's a stone's throw away from all of the best things to do in Lakes Entrance.
201 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
The Moorings at Metung
Escape to the stunning Moorings at Metung, where multiple unique waterfront accommodation offerings awaits. Choose from spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments to luxury suites and even two-storey townhouse apartments, with most boasting two bathrooms and breathtaking bay views.
Enjoy outdoor barbecues, take a dip in the solar-heated outdoor pool, or relax in the inviting indoor saltwater pool maintained at a toasty 29 degrees. Challenge friends to a game on the mod-grass tennis court, moor your boat at the private marina, and stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the resort.
44 Metung Road, Metung
Things to do in Lakes Entrance: Eat
Sodafish
Make the most of your seaside locale by eating uber-fresh seafood at Sodafish. Start at their good old fashioned fish and chippery downstairs for the crispy classics and takeaway beers. Back upstairs you’ll find a swish restaurant resting against the backdrop of Middle Boat Harbour. With salt in the air and sunsets in the evening, you can enjoy the freshest wild and sustainable fish, oysters and shellfish in simple yet sophisticated dishes that let the produce sing.
Middle Boat Harbour, The Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
The Slipway
The Old Slipway on the Lakes Entrance foreshore has been beautifully restored into a vibrant public space. Here, you can indulge in an array of fantastic eateries, offering everything from tacos and fish and chips to delightful coffee and ice cream.
The Slipway Collective, a collaboration of local businesses, not only provides a wealth of outdoor dining options but also features a variety of arts workshops and exhibits to explore, making it a must-visit destination and one of the best things to do in Lakes Entrance.
Lakes Entrance
Nick's Thai
Moody vibes blend seamlessly with warm hospitality at Lakes Entrance's newest gem, Nick's Thai—a Thai fusion restaurant poised to become a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
Here, great food meets even better company. Where you're invited to share in authentic Thai flavours within a welcoming atmosphere. Get ready to savour delectable Pad Kra Pow, lush red and green curries, and enjoy a vibrant dining experience that brings people together. It's one of the best new things to do in Lakes Entrance for the warm months ahead.
601 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
Albert & Co
Albert & Co is an airy cafe overlooking the water that brings Hamptons vibes and coffee worth getting up for. The former corner store highlights the best of East Gippsland’s local produce in wholesome and hearty lunch dishes such as wild mushroom pappardelle and fish and chips alongside local wines and great coffee. All the seafood they use comes straight from nearby boats, while beef and free range eggs are sourced from local farms.
201 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
SARDINE dining
SARDINE dining may be a 45 minute drive away, but with its ever changing menu of seasonal produce matched with an impressive drinks list of local and international wines and beers, it's definitely worth it. Overlooking Raymond Island, it's a light, airy and lovely space to settle into as the sun goes down. Fresh, local seafood is the focus here, and we recommend going all in with their tasting or degustation menu.
Middle Boat Harbour The Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
Things to do in Lakes Entrance: Drink
Metung Hotel
Metung Hotel has a cracking bistro made for savouring sips and a long lunch with your friends and family, where you can enjoy stunning views of Bancroft Bay. With seating for 148 guests and three tables for up to 12, the welcoming atmosphere is perfect for any occasion. Savour locally sourced seafood and classic pub favourites, all while soaking in the beautiful waterfront setting.
64 Kurnai Avenue, Metung
Red Bluff Brewers
Red Bluff Brewers is Lakes Entrance’s first brewery, named for their location near the famed sandstone cliffs of Red Bluff beach. Head to their breezy taproom for a post surf pint, or sample your way through their range of refreshing small batch brews. Highlights include the passionfruit-inflected 3 Lakes Tropical Ale and their super crisp Face Invader XPA. While you’re there you can also fuel up with tasty snacks from local food vans.
1 Old Bunga Road, Lake Bunga
The Servo
If you're looking for things to do in Lakes Entrance right in the centre of town you’ll find The Servo, a chilled-out spot for live music, cold drinks and good times with friends. Their huge, pet-friendly outdoor space is the place to be on a sunny day, with the bar pouring a solid selection of beers while shaking up a variety of sweet and cooling cocktails. You won’t go hungry either, as the kitchen does a mean taco alongside hefty burgers and locally-sourced fish and chips.
595 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
Things to do in Lakes Entrance: Play
Relax at Koho Sauna
Koho Sauna provides a rejuvenating wellness experience right in the heart of town. Guests can indulge in contrast therapy, switching between a modern wood-fired sauna and invigorating cold showers, with direct lake access for the adventurous.
This serene retreat offers the perfect balance to the more active things to do in Lakes Entrance, enhancing your getaway with relaxation and revitalisation.
160 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
Swim or stroll along the beach
Lakes Entrance sits on the eastern point of the spectacular Ninety Mile Beach, a vast stretch of untouched coastline brimming with activities. Main Beach is a popular destination during the summer months, with games of volleyball and beach cricket popping up on the soft golden sand, while the surf is patrolled by lifeguards for peace of mind.
Further east, Lake Bunga Beach is long stretch of golden sand starting from the Lakes Entrance Main Beach and continuing through to Red Bluff Beach at the beautiful Lake Tyers Beach.
Sitchu Tip: If you're visiting Lakes Entrance during the colder months, rug up and take a romantic stroll along the sand.
Main Beach Walk, Lakes Entrance
Unwind at Metung Hot Springs
A bucket list item on our list of things to do in Lakes Entrance is escaping to the geothermal bliss of the Metung Hot Springs. Soak up bathing pools, massaging showers, architecturally designed sauna experiences, a reflexology walk and bathing barrels across 25 stunning acres overlooking the Gippsland Lakes.
Premium onsite accommodation comprises luxurious safari style glamping tents, complete with private balconies and geothermal bathing barrels, king size beds, ensuites and luxury amenities.
Sitchu Tip: Be sure to book into the day spa for a massage or treatment with authentic Larn’wa Aboriginal Lore wellness rituals and native botanical spa creations.
73 Storth Ryes Avenue, Metung
Go on an unforgettable ‘Heli Sup’ adventure
This next level experience takes you on a comprehensive sea-and-sky tour of the stunning Gippsland Lakes. The day kicks off with a soaring scenic helicopter flight before dropping you off at Ninety Mile Beach to continue your escapades by water. Engaging guides will lead you on a relaxed stand up paddle board tour around the lakes, and don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for seals.
347B Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
Head underground to explore Buchan Caves
A must-do on our list of things to do in Lakes Entrance is this: take a 45-minute inland journey to the enchanting Buchan Caves, a 400-million-year-old underground wonderland adorned with breathtaking limestone formations.
Embark on a guided tour of the Royal Cave, where you can admire captivating calcite-rimmed pools, or marvel at the intricate stalactites and stalagmites of the Fairy Cave.
If you're visiting during the warmer months, don’t miss the chance to take a refreshing dip in the Buchan Caves’ iconic cold water pool. Fed by icy cave springs, this historic swimming spot is the perfect way to rejuvenate after your subterranean adventure.
98 Caves Road, Buchan
Take a beat in peaceful Buchan
After exploring the enchanting Buchan Caves, don’t miss the charming town of Buchan, one of Victoria’s oldest towns. Nestled at the confluence of the Snowy and Buchan Rivers, Buchan embodies an adventurous spirit, rich in history and natural beauty—perfect for a tranquil getaway pit-stop.
A leisurely stroll down its lovely main drag will lead you to at least one antique or second-hand store. Be sure to visit the General Store for snacks or The Roadie for a tasty takeaway burger.
Sitchu Tip: Complete your visit with a stop at the iconic Buchan Caves Hotel, a community gem offering hearty meals in a cosy atmosphere.
Buchan, Victoria
Meet marine life on an eco-cruise
Embark on this calm, three-hour cruise with Lonsdale Eco Cruises on the Gippsland Lakes to see seals, birds and dolphins (if you’re lucky!) in their natural habitat. You’ll depart from Cunningham Quay, floating by the commercial fishing boats before cruising around endless islands, creeks, inlets and lakes. Look out for plentiful marine life plus kangaroos and goats on shore. That’s not all – warm scones are also baked onboard for you to enjoy as afternoon tea.
340 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
Rent kayaks for a day
The picturesque waters around Lakes Entrance are a paradise for canoeing, kayaking and boating. Make a day of it by renting your own kayak – you can choose between single or double – so you can explore the surrounds by paddle. You’ll get tips and tricks before you head out, and from there it’s up to you where you go. Weave around the water and spot dolphins, seals and other marine life while getting a solid arm workout.
347B Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
Check out the quirky Sea Shell Museum
Add a little dose of quirk to your things to do in Lakes Entrance itinerary, with a visit to The Griffiths Sea Shell Museum and Marine Display. It's one of Australia's largest private collections of natural sea life, featuring over 90,000 shells and sea creatures, as well as a coral reef room displaying hundreds of unique corals, all under special lighting. Get weird and wonderful with some of the world's rarest fish, like the Goblin Shark or Frill Shark, all preserved and displayed. There's also a huge gift shop selling local shell handcrafts and jewellery. Quaint and wonderful, it's a must visit.
Summer hours from 9am to 5pm daily, winter hours from 10am to 4pm daily
125 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
Loved our guide to the best things to do in Lakes Entrance and thirsty for more holiday inspo? We’ve got your covered with our guides to the best beaches and most stunning winery accommodation in Victoria, as well as these unique holiday destinations across the country.
