SAPPHIRE COAST – THE EAST COAST`S LAST FRONTIER

If Jervis Bay is the leading vacation hub on South Coast of New South Wales, then the Sapphire coastline is its last. That is not because the region is any less appealing, but perhaps the isolation and somewhat raw and nature and lesser developed tourist infrastructure make it less visited. In fact, this can be taken advantage of – no crowds, lower prices and still so much to do!

BERMAGUI

Bermagui consists of two small towns situated on opposite sides of a protected inlet. It is from here that a fishing fleet operates, and it is also a place for big game fishing expeditions. This territory teams with wildlife and sea life.

Gulaga and Montague Island Reserves are home to blue penguins and fur seals, Wallanga Lake is perfect for summer camping and bushwalking. Horse Head Rock and Blue Pool – a large natural swimming pool at the base of dramatic rocky cliffs, are great tips for photographers.

BEGA

Famed for its cheese, this small town is all about dairy produce. Cheese factory tours and farm visits are the highlights for every visitor. Besides, there is a stunning Mimosa Rocks National Park characteristic of coastal volcanic rock formations and bird spotting.

Biamanga National Park and South East Forest are other forested reserves full of wildlife and nice walks. The nearby Tathra is a popular beach spot for the locals.

MERIMBULA

Situated at the mouth of the Merimbula River, this is a large seaside resort which has kept its beaches insulated from commercial development by making the foreshore a public park.

The town`s closed-in estuary is ideal for swimming and water sports while its long stretch of beaches is popular with surfers, scuba divers and deep-sea fishermen. Boggy Creek, Merimbula Lake, Bar Beach and Merimbula Boardwalk should not be skipped if visiting the town.

EDEN

Already the name of this town speaks for itself. Situated on Twofold Bay, Eden is the last fishing village before reaching Victoria and a popular summer holiday spot.

Nadgee Nature Reserve and the Disaster Bay are marvellous wilderness areas on ocean frontage, and whale watching is available between September and November if travelling in summer visit the Eden Killer Whale Museum to learn more about these ocean giants.

Driving further south towards Victoria, the Sapphire Coast overlaps with the Croajingolong National Park in Gippsland, that is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and a paradise for all nature and outdoor lovers as well as scuba divers.  

ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCES ON THE SAPPHIRE COAST

• Blue Pool – take a dip in the refreshing natural pool and enjoy the spectacular ocean views
• Wallaga Lake – enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this wonderful place and try some of the local must-does: boating, sailing, fishing, water skiing or paddleboarding
• Mimosa Rocks National Park – camping in this gorgeous coastal reserve, note the Mimosa shipwreck and walk to the Wajurda Point Lookout for the terrific views
• Merimbula lake – Merimbula Boardwalk will take you around the lake and gives you a chance to spot the local birdlife and the Pinnacles bush walk features friendly wallabies and amazing ocean views
• Eden – Pinnacles Loop/Red Cliff walking track will take you through the striking landscape the region with a good chance of wildlife spotting
• Sapphire Coast whale watching is available in the wintertime
• Croajingolong National Park (East Gippsland)– scuba diving, snorkelling, bird watching, mountain biking, swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking, boating and photographing

WHEN TO TRAVEL

The best time to visit the South Coast of NSW is late summer and autumn (Feb-May) when the temperatures are still pleasant, and the high season is over.

HOW TO GET THERE

The Sapphire Coast is reachable within 7 hours drive from Sydney, 7 hours drive from Melbourne and 3 hours drive from Canberra.