Paynesville is a small town on the move, with an ever-expanding population. Not only are people finding it a brilliant holiday destination in Gippsland people are moving to Paynesville for a life change. The growing number of visitors will find plenty of things to do in Paynesville.
Paynesville lies adjacent to Raymond Island. Paynesville and Raymond Island are separated by a few hundred metres of water but are bought together by the Raymond Island ferry that runs 3 times an hour. These two combined destinations are wonderful places for a weekend getaway in Gippsland.
Best things to do in Paynesville
When planning a trip to Gippsland it is fantastic to know some of the local hideouts and places to visit. In this post, we can tell you all the best places to visit in Paynesville to make your trip to Gippsland one to remember.
Raymond Island Koala Walk
While not technically in Paynesville, the Raymond Island Koala Walk is the reason a lot of tourists come to Paynesville. Once on the island, there is a clearly marked 1.3km Koala walk around that directs you around the island for Koala spotting.
The Koala walk is one of the outstanding things to do in the Gippsland region. You will see markers on rocks and signed posts, even painted koalas on the ground to lead you in the right direction. The walk can be done in as little as 30 minutes, depending on how many Koalas you see and how long you stay to look at these amazing animals. While on the Koala trail, keep an eye out for other wildlife like Echidnas
While it is a good track it is gravel for some ways so be careful with wheelchairs and prams. It is always a great thrill to see Koalas in the wild.
Play golf
Located 5 minutes from Paynesville is the Bairnsdale Golf Club. The Championship Course is a challenging par 72. The course features plenty of bunkers, water, abundant wildlife and views of Lake King from the course and clubhouse.
Green fee players are welcome, club hire is available from the Pro-shop.
Swimming at Paynesville Beach
Along the foreshore, there is a sandy, shallow beach for swimmers. Being part of the Gippsland Lakes, the water will be calm and well suited to kids swimming and paddling at Paynesville beach.
Sunscreen, rash shirts and hats are required when out in the strong summer sun of Gippsland.
Fishing in Paynesville
For those that love to cast a line, it can be done of any of the beaches, jetties or from a boat. A short drive away lies the popular Mitchell River Silt jetties for land-based fishing. Soft plastics, sandworms and prawns are the best baits to use in the waterways of the Gippsland Lakes for bait. You are most likely to catch a Black Bream, Mullet or Flathead.
Related travel in Gippsland posts
- Things to do in Bairnsdale
- Our ultimate Lakes Entrance Beach Guide
- 5 excellent spots for free camping in Gippsland
Lawn Bowls in Paynesville
Paynesville Lawn Bowling Club has 3 grass greens in use for members and competition. You can contact the club regarding competition days and access for visiting bowlers.
Boating in Paynesville
There are 3 boat ramps for launching into the Gippsland Lakes. Boats can be used for fishing and water sports around Paynesville. Have fun with a waterski adventure, wakeboarding and tube riding are popular activities
The Gippsland Lakes Yacht club is the biggest club in the region. The club has a launching area with a ramp, crane, and mooring jetties for Yachts and cruisers. While out on the water keep an eye out for Dolphins, bird species such as Pelicans and Black Swans
Walking and biking
There are so many options to enjoy a wonderful walk when you visit Paynesville. Below are some of the most popular walks and rides to go on.
Paynesville/Eagle Point loop (10 km)
This track takes you from Captains Cove through Sunset Cove and along Newlands Drive Foreshore. Most of the walk meanders along the McMillans Straits, Newlands Arm & Lake King. You will see kangaroos at Eagle Point in the mornings and at dusk. This walk provides good views of Lake Victoria
Captains Cove/Sunset Cove/Newlands Arm (6.5 km)
A beautiful track that takes in all the sites. The Paynesville foreshore leads into the serenity of Newlands Arm. Great for kids on bikes. The end of the track offers a challenge for runners looking for a hill. This walk can be shortened as it is not a loop, so you can turn back at any time.
Raymond Island
Raymond Island is the perfect bike riding location & highly recommended for children. The island is quiet with minimal traffic & lots of places to explore. You can catch the ferry for free when you are walking or cycling.
Skate Park in Paynesville
Located just behind the main boulevard is the skate park. The skate park is popular with kids. There is also a kids playground located adjacent to the skate park.
Paynesville Maritime Museum
A small Museum near the skate park is dedicated to the boating history of Paynesville and the Gippsland Lakes. The Museum celebrates the fishermen who supplied the Melbourne markets and the history of boat building, both steamships and fishing boats.
The museum is open on the second Sunday each month from 8.30 to 12.30.
Markets in Paynesville
The Paynesville Farmer’s Market is held on the fourth Saturday of each month from about 8 am to 1 pm on the foreshore near the playground, Progress Jetty and the public toilets.
The market is a great way to view and buy fresh local produce grown in the area.
Where to eat in Paynesville
Paynesville has so many fantastic places to eat. Below we have included a couple that we have had a meal or snack at for you to consider when you visit Paynesville.
The Sardine Bar & Eatery seems to be the hottest place in town for eating at the present. This Paynesville restaurant has featured in The Age Newspaper and Visit Victoria campaigns. The Sardine Bar is driven by renowned Chef Mark Briggs.
Mark has worked under and with renowned Chefs like Jamie Oliver during his career. The Sardine Bar brings you a seasonal menu of the best local produce East Gippsland has to offer, with a strong seafood influence.
The Paynesville Waterview Bakery has a large selection of pies, pasties, salad rolls and fried food ready for you to eat. The bakery is a good and convenient location to grab a fast bite to eat. You can sit out the front on undercover seating.
Accommodation in Paynesville
You will find every type of accommodation in Paynesville for every taste. From boutique to budget there is something for everyone. We have the following recommendations for apartments with Airbnb, and hotels for couples and families.
Accommodation for couples in Paynesville
There are some beautiful places in Paynesville for you to stay in. You can take your pick as to how you want to spend your time.
Captains Cove Waterfront Apartments
The Captains Cove Waterfront Apartments are set on the banks of the Gippsland Lakes. The apartments feature a vast array of facilities available for their guests.
Each apartment features a balcony or patio, a dining area and a sitting area. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave, espresso maker and a hob.
Outdoor facilities include a tennis court and an indoor swimming pool. The close access to the water allows for kayaking, fishing and boating.
Family accommodation in Paynesville
There is some great family accommodation in Paynesville that will have you never wanting to leave! Available for every budget you will definitely find the perfect spot to spend your time here.
Mariners Cove Motel and Apartments
The Mariners Cove Motel and Apartments are right in the centre of Paynesville located within a 100-meter walk from the main shopping street and the ferry to Raymond Island.
Each room features a balcony or patio with some looking out over the waters towards Raymond Island. All rooms have TVs and coffee/tea makers, fridges, hairdryers and irons/ironing boards.
Free WiFi in public areas, barbecues and dry cleaning/laundry services are available. Breakfast and free parking are available. Rooms can fit from 2 to 6 people, which caters for all types of families in this holiday resort town.
Budget accommodation in Paynesville
The budget accommodation in Paynesville is amazing and can cater to all that want to visit Paynesville on a budget. As we have said before you don’t always have to spend a huge amount of money to have an amazing holiday in Gippsland.
Paynesville Holiday Tourist Park
The Holiday Park is only a short walk to the waterfront esplanade village, where you can find a selection of cafes, supermarkets, restaurants and retail outlets.
The Holiday Caravan park in Paynesville accommodation options includes cabins, villas, caravan and camping sites. If you have your own van there are ensuite sites available for you.
Park facilities include a large camp kitchen, outside BBQ rotunda and games room. If you are visiting in the warmer months you can access the solar-heated swimming pool, children’s splash pool, spa (Summer months only) and a playground with an inflatable jumping pillow.
For more hotel and apartments in Paynesville please search the map below to find the perfect Paynesville accommodation. If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation in Paynesville then an apartment is the best choice for you.
Where is Paynesville?
The township of Paynesville is located 293 kilometres east of Melbourne.
How to get to Paynesville
Follow the signs to Paynesville on the Princes Highway on the east side of Bairnsdale. The distance from Bairnsdale to Paynesville is 16 kilometres.
We hope this article from us here at Travels in Gippsland has you inspired to visit Paynesville and see all of what this gorgeous little village has to offer. For more amazing ideas on where to holiday in Gippsland click through to our visit East Gippsland page for more brilliant inspiration.
More travel inspiration for your visit to Gippsland
About the Author
Mark has grown up and lived in the Gippsland area all his life. Being born and raised in Gippsland he knows a thing or 2 about this amazing region. When Mark is not working he is out exploring the best of Gippsland with his wife and kids