Mist rises on a lake in the foreground. Forested mountains rise in the background and far off in the distance.

Bays, Lakes and Rivers

Explore Victoria's parks from the water.

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Discover the beauty of Victoria's bays, lakes, and rivers. There’s a serene calmness when you sit on the bank of a river allowing time to pass as water flows by. It’s here you can turn off and focus on the sounds around you, water bubbling over rocks, the distant calls of birds and the hum of busy insects. Feel the cool water from fresh mountain streams, it’s life-giving water feeds nature as it meanders its way through mountains and forest to eventually fed a calm lake.

It’s here on the lake where you can experience a different perspective, one you only get from being on the water, pausing to admire the mountains and bushlands. It’s peaceful here. Breathe in the tranquility that surrounds you. Listen to the gentle sound of lapping water and let the expanse of water captivate your senses. Glide across serene lakes, the rhythmic sound of a paddle with its soothing cadence. Explore the hidden wonders beneath the surface, where colorful fish navigate their aquatic realm. Surrender to serenity, allowing it to wash away the busy noise of everyday life. Bays, Lakes and Rivers are a sanctuary for peace and rejuvenation, a place to disconnect with modern living and reconnect with nature.

4 friends relax by the edge of the Yarra River as their curly brown dog gets ready to jump in the water.
Getting into nature is simple and essential
Three friends walk along the waters edge near Sperm Whale Head
A week in the east
The pink lake at Westgate Park
Everything you need to know about Victoria's pink lakes

Explore bays, lakes and rivers

A young couple paddle kayaks on a sunny afternoon across Lake Eildon.

Lake Eildon National Park

Lake Eildon National Park is in the northern foothills of Victoria's Central Highlands, 150 km north-east of Melbourne. Situated on the shores of Lake Eildon, the park protects 27,750 ha of rugged hills with open woodlands through to dense forest.
A couple row a boat on the yarra with four inquisitive geese near Studley Park Boat House.

Yarra River

The Yarra River offers a multitude of picturesque settings. The banks of the river have a number of barbecue and picnic facilities, fishing platforms and jettys. In addition, there are trails and paths which cater for cyclists, walkers and joggers.
Two campers relax at their campsite after a long paddle.

Lower Glenelg National Park

The Glenelg River is the central feature of the Lower Glenelg National Park. Along the last part of its winding 400 kilometre path to the sea the river has carved a spectacular gorge up to 50 metres deep through limestone. River erosion and the action of rainwater have created a remarkable cave.
A structure on the water in Yan Yean Reservoir

Yan Yean Reservoir Park

Experience one of Melbourne's most historic recreational parks at Yan Yean Reservoir Park. Enjoy peaceful picnic areas, a variety of walking tracks and breathtaking views of Melbourne’s oldest water storage site as you soak up the history of this remarkable place.
A kayaker on the river at Patterson River

Patterson River

Visit Patterson River to enjoy boating, canoeing or kayaking. Enjoy a picnic on the river bank and watch the boats go by or take a walk or the circuit trail.
The boardwalk at Jawbone Marine Sanctuary

Jawbone Marine Sanctuary

Jawbone Marine Sanctuary protects a diverse ecosystem within its 30 hectares of coastal waters. Named for its shape, this forgotten and unspoilt place protects a unique collection of intertidal habitats and is a haven for coastal and marine life right next to Melbourne.
Aura Vale Lake at Cardinia Reservoir in Melbourne's east.

Cardinia Reservoir Park

Cardinia Reservoir Park is a great place for a family day out. The open parklands, picnic and barbecue areas and native bushland are abounding with native wildlife and flora.
A drone image showing Westgate Park and the pink lake

Westgate Park

Westgate Park is a green oasis located in the heart of industrial Melbourne. The park is perhaps best known for its salt lake which turns pink seasonally in response to high salt levels, high temperatures, increased sunlight and lack of rainfall.
Sunset over a pink lake in Murray Sunset National Park.

Murray-Sunset National Park

Murray-Sunset National Park is home to the famous Pink Lakes. This remote and unspoilt corner of northwestern Victoria draws photographers from all over the world. Explore the islands of the Murray River by four-wheel drive in dry weather or by canoe after rain – and camp under starry skies.

Explore diverse landscapes

 
A family walk together along the water's edge at Shipwreck Creek beach.

Beaches and coasts

Venture out along Victoria’s dramatic coastline and explore one of the most biodiverse and unique marine ecosystems in the world.
A couple in their thirties take in the view along Dead Timber Track.

Mountain peaks

Climb to the breathtaking vistas atop some of Australia’s most stunning mountain peaks, alpine landscapes, escarpments and grassy high plains.
A young women leads a man on a walk along a river bank.

Rugged bushland

Experience unique Australian nature off the beaten track in one of the many native bushland and desert parks dotted across Victoria.
A man in a blue shirt walks up steps next to a boardwalk while looking at the flora.

Tall forests

See ancient mossy trees and stand under magnificent waterfalls. Walk under grand canopies of Mountain Ash or take a scenic drive through lush green tall forests surrounded by giant ferns.
Two women in activewear walk their dogs while two runners approach them.

Urban parks

Walk, jog, run or cycle in Melbourne’s picturesque inner city urban parks or escape the hustle and bustle with a short drive to idyllic gardens and picnic grounds.
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