Merimbula

Merimbula is a sparkling coastal gem on the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales, where a pristine lake meets the Tasman Sea. This laid-back holiday town is all about water, wildlife, and world-class oysters – a perfect stop for a self-drive along the south coast. With its sheltered lake, surf beaches, and lush hinterland, Merimbula offers a quintessential Australian beach escape without the crowds of the north.

Highlights & What to See

• Merimbula Lake & Boardwalk – Stroll the boardwalk along the lake’s edge, spot pelicans and black swans, and watch the oyster boats come in. Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the calm, clear waters.
• Main Beach & Bar Beach – Two beautiful patrolled beaches separated by a headland. Main Beach is great for swimming and families, while Bar Beach offers a more rugged surf break and rock pools at low tide.
• Merimbula Aquarium & Wharf – A small but engaging aquarium with touch tanks, local fish species, and a resident seal. The wharf is a prime spot for fishing or grabbing fish and chips.
• Pambula Merimbula Golf Club – A scenic 18-hole course with lake views, and a kangaroo population that treats the fairways as their own. Rent a buggy and keep an eye out for roos at dawn and dusk.
• Bournda National Park – Just north of town, this coastal park offers stunning walks through heath and eucalypt forest to hidden beaches like Bournda Beach and the dramatic Kangarutha Point.
• Oyster Tasting Tours – The lake’s pristine waters produce some of Australia’s best Sydney rock oysters. Join a tour to taste them straight from the farm, paired with local wine.

Suggested Time to Spend

Merimbula is a perfect two- to three-day stop on a south coast road trip. Spend the first day exploring the lake and beaches, the second on a national park walk and oyster tour, and a third for a relaxed morning before heading north or south. If you’re tight on time, even an overnight stay allows a sunset walk on Main Beach and a fresh seafood dinner.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Eden – 25 minutes south, a historic whaling town with the Killer Whale Museum and stunning views from the Davidson Whaling Station.
• Tathra – 20 minutes north, a charming seaside village with a historic wharf and the award-winning Tathra Hotel.
• Bermagui – 45 minutes north, a fishing village famous for its blue pool and access to the Montague Island nature reserve.
• Pambula – 10 minutes inland, a historic village with a great Sunday market and the Pambula River for canoeing.
• Ben Boyd National Park – 30 minutes south, a rugged coastal park with the iconic red-and-white striped Boyd’s Tower and lightship.

Please check official sources for current details.