In this coastal region named after its shimmering blue waters there’s no shortage of fun to be had simply spending time by the beach but if the kids are itching for something else, here’s a list of a few of our favourite activities to keep them entertained.
1. MERIMBULA AQUARIUM & WHARF: MERIMBULA
This is a fantastic aquarium with 27 tanks that are home to various species of tropical fish, octopus and more as well as an oceanarium where you’ll see large ocean fish and sharks. It’s exciting just to walk through at your own pace and take in the amazing marine life, but if you’re keen to learn a bit more then join one of the guided tours. Our recommendation is to head down at 11:30am on Wednesdays and Friday (or any weekday during school holidays) where you’ll also be able to join a fish feeding session led by knowledgeable local guides outside on the wharf.
Location: Lake St, Merimbula NSW
2. MAGIC MOUNTAIN AMUSEMENT PARK: MERIMBULA
The place to go if you have some little thrill-seekers in your family. There’s something for all ages and levels of adrenaline rush seeking, from a 18 hole mini-golf course and dodgem cars through to waterslides and the “Sapphire Speedster” Rollercoaster which will have you twisting, turning and dipping at speeds of up to 50 km an hour.
Location: 134 Sapphire Coast Dr, Merimbula NSW
3. EDEN KILLER WHALE MUSEUM: EDEN
Dive deep into Australia's whaling history at the Killer Whale Museum, originally built to house the skeleton of the Orca “Old Tom”, this is now a great spot to learn all about Australia’s Whaling, Timber and Fishing history. Whilst kids will often sigh at the idea of visiting a museum, this one houses some fantastic interactive storytelling sessions, historical artefacts, and multimedia displays that involve kids in a more hands-on learning experience unlike a more traditional museum.
Location: 184 Imlay St, Eden NSW
4. BEGA CHEESE FACTORY & HERITAGE CENTRE: BEGA
A staple of the school lunchbox for many Australian kids, Bega Cheese certainly is delicious but whilst you’re in the area, take the chance to learn a bit more about the history of the company as well as dairy farming more broadly, an important backbone to Australian agriculture. Make sure to finish your tour at the Heritage Centre cafe, which of course has plenty of items on the menu that showcase the local cheese.
Location: Lagoon St, Bega NSW
5. POTOROO PALACE ANIMAL SANCTUARY: YELLOW PINCH
This animal sanctuary and education centre is a great way to get in touch with nature whilst learning at the same time. You’ll hear all about native animals in the area and get up close with kangaroos, emus and ducks who roam the park freely. Kids will love getting a small bag of feed (available at the entrance) and enjoying the chance to hand feed some of these amazing creatures.
Location: 2372 Princes Highway, Yellow Pinch, NSW
