Guide
Things to do in Merimbula: the boardwalk, beaches, oysters and more
A practical guide to things to do in Merimbula on the Sapphire Coast: the lake boardwalk, Main Beach and Short Point, the wharf and aquarium area, oysters, kayaking and paddleboarding, whale watching, wildlife, nearby national parks and day trips, with tips on swimming safety and when to visit.
Published
Merimbula is the busiest town on the Sapphire Coast, but it is still small and relaxed. It sits beside a broad tidal lake that opens to the sea, with surf beaches on the ocean side and calm, clear water inside the lake. It is the most practical base for exploring the far south coast, with the region's airport, the widest choice of places to stay and eat, and easy drives to Eden, Pambula, Tathra and the national parks.
We do not sell tours or publish prices. Opening times and seasonal services change, so check locally before you go.
Walk the Merimbula boardwalk
The boardwalk follows the shore of Merimbula Lake through mangroves and along the water's edge. It is flat and easy, suitable for most walkers, prams and many wheelchairs, and is one of the best free things to do in town. Look down into the clear water for stingrays, fish and crabs, and watch for wading birds and pelicans. Early morning and late afternoon are the most pleasant times.
Swim and surf at the beaches
- Main Beach is Merimbula's principal surf beach, close to town and patrolled in the warmer months.
- Short Point is a smaller beach near the lake entrance, popular with families and for views across the bay.
- Bar Beach sits near the lake mouth and is generally more sheltered.
- The lake itself offers calm, shallow water for paddling, though tidal currents near the entrance can be strong.
Swim between the flags where beaches are patrolled. Many Sapphire Coast beaches are unpatrolled and rips are common, so check Beachsafe and local signs.
Snorkel and fish from the wharf
Merimbula Wharf, on the southern side of the bay, is a popular spot for fishing and, in calm conditions, snorkelling over the rocky reef nearby. The area around the wharf has long been home to an aquarium and restaurant; check current opening hours if you plan to visit. Fishing in NSW requires a recreational fishing licence for most adults; check the NSW Department of Primary Industries rules.
Taste local oysters
The estuaries around Merimbula, Pambula and Wonboyn are known for oysters, especially Sydney rock oysters. Several farms sell direct to the public, and some offer tastings or short tours explaining how oysters are grown. Seasonal closures can occur after heavy rain to protect food safety; farms follow NSW Food Authority guidance.
Kayak, paddleboard and cruise
Merimbula Lake and the nearby Pambula Lake are excellent for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, with sheltered water and plenty of birdlife. Equipment hire is available in season. Cruises on the bay offer chances to see dolphins and, in the migration seasons, whales.
Whale watching
From early winter to late spring, humpback whales pass the Sapphire Coast on their migration. Headlands around Merimbula offer good vantage points, and cruises run in season. For the best whale experiences, many visitors head to Eden, where whales often rest in Twofold Bay in spring. See our whale watching page and the killer whales of Eden.
Wildlife and nature
- Potoroo Palace, a not-for-profit native animal sanctuary and gardens near Merimbula, is a family favourite. Check opening times before you visit.
- Panboola wetlands in Pambula is a community-managed wetland reserve with walking tracks and birdlife.
- Kangaroos are common in parks and on headlands, especially at dawn and dusk.
Nearby national parks
- Bournda National Park, north of Merimbula, has lakes, beaches and coastal walks, including Bournda Lagoon and Hobart Beach.
- Beowa National Park (formerly Ben Boyd National Park) lies to the north and south of Eden, with dramatic red rock coastline, Boyds Tower and Green Cape Lighthouse.
Some national park areas charge vehicle entry fees. Check NPWS for current fees and alerts.
Day trips from Merimbula
| Destination | Rough drive time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Pambula | A few minutes | River mouth, beach, oysters |
| Eden | About 30 minutes | Whales, museum, wharf |
| Tathra | About 30 minutes | Historic wharf, beaches |
| Bega | About 30 to 40 minutes | Cheese factory, regional centre |
| Bermagui | About 1 hour | Blue Pool, harbour |
When to visit
Summer is lively, with warm weather and school holidays. Autumn is often settled and quieter. Winter is cool and calm, with whales offshore. Spring is whale season, wildflowers and fewer crowds outside school holidays.
Plan your stay
Merimbula works as a base for three days or more. Our three-day itinerary shows how to combine it with Eden and a national park, and the Merimbula place page has more on the town itself. The Sapphire Coast hub covers the whole region.
Frequently asked questions
Is there much to do in Merimbula?
Yes. Merimbula has a lake boardwalk, surf and calm-water beaches, a wharf for fishing and snorkelling, oyster farms, kayaking and paddleboarding, whale watching in season and easy access to national parks.
Is Merimbula Beach safe to swim?
Merimbula's Main Beach is patrolled by lifeguards or lifesavers in the warmer months. Always swim between the red and yellow flags, check conditions on Beachsafe and remember that rips can occur on any surf beach.
Where can I eat oysters in Merimbula?
Several oyster farms around Merimbula and Pambula Lakes sell oysters direct, and some offer tastings or tours. Check opening times locally, as they vary by season.
Can you see dolphins in Merimbula?
Dolphins are often seen in Merimbula Bay and around the lake entrance, and some cruises focus on dolphins and seasonal whales. Sightings are never guaranteed.
What is near Merimbula to visit?
Pambula is a few minutes south, Eden and Beowa National Park are about half an hour south, Tathra and Bournda National Park are to the north, and Bega and its cheese factory are inland.