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Things to do in Merimbula: Where to Wine, Dine & Have a Good Time
From whale watching to tasting their award-winning oysters, here's our guide to the best things to do in Merimbula.
Merimbula, on the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales, is best known for its beaches, oysters and whale watching. Highlights include craft beer tastings at Longstocking Brewery in Pambula and whale watching cruises from May to November. Whether you’re after a relaxed coastal break or a jam-packed outdoor holiday, this is your guide to the best things to do in Merimbula.”
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from surfing and snorkelling to exploring scenic trails and wildlife reserves. The town is also a haven for foodies, with fresh seafood, award-winning oysters, local produce, and a thriving cafe culture. Take the kayaks out on Merimbula Lake, hit the waves at glistening Main Beach and stretch your legs at the stunning Mimosa Rocks Walking Track, keeping your eyes peeled for native wildlife.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful break or a jam-packed holiday in the great outdoors, here’s your guide to the best things to do in Merimbula.
In This Guide:
Best Things to Do in Merimbula
The Oyster Barn
No visit to Merimbula is complete without a full-blown oyster extravaganza. The Oyster Barn, situated on the serene Merimbula Lake, offers a seafood experience like no other. Enjoy freshly shucked Sydney rock and rare Angasi oysters on their open-air deck alongside prawns and scallops. Family-owned and operated, their oysters reflect the pristine quality of the lake’s waters, delivering a flavour described as “ice cream with sea spray.”
49 Oyster Track, Millingandi
Beach Hop
Merimbula is somewhat of an overachiever when it comes to pristine beaches. Main Beach offers a long stretch perfect for a coastal walk, while Bar Beach and Mitchies Jetty are great for a relaxing swim. The crystal-clear waters and scenic views make it a water sports paradise. For a real adventure, you can even book a beginner’s lesson and learn to surf with the help of an instructor.
Merimbula Aquarium
A great family activity, the Merimbula Aquarium is located at the end of Merimbula’s historic wharf. It offers an up-close look at the diverse marine life of the Sapphire Coast. The aquarium has 28 tanks of local sea creatures, including fish, seahorses, and even sharks. After exploring, relax with a coffee or meal at the Wharf Restaurant, overlooking the ocean.
The Wharf, Lake Street, Merimbula
Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise
Merimbula is one of the best places on the Sapphire Coast for whale watching, especially from May to November when the humpback whales migrate. Book a dolphin and whale watching cruise through Sapphire Coastal Adventures to see these majestic creatures up close. The cruises often include sightings of dolphins and seals making it a memorable experience for all ages.
Merimbula to Tathra Walk
Otherwise known as the Wharf-to-Wharf walk, this mammoth day hike takes you from Merimbula Aquarium & Wharf Restaurant to Tathra Wharf. You can break this one up into a couple of days should you like to slow things down (which we recommend as there’s so much to do along the way!). You’ll cover beaches, national park and grassy reserves as you traverse this incredible stretch of coastline. Perfect for nature lovers, there will be ample opportunity to spot birds, wallabies, lizards and other wildlife along the way.
Sitchu Tip: Head out between September to November for mild weather and some of the best whale watching in the state.
Length: 27.3km
Time: 10 hours
Adventure at Magic Mountain
For a fun-filled day with the family, head to Magic Mountain, Merimbula’s very own adventure park. With a slew of adrenaline-inducing rides, including rollercoasters, water slides, and go-karts, expect a jam-packed day. Younger kids will love the mini-golf course and splash pool, while the whole family can enjoy a barbecue in the picnic area.
134 Sapphire Coast Drive, Merimbula
Closed for winter
Where to Stay in Merimbula
Mimosa Wines
Embrace the tranquillity of the region with a stay on the 200-acre Mimosa Wines property. You’ve got two options to choose from — The Vineyard Cottage and The Homestead. Both offer sun-drenched rooms, incredible views and a morning wakeup call of birdsong. The best part? It’s just a short scenic stroll to the incredible onsite restaurant.
Hillcrest Motel
Hillcrest Motel is a boutique motel that taps into all the vintage vibes of yesteryear. With panoramic views of Merimbula and its lake, the refurbished motel features modern, stylish rooms with private balconies, an inviting outdoor pool, and lush gardens. Located just minutes from the town centre, it provides a peaceful retreat while being conveniently close to local attractions.
95-97 Merimbula Drive, Merimbula
Coast Resort Merimbula
Coast Resort Merimbula is a luxurious escape, ideal for families, groups or couples. With spacious apartments and townhouses, the resort boasts modern amenities, gardens and a pool. Its central location provides a serene base for exploring Merimbula’s natural beauty and bustling town.
68/1 Elizabeth Street, 2548 Merimbula
Book now via Coast Resort Merimbula
Best Bars and Breweries in Merimbula
Longstocking Brewery
Dubbed the best nano brewery on the South Coast, Longstocking Brewery makes its beers fresh on-site. Book in for a craft beer tasting, and you’ll be introduced to a diverse range of locally brewed beers. There’s always live music and fun events throughout the week, too.
3546 Princes Highway, Pambula
Mimosa Wines
Set in the rolling hinterland of the Sapphire Coast, Mimosa Wines has a selection of handcrafted wines that reflect the region’s unique taste. Their boutique vineyard produces a variety of exceptional wines, including aromatic whites like Pinot Grigio and Semillon, alongside robust reds such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo. Each wine showcases the unique terroir of the Sapphire Coast, providing a refined tasting experience. We highly recommend cosying up by the fireplace and looking out onto the rolling hills with a glass of vino in hand.
2845 Tathra Bermagui Road, Bermagui
Merimbula RSL Club
Nothing beats the local RSL, and Merimbula’s is packed with character and charm. This relaxed, family-friendly club boasts some of the best views in town, sitting pretty over the lake and ocean. There’s a restaurant, cafe, sports bar, and free live entertainment.
52-54 Main Street, Merimbula
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Things to do in Merimbula
Merimbula is a year-round destination, but late winter through spring is especially rewarding. Humpback whales migrate along the coast between May and November, making a dolphin and whale watching cruise with Sapphire Coastal Adventures a highlight for visitors, while September to November tends to offer the best mix of mild weather and reliable whale sightings for those attempting a longer walk like the Merimbula to Tathra Track. It’s worth noting that some seasonal attractions, including Magic Mountain, close over winter, so check opening times before basing a trip around one activity.
Yes, Merimbula is considered one of the best spots on the Sapphire Coast for whale watching. Humpback whales migrate along the coastline between May and November, and Sapphire Coastal Adventures runs dedicated dolphin and whale watching cruises through this window, often with dolphin and seal sightings included. For visitors keen to combine wildlife spotting with a longer outdoor day, September to November offers some of the mildest weather alongside the best chance of sightings, making it a good window for tackling the Merimbula to Tathra Walk as well.
Merimbula sits on the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales, just off the Princes Highway, at almost equal distance between Sydney and Melbourne. Visitors travelling by car from either city should expect a scenic drive of around five to seven hours, making it a popular option for a coastal getaway without needing to fly. The drive passes through a mix of coastal towns and national park along the way, so it’s worth treating the journey as part of the holiday rather than simply a means of getting there.
Merimbula has six beaches, each suited to slightly different activities. Main Beach offers a long stretch that’s ideal for a proper coastal walk, while Bar Beach and Mitchies Jetty are better suited to a relaxing swim thanks to calmer conditions. The clear water and consistent swell also make the area popular for surfing, with beginner lessons available through a local instructor. Merimbula Lake adds another option beyond the ocean beaches, offering calmer water well suited to kayaking for anyone wanting a break from the surf.
Yes, Merimbula offers a good mix of activities for families. Magic Mountain is the town’s dedicated adventure park, with rides, a mini-golf course and a splash pool for younger kids, plus a picnic area for a family barbecue, though it’s worth checking seasonal opening hours before visiting. Merimbula Aquarium, at the end of the historic wharf, gives families an up-close look at local marine life across its 28 tanks, and pairs well with a meal at the neighbouring Wharf Restaurant. Calmer beaches such as Bar Beach and Mitchies Jetty also suit younger or less confident swimmers.
Now that your itinerary is jam-packed with the best things to do in Merimbula, find more travel inspiration with our travel guides, or maybe your luggage needs an update. Check out our edit of the best suitcases in Australia.
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