Planning a trip to Mallacoota? Detour on a road trip to uncover these remarkable locations along the way.

Endless golden beaches, lush fern forests, incredible cuisine, breathtaking wildlife, and some of the most stunning coastal views in Australia await you on this unforgettable journey between Melbourne and Mallacoota. When it comes to road trips, this one stands out.

Wilsons Promontory (226km from Melbourne)

There are countless reasons why Wilsons Promontory (also known as The Prom) is Victoria’s beloved national park. From family-friendly camping and cozy cabins to wild hikes, rugged landscapes, hidden beaches, and plenty of wombats and whales, it’s a true natural wonder. For a truly breathtaking experience, take the half-day Promontory Cruise with Pennicott Wilderness Journeys.

The Prom is Victoria’s beloved national park.

A must-see is Skull Rock (formally known as Cleft Island). At 60 meters high, its eerie shape resembles a giant bird’s skull, almost as if it’s been plucked from a James Bond movie. This hidden gem has been visited by fewer people (nine) than those who have set foot on the moon (12). Be on the lookout for an array of birds and, if you’re fortunate, even a whale or two.

Be sure to visit the intriguingly shaped Skull Rock.

On the way:

Make a stop to shop at the galleries and art studios of Fish Creek. Don’t miss out on the art deco pub; look for the giant mullet on its roof for lunch.

Stay:

Tidal River Wilderness Retreat

Exploring ‘The Prom’ is always a great idea.

Tinamba (200km from the Prom)

Tina-where? This quaint dairy town in Central Gippsland, with around 500 residents, is worth the detour as it hosts one of Gippsland’s finest dining spots. The Tinamba Hotel has received numerous accolades, including Pub of the Year, Best Regional Restaurant, and a coveted Chef Hat in the 2022 Australian Good Food Guide Awards. Nearly everything on the menu is sourced locally, including Gippsland jersey ricotta, blue-eye trevalla, Snowy River black garlic, and Windsong Farm honey. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, and Sunday lunch.

The Tinamba Hotel has been honored with multiple awards.

On the way:

Take a break and enjoy the enchanting Tarra Valley Rainforest Walk through fern-filled glens and glades, leading to Cyathea Falls in Tarra Bulga National Park.

Stay:

The Retreat at Mewburn Park Homestead, Maffra

Food enthusiasts must try the offerings at Tinamba Hotel.

Paynesville (80km from Tinamba)

It’s time to embrace the water. Nestled among one of the country’s largest inland waterways, charming Paynesville is a place you’ll never want to leave; consider extending your stay. Board the free ferry to Raymond Island, where you can stroll through the koala colony—sightings are nearly guaranteed. Embark on a scenic walk along Ninety Mile Beach (you don’t have to do the entire stretch), then treat yourself to a long lunch at Sardine Dining, where Mark Briggs, the former head chef of Vue de monde, transforms the day’s catch into a memorable feast.

You’ll find it hard to leave Paynesville.

On the way:

You are on Gunaikurnai land, so make a stop at Krowathunkoolong Keeping Place in Bairnsdale to explore 30,000 years of history.

Stay:

Captains Cove Waterfront Apartments, Paynesville

Indulge in a leisurely lunch at Sardine Dining.

Metung (44km from Paynesville)

As the crow flies (or boat glides), it’s less than twelve kilometers across the lake to Metung. By road, it’s about a 40-minute drive along the Tambo River. This relaxing and quaint destination invites you to stroll along boardwalks, drop a fishing line from a jetty, and relish the panoramic water views from various restaurants—those at the Metung Hotel overlooking Bancroft Bay are particularly inviting. Upcoming is the highly anticipated Metung Hot Springs, making winter soaking something truly special.

Cast a line from a jetty in Metung.

On the way:

Opt for a scenic route and venture up into the hills towards Bruthen, a picturesque spot with a brewery, wineries, galleries, antique shops, and a fantastic rail trail.

Stay:

Lakeview Retreat, Metung

Unwind in the beauty of Metung Hot Springs, Gippsland. (Image: Rikki-Jo Molinaro)

Lakes Entrance (20km from Metung)

If you’ve been enjoying this road trip, you’ll be perfectly in sync by now, and 20 kilometers a day feels just right when the landscapes are this beautiful. Lakes Entrance is renowned for its stunning aquatic beauty, being the largest lake system in the southern hemisphere. However, winter is a fantastic time to visit; imagine curling up next to a fireplace in a cozy retreat or restaurant while sipping on locally sourced drinks and gazing out at the water. Try a craft beer at Red Bluff Brewers before savoring exquisite seafood at Sodafish.

Enjoy fresh seafood on the balcony at Sodafish, Lakes Entrance.

On the way:

If you’re traveling in winter, consider a detour west along the Great Alpine Road. Experience skiing at Mt Hotham after a day of surfing in Gippsland; it’s a unique combination!

Stay:

Lakes Entrance Waverley House Cottages

Catch a bird’s-eye view of Lakes Entrance.

Marlo (72km from Lakes Entrance)

If you can find a more laid-back place than Marlo, where the renowned Snowy River flows into the ocean, we’d love to hear about it. Walk the Snowy River Estuary Walk from the town center to Mots Beach; it’s been recognized by Brad Farmer, Tourism Australia’s beach ambassador, as one of Australia’s top 20 beaches of 2022. Just be sure to return before nightfall, as the sunset view from the Marlo Pub’s veranda is stunning. Since 1886, they’ve been serving refreshing drinks, and the Lakes Entrance flathead tacos are highly recommended.

Explore one of Australia’s finest beaches.

On the way:

Consider a side trip into the hills to experience the underground wonders at Buchan Caves.

Stay:

Marlo Caravan Park & Motel

Relaxing in Marlo is truly delightful.

Mallacoota (146km from Marlo)

You may think this epic coastal road trip is coming to an end, but it’s a joyful conclusion. Surrounded by Croajingolong National Park, Mallacoota is a true hidden gem. What’s not to adore about a destination that offers untamed beaches, expansive lakes, lush woodlands, and outstanding seafood? Be sure to try the dumplings and handmade noodles from Lucy’s. Whether you choose to walk, kayak, cruise, or bike, there are numerous ways to explore this stunning area.

Explore this breathtaking destination in various ways.

On the way:

Take a short side trip to Cape Conran along the coast, where you can marvel at the wildflowers in the banksia forests that have regenerated post-2020 bushfires and explore rock pools and untouched beaches.

Stay:

Karbeethong Lodge, Mallacoota

Mallacoota is a picture-perfect paradise.

Plan your ideal coastal road trip at visitgippsland.com.au/do-and-see/drives.