Merimbula Travel Guide

Explore the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Merimbula, a picturesque coastal town in Southeastern New South Wales, Australia with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Merimbula

Nestled in the heart of the Sapphire Coast, Merimbula is a stunning seaside town renowned for its crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, rich wildlife, and laid-back coastal lifestyle. Situated in southeastern New South Wales, Australia, Merimbula is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world to experience its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Merimbula

Merimbula offers a range of fascinating attractions and activities for travellers to explore. Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, experiencing the great outdoors, or simply relaxing on the beach, Merimbula has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-visit places to explore in Merimbula:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Merimbula has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its many museums and historical sites. The Merimbula-Imlay Historical Society Museum is a great place to start if you’re interested in learning more about the town’s history and culture. This fascinating museum features exhibits on local Aboriginal culture, early European settlement, and the town’s early fishing and tourism industries.

Another popular cultural attraction is the Eden Killer Whale Museum, located just a short drive south of Merimbula. This intriguing museum tells the story of the town’s whaling heritage and the local killer whale pods that helped the whalers to hunt. The museum also features exhibits on local Aboriginal culture, early European settlement, and the town’s maritime history.

Natural Attractions of Merimbula: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Merimbula is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor adventures and scenic views to explore throughout the surrounding area. The Ben Boyd National Park is a great place to start, with its rugged coastline, tranquil rainforest, and abundant birdlife. The park also offers a range of activities, including bushwalking, cycling, and camping.

For those looking for a more leisurely outdoor experience, the Merimbula Boardwalk is a popular walking trail that winds along the beautiful Merimbula Lake. The 3.4 km trail takes visitors past scenic lookout points, through coastal bushland, and over the crystal clear waters of the lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Merimbula

Merimbula and the surrounding area offer a range of amazing hiking and biking trails, from easy coastal walks to challenging bushwalks. Some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in Merimbula include:

  • The Merimbula to Tura Beach Coastal Walk
  • The Pambula Beach to Haycock Point Walk
  • The Mogareeka Inlet to Bega River Walk

Best Things to Do in Merimbula: Activities and Tours

Merimbula offers a range of exciting activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourself in the local culture, or simply relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone in Merimbula. Here are some of the best things to do in Merimbula:

  • Go whale watching with Merimbula Marina
  • Take a scenic flight over the Sapphire Coast with Merimbula Air Services
  • Visit the Merimbula Aquarium and Potoroo Palace Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Explore the local food and wine scene with Sapphire Coast Foodie Tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Merimbula

If you’re planning to spend a week in Merimbula, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Explore the local museums and cultural attractions, including the Merimbula-Imlay Historical Society Museum and the Eden Killer Whale Museum.
  • Day 2: Take a scenic flight over the Sapphire Coast with Merimbula Air Services and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the stunning coastline.
  • Day 3: Go hiking or biking in the Ben Boyd National Park and enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery.
  • Day 4: Take a whale watching tour with Merimbula Marina and see these magnificent creatures up close.
  • Day 5: Visit the Merimbula Aquarium and Potoroo Palace Wildlife Sanctuary and get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most fascinating wildlife.
  • Day 6: Go on a food and wine tour with Sapphire Coast Foodie Tours and sample some of the local cuisine.
  • Day 7: Relax on one of Merimbula’s stunning beaches and soak up the laid-back coastal lifestyle.

Food and Drink Scene of Merimbula

Merimbula has a vibrant food and drink scene, with a range of delicious local dishes and refreshing beverages to sample. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Merimbula:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Freshly caught seafood, including fish and chips, oysters, and lobster
  • Traditional Australian meat pies
  • Local cheese and antipasto platters
  • Handmade chocolates and sweet treats from the local patisseries and bakeries.

Local Beverages

  • Wine and beer from local vineyards and breweries, including the Tathra Beach Brewery and Pambula Merimbula Golf Club Winery
  • Freshly squeezed fruit juices and smoothies from the local markets and cafes
  • Craft cocktails and spirits from Merimbula’s local distillery, the Longstocking Brewery and Distillery.

Where to Stay in Merimbula: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Merimbula offers a range of accommodation options to suit any budget and taste. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront resort, a budget-friendly hostel, or a charming guesthouse, there’s something for everyone in Merimbula. Here are some of the best places to stay in Merimbula:

  • The Sapphire Waters Motor Inn
  • The Beachcomber Holiday Park
  • The Ocean View Motor Inn
  • The Peninsular Apartments.

What to Buy in Merimbula: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Merimbula offers a range of unique souvenirs and local products that make great gifts or mementos of your trip. Some of the most popular souvenirs and products to look out for in Merimbula include:

  • Handmade pottery and ceramics from local artisans
  • Locally produced wines and beers from the surrounding vineyards and breweries
  • Artisanal chocolates and sweet treats from the local patisseries and bakeries.

Local Culture and Customs of Merimbula

Merimbula has a rich local culture that is reflected in its art, food, and cultural attractions. The town has a laid-back coastal lifestyle that is influenced by the natural beauty and abundant wildlife of the surrounding area. Visitors to Merimbula are encouraged to respect the local culture and customs, and to take the time to learn more about the town’s fascinating history and heritage.

Best Time to Visit Merimbula

The best time to visit Merimbula is between November and March, when the weather is warm and sunny and the beaches are at their best. This is also peak tourist season, so be prepared for busier crowds and higher prices. For those looking to avoid the crowds, the cooler months of April to October can be less crowded and less expensive.

Do’s and Don’ts of Merimbula

To make the most of your time in Merimbula, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Explore the local museums and historical sites to learn more about the town’s fascinating cultural heritage.
  • Spend time hiking or biking in the surrounding national parks and enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery.
  • Try the local seafood and wine, as these are some of the town’s specialties.

Don’t:

  • Swim or surf outside of the designated areas, as this can be dangerous due to rip currents and waves.
  • Litter on the beaches, as this can harm the local wildlife and environment.

Safety and Health

Merimbula is a safe and healthy destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and high-quality healthcare facilities. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Merimbula

  • Always swim and surf within the designated areas, and follow the advice of lifeguards if present.
  • Be mindful of the local wildlife and keep a safe distance from any animals you encounter.
  • Be aware of the risk of bushfires during the summer months, and follow local advice if there are any fire warnings in place.

Health in Merimbula

  • Remember to stay hydrated in the hot summer months, and wear sunscreen and protective clothing to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
  • If you require medical attention while in Merimbula, there are a range of high-quality healthcare facilities available, including the Bega Valley Medical Practice and the Merimbula Health Centre.

Getting to Merimbula: Transportation Options and Logistics

Merimbula is easily accessible by a range of transportation options, including:

Airports Near Merimbula

  • Merimbula Airport, which offers regular domestic flights to Sydney and Melbourne.

Bus Stations Near Merimbula

  • Bega Bus Station, which offers daily bus services to major cities across New South Wales and Australia.

Other Options

  • Car hire is available from Merimbula and other nearby towns and cities, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding areas at their own leisure.

How to Get Around in Merimbula

Merimbula is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. However, if you’re looking to explore the surrounding areas, car hire is available, and there are also a range of bus and taxi services available for those who prefer public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Merimbula: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of New South Wales, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to choose from. Some of the most popular nearby destinations include:

  • The historic town of Bega, located just a short drive south of Merimbula
  • The stunning Montague Island Nature Reserve, accessible via boat tour from nearby Narooma
  • The bustling city of Sydney, located a few hours drive north of Merimbula.

Conclusion

Merimbula offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience, with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and laid-back coastal lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, exploring the great outdoors, or simply relaxing on the beach, Merimbula has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to visit this beautiful coastal town and discover its many wonders for yourself.