The town of Lakes Entrance, located in the state of Victoria, Australia, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse range of outdoor activities. The town is situated at the entrance to the Gippsland Lakes, a network of lakes, rivers, and wetlands that offer endless opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports. With its picturesque beaches, scenic walking trails, and vibrant cultural scene, Lakes Entrance is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Australia’s natural beauty and charm.
However, the best time to visit Lakes Entrance is a question that many tourists ask, and the answer can vary depending on several factors such as the weather, tourist season, and personal preferences. In this article, we will explore the best time to visit Lakes Entrance, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of visiting during different seasons, and providing tips and recommendations for making the most of your trip.
Weather and Climate
Lakes Entrance has a temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The town experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Here’s a breakdown of the weather and climate in Lakes Entrance:
Summer (December to February)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Lakes Entrance, with warm weather and long days making it ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating. The average high temperature in summer is around 22°C (72°F), while the average low temperature is around 12°C (54°F). Summer is also the driest season in Lakes Entrance, with an average of 60 mm (2.4 in) of rainfall per month.
However, summer is also the busiest time of the year, with large crowds and long queues at popular attractions. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April to May or September to November).
Autumn (March to May)
Autumn is a great time to visit Lakes Entrance, with mild weather and fewer crowds making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. The average high temperature in autumn is around 18°C (64°F), while the average low temperature is around 8°C (46°F). Autumn is also a great time to see the changing leaves and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
However, autumn is also a time of transition, with some attractions and businesses closing for the season. Be sure to check ahead of time to ensure that your preferred activities and attractions are still open.
Winter (June to August)
Winter is the low season in Lakes Entrance, with cooler weather and fewer crowds making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers. The average high temperature in winter is around 12°C (54°F), while the average low temperature is around 4°C (39°F). Winter is also a great time to see the town’s festive lights and decorations, and to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lakes and surrounding countryside.
However, winter can be quite chilly, and some attractions and businesses may be closed or operate on reduced hours. Be sure to pack warm clothing and check ahead of time to ensure that your preferred activities and attractions are still open.
Spring (September to November)
Spring is a great time to visit Lakes Entrance, with mild weather and fewer crowds making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. The average high temperature in spring is around 18°C (64°F), while the average low temperature is around 8°C (46°F). Spring is also a great time to see the blooming flowers and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
However, spring can be a time of transition, with some attractions and businesses closing for the season. Be sure to check ahead of time to ensure that your preferred activities and attractions are still open.
Tourist Season
Lakes Entrance has a peak tourist season from December to February, with the busiest time being around Christmas and New Year’s. The town experiences a large influx of tourists during this time, with many businesses and attractions operating at full capacity. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April to May or September to November). (See Also: Is December a Good Time to Visit Usa – Winter Wonderland Awaits)
Shoulder Season (April to May or September to November)
The shoulder season is a great time to visit Lakes Entrance, with mild weather and fewer crowds making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. The average high temperature during the shoulder season is around 18°C (64°F), while the average low temperature is around 8°C (46°F). The shoulder season is also a great time to see the changing leaves and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
However, some attractions and businesses may be closed or operate on reduced hours during the shoulder season. Be sure to check ahead of time to ensure that your preferred activities and attractions are still open.
Low Season (June to August)
The low season is the quietest time of the year in Lakes Entrance, with cooler weather and fewer crowds making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers. The average high temperature in the low season is around 12°C (54°F), while the average low temperature is around 4°C (39°F). The low season is also a great time to see the town’s festive lights and decorations, and to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lakes and surrounding countryside.
However, some attractions and businesses may be closed or operate on reduced hours during the low season. Be sure to pack warm clothing and check ahead of time to ensure that your preferred activities and attractions are still open.
Outdoor Activities
Lakes Entrance is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of activities to suit all interests and abilities. Here are some of the top outdoor activities to enjoy in Lakes Entrance:
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in Lakes Entrance, with a variety of fish species to catch, including bass, trout, and flathead. The town has several fishing charters and tackle shops, and the lakes and surrounding waters are home to a wide range of fish species.
Some of the top fishing spots in Lakes Entrance include:
- The Gippsland Lakes
- The Mitchell River
- The Nicholson River
- The Lake King
Boating
Boating is a popular activity in Lakes Entrance, with a variety of boat hire options available, including kayaks, canoes, and motorboats. The town has several marinas and boat ramps, and the lakes and surrounding waters offer a wide range of boating opportunities.
Some of the top boating spots in Lakes Entrance include:
- The Gippsland Lakes
- The Mitchell River
- The Nicholson River
- The Lake King
Hiking
Hiking is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Lakes Entrance, with several hiking trails to suit all interests and abilities. The town has several national parks and forests, including the Gippsland Lakes National Park and the Mitchell River National Park.
Some of the top hiking trails in Lakes Entrance include: (See Also: Best Time to Visit New York and Niagara Falls – Peak Season Delights)
- The Gippsland Lakes Coastal Walk
- The Mitchell River National Park Walk
- The Nicholson River Walk
- The Lake King Walk
Accommodation
Lakes Entrance has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, including hotels, motels, and holiday homes. The town has several camping grounds and caravan parks, and the surrounding countryside offers a range of farm stays and bed and breakfasts.
Hotels and Motels
Lakes Entrance has several hotels and motels, including the Lakes Entrance Hotel, the Mitchell River Motel, and the Gippsland Lakes Hotel. These establishments offer a range of amenities, including restaurants, bars, and conference facilities.
Holiday Homes
Lakes Entrance has a wide range of holiday homes to suit all budgets and preferences, including apartments, houses, and villas. These establishments offer a range of amenities, including kitchens, laundry facilities, and private balconies.
Camping Grounds and Caravan Parks
Lakes Entrance has several camping grounds and caravan parks, including the Lakes Entrance Caravan Park, the Mitchell River Caravan Park, and the Gippsland Lakes Caravan Park. These establishments offer a range of amenities, including toilets, showers, and laundry facilities.
Food and Drink
Lakes Entrance has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and takeaways to suit all tastes and budgets. The town is famous for its seafood, and visitors can enjoy a range of fresh seafood dishes at local restaurants and cafes.
Restaurants
Lakes Entrance has several restaurants, including the Lakes Entrance Hotel Restaurant, the Mitchell River Restaurant, and the Gippsland Lakes Restaurant. These establishments offer a range of cuisines, including seafood, steak, and vegetarian options.
Cafes
Lakes Entrance has several cafes, including the Lakes Entrance Cafe, the Mitchell River Cafe, and the Gippsland Lakes Cafe. These establishments offer a range of coffee, cakes, and light meals.
Takeaways
Lakes Entrance has several takeaways, including the Lakes Entrance Fish and Chip Shop, the Mitchell River Fish and Chip Shop, and the Gippsland Lakes Fish and Chip Shop. These establishments offer a range of takeaway options, including fish and chips, burgers, and sandwiches.
Recap
The best time to visit Lakes Entrance depends on your personal preferences and interests. If you’re looking for warm weather and outdoor activities, visit during the summer months (December to February). If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and lower prices, visit during the shoulder season (April to May or September to November). If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option and don’t mind cooler weather, visit during the low season (June to August).
Lakes Entrance has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, including hotels, motels, and holiday homes. The town has several restaurants, cafes, and takeaways to suit all tastes and budgets, and visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. (See Also: Galapagos Islands Tours Best Time to Visit – Plan Your Dream Trip)
Key Points
Here are the key points to consider when planning your trip to Lakes Entrance:
- The best time to visit Lakes Entrance depends on your personal preferences and interests.
- Summer (December to February) is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and outdoor activities.
- Shoulder season (April to May or September to November) is a great time to visit, with mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Low season (June to August) is the quietest time of the year, with cooler weather and lower prices.
- Lakes Entrance has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences.
- The town has several restaurants, cafes, and takeaways to suit all tastes and budgets.
- Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking.
FAQs
Best Time to Visit Lakes Entrance – FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Lakes Entrance?
A: The best time to visit Lakes Entrance depends on your personal preferences and interests. If you’re looking for warm weather and outdoor activities, visit during the summer months (December to February). If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and lower prices, visit during the shoulder season (April to May or September to November). If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option and don’t mind cooler weather, visit during the low season (June to August).
Q: What are the peak tourist season and shoulder season in Lakes Entrance?
A: The peak tourist season in Lakes Entrance is from December to February, with warm weather and outdoor activities. The shoulder season is from April to May or September to November, with mild weather and fewer crowds.
Q: What are the low season and high season in Lakes Entrance?
A: The low season in Lakes Entrance is from June to August, with cooler weather and lower prices. The high season is from December to February, with warm weather and outdoor activities.
Q: What are the top outdoor activities to enjoy in Lakes Entrance?
A: The top outdoor activities to enjoy in Lakes Entrance include fishing, boating, and hiking. The town has several fishing charters and tackle shops, and the lakes and surrounding waters offer a wide range of boating opportunities. The town also has several national parks and forests, including the Gippsland Lakes National Park and the Mitchell River National Park.
Q: What are the top accommodation options in Lakes Entrance?
A: The top accommodation options in Lakes Entrance include hotels, motels, and holiday homes. The town has several hotels and motels, including the Lakes Entrance Hotel, the Mitchell River Motel, and the Gippsland Lakes Hotel. The town also has several holiday homes to suit all budgets and preferences.
Q: What are the top restaurants and cafes in Lakes Entrance?
A: The top restaurants and cafes in Lakes Entrance include the Lakes Entrance Hotel Restaurant, the Mitchell River Restaurant, and the Gippsland Lakes Restaurant. The town also has several cafes, including the Lakes Entrance Cafe, the Mitchell River Cafe, and the Gippsland Lakes Cafe.
Q: What are the top takeaways in Lakes Entrance?
A: The top takeaways in Lakes Entrance include the Lakes Entrance Fish and Chip Shop, the Mitchell River Fish and Chip Shop, and the Gippsland Lakes Fish and Chip Shop. These establishments offer a range of takeaway options, including fish and chips, burgers, and sandwiches.
