With over 20 towns and villages and many more individual communities, the region can be seen as a patchwork of localities, each with individual features and characteristics to be recognised and enjoyed.
The main towns are listed below. Information on other towns in Victoria's East can be found by clicking here.
Bairnsdale
The largest town by both residential population and business size, Bairnsdale is the regional centre for Victoria's East and offers diverse retail choice, tertiary education and significant health services.
Lakes Entrance
One of Victoria's iconic coastal tourism destinations and home to Victoria's largest commercial fishing fleet. With spectacular ocean views and the iconic Ninety Mile Beach, Lake Entrance offers locals and tourists alike a range of lifestyle and recreational choices.
Paynesville
Just 17km from Bairnsdale, Paynesville offers unique lakeside and canal living. Often termed the boating capital of Victoria, Paynesville has a strong boating and tourism based economy and is one of the fastest growing communities in the region.
Orbost
Set on the banks of the legendary Snowy River, with a history based on timber and agriculture, Orbost is the service centre for the eastern part of the region and provides the gateway to some of Australia's finest National Parks.
Omeo
Gateway to Victoria's ski slopes and a must-see stop along the Great Alpine Road (Australia's highest altitude road), Omeo also functions as the service centre for the region's 'high country' and has a fascinating mining and pastoral heritage.
Mallacoota
With a population of approximately 1000, Mallacoota is the Eastern Gateway to the region. Located halfway between Sydney and Melbourne on the Princes Highway and just over three hours from Canberra, Mallacoota is positioned on the shores of an inlet and lake system joining the Tasman Sea and surrounded by the Croajingolong National Park. Mallacoota is a true year-round destination, with Victoria's warmest winter temperatures and cooling breezes fresh from the ocean in summer.