About Merimbula Beach
Merimbula Beach, also known as Merimbula Main Beach, is a long sandy ocean beach in the town of Merimbula on the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales, within Bega Valley Shire. Facing the Tasman Sea near the mouth of Merimbula Lake, it is patrolled by Merimbula Surf Life Saving Club. The beach is known for its golden sand, consistent surf, coastal boardwalk, and views to Merimbula Bar and Haycock Point.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a long, wide stretch of golden sand backed by dunes and the Merimbula Boardwalk, with open views of the Tasman Sea and Merimbula Bar at the lake entrance. The beach is patrolled in season with flagged swimming areas, gentle to moderate surf suitable for swimming and surfing, and a flat foreshore for walking. Facilities are clustered at the southern end near the surf club, with coastal walks linking to Bar Beach and Merimbula Lake.
Key highlights
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Long patrolled sandy surf beach at the entrance to Merimbula Lake
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Views to Merimbula Bar, Haycock Point and the Sapphire Coast
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Merimbula Boardwalk linking the beach to the lake and town centre
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Consistent surf break popular for surfing and bodyboarding
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Seasonal whale and dolphin watching from the beach and headlands
History of Merimbula Beach
The Merimbula area is part of Yuin Country, traditionally inhabited by the Djiringanj people. The name Merimbula is commonly attributed to an Aboriginal word meaning 'two lakes'. European settlement began in the 1830s with pastoral and whaling activity, and the town developed as a coastal port and later as a holiday destination. The Merimbula Surf Life Saving Club was established to patrol the main beach.
Culture & Context
The beach and adjacent Merimbula Lake lie within Yuin Country and hold ongoing cultural significance for Yuin people. The coastal landscape, lake entrance and headlands are valued for community recreation, surf lifesaving culture and seasonal events, reflecting the Sapphire Coast's beach and fishing heritage.
Route
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