The Sapphire Coast with kids: beaches, rock pools, wildlife and easy walks

The Sapphire Coast suits families well. Towns are small and easy to navigate, drives between them are short, and there is a good mix of calm water, rock pools, wildlife and short walks. This guide helps you plan a family trip that keeps everyone happy and safe.

We do not sell tours or publish prices. Opening times change with the seasons, so check before you go.

Calm water for little swimmers

The Sapphire Coast's surf beaches are beautiful but can be powerful. For young children, look for calmer water:

• Merimbula Lake has shallow, clear water along parts of its shore, good for paddling. Watch for tidal currents near the lake entrance.
• Pambula Lake and river have sheltered spots for paddling and kayaking.
• Bournda National Park has lagoons and lakes, such as Bournda Lagoon, that are often calm.
• The Blue Pool in Bermagui is a rock pool built into the cliffs, popular with families in calm conditions. Waves can wash over it in big swell.

On ocean beaches, choose patrolled beaches and swim between the red and yellow flags. Check Beachsafe for patrol times and conditions. Keep young children within arm's reach in and around water at all times.

Rock pooling safely

Rock pools at low tide are full of crabs, anemones, sea stars and small fish, and they fascinate children. Rock platforms can also be dangerous: waves can surge across them without warning. Follow these rules:

1. Check the tide and go around low tide.
2. Avoid platforms when swell is up or wind is strong.
3. Keep children close and never turn your back on the sea.
4. Wear shoes with good grip.
5. Look, but leave animals and shells where you find them.

Our rocky-shore etiquette note explains how to explore respectfully.

Wildlife encounters

• Kangaroos graze on headlands, golf courses and park clearings, especially at dawn and dusk. Watch from a distance and do not feed them.
• Potoroo Palace, near Merimbula, is a not-for-profit native animal sanctuary where children can see native animals up close. Check opening hours.
• Dolphins are often seen in bays and around estuary entrances.
• Whales pass the coast in winter and spring. Many children love the Eden Killer Whale Museum's siren, which sounds when whales are sighted in the bay.

Easy family walks

• Merimbula boardwalk: flat and suitable for prams and scooters.
• Short headland walks in Beowa National Park, such as around Pambula and Haycock Point, with lookouts over red rock formations.
• Bournda Lagoon area: short walks with water views.
• Tathra Wharf: a short, level walk out over the water.
• Sections of the Light to Light Walk, such as a short out-and-back from Boyds Tower or Green Cape Lighthouse, for older children.

Whale watching with children

Cruises in whale season can be a highlight for older children. Choose a shorter trip, sit near the middle of the boat to reduce motion, and pack snacks, water and warm layers. For younger children, watching from headlands or Eden's wharf may be more comfortable. See our whale watching page.

Rainy-day ideas

• The Eden Killer Whale Museum
• The Bega cheese heritage centre
• Local libraries and galleries in Bega, Merimbula and Bermagui
• A drive to a lookout between showers in whale season

School holidays

School holidays, especially in summer and at Easter, are the busiest times on the Sapphire Coast. Book accommodation well ahead, arrive early at popular beaches and expect queues at favourite cafes. Outside school holidays, the coast is quiet and many families find it more relaxing. See our school holidays page.

A sample family day

1. Morning: walk the Merimbula boardwalk and look for stingrays.
2. Mid-morning: swim at a patrolled beach or paddle in the lake.
3. Lunch: a picnic in a waterfront park.
4. Afternoon: visit Potoroo Palace or explore rock pools at low tide.
5. Evening: watch kangaroos graze at dusk.

Safety checklist

• Swim at patrolled beaches between the flags.
• Supervise children closely around all water.
• Take care on rock platforms and cliff edges.
• Use sun protection year-round.
• Check NSW Rural Fire Service alerts in summer.
• In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).

Plan your trip

Our three-day itinerary can be adapted for families by adding more beach time and shorter walks. The Sapphire Coast hub covers the whole region.