Esplanade walk, Lakes Entrance (end to end)

Esplanade walk, Lakes Entrance (end to end) created by Victoria Walks

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Summary

The best view of the Gippsland Lakes is the waterfront view! Thankfully there's a walking path tracing the water from one end of Lakes Entrance (Bullock Island) to the other (Eastern Beach).

Description

You could start this walk from any point along the Esplanade, but we've elected to begin this route at Bullock Island - right at the town's western end. From here you'll get a great view over the Mitchell River to Rigby Island and the Entrance.

You could also start on the Esplanade itself, opposite the town's Visitor Information Centre (on the first main roundabout into town on the A1 Princes Highway).

But do as much or little as you like (it's 5km from one end to the other).

The Esplanade is a sealed shared path along Lakes Entrance's waterfront, running along opposite the main street shops of this bustling town. The sealed path ends a bit before the Eastern Beach section, so those with prams or greater mobility challenges may wish to pass on this.

At the west end and centre parts of the Esplanade you'll pass fishing boats and floating eateries, and of course enjoy water views the entire way.

If you make a day of it, of course there are plenty of businesses along the route to stop for a bite to eat (take care when crossing the A1). Traffic has thankfully been slowed along here through town to 40km/h, making it easier and far more appealing for those taking in Lakes Entrance and its many delights by foot!

We've suggested a few detours, such as the lovely Entrance Walk, which begins from the other side of the Cunninghame footbridge. Alternatively take a break in some of the parks, beaches, gardens and reserves that line the Esplanade.

In warmer months take a hat and some water, as only parts of the track are shaded. Historical information is available at various intervals, as well as some impressive wooden sculptures - all provide some great insight into this region of Victoria.

This walk was mapped with assistance from LEADA and with support from VicHealth.

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Points of Interest

1. Bullock Island

You can get a view of the Entrance, the human-made channel, from here. Also a good spot to view wildlife, including Pelicans and the local Burrunan Dolphins. Photo: Visit Victoria

2. Visitor Information Centre

A very well set-up information hub for those visiting Lakes Entrance, it's open every day except Christmas. The Kalimna Jetty walk also starts near here. Find the map for that walk in the link.

Find out more

3. Swim spot

If it's warm this is a good, quiet little spot to dip your toes in the water, have a splash or a dip.

4. Floating restaurants

Not all vessels are meant to sail! Keep an eye out for floating Chinese restaurants and Fish 'n' Chips along the trail. Photo: Visit Victoria

5. Sculptures

There are a series of wooden sculptures commemorating Australia's war history lining the road's edge. Made from Cypress trees, once the town's Avenue of Honour, they had to be felled for safety.

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6. Nice wide shared path

There is plenty of room to walk two or three abreast on the Esplanade trail, but do listen out for passing cyclists.

7. The footbridge (Visit Victoria)

Take a detour to admire the view from the impressive Cunninghame footbridge. The lovely 'Entrance walk' begins over the other side of the bridge. Find the walk map in the link.

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8. Green space and amenities

At the base of the footbridge you'll find toilets and an information board, plus plenty of green space if you want to take a break and lie in the sunshine.

9. Lookout

There are steps up to a small lookout here, however the bushes are rather overgrown so there is not a lot to see! You may get a better view by sticking to the path.

10. Continue past Caravan Park

Follow this little path as it goes along the edge of the Caravan Park. Head over the little bridge pictured to access the Apex Park playground, toilets and Eastern Beach.

11. Playground, BBQs and toilets

If you make it this far take a break at the Eastern Beach car park area.

12. Path to beach

Find the sandy track to Eastern Beach just to the left of the toilets.

13. Eastern Beach

Part of Ninety Mile Beach. Take care the surf here is often wild with waves breaking close to shore and the beach is only patrolled at certain times of year (summer) There is no surf life tower here.