The Gippsland Lakes is the largest expanse of inland waterways in Australia. Lakes Entrance, Victoria is where the lakes of Gippsland meet the sea. Originally a fishing village, and still the country’s largest fishing port, it’s now a major tourist destination. People are drawn to Lakes Entrance for the spectacular scenery, pristine sandy beaches and abundant wildlife. It’s a popular spot for swimming, fishing or sailing and offers a multitude of enjoyable attractions and activities. Here are a few ways you can make the most of your stay here.

Swim or sunbathe on a natural, unspoilt beach. Cross the footbridge in Lakes Entrance to get to Ninety Mile beach, one of the longest stretches of sand in the world. Keep an eye out for whales and dolphins in the water. The Main Beach is patrolled by Surf Lifesaver Volunteers in summer and is a great place for a family day out.

Catch your own fish supper. Mako Fishing Charters run three and a half hour trips from the Post Office Jetty. Bait, tackle and equipment are supplied along with tea and coffee. All the dirty work is done for you. Your fish is cleaned, chilled, and ready for the barbecue.

Enjoy a lunch or dinner cruise to the Wyanga Park Winery. The Corque departs from the Post Office Jetty for a 50 minute journey past the Entrance and Up the North Arm to the winery. On board you will be able to taste a variety of wines while learning about Lakes Entrance via a running commentary from your skipper. On arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to taste yet more premium wines. The ticket price includes a meal of your choice.

Explore spectacular caves. Buchan Caves Reserve, north of Lakes Entrance, hosts daily tours of two beautiful limestone caves. Fairy Cave features striking stalactites and stalagmites while Royal Cave is home to intricate calcite-rimmed pools. Both caves have been adapted for tourists with lighting and concrete paths. The Reserve has a visitor information center, playground and walking paths.

Cruise to Metung. The Stormbird sets off each morning from the Post Office Jetty. The four hour cruise takes you into Lake King and around the shores of Metung. You’ll have two hours to enjoy lunch at the Metung pub and explore the picturesque fishing village. The return trip takes you around Rigby Island and Chinaman’s creek. The area is abundant in wildlife and dolphins and seals can often be viewed from the ship.

Take a cliff top walk. Nyerimilang Heritage Park lies north-west of Lakes Entrance on the shores of the Gippsland Lakes. Here you can experience panoramic views of the lake system and Bass Strait and see birds such as pelicans, black swans and the whistling kite. Bring your own food and make use of the parks barbecues and picnic tables.

Experience nightlife in the bush. Wyungara Nature Sanctuary offer two and a half hour spotlighting tours led by naturalist guides. During one of their night walks you can see sugar gliders, wombats, koalas, wallabies and more in their nocturnal habitat.