Pambula

The picturesque coastal village of Pambula (pop 1,150) is big on history, with the discovery of gold in local rivers in the mid 1800’s. Some of Pambula’s lovely historic buildings date back to this industrious time, with bull-nose verandahs, a town clock and lovingly tended street gardens.

It’s a bustling little place, with the refreshing absence of chain stores or traffic lights. Instead, discover a delightful array of specialty shops including an artisan bakery, cafes, galleries, local art and craft, giftwares, homewares, fashion, vintage collectables, boutiques, whole foods, hair, beauty and health, and eco-friendly retail with a strong focus on local. And don't forget the very popular Top Pub offering a terrific feed year round.

'Pambula' is derived from the Yuin Aboriginal word meaning "Two Waters". 

Walking and bike tracks abound. A sealed bike and walking track connects Pambula with Pambula Beach, a distance of two kilometres or you can take a longer outing into Merimbula (four kilometres) past the airport and Merimbula Lake. From the Pambula Surf Life Saving Club, the Jiguma walking track weaves through native trees and strategically placed lookouts over the Pacific Ocean. The walk finishes at Pambula River Mouth where this pristine river meets the sea. Lions Park offers free barbecues, playground and amenities making this a great spot for a family outing.

A visit to tranquil Panboola Wetlands is a must for birdwatchers and photographers, located at the southern end of the main street. Based on the grounds of the old Pambula racetrack, it is now a community conservation project, offering a delightful network or walking and cycling tracks, seating areas and birdwatching vantage points.

Pambula Lake offers excellent kayaking and fishing, and there are boat launching facilities and plenty of parking right next to the oyster sheds. Both the boat ramp and the oyster sheds are located on Broadwater Road, 8 kilometres south of Pambula.

Don't miss Beowa National Park, located along the spectacular coastline between Pambula and Eden. There are walking tracks, geological wonders, ancient Aboriginal shell middens, secluded beaches and plenty of secluded spot for a scenic afternoon picnic.

For a small village, Pambula packs a punch when it comes to dining. As one of the region's most famous bakeries, a visit to Wild Rye's is a must. The darling of the local baking scene since 2005, their pies, slices and coffee are legendary. You can also visit their coffee roastery at the top of town, with takeaway coffee, blend tastings and coffee paraphernalia all on offer. 

Try trendy and delicious Toast Pambula for breakfast or lunch, or Banksia Restaurant who offer the best in fine dining, ensconced within the old bank building, a local heritage landmark. Buy the best of seasonal fruit, veg and herbs at Pambula Wholefoods or stroll the other dining options within the town that include Indian and Thai and good old simple fare from our traditional milk bar.

For fish and chips the way they should be served, order from Aqua Pambula Beach and eat them on the sand (with an audience of keen seagulls). Make sure you pay a visit to Bianchini Gelati back in town, with homemade Italian ice cream made with Tilba milk, Bega Valley eggs and local fruits.

After a big day outdoors, you’ll need to sit down with a cool beer or cider and Longstocking Brewery is just the place. This little brewery is big on brewing ales, lagers and ciders that have unique and distinctive flavours. They also serve wood fired pizzas and oysters so bring the kids, bring the dog and settle in for lazy afternoon.