The Sapphire Coast is the southernmost stretch of the New South Wales coast, running from Bermagui in the north through Tathra, Merimbula and Pambula to Eden and the Victorian border. It sits within the Bega Valley Shire and is the Country of the Yuin people. Much of the shoreline is protected in national parks, so you get long empty beaches, red-rock headlands and calm estuaries rather than high-rise resorts.
- Twofold BayEden’s deep natural harbour
- Sep–Novpeak southern whale migration
- ~30 kmLight to Light Walk
- 3 townsEden, Merimbula, Bermagui
Short on time in Eden?
Eden is a cruise-ship port and many visitors have only a few hours ashore. A small-group shore excursion is the easiest way to see the bay, lookouts and local history without a car.
Highlights
Whale watching. Humpback whales pass the coast each year, and in spring mothers and calves rest in Twofold Bay. Headlands at Eden and in Beowa National Park are superb land-based viewpoints.
Merimbula. The region’s main holiday town, with a lake-side boardwalk, surf beaches, the wharf and fresh oysters.
Eden. A working fishing port with a remarkable whaling history told at the Killer Whale Museum.
The Light to Light Walk. A coastal hike from Boyds Tower to Green Cape Lighthouse past red cliffs and quiet coves.
Tathra and Bermagui. A heritage wharf, the Blue Pool rock pool and the national parks of Mimosa Rocks and Bournda.
Planning essentials
- Getting there: about six to seven hours’ drive from Sydney or Melbourne and around three from Canberra, or fly to Merimbula. See getting there.
- Getting around: a car is best; see without a car.
- When to go: summer for beaches, spring for whales. See best time to visit.
- How long: three days covers the main towns and a national park. See the 3-day itinerary.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Sapphire Coast?
On the far south coast of New South Wales, from Bermagui south to Eden and the Victorian border, in the Bega Valley Shire.
What is the Sapphire Coast known for?
Whale watching, uncrowded beaches, Beowa National Park, the Light to Light Walk, oysters and the whaling history of Eden.
What is the main town on the Sapphire Coast?
Merimbula is the main holiday centre; Bega is the shire’s administrative town and Eden its port.
