Spring is an excellent time to start looking towards the coast again, and if you’re willing to venture beyond the usual warm weather haunts, Merimbula makes a strong case for heading further south. Set between the ocean and a vast coastal lake on the Sapphire Coast, the laid-back town rewards the long drive with long, pristine beaches, clear blue waters, quality eateries and lush bushland right on its doorstep. The warmer months are the best time to visit with swimming and snorkelling back on the agenda, mighty whales passing offshore and long evenings perfect for lingering by the beach. And while the ever-popular Byron Bay and the equally alluring Yamba get much of the attention, Merimbula delivers many of the same ingredients without quite the same frenzy or crowds. Here’s how to make the most of a spring or summer getaway to Merimbula.
Things to do in Merimbula this spring
Start your day on the coast, where there’s a beach to suit almost every kind of summer day. Main Beach unfurls for around six kilometres south of town, with plenty of room for swimming, surfing and long walks along the sand. Across the water, Bar Beach is a smaller, sheltered spot with clear water that lends itself to swimming and snorkelling, while Short Point combines a sandy beach with elevated coastal views. For somewhere quieter, follow the short bush track down to stunning Middle Beach, tucked beneath the headland.
Spring also falls within the annual humpback whale migration, so keep an eye on the horizon while exploring the coast. Lookouts around Short Point and Long Point offer excellent vantage points as whales make their way south towards Antarctic feeding grounds, particularly from September into November. Whale-watching cruises also depart from Merimbula during the migration season if you want to get a closer look.
If you’re not a fan of the water, the Merimbula Boardwalk is an excellent way to explore the lake and town, winding past 3.4kms of mangroves and coastal vegetation beside the water. You can also hire a kayak or paddleboard to explore Merimbula Lake. For a bigger dose of nature, head north to Bournda National Park, home to walking trails connecting forest, wetlands, beaches and Wallagoot Lake.
Back in town, Merimbula Aquarium, located beneath the historic Merimbula Wharf, offers a closer look at marine life found along the Sapphire Coast and farther afield, including colourful reef fish, octopuses, seahorses and sharks.
Other ways to enjoy the town
Merimbula has plenty of stellar cafes and restaurants for foodies especially along the main street and waterfront. For breakfast or lunch, The Eddy by Toast serves an all-day menu from its leafy garden setting, while Cranky Cafe offers lovely beach views and homemade goods. For something more leisurely, Merimbula Aquarium & Wharf Restaurant comes with turquoise ocean views from the wharf and fresh seasonal produce. Come evening, Tidal Restaurant & Wine Bar specialises in seafood beside Merimbula Lake, while Bar Superette is a good option for dinner and drinks in the centre of town. Dulcie’s Cottage is another local favourite, serving burgers and cocktails from a restored 1920s cottage with a leafy outdoor garden.
Save some time for browsing the town’s boutiques and shops, too. Seaside Trader is worth a look for homewares, jewellery, skincare and gifts, while Lorikeet Lane stocks colourful handbags, travel accessories and gifts. Coast Country Merimbula is another longstanding local store to browse, or stop by Blush for women’s fashion. If your visit falls on the third Sunday of the month, head to the Merimbula Seaside Market at Ford Park, where around 80 to 150 stalls sell jewellery, fashion, plants, books, crafts, fresh produce and other finds right beside Main Beach. Read more about Merimbula and find accommodation options here.
Getting there
Merimbula is around a 6-hour drive from Sydney, with other seaside towns like Bermagui roughly an hour’s drive and Narooma around 1.5 hours north, making both easy additions to a longer Sapphire Coast road trip. If you’re travelling without a car, NSW TrainLink offers train and connecting coach services from Sydney to Merimbula, although the journey is considerably longer. Plan your trip through Transport for NSW.
