Sale

Sale is a gracious historic town on the edge of the Gippsland Lakes, serving as the southern gateway to Victoria's rugged wilderness. With wide, tree-lined streets, 19th-century architecture, and a relaxed country vibe, it's an ideal base for exploring the lakes system, Ninety Mile Beach, and the remote beauty of the Croajingolong National Park. The town's museums and galleries hint at its prosperous pastoral and railway past, while the nearby waterways offer exceptional boating, fishing, and wildlife-watching.

Highlights & What to See

• Gippsland Lakes – Australia's largest navigable inland waterway system, perfect for kayaking, sailing, or a scenic cruise. Spot black swans, pelicans, and the occasional dolphin.
• Port of Sale – A revamped waterfront precinct with walking trails, a playground, and the Sale Swing Bridge. Great for a picnic or a sunset stroll.
• Sale Botanic Gardens – A heritage-listed garden with towering oaks, a fernery, and a sensory garden. Ideal for a peaceful afternoon.
• Gippsland Centre for Art & History – Housed in the old post office, this gallery showcases local art and the region's Indigenous and settler stories.
• Sale Railway Station – A handsome Victorian-era building that anchors the town centre. Pop into the adjacent visitor centre for maps and tips.
• Ninety Mile Beach – A short drive south, this endless stretch of wild surf and dunes is one of Victoria's most dramatic coastlines. Swim at patrolled beaches or walk for hours without seeing another soul.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days gives you time to explore Sale's historic core, take a boat trip on the lakes, and venture to Ninety Mile Beach. If you're self-driving the Great Alpine Road or heading to the Croajingolong National Park, an overnight stop is sufficient for a quick taste — hit the Port of Sale and the botanic gardens, then continue south. For a relaxed pace, base yourself here for a few days and day-trip to the surrounding natural attractions.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Lakes Entrance – 35 km east, the bustling hub of the Gippsland Lakes with fishing charters, ocean beaches, and the lively Bullock Island.
• Metung – A charming lakeside village with excellent seafood restaurants and calm swimming spots.
• Paynesville – Known as the 'Venice of Gippsland', this town has a network of canals and is a launch point for Raymond Island, famous for its koala population.
• Croajingolong National Park – A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve about 90 km east, offering remote wilderness, pristine beaches, and coastal hiking trails.
• Bairnsdale – The main service town of East Gippsland, with historic buildings and the Mitchell River walking track.

Please check official sources for current details.