Sapphire Coast Itineraries

Life is an adventure, and there is no place better to explore than the magnificent wilderness coast.

During Summer Stand up Paddle Boards & kayaks are available for hire at Merimbula’s Spencer Park & Fishpen. We are open early so you can enjoy the best conditions on the lake.

The stunning sandy beaches and lakes at Tathra, Merimbula and Pambula provide the perfect environment to try stand up paddling or surfing. We also have a giant Stand Up Paddle Board, and modified kayaks for people with mobility issues.

Our long term success is based on a combination of friendly professional instructors, an effective teaching technique and the use of the latest technology & equipment.

The Eden Killer Whale Museum has told Eden’s stories for over 80 years and is home to one of the only orca skeletons in the world, that of Old Tom, Eden’s famous killer whale.

He and his pod formed a hunting partnership with men that lasted for over 100 years. At times during the 1800s there were up to 36 killer whales in Eden, many of which were known by name. Previous to settlement, the orcas had special relationship with the local Yuin people and it was through this connection that they bonded with the whalers, whose crews often included Yuin men.

The museum has commanding views over the bay, whale watching platform and bookshop. It also showcases maritime and timber history along with regular travelling exhibitions.\

If you spot a whale in spring, staff will sound a siren that lets the whole town know!

Opening hours Monday to Saturday: 9.15am to 3.45pm; Sunday: 11.15am to 3.45pm (extended hours during holiday periods).

Entry $2.50 to $10

Board the luxury, all terrain touring vehicle and discover the best of the Sapphire Coast in these day tours.

Your hosts Paul and Liz and Pincini have been escorting guests to amazing destinations for over 30 years and have developed these day trips with a local’s insight. Tours range from $45 for the Pambula Merimbula Explorer, to $110 for the Green Cape Explorer.

Pambula Lake Explorer Join Captain Sponge’s Magical Oyster Tours on Pambula Lake, with morning tea at Haycock Point and explore the Pinnacles.

Green Cape Explorer Discover the highlights of Ben Boyd National Park, with morning tea and a picnic lunch before a stop at the Seahorse Inn, the centerpiece of Boydd’s empire.

Gourmet Farmer Explorer Explore Tilba Village and Bermagui while you sample wines, cheeses, oysters and beautiful scenery.

Pambula Merimbula Explorer Tour local beaches and historical points of interest, with a visit to Merimbula Aquarium & Wharf Restaurant.

 

Great Southern Trike Tours is a small family run operation providing an exhilarating and unique way to see the spectacular Sapphire Coast.

Trike tours are a safe and exciting way to experience all of the wonderful sights and scenes of our stunning region.  From beautiful ocean views, where you may see whales on their southern migration or dolphins surfing the waves of the many local beaches and bays, to the gorgeous countryside and many farms with sheep, cows and kangaroos dotting the landscape.

The Sapphire Coast Day Tour is an inclusive family friendly day tour.

Discover how wild killer whales and men formed a hunting partnership at the Eden Killer Whale Museum and explore the port’s top scenic spots. Learn why our Sydney Rock Oysters are so famous and taste them for yourself before a gourmet lunch at Wheelers Seafood Restaurant. Afterwards, settle in for a beer tasting and cheese platter at Longstocking Brewery before browsing the gallery and barn at Oaklands Barn.

Tours depart from Merimbula and Pambula each Tuesday and Thursday.

$110 Adult ($99.00 Concession), $58 Child 14 years and under, $315 Family (2 adults and 2 children).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday to Saturday at 11am

Discover the complete Sapphire Coast oyster story.

From humble beginnings in 1927, to becoming a national name synonymous with the highest quality oysters, Wheeler’s Oyster Farm is a cornerstone in the history of aquaculture on the Sapphire Coast.

Journey through the history of the Wheeler’s family and get insider access to their state-of-the-art factory. Meet the farmers and taste prized Sydney Rock Oysters fresh from the pristine waters of Merimbula Lake – before they even hit the table.

Please arrive shortly before 11am to take the tour

Online bookings recommended. Drop-ins welcome.

https://www.wheelersoysters.com.au/oyster-farm-tours

Discover the Whale Dreaming Trail – an accessible 600m walk through native gardens in Eden, that leads to an epic lookout over Turemulerrer (Twofold Bay), the coastal gateway to the Bundian Way.

With specially designed signage, learn about the ancient relationship between the traditional Aboriginal people, the Katungal, and the beowas (killer whales) that predates European history by thousands of years.

Situated at the site of Warrens Walk, the Whale Dreaming Trail begins at the bottom of Imlay Street near the cafes and restaurants at Snug Cove, zig-zagging up towards a lookout over Twofold Bay. After returning from the look-out, you can continue walking up towards the other end of Imlay Street and on to the Eden Killer Whale Museum. The trail is accessible from either end. If you would like to continue your Bundian Way experience, take a short drive to Cocora Beach and walk the 1.8km Story Trail.

Nature at your own pace….Kiah Wilderness Tours offers small group kayak tours on the beautiful Towamba River, just south of Eden.  An estuary that wanders through stunning forests and green pastures, the river winds its way to Twofold Bay. It is pristine and quiet, with an impressive diversity of both bird and marine life. Each sit-on-top kayak is kitted with a pair of binoculars so you can check out the wildlife up close along the way.

Tours are tailored for a maximum of six people, crafted to suit your experience and abilities and designed to allow you time to enjoy the wilderness. You can request time out for a swim, photography shoot, or to cast a lure. Morning or afternoon tea in the form of plunger coffee and freshly baked goodies is served on one of the many sandy beaches on the river’s edge.  No experience is necessary as the kayaks are designed for easy paddling. Guides are accredited through Australian Canoeing / Paddle NSW.

Nature experiences are what we do best! Gain a fantastic insight into our national parks with Discovery Rangers, and discover our natural, cultural and historic heritage.

Follow the link for the Summer 2019/2020 program.

Rangers host dozens of walks, talks and tours during the holidays. You can snorkel our unspoilt waters, explore by boat and canoe, and meet lots of feathered, finned and scaly locals.

Prices range from $10 to $55 per person, with discounts for families with more than two children. For more information please call or visit the Merimbula National Parks and Wildlife office on 02 6495 000.

Opening hours are 8.30am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday.

Light 2 Light Coastal Walks will help you discover one of Australia’s most iconic multi-day walks in style and comfort.

The 3 day walk is classed as easy-to-moderate, with 3-6 hours casual walking in each day. There’s no rush, and plenty of time for rest and photo stops along the way. From rugged cliff tops, to open coastal heath and woodlands, the diverse terrain of Ben Boyd National Park is filled with wildlife and steeped in Indigenous culture and the reminders of early European settlement.

Tours include guided and unguided walks with national park camping or stays at Green Cape Light Station; and a transport service.

Light to Light Camps provide fully-supported hikes along southeast Australia’s most spectacular coastline, the 31 kilometre Light to Light Walk.

All you need to carry is a day pack and enjoy the track. Explore this special place at your own pace without the burden of tents, food and water, and be spoiled at the end of the day with delicious dinners, a hot shower and luxurious camp beds, sleeping bags, sheets and towels.

Located in Ben Boyd National Park in Australia’s Coastal Wilderness region, the track passes rock dating back over 400 million years, a marine environment with incomparable diversity, coastal heath and forests of Banksia and Ti-tree.

Ancient Aboriginal shell middens on the shores showcase a resource-rich ocean. The stories of an incredible and long-lasting relationship between whalers and Killer Whales adds to the mystery and wonder of this place.

Gang Gang Tours offer intimate small group touring, departing from Canberra.

Choose from variety of outdoor activities including bushwalking, mountain biking, kayaking, and SUPing, as well as fabulous sightseeing, local knowledge and cuisine.

Try new things, eat good food, and sleep in a comfy bed in your own room at night.

Each tour has a maximum of 10 passengers to ensure that your holiday experience is a personal and memorable one.

Potoroo Palace is a small not-for-profit, native wildlife sanctuary, home to many iconic as well as lesser known species of Australian animals. Many of the animals at the sanctuary are native to the Merimbula area and some are very rare now. Kangaroos, emus and wallabies and all manner of birds roam freely in the grounds. Close up animal encounters can also be arranged with some of our shyer residents.

Make a day of it and stop for lunch or just some delicious coffee in the delightful Blue Wren Café, whilst browsing a selection of Australian Made merchandise.

Or bring your own picnic and enjoy some time out next to the shady dams and BBQs.

Educational Talks are at 11am & 2pm.

Train rides and animal feed bags are also available for all the family.

Potoroo Palace is open 7 days per week throughout the year from 10am to 4pm (closed Christmas Day).  We’re just a 10 minutes drive from Merimbula, and a not-for-profit sanctuary for both animals and people.

Glide across crystal-clear waters with ease when you paddle with Merimbula Stand Up Paddle Lessons & Tours.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Merimbula Lake and coast and absorb life’s most inspirational offers!

Steve is a fully qualified instructor who can provide a relaxed and safe environment for you to enjoy. Bring the family along, it’s an uplifting experience you can enjoy together!

Join the team from award winning North of Eden Gin and become a distiller for the afternoon!

Learn all about the magical world of distilling while creating your own gin recipe from a pantry of delicious botanicals. Then use a gorgeous copper still to transform your ingredients into a bespoke bottle of gin to take home.

Your afternoon of alchemy lasts for three hours and includes:

• Access to over 30 botanicals and advice from North of Eden’s master distiller to help you create your perfect gin recipe
• Complimentary North of Eden gin and tonics
• Complimentary light lunch
• A 700ml bottle of your craft gin creation, bottled, labelled and ready to take home
• An intimate classroom setting (12 people max) on a working farm and distillery

Classes run weekly, bookings are essential and participants must be at least 18 years old.

See dolphins in the wild, explore the coast or join the whale’s southern migration in spring with Merimbula Marina.

Discovery Tour is a 2 hour cruise along the coast with an onboard barbecue lunch. Spot Bottlenosed and Common Dolphins, Australian Fur Seals and a variety of birdlife. This tour operates from December to May.

Guaranteed Whale Watching begins in mid to late August and continues to late November. It’s one of the few places in the world where humpbacks can be observed feeding during their southern migration.

Pambula Merimbula Golf Course is home to around 800 wild kangaroos, including a rare family with white-tails and white-noses!

The matriarch of of this family has been resident of the course for around 20 years, and has raised a new joey every year for at least 15 years.

You’ll also have the chance to meet some other residents, like a busy bower bird who has created a blue disco floor for his mating dances, along with wallabies, goannas, red-bellied black snakes, echidnas, eagles, bellbirds, waterhens and a wide range of parrots and cockatoos.

Jump onboard the 6-seater “stretch golf cart” each Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday at 2pm, 2.30pm, 3pm, 3.30pm, 4pm and 4.30pm. Bookings are essential.

Climb to the top of Green Cape Light House with a keeper and take in the panoramic views of Australia’s second most eastern point.

Built in 1883, the lighthouse is Australia’s second tallest, and the first to be made with concrete cast. The light was replaced by solar tower in 1998, but is still lit on special anniversaries.

The light house and surrounding lands are a fantastic whale-watching spot in spring, and popular for picnics, rock fishing and spear fishing.

Tours run for 1.5 hours and  are available in summer and Easter school holidays or by appointment (subject to availability).

Cost $20 per adult, $15 per child or $60 per family (2 adults & 2 children).

Tours are free for guests staying at the keeper’s cottages.  Follow the link to check accommodation availability and rates for the Keeper’s Cottages or Telegraph Station Bunkhouse.

 

Discover the secrets of beautiful Pambula Lake on a 2 hour cruise aboard Sponge’s oversized oyster punt.

Sample the world renowned Pambula Lake Sydney Rock oyster as fresh as can be – straight from the waters of the lake. Get a crash course in oyster husbandry and inspect the native Angasi species of oyster which are also grown on the farm.

The estuary is also the site of ancient Aboriginal middens and home to white bellied sea eagles who nest in gum trees right above the farm.

Private group charters by appointment. Minimum 6 persons, max 23.

 

Oaklands Barn has a small herd of gentle ponies and horses to introduce your child to the joys of riding.

The 5 minute rides are guided by an experienced member of the team, and are suitable for children ages 2 and over.

No bookings are required.

Oaklands Barn also includes Oaklands Cafe, Longstocking Brewery, gallery, nursery & pet supplies centre and event centre.

 

Southland Fish Supplies unloads approximately 1900 tonnes of fish a year from local and visiting fishing vessels. The professional fish processing team at Southlands fillet approximately 200 tonnes of value added product a year.

You can also visit the Southlands Fish Shop shop in Imlay Street.

Visit Southlands Tuesday to Friday between 9:30 and 11:30 am to learn more about modern fish processing and watch the experts at work.

Discover Montreal Goldfield’s story of gold, unsolved murder mystery and intrigue.

The goldfield is a rare coastal alluvial goldfield, located 7km north of Bermagui. It was first mined in 1880, and soon grew to include schools, shops and more.

Guided tours with local historians meander among the trees and mine shafts while Open Days include morning tea with damper, and dress-ups for the children.

Tours run daily at 2pm, or by appointment for larger groups.

Cost: $7.50 per person, children $5 and families $25.

 

Currajong Common, a working Angora goat farm situated at Burragate is partnering with Captain Sponge’s Magical Oyster Tours to offer “Ocean to Earth” a unique tour offering authentic experiences with primary producers.  This tour showcases both our pristine lakes and our innovative agriculture and is a great opportunity to meet the people behind the product.  Start the day with  Captain Sponge’s signature oyster tour as you cruise Pambula Lake, learn about oyster farming and sample the delicious Sydney Rock Oyster.  You’ll then be transported via the magnificent Towamba Valley to Currajong Common by Sapphire Coast Bus Lines where you’ll meet the goats & the farmer and enjoy a local produce lunch.

The tour operates Thursdays in peak season.  Private group bookings are also available on request.   A minimum of 15 people are required to ensure the tour can operate.  Click here to access the digital brochure.   For more information on how to book contact Sapphire Coast Buslines directly on 02 6495 6452.

Currajong Common is also open for Sunday Lunch tours during peak season.  Click here for more information.

Be it an overnight trail ride or a riding lesson in the round yard, you will get a 360 degree view of the Bega Valley when you climb in the saddle at Wolumla Horse Riding Adventures.

The ranch is located in the middle of the beautiful Bega Valley between the picturesque village of Candelo and the old gold mining village of Wolumla.

Visit the website to learn more about tailored lessons, overnight camps locally and at Kosciosko National Park, trail rides, holiday programs and schools for all ages.

Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre hosts two hour guided snorkel tours at Eden’s Snug Cove and Merimbula Lake.

The experience is wonderful for people who want an introduction to snorkelling, to improve your skills, and learn about sea creatures who call the Sapphire Coast home.

Tours are suitable for children aged 12 and above, cost $25 per person for groups of four and more.  Tours include snorkel, mask and fin hire with wetsuits available in some sizes.

To enquire, please contact the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre. Tours are flexible, but times are subject to tides and weather conditions.

At On The Perch, you can get close to a variety of native and exotic birds from Australia, Africa and the Asia/Pacific, some will even land on you and eat from your hand.

They have eight exhibits (including four large walk-in aviaries), a ‘Chicken Run’ where you can meet our resident chickens. Entry is free to Brood Cafe which serves Wild Rye’s coffee and treats and milkshakes and children’s playground and giant chess board. Park patrons are welcome to bring a picnic.

On the Perch Bird Park is wheelchair friendly, however, there are some undulating and gravelled areas across the grounds. An award winning organisation with a focus on avian education, conservation and rehabilitation.

Meet the keeper at 11am & 1pm, be a keeper for a day (bookings required), or enquire about the school holiday programs.

Enjoy the beauty of the Sapphire Coast and 4 of the most picturesque golf courses on the NSW South Coast.

This 5 night Golf Package includes 18 holes of golf at Bermagui, Narooma, Merimbula and Eden with delux accommodation Big 4 Wallaga Lake Holiday Park, home of the new Camel Rock Brewery and Eden Gateway Holiday Park.

Enjoy extras like free transfers, inclusive cart hire and a free drink for each round!

Read the full tour here.

Owner Barry Ellis has over 30 years of fishing under his belt and his keen staff are in the same boat. This tackle shop is a hub of fishing knowledge, predictions, banter and well stocked with camping and dive gear too. Drop in and see the huge collection of trophies and memorabilia, including the Australian record for Blue Marlin caught on 24 kilo line. Gear repairs are done on site, overnight if needed. Open 7 days 8am to 5.30pm.

 

Join Mark and Christine aboard the 11.6 metre ‘Connemara’ at Eden for a personalised, intimate whale watching experience.

In season, Freedom Charters departs daily from Snug Cove, Eden and each 2 hour trip has no more than 12 people to ensure good viewing for everyone.  Mornings are best, and tours begin at 8.30am.

Mark and Christine are specialists in catering to your unique needs, including homemade morning tea. Their regular clientele include bird watchers, whale researchers and fishermen.

Ticket prices – adults $80, children under 16 – $65. Special school holiday pricing (Vic & NSW) for children under 16 – $50.

Tickets include morning tea and free entry to Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre.

Drop in for and egg and bacon roll and a coffee before fishing the south coast’s richest fishing grounds.

Bermagui Bait & Tackle is a one stop shop for all your fishing needs, with everything from game fishing gear to the lightest estuary rods & lures, and incredible information network which covers the mountains and the coast. You can even see live weather & sea surface updates while you chat to the crew.

There’s a fleet of watercraft available for hire including 4.3m safe aluminium powered boats, single, fishing and tandem kayaks.

Bermagui Bait and Tackle is also an outlet for Wapengo Rocks, the Sapphire Coast’s famous organic Sydney Rock Oysters, pick up 30 unopened for $40.

Open 7 days a week from 6am to 6pm.

The Rathlinn II is a 41ft steber, custom built from the ground up for maximum space for fishing.

It has a spacious lounge, galley and amenities for your expedition.

The crew specialise in Marlin, Tuna, Sharks, Broadbill Swordfish and a wide variety of reef species.

Going fishing with Headland Charters is a real adventure for young and old, if you have never fished before or you are a pro, we will take good care of you.

You’ll be fishing on the best boat in town with personal service guaranteed. Jadele II, in full maritime survey for 12 passengers and 2 crew, is available for share charters or exclusive hire. Reef, game, shark, king fishing and whale watching (in season). Also scenic coastal cruises.

On-board toilet.  Tea & coffee provided. No fishing licence is required. All fishing gear and bait supplied and all fish are cleaned for you.

Reel Affair Fishing Charters Merimbula, operates Reef Fishing, Deep Sea Fishing, Kingfish Charters and Game Fishing on a private or share charter basis. The Reel Affair is a 38 foot fly-bridge Mariner Cruiser with twin engines.

Ask about Fisherman’s Lodge, which sleeps 12 and is centrally located in the heart of Merimbula, a short walk to shops, clubs, restaurants and Merimbula’s Public Jetty.

Whale Watch cruises are also available during the months of September to November for the southern migration of Humpback Whales.

Departures daily from Merimbula’s iconic Mitchie’s Jetty, get onboard the ultimate fishing adventure!
We cater for the novice to the experienced fisher, specialising in reef and fun-filled family trips. Broadbill is a fully-surveyed stable vessel with experienced and friendly skippers. Your catch is cleaned and ready for the pan!
During September, October and November the annual migration of the mighty humpback whales takes place just off the coast of Merimbula, an encounter with these truly awesome creatures is an experience that will not be easily forgotten on board Broadbill.
Trips depart from Mitchies Jetty on Fishpen Road.
Your enjoyment and safety is our priority, therefore, we DO NOT fish in rough weather.

Merimbula Marina offers a range of ocean adventure tours – from reef fishing trips to whale watching.

Plan your next maritime adventure here, from whale watching, fishing, extreme adventure, discovery tours, and even boat hire.

Find the jetty in the heart of Merimbula and get ready for a unique adventure!

Head Hunter specialises in game fishing in the famous waters of Bermagui for Black Marlin, Big Blue Marlin, Stripe Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna and Albacore.

Head Hunter is a 41′ Steber re-powered with twin 425HP Yanmar motors and refitted with state of the art electronics. It has a top speed of 27 knots and cruises at 18 knots to ensure you get to the fishing grounds faster. Our qualified skippers and crew will host your offshore fishing experience, whether you’re a beginner or an expert, using the latest fish-finding techniques and fishing equipment for your enjoyment and safety. All equipment is to IGFA standards.

On board facilities include: Large fridges and freezers, large flat screen TV, DVD, CD & MP3 player, large open saloon area, clean accessible galley, microwave and electric stove, large Flybridge area, full bathroom facilities.