A day on the road exploring East Gippsland is always an adventure, with diverse landscapes that bring unique experiences at different seasons. We have put together a list of towns and attractions for you:
Metung
40 minute drive from Captains Cove by road or 20 minutes by boat.
Visit the Metung Hot Springs
Experience geothermal hot spring pools and barrels overlooking the Gippsland Lakes, enjoy a cold plunge, saunas, and relaxation at its best. You can find more details on their official Metung Hot Springs website.
Take a Scenic Flight with Lakes Entrance Helicopters
Enjoy breathtaking scenic flights over the Gippsland Lakes, rivers, and beaches. Check out more about their services on the Lakes Entrance Helicopters website.
Venture Out for Adventure
Try bike, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tours and hire with Venture Out. They offer a variety of outdoor activities to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Explore the Den of Nargun
Just 45 minutes from Captains Cove, this is one of our favorite places to explore. Walk along the Mitchell River to a rainforest and learn about Gunaikurani Aboriginal history and culture. You can find more information on the Den of Nargun Loop Walk page.
Lakes Entrance
50 minute drive from Captains Cove by road.
Play Mini Golf at Footbridge Mini Golf
Enjoy a fun game of mini golf at Footbridge Mini Golf in Lakes Entrance. It's a great activity for families and friends.
Walk Over the Footbridge to the 90 Mile Beach
Take a leisurely walk over the iconic footbridge to reach the stunning 90 Mile Beach. Enjoy the beautiful coastline and pristine sands.
Buy Seafood Off the Boat or from Lakes Entrance Fisherman’s Co-Op
Visit the Lakes Entrance Fisherman’s Co-Op to buy fresh seafood directly from the source. You can also find fresh catches sold straight off the boats for a unique local experience.
Try a Big Bear Donut
Indulge in a delicious donut from the local favourite Big Bear Donuts. Perfect for a sweet treat while exploring the area.
Visit the Chocky Sweet Box
Satisfy your sweet tooth with treats from Chocky Sweet Box, offering a variety of chocolates and confectionery.
Nicholson
20 minute drive from Captains Cove by road.
Have a Meal at the Nicholson Hotel
Enjoy a delicious meal at the Nicholson Hotel, known for its welcoming atmosphere and great food. Don't miss out on trying the famous "Nicho pie," often touted as the best pie you'll ever taste.
Visit the Nicholson General Store
Stop by the Nicholson General Store for a delightful meal or a quick snack. It's a great place to grab the local favorite Nicho pie and enjoy the charm of this tiny village on the banks of the Nicholson River.
Picnic by the Nicholson River
Spend a relaxing day by the picturesque Nicholson River. It's an ideal spot for a picnic, offering beautiful scenery and a tranquil environment.
Fishing at Nicholson River
Nicholson River is a prime fishing spot, perfect for catching bream, estuary perch, flathead, and tailor. You'll find a boat ramp, jetty, pedestrian and bike bridge over the river, and a picnic area, making it a great spot for a day out with family or friends.
Cruise from Paynesville to Nicholson
Take a scenic cruise by boat from Paynesville to Nicholson. Enjoy the beautiful views along the way, and experience the unique landscape of this charming region.
Buchan
75 minute drive from Captains Cove by road.
Visit the Buchan Caves Reserve for a Guided Tour
Explore the fascinating underground world with the Buchan Caves Guided Tours. Discover the stunning limestone formations and learn about the history and geology of these magnificent caves.
Dine at the Buchan Caves Hotel
Enjoy a hearty meal at the Buchan Caves Hotel, a historic pub offering delicious food and a friendly atmosphere. It's a perfect place to relax after exploring the caves or the surrounding area.
Experience Stargazing in East Gippsland
East Gippsland is renowned for its pristine night skies, making it one of Australia's best stargazing locations. Visit Stargazing East Gippsland to experience the magic of the cosmos and witness breath-taking views of stars, planets, and constellations.
Further Afield
Fun in the Snow at Dinner Plain or Mount Hotham Snowfields
Enjoy a day trip to Dinner Plain or Mount Hotham, located just 2.5 hours from Captains Cove. Experience skiing, snowboarding, or simply playing in the snow at these popular alpine destinations.
Explore Omeo Mountain Bike Tracks
For cycling enthusiasts, the Omeo Mountain Bike Tracks offer a thrilling experience just 1.75 hours from Captains Cove. Ride through scenic trails and enjoy the beauty of East Gippsland's landscapes on two wheels.