Merimbula

Beaches & waterways

Merimbula 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 on Australia’s Oyster Coast are popular with adventurous types who like to sail, kayak and stand-up paddleboard.

Merimbula Wharf, Merimbula

Beaches are a major attraction. Surfers like the six-kilometre Merimbula Main Beach – when the swell is pumping, the sandbank at the northern end of Main Beach creates a good break. Short Point has consistent surf and million-dollar views. Bar Beach is great for snorkelling, and shallow Spencer Park Beach and playground is ideal for families.

Bar Beach, Merimbula

Nature & outdoors

Discover the spectacular coastline on the 27-kilometre Wharf to Wharf Walk, which runs between Merimbula Wharf and Tathra Wharf. It passes through public coastal reserves, flora reserves, beaches and the Bournda National Park. Camp along the walk or tackle it as a series of single-day hikes. Other walking trails include the lakeside Merimbula Boardwalk, sign-posted with information on the local marine life. Listen out for the lyrebirds along the 1.2-kilometre Goodenia Rainforest Walking Track. Just north is Bournda National Park and shimmering Wallagoot Lake.

Join Sapphire Coastal Adventures for an exciting wildlife tour, heading out into the ocean to spot dolphins, seals, turtles, penguins and seabirds. In winter, whale watching tours take you close to the Humpback Highway. You can go snorkelling in the clear waters right off Merimbula Wharf with Australian Coastal Wilderness Adventures – they also hire gear if you are happy to go it alone. Afterwards, soothe your muscles with a sauna or ice bath at Safir House, a luxury wellness retreat.

Discover a colourful array of sea creatures at Merimbula Aquarium, located on a horizontal rock shelf that juts out to sea and home to the fantastic Merimbula Aquarium & Wharf Restaurant. Wildlife abounds at Potoroo Palace, a sanctuary where you can amble amid kangaroos and touch a snake. Magic Mountain, a theme park brimming with rides, thrills and spills, is a must-do for families. Check out the events calendar for a colourful line-up of local festivals and shows, including Eat Merimbula.

Merimbula Aquarium and Wharf Restaurant, Merimbula 

Eat & drink

Sample local seafood and produce at a range of restaurants, like Dulcie’s Cottage, housed in a 1925 weatherboard, and Wheeler's, known for their delicious oysters. There are more oysters on the menu at Sunny's Kiosk, a laid-back lakeside eatery. For authentic Japanese, visit Umi-Ko Izakaya. Finish the day with a martini at chic small bar Bar Superette. 

Dulcies Cottage, Merimbula

Where to stay

You’ll find accommodation options to suit everyone in Merimbula, from resorts and beach houses to waterfront holiday parks. Hillcrest Motel is a retro motel that has been reimagined as a chic boutique hotel with a 1970s vibe. Coast Resort has luxurious apartments and townhouses just off the main beach. For a relaxing retreat, the kid- and pet-friendly Beach Cabins are in peaceful bush right on Short Point Beach.

Getting there 

Merimbula is just under six hours’ drive from Sydney, 7hr 30min from Melbourne and three hours from Canberra. You can also fly into Merimbula Airport and hire a care to explore the region.