Merimbula

heart of the Sapphire Coast


Merimbula's magic begins with a first glimpse of the beaches, brilliant beneath the bright sunshine. The heart of the Sapphire Coast with pristine beaches and constant ebb and flow, Merimbula is a bustling coastal village situated on the edge of a stunning bay and lake. Paddle and SUP the protected waters of Merimbula Lake, explore sandy beaches, walks and lookouts, and indulge in delicious eats, dining experiences and Merimbula's award-winning oysters.


Merimbula has always been a beautiful place of sheltered waters and seafood feasts. The Yuin People were the first to harvest oysters, fish and more, with middens dating back thousands of years still visible on the lake’s edge.


Annual special events include the Merimbula Jazz Festival, several notable surfing comps, EAT Festival and the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular.

on the water

Float with the tide at Bar Beach, Mitchies Jetty or Spencer Park, descend into wild ocean at Middle Beach or tackle the 6km beach walk from Merimbula to Pambula along Main Beach. Wherever you are in Merimbula, you’re never far from the water. When the surf’s up, hit the water with your board of choice, or challenge yourself with a beginner’s lesson and dip your toes in with the support of an experienced instructor.

leisure & dining

Diverse cafes, bars and restaurants deliver delicious eats and drinks with fresh local produce & seafood at the lead. Strolling the esplanade and plazas will reveal eateries to suit every taste and budget from easy take-away eats to fine dining. Wash down an oyster or 12 with a freshly made cocktail, beer or wine at one of the bars, clubs or breweries. Or gather some local produce & head to a local park to enjoy some alfresco dining.

national parks

Take a step beyond the beach and you’ll discover a nature lover's paradise with pockets of lush rainforest, open coastal heath & wetlands. Discover lagoons, creeks, lakes & a zig zag of walking trails in Bournda National Park, or gaze upon 60 million years of nature’s work in Beowa National Park. From the easiest of strolls to rugged hikes, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views, exotic birdlife & unique flora and fauna.


nature adventure

Explore the lake and the coastline on foot or by kayak, SUP or boat. Whale watching is a must-do activity in winter and spring. Take a ‘guaranteed sighting’ cruise or follow the migration from shore at one of the many lookouts and vantage points. View Merimbula’s coastline by air on a scenic flight or take a tour for a informative experience with valuable local knowledge.


Walk the boardwalk, take a journey over the water and view the life of the lake beneath your feet. Seals, penguins and dolphins are regular visitors and you may spot the resident seal basking near the Merimbula Bridge, or catching a fish or two in the lake. Motor out onto the water or around the beaches for some epic reef, rock or game fishing.


Merimbula is also an ideal stop for the sports, with golfing, bowling & tennis tournaments on the calendar. Pambula-Merimbula & Tura Beaches’ renown golf clubs come complete with their resident kangaroos and magnificent coastal views. Well known as golfing destinations and for their annual tournaments, they’re acclaimed for their wildlife almost as much as their sporting credentials.


Nature enthusiasts can tackle the 27-kilometre Wharf to Wharf Walk, leading from Merimbula Wharf to Tathra Wharf. The walk links existing trails through public coastal reserves, flora reserves, beaches and Bournda National Park, providing a connected walking experience along the stunning coastline between Merimbula and Tathra. The walk can be undertaken as an overnight walk, a day walk, or as a series of short walks.

  • Potoroo Palace in Merimbula, NSW
  • Merimbula Wharf Seafood Restaurant
  • Jumping off Merimbula Wharf, NSW
  • Middle Beach in Merimbula, NSW
  • Looking for accommodation in Merimbula? Search for 'Merimbula' on our Accommodation page.

    merimbula Visitor information centre


    Shop 7/29 Market Street, Merimbula NSW 2548

    Phone: 02 6495 1129

    Freecall: 1800 150 457

    Website: www.escapetomerimbula.com.au

    Email: info@merimbulatourism.com.au


    Opening hours: 9am to 4pm Monday-Friday; 10.00am to 4.00pm Saturday; 10.00am to 1.00pm Sunday

    sapphire coast stories

    Walks on the Sapphire Coast, family friendly holiday NSW, walking NSW, national parks NSW
    26 Feb, 2024
    Autumn is a great time to visit the Sapphire Coast and a great time to walk. Blue skies, fresh breezes and crisp days are the perfect weather recipe for getting outside and getting back to nature. And what better way than taking a walk. Long walks in our national parks, short walks along our lakes and beaches and lots in between.
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    Plan your trip

    If you're dreaming of your next holiday to the beautiful Sapphire Coast, now's the time to start planning. Check out our accommodation, maps & guides, visitor information, weather and more.

    PLAN YOUR TRIP
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