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The Sapphire Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline that Australia has to offer and, I think this area is so underrated! With some of the best beaches, hiking trails, quaint towns and so much adorable Australian wildlife! Get ready because this guide to the Sapphire Coast is jam-packed with all the information you’ll need.
I believe the sapphire coast should be on everyone’s Australian bucket list.
Guide to the Sapphire Coast: Where is the Sapphire Coast?
So the Sapphire Coast is apart of the Bega Valley and is located along the far south coast of New South Wales. From Sydney, it’s about a 5-hour drive & from Melbourne, it’ll take around 8 hours.
The Sapphire Coast is located further away from Sydney than other coastal towns like Jervis Bay & Batemans Bay, so this makes the Sapphire Coast a much quieter area. And this isn’t necessarily a bad thing because it means the beaches are never jammed packed & there’s rarely traffic. But still, I’m excited to shine a light on this beautiful coastline.
I know of so many Aussies that haven’t even heard of the Sapphire Coast, and I believe it to be one of the best holiday destinations in Australia.
Although, If you visit in January you’ll find the whole South Coast of NSW gets reasonably busy (but nothing crazy). It’s a very popular summer holiday destination for those living in Sydney, Canberra & Melbourne. I grew up in Melbourne and was lucky enough to holiday here each year. So it has become like a second home to me.
My last trip to the Sapphire Coast was in January 2022. Even though parts of the Bega Valley are still recovering after the heartbreaking bush fires, almost two years prior. This whole area is still absolutely stunning and it was so amazing to see heaps of local business bounce back after covid lockdowns as well.
Why is it called the Sapphire Coast?
I read that the Sapphire Coast got it’s name because of its “gem-like” beauty. And, when you see the sparkly blue ocean surrounded by untouched Australian bushland you’ll totally get it!
Especially when you’re walking towards Horseshoe Bay in Bermagui, and over the hill, you’ll start to see the pristine blue water, with clear skies & Mt Dromedary as the backdrop to it all. Just gorgeous!
Your Guide to the Best Coastal Towns on the Sapphire Coast
Bermagui
Bermagui is the Sapphire Coast northern-most town and let me just put it out there, it’s the absolute best. Ok, maybe I’m a bit biased because this is where my grandparents always lived and I’ve definitely spent the most time here.
But it’s also one of the most popular places for tourists so it can’t just be me.
Local Beaches & Things to do in Bermagui
No matter which direction the wind is blowing, you will always find a protected beach around Bermagui, perfect for a swim or sunbaked.
The main beach in Bermagui is horseshoe bay and it’s right in the middle of town, across the road from the shops on Lamont Street.
Horseshoe Bay is absolutely stunning and is patrolled by surf lifesavers during the summer months. There are also a number of rock pools on the right side of the beach that are fun to explore and during high tide, this is a great snorkeling spot.
Then following Lamont Street out of town along the coast, you will reach the Bermagui Blue Pools. There are two man-made pools set amongst the rocks & the ocean tides are always filling these pools up with clean water.
In the past I have seen seals swimming in the ocean behind the pools and once a small penguin was sitting on the rocks as well.
From the Blue Pools keep following the road around (only for a couple of minutes) to Beares Beach. This beach is definitely less crowded compared with Horseshoe Bay & you’re also free to bring your dogs here.
The headland rocks on either side of Beares Beach run down into the ocean and offer a great launchpad for surfers to enter the ocean. Also, during high tide, there are some awesome rock pools & snorkeling spots to explore.
A couple of other great beaches near Bermagui are Cuttagee and Camel Rock beach.
Other Things to do in Bermagui
Shopping along Lamont street is awesome and you’ll find beautiful clothes, plus everything you’ll need for enjoying a day at the beach. There are also heaps of gift ideas, and photos & prints from local photographers. Plus jewelry, sunglasses & homewares. Two of my favorite stores are Boho Republic & Bermagui Surf Shop.
Also, check out Bermagui’s Harbour & Fisherman’s Wharf complex. Bermagui is famous for deep-sea fishing. The Bermagui Fisherman’s cooperative was established in 1946 and is one of the biggest suppliers to the Sydney Fish Markets.
The Fisherman’s Wharf is a great place to grab a coffee and wander around the boat harbor. Then afterward have a dip in the Bruce Steer Ocean swimming pool.
Additionally, Stand Up Paddle Boarding can be done on the Bermagui River. Walkonwater has paddleboards for hire and also offers lessons if you’re a newbie. They’re located on Wapengo Street.
Places to Eat and Drink in Bermagui
A guide to the Sapphire Coast would not be complete without mentioning the Bermagui Beach Hotel, because no one should visit Bermagui without stopping by. The beach hotel was originally built in 1895 and underwent some renovation and refurbishments a few years back.
The Deck overlooks the stunning Horseshoe Bay, so is hands down, the best place to have a drink in town.
Honorbread is a hole-in-the-wall bakery and it sells the most amazing sourdough and baguettes (the baguettes are only made on Tues / Thurs / Sat), and also take away coffee & sweets. All the bread I ate was amazing (I definitely ate way too much), but particularly the sourdough fruit & walnut loaf was delicious!
Boneless Vegetarian Cafe on Lamont St is right in the heart of town and their massive menu of Vegetarian & Vegan meals will prove to you that this lifestyle doesn’t mean bland food! They also serve coffee & fresh juices.
If you’re enjoying an awesome day at the beach and aren’t keen on sitting in a cafe or restaurant, just across the road is Bazza’s Hot Bread. This bakery has been around forever and serves, fresh salad sandwiches & rolls, pies, sausage rolls & plenty of options for dessert.
Bermagui Accommodation
The best type of accommodation in Bermagui is either camping or renting a holiday house. I’ll link a few below that are in great locations.
Vrbo “BEACHVIEW: 1/33 Scenic Drive- Great View. Walk to beach” 2 Bedroom
Tathra
Tathra is the next main town south of Bermagui and it’s another pocket of paradise along the Sapphire Coast.
Anyone who loves the outdoors must-visit Tathra. This small town offers amazing beaches, hiking trails, snorkeling spots, and even mountain bike trails.
Local Beaches & Things to do in Tathra
Tathra Beach is massive & located right in the heart of town. Along with shops, restaurants & accommodation. Making it easy to walk nearly anywhere in town.
The beach is also patrolled by surf life-saving during the summer months.
Only a short drive from town is Kianinny Bay. The bay is an active boat launching ramp so some signs would advise against swimming here.
Although, I’ve always seen people swimming in Kianinny Bay, just make sure you’re aware of your surroundings as boats do come & go.
The best time to go swimming in Kianinny Bay is during high tide & make sure you bring your snorkeling gear. It’s home to local Stingrays and it’s insane how big some of these beauties are!
There’s also heaps of car parking at Kianinny Bay, public toilets, plus playground & picnic area.
One of the other great outdoor activities in Tathra is hiking. There are a number of trails that vary in length and difficulty.
Tathra Headland
Tathra Coastline Walk
Wharf to Wharf (27km)
Kangarutha Walking Track
Blueberry Ash Track
That’s just to name a few trails and if you’d like more information, click here to check out the Visit Tathra website.
For those up for a challenge and who love incredible viewpoints and hidden beaches, definitely do the 9km Kangarutha Walking Track. It starts at Kianinny Bay and finished at Wallagoot Lake.
And keep your eyes peeled for some Australian wildlife, I was pleasantly surprised when we saw an Echidna on the side of the trail.
The Tathra Wharf is definitely a local icon! It’s the only deep-sea timber wharf on the east coast of Australia and it’s been there since 1862.
There’s a museum inside the Wharf that displays the Maritime history and the Wharf is also a popular fishing spot for locals.
Places to Eat and Drink in Tathra
Of course, the ultimate guide to the Sapphire Coast needs to include all the best pubs and like Bermagui, Tathra Hotel should be on every visitor’s list!
The Tathra Hotel is a heritage-listed building and it’s located perfectly on top of a hill so the ocean views are insane.
The menu is full of fresh and delicious meals, (definitely isn’t the cheapest place to eat) and there are quite a few Vegan & Vegetarian options.
And, the Hotel is also home to the Humpback Brewery. Which is a craft beer and there are so many options on tap.
The Wild Orchid Cafe which is along the main street (Andy Poole Dr) in Tathra is a great option for lunch or breakfast. The menu is full of wholesome ingredients and there is also a large selection of freshly made juices and smoothies.
And, of course, no seaside town would be complete without a local bakery serving freshly made rolls, pies & pastries! The Tathra Bakery and Cafe is only a short walk from the patrolled end of Tathra Beach.
Tathra Accommodation
Tathra has awesome accommodation options for all. Big caravan parks, holiday home rentals, and secluded camping sites. I will link to recommended ones below;
BIG4 Tathra Beach Holiday Park
Vrbo “Holiday Retreat – The best of both worlds” 3 Bedrooms
Merimbula
Merimbula is one of the bigger towns along the South Coast of NSW, and also where the only airport is located (I’ll add details about that below).
But this doesn’t mean Merimbula is missing that small-town vibe like the rest of the Sapphire Coast. There are generally more tourists around and due to this, there’s more variety available in cafes, restaurants & accommodation.
Local Beaches & Things to do in Merimbula
Merimbula’s main beach isn’t right in the center of town like most others are. It is actually closer to the airport and on the opposite side of the river. This long stretch of beach is patrolled during the summer months and if you were to head south down the beach you will end up on Pambula’s main beach. And like many other beautiful spots along the Sapphire Coast, this beach will never be overcrowded.
Bar Beach is a smaller beach on Merimbula Lake. There aren’t any waves so it’s a much more relaxing place for a swim and the clear, blue water makes it a true paradise along the NSW South Coast.
Also, behind the beach is Bar Beach Kiosk and it’s open every morning from September through to May.
Do you love seafood? Oyster farming is a big deal in this area of the south coast. The Oysters are grown on Merimbula Lake & service the whole region. And, a couple of the best places to try these oysters for yourself is at Merimbula Fresh Seafoods & Merimbula Aquarium & Wharf Restaurant.
Other Things to do in Merimbula
The Merimbula Boardwalk is perfect for a leisurely stroll. There isn’t a whole lot of coverage though so it can get pretty hot on a sunny day. Along the walk, you’ll see just how massive the local Oyster Farm is and if you visit during low tide take a look at the sand below & you might see an army of little blue crabs crawling along.
There’s a car park for the boardwalk just off Lakewood Drive.
Magic Mountain is a small theme park that’s a lot of fun, particularly if traveling with kids. The park isn’t open all year round so make sure you check their website prior to visiting.
Whale Watching tours depart from the Public Jetty on Market st in Merimbula
And this is such an incredible experience. Humpback Whales can be seen from the Sapphire Coast from September to early December. And during these tours, it’s likely that seals & dolphins may also be spotted.
If Whale Watching is out of your budget, I would recommend heading up to the Long Point Lookout, as this offers a great viewpoint of the coast and you may see the whales swimming and breaching offshore.
Places to Eat and Drink in Merimbula
The waterfront Cafe is perfectly positioned in the heart of Merimbula, and with seating by the water, it has a very relaxing feel. Ideal for even just a coffee.
Merimbula RSL Club is a local favorite and is always reliable for a good pub-style meal. They also have a courtesy bus that can pick you up from your accommodation if you plan on drinking.
Bunga Raya is a Malaysian restaurant that is down one of the side alleys off the main street. The menu offers Vegan options and although I personally found the service slightly slow, the food was delicious.
Merimbula Accommodation
Pambula
Pambula & Eden are the two areas I have personally spent the least amount of time in, but I didn’t think a guide to the Sapphire Coast would be complete without mentioning them and pointing out some of the best and most beautiful sites in the area.
Local Beaches & Things to do in Pambula
Pambula Beach is another one of the best beaches along the Sapphire Coast. It’s easily accessible with plenty of car parks close by, also the beach is patrolled during the summer months.
Behind the beach is Lions Park (big picnic area) and close by is the Lion Park Lookout. Making this the perfect place to set up for the day. Take enough food and drink so you can enjoy time at the beach & a picnic, all while surrounded by so much of the South Coast natural beauty.
Like many of the towns along the Sapphire Coast, there’s a river flowing into the ocean, and the river mouth is the perfect place for any nature lover to explore.
Pambula River Walking track is in Beowa National Park is a scenic walk along the coast and is only 1km return. There’s parking available at the Pambula river mouth at the end of Coraki Drive, just near Pambula beach.
Places to Eat & Drink in Pambula
Toast Cafe is an environmentally friendly cafe (they’re a part of ‘Plastic Free Pambula’), they serve coffee & fresh meals made from local ingredients (Vegan options available). They also do Mex Nights every Wednesday. Or, if you’d prefer something a bit stronger, stop by for a gin from the region’s very own North of Eden distillery.
Wheelers Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar is a great local option for those who love seafood. And, for those keen on a beer with a pub meal, definitely check out The Top Pub (and they also have a courtesy bus which will pick you up).
Pambula Accommodation
Vrbo “Amazing Sea Views, New Kitchen, Family Friendly, Easy Walk to 3 Beaches” 2 Bedroom
Eden
I couldn’t complete this guide without including the Sapphire Coast southernmost town. Eden is located along the Princess Highway, so those coming from Melbourne will most likely drive through Eden.
When my family & I would drive up from Melbourne to Bermagui every year, I always remember arriving in Eden meant we were almost there!
Local Beaches & Things to do in Eden
Aslings Beach is the best beach to visit in the heart of Eden. It’s an awesome spot for swimming and surfing and also patrolled in summer.
At the southern end of the beach is the Aslings Beach Rock Pool. The pool has been created amongst the rocks (similar to the Bermagui blue pools). And, also keep your eyes peeled for dolphins swimming around this area.
Back in the day, Twofold’s Bay in Eden was the site of one of Australians biggest whaling industries. At one point there were 30 boats operating out of the port.
The Eden Killer Whales Museum is one of the most poplars sites in Eden. I find this such sad history because I wish whaling never existed but also find the history about the Orcas being involved in assisting the whalers very interesting! Click here to read more about Eden’s history with whaling.
Thankfully today the site’s focus is sightseeing & research.
Also, Eden has a great option for an easy walk that also offers scenic views, the Lake Curalo Boardwalk. It’s a flat walk that circles the entire lake. This would be a nice way to end a sunny day after the beach.
Places to Eat and Drink in Eden
Sprout Eden Cafe uses local produce to create a seasonal menu and can cater to most dietary requirements. The cafe is located on Imlay Street, which is just a few blocks from Aslings Beach.
Of course, Eden, like many other towns along the South Coast of NSW, has a local pub that is full of historical charm. Great Southern Inn is located on the main street of Eden and offers incredible ocean views!
The menu is full of traditional pub meals and the sports bar is the perfect place to have a beer at the end of a hot day. There are also TAB facilities.
Eden Accommodation
Vrbo “The Beach Retreat Eden 3 bedroom pet friendly apartment”
Guide to (Just north of) the Sapphire Coast
Tilba Tilba & Central Tilba
Only a short detour off the Princes Highway is Tilba Tilba & Central Tilba which are two of the most beautiful and quaint little villages you’ll ever come across in Australia.
Even though this is a guide to the Sapphire Coast, I still wanted to include Tilba because I just love these villages. Plus if the sun isn’t shinning enough to go to the beach, Tilba is perfect for a day trip. But I will warn you everybody else will have the same idea. It’s extra busy on a cloudy day!
Much of Tilba is heritage listed and it’s been a gathering place for over 120 years. These historical buildings are surrounded by lush countryside and it really feels like you could be hours from any beach.
The main street of Central Tilba is lined with beautiful stores, filled with locally made artwork, home-wear, jewelry & fresh produce.
The most notable places in Central Tilba & Tilba Tilba are;
Riva at Tilba (Beautiful & unique jewelry, but it’s pretty expensive)
Tilba Sweet Spot (old school lolly shop)
ABC Cheese Factory
Tilba Bakery
The Tilba Teapot (Cafe)
Foxglove & Co (open garden)
Narooma
Narooma is the next coastal town north of Bermagui. When driving to Narooma along the Princes Highway from Bermagui, it’ll take about 30 mins. Like the Sapphire Coast, Narooma has stunning coastlines with small-town charm.
Plus, Narooma is also perfect for a day trip or there’s also plenty of accommodation options if you wanted to stay longer.
The Mill Bay Boardwalk in Narooma is absolutely stunning and there’s a good chance you’ll see the local stingrays swimming underneath or maybe even one of the friendly local seals will jump onto the boardwalk while hunting for scraps from the fishermen.
Surprisingly though, my favorite thing to do in Narooma doesn’t involve the ocean! It’s actually going to the movies.
The Narooma Kinema is a heritage-listed building and has been open since 1928. As well as screening mainstream movies, the Kinema also screens art-house and independent films.
The Kimema is small but very comfortable & unique. And, the candy bar is an awesome place to get a coffee.
Tours to Montague Island from Narooma
In the past, while visiting Narooma, I have also done tours to nearby Montague Island which is such natural beauty and ideal for anyone who loves marine life.
Visitors can only access Montague Island by booking with a commercial tour operator, so no private vessel can park up there!
I have been out to Montague as part of a tour that explored the island, including the historic lighthouse. I have the best memories of being on the boat heading towards the island and the boat surrounded by Bottlenose Dolphins.
Then my second time out to Montague Island was during a Whale Watching trip and this was absolutely amazing. We had so many Humpback Whales surrounding us, and thankfully there weren’t many other boats around.
From Narooma, there are also trips to Montague Island for diving, snorkeling, and swimming with seals (this one is on my list for next trip).
Guide to More Accommodation Ideas for the Sapphire Coast & Bega Valley
*All images credited to the booking site linked
Your Transport Guide to the Sapphire Coast
The absolute best way to explore the Sapphire Coast is by having your own car! If you wanted to see more than just the town you’re staying in then there really aren’t any other options. This is probably why you’ll notice a few (friendly) hitchhikers during your travels.
With Australia being so massive it’s definitely hard for many to drive all the way to the Sapphire Coast. So thankfully there’s an airport in Merimbula (MIM) and Rex & Qantas Link have regular flights to Sydney and Melbourne.
(Note; Merimbula airport is closed for runway maintenance from 31st January- 13th March 2022).
There’s also the option to get a train & bus from Sydney or Melbourne. Public transport is definitely a less desirable option as it takes a while and I still recommend hiring a car once you arrive on the Sapphire Coast.
From Melbourne, the V-Line train departs from Southern Cross train station, close to 4 hours later arrives in Bairnsdale, where everyone transfers to bus! Then a 6 hours bus ride to Bermagui. The V-Line bus will also make multiple stops along the Sapphire Coast.
But as I mentioned above, having your own car really is the best way to explore this beautiful part of Australias East Coast. If you fly in or arrive on the Sapphire Coast via public transport, I would recommend hiring a car soon after.
Ok, like I said this guide to the Sapphire Coast will be jam-packed. If you’re still reading, thank you, and I’m so excited for you to start planning your trip to the amazing Sapphire Coast.
I really hope this guide to the Sapphire Coast has answered all your questions but if not, leave a comment below and I’ll get straight back to you!
In the next few weeks, I will be posting more detailed guides on the Sapphire Coast, focusing on specific locations. If you’d like them sent straight to your inbox, click here to sign up for my mailing list.
Thanks for reading,
Happy Travel
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Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.
Whale watching tours, strolling along the beach, and eating some great food – what more could you want! Thanks for sharing all of this information.
You’re so welcome Alaina, I hope you get to visit one day
This is an entirely unknown area for me, so thanks for putting this guide together! Love the echidna picture and the blue pools, I would definitely try those if I get to visit the Sapphire Coast.
You’re so welcome Jenn, I absolutely love this part of Australia so I’m more than happy to share. I hope you get to visit one day
If I ever get the chance to return to Australia, this looks like an awesome place to explore.
This looks like the perfect spot for me to come! I love off the beaten path places and the Sapphire Coast looks so dreamy. When I get back to Australia to visit my family I have to plan a trip here! Those blue pools look out of this world!
Yes, you will definitely love it then! Let me know if I can help with anything
The Sapphire Coast sounds like an amazing spot to add to our list!
What a stunningly pretty area! I was excited wen you mentioned the hikes…and then you included photos of echidna and kangaroos! I love areas like this when you can walk for ages, see wildlife and then swim in the ocean. The food sounds great too! 🙂
I hadn’t heard of the Sapphire Coast before but it looks absolutely stunning. I can see why it’s a hidden gem. This is definitely going on my list!
Pinned! I’m planning an Australia excursion for my hubby for his 40th so this is exactly the kind of destination information I’m looking for and the hotel listings are so helpful! Thanks!
Oh that’s amazing, you’ll love it here
Stunning photos. We would absolutely LOVE to go there!