One of the perks of staying at Waters Edge is how quickly you can wander into town for a great feed. We like to start the morning with a stroll along the Esplanade to Albert & Co, a stylish café with a breezy coastal feel and some of the best breakfasts in Lakes Entrance. Their coffee is consistently good, and if you’re an eggs benedict person, theirs are well worth making time for.

For something a little more elevated, book a table at Sodafish. Set aboard a beautifully refurbished ferry floating on the water, it’s one of Lakes Entrance’s standout dining experiences. Fresh local seafood is the hero here — oysters, fish tacos and seasonal specials — all served with sweeping views across Cunninghame Arm.

If you’re keeping things simple, Waters Edge makes self-catering easy. The Camp Kitchen and BBQ areas are well set up for cooking your own meals, whether you’re throwing together a quick breakfast before heading to the beach or grilling something fresh from one of the local seafood shops. With supermarkets only a short walk or drive away, stocking up is no hassle and dining outdoors becomes part of the holiday rhythm.

Staying at Waters Edge puts you right in the middle of the Gippsland Lakes, one of Victoria’s most striking coastal regions. The whole area is shaped by its network of lakes and waterways, so getting out on or near the water is all part of the experience.

For a classic beach day, Eastern Beach is only a few minutes’ drive from the park. It’s patrolled during peak periods and offers gentle surf for swimming, boogie boarding or just stretching out on the sand. When you’re back at the park, the swimming and toddler pools are an easy way to cool off without going far, especially if you feel like a quieter afternoon.

Fishing is a big draw in Lakes Entrance, and you’ll find plenty of good spots within walking distance of the park. Bream, Flathead and Mullet are commonly caught along the jetties and edges of Cunninghame Arm.

If the weather turns or you’re simply curious, the Griffiths Sea Shell Museum and Marine Display is a long-standing local favourite. Packed with thousands of shells and quirky marine artefacts, it’s a fun way to learn more about the region’s sea life and makes for an easy, entertaining hour or two.

The park is a favourite with families thanks to its central location and kid-friendly facilities, so school holidays have a fun but lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed stay, consider visiting outside these periods.