Whale sightings, wombat strolls, and a whole lot of fresh air — Gippsland is an animal lover’s dream when winter rolls around. With rugged coastlines, tranquil bushland, and hidden wetlands, this region invites you to step into the wild — in the gentlest, most joyful way.
From Raymond Island’s famously laidback koalas to the migrating giants gliding past Wilsons Promontory, this weekend escape is a celebration of connection: with nature, with slower rhythms, and with the wide-eyed wonder that wildlife watching brings.
Let’s go wild — in the best possible way.
DAY 1: Koalas & Coastal Calm – Paynesville to Lakes Entrance 🐾
Kick things off in Paynesville, a charming town tucked into the Gippsland Lakes. It’s the jumping-off point for Raymond Island, home to one of Victoria’s most relaxed koala colonies. Just hop on the free passenger ferry (a delight in itself!) and follow the Koala Trail — a 1.2km walk where you’re all but guaranteed to spot a few fuzzy faces in the trees.
The island feels like a sleepy bushland bubble — no rush, no noise, just the occasional rustle of eucalyptus leaves and the unmistakable grunt of a koala waking up from its nap.
After a peaceful stroll, head back to the mainland and follow the lake’s edge toward Lakes Entrance, where boats bob in the marina and pelicans glide across golden skies. Stretch your legs with a walk across the famous footbridge and dip your toes in the sea.
Evening tip
Grab fish and chips and enjoy a beachside dinner. If you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins in the surf at sunset.
DAY 2: Cape Conran to The Prom – Wild Shores & Whale Watch Points 🐋
Rise early and take the scenic route to Cape Conran Coastal Park, where wild beaches stretch endlessly and the bushland hums with life. This is echidna and wallaby country — so take your time exploring the trails and sandy coves.
From here, make your way toward Wilsons Promontory (The Prom), one of Victoria’s most spectacular natural playgrounds. Between May and November, it becomes a whale highway, with southern right whales and humpbacks cruising past the coastline.
For the best chance of spotting them, head to:
Whale Rock near Mount Oberon
The cliffs near Squeaky Beach
Even without a whale sighting, there’s no shortage of wildlife: wombats, emus, and kangaroos roam freely near Tidal River, and you’ll often spot one waddling right past your cabin.
Evening tip
Bring a warm jacket and watch the sun dip behind Norman Bay. It’s magical.
DAY 3: Bushwalks, Wetlands & Wombat Goodbyes 🌿
Start your day with a short but beautiful walk. The Loo-Errn Track near Tidal River is accessible and bird-filled, winding through lush bushland and boardwalks. If you’re up for more, the Lilly Pilly Gully Circuit offers rainforest pockets and a peaceful escape from the crowds.
As you make your way home, take the long way around via Tarwin Lower and Inverloch. Stop off for a final stretch at the Screw Creek Nature Walk, where the estuary meets open sky and the birdlife is spectacular.
It’s the kind of weekend that leaves you sun-kissed, windswept, and gently awed by the quiet lives lived all around us.
Local Tips for a Wildlife Weekend in Gippsland 🧭
🐳 Know your whales: Keep your eyes peeled for V-shaped blows (southern right whales) or dramatic breaches (humpbacks). Binoculars make a big difference!
🐨 Koala clock: The koalas on Raymond Island are most active early morning or late afternoon. While the Koala Trail is a great start, don’t be afraid to explore the quiet residential streets — just look up!
🦘 Respect the locals: At The Prom, wombats often appear around dusk. Keep a respectful distance, don’t feed them, and drive slowly on the roads (especially at dawn and dusk).
🧺 BYO bites: Cafés can be few and far between outside major towns. Packing your own snacks or picnic supplies gives you more flexibility — and means more time in nature.
🚗 Stretch out your schedule: Gippsland’s big. Allow extra travel time between stops and embrace the scenic detours — half the fun is the journey.
🧥 Layer up: Coastal winds, mountain chill, and midday sun — Gippsland can deliver all four seasons in a single afternoon. Pack layers, good walking shoes, and waterproofs just in case.
Ready to roam with wombats and wave at whales?
Gippsland is calling — and this season, nature’s rolling out the red carpet.