Merimbula, NSW
A coastal haven that sits between a lake and the ocean and is home to some of the world's best oysters.
Where To Stay In Merimbula
Our preference is staying on the beach side of town and our pick of the holiday parks is NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort. Surrounded by beaches and National Parks, this is a great spot to stay in touch with nature and there are a range of accommodation options including Unpowered and Powered sites, Glamping and a huge range of Cabin types sleeping up to eight people. If you’re after a Site we highly recommend spending the little bit extra to secure one of the clifftop Powered Sites if they’re available. These come with concrete slabs and a stunning 180-degree view over the ocean. There’s some great facilities here including a pool, tennis court and bouncing pillow as well as year-round kids activities. Check the schedule on arrival to find out more. We love the addition of eBikes that can be hired to cruise around and explore locally. Pets are welcome outside of peak season times but will require prior approval from the park.
Where To Eat & Drink In Merimbula
Kick start your day with a coffee at Bar Beach Kiosk, idyllically located where the Merimbula Lake meets the bay and serving up the best coffee in town from well known coffee roasters Single O. Oysters will no doubt be on your mind in this region famous for them, and whilst you can get fantastic oysters in several restaurants we recommend heading over to nearby Pambula and visit Wheeler’s Seafood Restaurant, Takeaway and Oyster Farm. Located in a beautiful original building, the restaurant offers a modern take on mouthwatering seafood and of course, farm fresh oysters. We highly recommend going on their oyster tour to learn more about this intriguing industry. Dulcie’s Cottage is another favourite, serving up burgers, oysters, craft beers and cocktails out of a renovated weatherboard cottage in town. If you’re after a casual local drink and counter meal, our pick is to head to the RSL where you’ll also find live music on weekends.
What To Do In Merimbula
Our favourite of the local beaches is Bar Beach, uniquely located in the channel between the lake and the ocean giving it stunning turquoise waters and a great view over the town and into the hinterland. If you’re keen to get on a kayak or paddleboard, Merimbula Lake is a great place to do so with its still waters and views across town and over to the beach. Just ten minutes drive away you’ll find Potoroo Palace, an animal sanctuary and education centre which is a great place to learn more about native animals in the area and get up close with kangaroos, emus and ducks who roam the park freely. You can even buy a bag of feed and feed them by hand!
The Essentials
Given this town's popularity it comes as no surprise that there are plenty of shops and you won’t need to travel far no matter what you need. There are multiple supermarkets and pharmacies, and if you’re in the need for camping or caravan gear then head to Camping Plus.
The Drive
As always, we give you the rundown on the drive you’ll take from the three closest capital cities.
From Canberra - At just 246 km along the Monaro and Snowy Mountains Highways, this is an easy drive.
From Sydney - At 454 km straight down the coast this is a drive that you can do in one day and has some great options to stop and either stretch the legs, have a meal or spend a few nights. Our favourites are Gerringong, Huskisson and Tuross Head.
From Melbourne - Through Gippsland and then straight along the coast, you’ll likely need to make an overnight stop and we highly recommend doing so in the beautiful town of Lakes Entrance. If you’re just after a quick meal stop, there’s great options in Bairnsdale and Rosedale.
