10 MERIMBULA - SAPPHIRE COAST - SPRING 2026 A coastal playground of lakes and beaches Merimbula is an enchanting seaside town on the sparkling NSW Sapphire Coast that offers rugged ocean beaches and tranquil coastal lakes. Whether relaxing, swimming, surfing, boating, walking, dining, or just soaking up the seaside scenery, Merimbula has so much to offer. There's also a wildlife sanctuary, aquarium, theme park, golf course, scenic wharf, a number of cruise and tour operators, and some of the best fresh seafood you'll ever try. A place of two lakes Merimbula's name is derived from a local Aboriginal word meaning 'two lakes', a reference to Merimbula Lake, on the southern side of the town, and the smaller Back Lake on the northern side. These calm waterways are popular with adventurous types who like to sailers, kayakers and standup paddle boarders. Main Beach Although it's just one of several beaches in the area, Merimbula's aptly-named Main Beach features five kilometres of pristine sand and blue ocean, where you can surf, swim, fish or stroll. Patrolled during the summer months (be sure to swim between the flags), Main Beach has an off-leash area for dogs, and backs onto a beautiful coastal bushland reserve, with lots of peaceful walking tracks. The beach is bordered by Ford Park at its northern end, which is home to monthly markets, a wonderful all-abilities playground, amenities and barbecue area. When the swell is pumping, you'll find board riders flocking to the sandbank at the northern end of Main Beach, to take advantage of the well-formed waves. Some other beach options Short Point beach is also popular among surfers, thanks to its relatively consistent waves, and breathtaking views. Bar Beach is good for snorkelling, and the relatively shallow Spencer Park Beach and playground are ideal for young families. Bournda National Park Just a 14-minute drive north of Merimbula is Bournda National Park, is a natural playground with something for explorers of all ages. If you feel like getting away from the crowds, take a drive to Turingal Head, where you can wander down to Wine Glass Bay and spend the afternoon picnicking by the beach. Another place to check out at Bournda National Park is the Kangarutha walking track, along which you'll discover secluded beaches and rugged coastal cliffs. The Park's Hobart Beach makes a good base, with camping facilities and lots of activities to keep the kids entertained, including swimming in the calm waters of Wallagoot Lake and Bondi Lake, scour the nearby coastline, do some fishing or birdwatching, or take a walk or bike ride on the many short tracks. If you're into sailing, water skiing or paddling, head to the northern shores of Wallagoot Lake, where you can launch your water craft into the smooth waters. Merimbula Boardwalk One popular highlight, close to town, is the Merimbula Boardwalk. Punctuated with seats and jetties, the boardwalk runs around the lake shore near Market Street, guiding you through mangrove forests, under gum trees and past oyster farms. About 3.4 kilometres return, the boardwalk will take around 1.5 hours to complete (but of course you don't have to walk it all!). Stay close to it all If you'd like to base yourself within easy reach of all the wonderful things Merimbula has to offer (which go far beyond those mentioned here) there are some excellent places to stay close by. Note that vacancies can be scarce during main holiday periods so, if possible, it's always a good idea to book well ahead of your planned arrival. Find out more To find out more about travelling in and around Merimbula, go to visitnsw.com and type 'Merimbula' into the search field. You can also pop into the Visitor Information Centre in Market Street, or visit escapetomerimbula.com.au Family enjoying a day at Bar Beach, Merimbula. Photo: DestinationNSW THE BACK LAKE MERIMBULA LAKE (TOP LAKE) MERIMBULA LAKE TASMAN SEA BAR BEACH ARTHUR KAINE DRIVE ARTHUR KAINE DRIVE PRINCES HWY PRINCES HWY PRINCES HWY MERIMBULA DRIVE MERIMBULA DRIVE MARKET ST MAIN ST MAIN ST SAPPHIRE COAST DRIVE BEACH ST LAKE ST LAKE ST PAMBULA TO PAMBULA & EDEN TO TATHRA TO BEGA TO SPENCER PARK MAIN BEACH RECREATION RESERVE BOLLER PARK BERRAMBOOL MIRADOR BOURNDA NATURE RESERVE YURRAMIE STATE FOREST SHORT POINT LONG POINT MAIN BEACH MIDDLE BEACH MERIMBULA Welcome to
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