Explore Merimbula
Merimbula is a picturesque coastal town located on the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales, Australia. It's known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, scenic nature reserves and rich wildlife, making it a popular holiday destination for nature lovers, families and outdoor enthusiasts. Holiday makers are drawn to Merimbula for its whale watching, fishing, surfing, nearby National Parks, festivals and recently opened Eden Gravity Mountain Bike Trails.
The town is located on the shores of Merimbula Lake and boasts cafes, award winning seafood restaurants, clubs, bars, boutique shops, major supermarkets and weekend markets.
Attractions and activities
Beaches and Surfing
Merimbula boasts several beautiful beaches, such as Main Beach, Bar Beach and Short Point, ideal for swimming and surfing.
Whale Watching
Merimbula is a great spot for whale watching, especially between September and November during the migration season.
Fishing
The town is famous for its fishing opportunities, both on the lake and offshore, including boating and angling charters.​​​
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National Parks
The nearby Ben Boyd National Park and Bournda National Park offer scenic bushwalking trails, picnic spots, wildlife viewing, beaches and jaw dropping cliffs. Whether you prefer hiking to see spectacular views, sunbathing on the beach, or getting out on to the water for some sports, Bournda National Park is worth visiting.
Sapphire Coast Mountain Bike Trails
Eden Gravity MTB Trails are a short 25 minute drive south of Merimbula. Explore 58km+ of gravity-fed mountain bike trails with premium, machine-built singletrack. Ride summit to sea from a peak elevation of 300m, from the deep beauty of Nullica State Forest to the shores of magnificent Twofold Bay.
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Tathra MTB Trails are a short 20 minute drive north of Merimbula. In the past 10 years Tathra has established itself as one of NSW’s premier mountain biking destinations. With almost 50km of single track, Tathra offers mountain bike trails for all levels of rider from children and beginners up to intermediate and expert riders.
A few of our favourite things to do
Mitchies Jetty
Is just a short walk from Bellvilla Coastal Retreat. The jetty is located on the south estuary mouth of Merimbula Lake, and is a great spot for sheltered swimming with the family, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking and fishing. SUP and kayak hire is available from the jetty along with a delicious morning coffee from the coffee cart.
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Merimbula Boardwalk
Is approximately 3.4kms return, and will take around an hour and a half to complete. The walk will take you along the lake shore, through a variety of flora, and past local oyster farms. Be sure to keep an eye out for the resident seal while you make your way along the walk! The Merimbula Boardwalk is known for its beautiful sunset views. You can hire boats and kayaks on site, and there is also a kiosk for coffee.
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Magic Mountain
Is an adventure park, where you can expect to find grand-prix car racing, tobogganing, water slides, a rollercoaster, mini golf, a high ropes course, and more. Picnic and barbeque facilities are available, and there are a kiosk and takeaway food bar on site.
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Dulcie's Cottage
Is a 1920's cottage turned restaurant, serving delicious meals made with local produce, out of a caravan. The idea is perfect- sit underneath the large jacaranda tree and enjoy a drink and meal with your family and friends.
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Navigate Expeditions Eco Tours
Explore the Sapphire Coast on one of their kayaking, mountain biking and walking Eco Tours. Immerse yourself in, small group, sustainable adventures designed for the environmentally conscious traveler. www.navigateexpeditions.com
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Tidal Seafood and Wine Bar
Dine at the Tidal and enjoy some of the finest seafood from this award winning restaurant. Tidal celebrates the Sapphire Coast, and strives to support its ethical, local and regional farmers and producers. Enjoy their A la Carte menu which features snacks, entrees, mains and Chef Gav's Feed Menu, served with great cocktails, wines, and beer; fine gins and single malts.​
What's on
Local Festivals
We absolutely love the Merimbula Jazz Festival which is held in June and the Wanderer Festival held later in the year around September / October.
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Merimbula Merroir
Get ready to dive into a month of oceanic delight as Merimbula proudly presents "The Merimbula Merroir," a celebration of the Oyster Industry on the Sapphire Coast. This exciting event kicks off on the 1st of September and runs throughout the entire month, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage and future of oyster farming in our region.
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9th - 16th September Oyster Art Exhibition
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13th September Progressive Dinner Experience with Valentina, Bar Monti & Dulcies
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15th & 29th September Gin Master Class & Oyster Tasting at Nine Circles Distillery
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19th September Oyster Watercolour Paint & Sip
Take a road trip
Take a leisurely drive south and explore the nearby townships of Pambula, Pambula Beach and Eden or north to visit the seaside villages of Tathra and Bermagui.​
Pambula
Explore Pambula Beach, Pambula River Mouth, Panboola Wetlands which is a conservation area offering walking and cycling paths through wetlands, stroll through Pambula Village which is a historic town featuring charming cafés, boutique stores and art galleries. The local Pambula Bakery is a favourite for fresh pies and pastries.
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Eden
Visit the Eden Killer Whale Museum. Eden has a rich whaling history, and this museum tells the fascinating story of Old Tom, a killer whale that helped whalers hunt baleen whales. Visit Twofold Bay which is one of the deepest natural harbours in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s an ideal spot for whale watching, especially during the migration season from September to November.​ Green Cape Lighthouse is located in the southern section of Ben Boyd National Park, this lighthouse offers dramatic views of the rugged coastline and is a fantastic spot for whale watching during the season.
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Tathra
Tathra Wharf is a historic wharf built in the 1800s, it’s one of the last surviving deep-sea wharfs in Australia. It’s a popular spot for fishing.​ Bournda National Park is located just south of Tathra, this park offers fantastic hiking trails, coastal lagoons, and beautiful beaches. The Kangarutha Walking Track is a must for those wanting to experience the dramatic coastline.​Mimosa Rocks National Park is a short drive north of Tathra, this park is known for its striking rock formations, secluded beaches, and a rich array of wildlife. It’s perfect for bushwalking and picnicking.
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Bermagui
Blue Pool is one of Bermagui’s most famous attractions, this natural ocean pool carved into the cliffs offers a unique swimming experience with spectacular ocean views.​ Bermagui Fishermen's Wharf is a lively area with a variety of cafés and restaurants serving fresh seafood, as well as shops where you can pick up local crafts.​ Horsehead Rock and Camel Rock are also worth a visit and a great spot for photographers.
Getting to Merimbula
Merimbula Regional Airport
Merimbula Airport (MIM) is the regional airport serving the town. It offers daily flights connecting to Sydneyand Melbourne via regional airlines such as Rex (Regional Express) and QantasLink. The airport is located just a few minutes from the town center of Merimbula, making it very convenient for travellers.
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Flights from Sydney: Around 1 hour and 15 minutes
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Flights from Melbourne: Around 1 hour and 20 minutes
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Driving Distances from Major Cities​
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From Canberra approximately 270 kms. Driving time is around 3 hours
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From Sydney approximately 450 kms. Driving time is around 5.5 to 6 hours
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From Melbourne approximately 580 kms. Driving time is around 6.5 to 7 hours
​Other Transport Options
There are regular coach services that connect Merimbula to Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne.