Merimbula is a picture-perfect seaside town in southern New South Wales, located in the heart of the Sapphire Coast.
The name Merimbula comes from an Aboriginal word meaning ‘two lakes,’ a reference to Merimbula Lake on the southern side of town, and Back Lake in the north. Both spots are popular for kayaking, sailing and stand up paddle boarding.
For those who love the great outdoors, the Wharf to Wharf walk is a 27 kilometre coastal walk stretching from Merimbula to Tathra. The walk passes through coastal reserves, national parks, beaches and flora reserves, with amazing views the entire way. You can break the walk into two- or three-day hikes, do an overnight hike camping at Bournda National Park, or for the more experienced, do it in a single-day.
Potoroo Palace Australian Wildlife Park is another exciting attraction just a short distance from Merimbula. The sanctuary is home to heaps of native animals, bushland and a railway offering gentle train rides through the park. Visitors can choose to take part in a personal animal encounter, where small groups are invited to get up close to dingoes, koalas, snakes, lizards and more. You can also roam among kangaroos in the hands-free area, and learn all about the conservation of local flora and fauna taking place on site.
Just a 25 minute drive from Merimbula, you will find the newly-opened Gravity Eden Mountain Bike Park, with over 58 kilometres of trails to choose from. The twenty trail options span from Nullica Forest to Twofold Bay, reaching an elevation of 300 metres. There is so much to explore here, with three different zones designed to support all levels of riders.
For seafood lovers, you can’t visit Merimbula without indulging in oysters. The Oyster Barn is the farm gate of Merimbula Gourmet Oysters – a family-owned and run oyster farm located on Merimbula Lake. Kick back on the deck by the mangroves, overlooking the lake, and tuck into some freshly shucked oysters with a range of toppings, as well as prawns, scallops and a range of seasonal specials.
For families after some thrills and spills, Magic Mountain Merimbula is an amusement park with rides to get everyone’s heart racing. Try the dodgem cars, toboggan slides, the Sapphire Speedster Coaster, and the two popular waterslides. For little ones, there are plenty of more gentle attractions to enjoy.
Discover the best festivals and events in Merimbula by clicking here.
