Discover Paynesville

Paynesville lies on the shores of the Gippsland Lakes and is shaped by a network of canals and waterways. Water is a recurring theme throughout different aspects of the town: you’ll encounter it in the landscape, in the leisure activities mentioned here and on trips through the canals. The Raymond Island Ferry is also an important part of getting around. It connects Raymond Island with Paynesville and carries vehicles and pedestrians. If you plan to make the crossing, check the latest ferry information before you travel, as service details may change.

Ferry trips, the island and waterways

Raymond Island is a short ferry ride from Paynesville and is known for its large koala population. The Raymond Island Koala Trail starts near the ferry arrival point and winds through eucalyptus trees. This brings two distinct perspectives on the water together: the canals in Paynesville and the ferry connection to the island, where the trail passes through eucalyptus trees. The island is also a destination in its own right, with a clear connection to nature.

Activities on the water are also part of what Paynesville has to offer: fishing, windsurfing, jet skiing and water skiing. Sail Safari offers a canal cruise around Paynesville Estate; H20 Tours & Adventures offers trips through Paynesville’s canals. The route described for each is a helpful point of difference when choosing. Tours and booking arrangements may change; also confirm the availability of H20 Tours & Adventures before your trip.

Culture and walking routes in Paynesville

The Dinni Birraark Walk is designated as a leisure and cultural heritage route. A 372-metre section runs between Backwater Court and Kellina Court in western Paynesville. The Dinni Birraark Walk/Paynesville Sunset Cove Walk starts at the Paynesville Community Craft Centre beside Progress Jetty. Together, these details provide directions to a specific section of the route and its starting point. You can consider the route as a cultural addition to your plans for water-based experiences.

The Paynesville Maritime Museum offers another cultural perspective: its small exhibition tells the maritime history of Paynesville through photographs, historical artefacts and displays. The subject suits the character of a town on the water, but has a different focus from the walks and trips: here, the maritime history of Paynesville takes centre stage. Paintsville Café offers art classes and events; the programme may change, so check the latest information before visiting.

Markets and food

The Paynesville Farmers & Makers Market is held on the waterfront on the third Saturday of every month and offers local produce and goods. If you’d like to visit the market, check the date for your travel period. It is therefore an option with a regular monthly schedule, while the art classes and events at Paintsville Café have their own changeable programme.

Different culinary highlights are also described. SARDINE Dining builds its menu around the fishermen’s morning catch and uses fresh local produce. Pier 70 serves main courses featuring local seafood as well as carefully prepared meat. These two specialities offer different points of reference if food is one of the experiences you want to shape your stay around.

Paynesville as a good fit for your stay

When looking for a hotel in Paynesville, you can start by considering which aspect of the destination you’d like to shape your stay around: the ferry trip to Raymond Island and the Koala Trail, the canals and water sports, or heritage, markets and food. Each of the options described has a different focus, without requiring you to follow a set itinerary. If your travel group has different interests, you can weigh up nature, water, culture and food as different themes when planning together.

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For the broader travel guide: Victoria.