Sapphire Coast Marine Park

Stretching along the pristine coastline south of Sydney, the Sapphire Coast Marine Park is a dazzling mosaic of turquoise waters, secluded coves, and vibrant marine ecosystems. This protected area offers world-class snorkeling, kayaking, and whale-watching, with the chance to spot dolphins, seals, and migrating humpbacks. For travelers seeking unspoiled nature and a relaxed coastal vibe, this marine park is a must-visit gem on a New South Wales road trip.

Highlights & What to See

• Montague Island Nature Reserve — a rugged island sanctuary teeming with little penguins, Australian fur seals, and seabirds; take a guided tour for the best wildlife encounters.
• Bermagui's Blue Pool — a stunning natural ocean pool carved into the rock, perfect for a safe swim with views of the wild coastline.
• Mimosa Rocks National Park — a series of sea caves, blowholes, and quiet beaches ideal for bushwalking and photography.
• Whale-watching at Eden — the southern gateway to the park, where humpback whales pass close to shore during migration (June–November).
• Kayaking the Pambula River — paddle through serene mangrove forests and spot stingrays, pelicans, and black swans.

Suggested Time to Spend

To fully appreciate the Sapphire Coast Marine Park, plan for at least two to three days. This allows you to explore the key spots at a relaxed pace: spend a day kayaking and snorkeling around Bermagui and Mimosa Rocks, another day on a wildlife tour to Montague Island, and a morning whale-watching in Eden. If you're self-driving, the Sapphire Coast Drive between Batemans Bay and Eden offers a scenic route with plenty of stops along the way.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Batemans Bay — the northern entry point to the coast, with oyster farms and the Eurobodalla National Park.
• Narooma — home to the famous Australia Rock and the Montague Island tours.
• Eden — a historic whaling town now focused on whale-watching and the Killer Whale Museum.
• Bega Valley — lush hinterland with cheese tastings and the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre.
• Kosciuszko National Park — a few hours inland, offering alpine hiking and snow sports (seasonal).

Please check official sources for current details.