From Bermagui to the Victorian border, sparkling blue water crashes against the Sapphire Coast. Home to some of the most spectacular and unspoilt beaches in Australia, it’s clear where the area gets its name.
Visitors come from all over the world to splash, swim, snorkel, surf, sea kayak and fish in the deep blue waters of the southern NSW coast, but the fun doesn’t end at the shoreline. National Parks and bushland covers more than 70 percent of the Sapphire Coast area. Walking tracks and cycling trails wind all the way through the region, suitable for all ages to explore.
Green pastures and rich farmland make up much of the hinterland areas, producing world-class cheese, beef and wine. The weekly growers markets, renowned restaurants and food festivals put the Sapphire Coast on the map as a hot foodie destination.
Halfway between Sydney and Melbourne and around 3 hours by car from Canberra, the region encompasses the towns of Bega, Bermagui, Cobargo, Eden, Merimbula, Pambula and Tathra. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something fun for families to do on the Sapphire Coast.
The area is famous for its sailing, whale watching and fishing opportunities. Find a vantage point at Twofold Bay in Eden and watch the whales flip their tails in the pristine waters during Spring. Hire some fishing rods from a local bait & tackle store and try to catch your dinner. Jump on a whale-watching cruise or enjoy a paddle in the protected bays and beaches.
Once you’ve covered the coastline, it’s time to head inland. Get off the beaten track and discover secluded beaches, tranquil inlets and shimmering lakes. Ben Boyd, Mimosa Rocks and Bournda National Parks showcase the unspoilt beauty of the Sapphire Coast with fabulous walking and cycling tracks, lookouts and picnic spots. Ride the 50kms of iconic mountain biking trails at Tathra or take or more sedate family pedal along flat beachside tracks up and down the coast.
Little monkeys can take on the Tree Climb Challenge at Merimbula or visit another lot of tree-huggers at the Koala sanctuary in Potoroo Palace. Hunt for your fortune at Montreal Goldfield or tear down Magic Mountain in a mini Grand Prix car or discover the secrets of our underwater world at Merimbula Aquarium. Get hands on at the Marine Discovery Centre and touch all sorts of slippery sea creatures.
If you’ve got a South Coast escape on the mind, make sure the Sapphire Coast is at the top of your list.
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I was blessed with parents who really saw the value in travel. After our first family trip abroad to Thailand, I became obsessed. I was hungry for anything new and different. I yearned to be in the middle of a city on the other side of the world with a suitcase in one hand and google maps in the other, stumbling around trying to figure out where I was going; literally and spiritually.