Beaches & Nature near Hillcrest Merimbula

BEACH COMBING

Merimbula is perhaps best known for its beautiful beaches, from tiny inlets to stretches of sand dunes. A handful can be accessed within a few minutes’ drive from Hillcrest Merimbula, including Middle Beach which is great for fishing and whale watching, Bar Beach which is popular for snorkelling and swimming, Short Point which has spectacular views, walking tracks and picnic facilities, and 6km-long Main Beach which broadly appeals to everyone, great for swimming, snorkelling, fishing, surfing and whale watching.

WHALE WATCHING

Witnessing wondrous whales as they navigate the coastline is a truly awe-inspiring experience. Merimbula is considered one of NSW’s top spots for viewing whales, with great viewing spots dotted along the shore from Short Point and Tura Headland, to the headland in Bed Boyd National Park. Whales can be spotted as early as May and right through until January, but peak season is September to late November, when they swim closest to the shore, heading south with their young. For a close encounter, take one of the many whale watching cruises operating from Merimbula.

wonderous walks

Stroll along beautiful coastal tracks and explore the handful of national parks which call Merimbula home. Wander through an ever-changing landscape of eucalypts, mangrove beds, oyster farms and local marine life on the 3.4 kilometre Merimbula Boardwalk, famous for sunset views with seats and jetties along the way to kick back and take in the surroundings. Or head to Bournda National Park (about 6km north of Merimbula) to uncover a mix of lagoons, lakes, creeks, secluded beaches and coastal forest. There are several walks available, including a 1km trail to Bournda Island and the lagoon and a 6km loop walk to Bournda Lagoon via Sandy Creek.

perfect picnic spots

Soak up the best of Merimbula’s unspoilt natural spots in style – with a gourmet picnic. Some of our favourite picnic locations include the tranquil Turingal Head where you can picnic among red gums near the waters of Wallagoot Lake and Wine Glass Bay. Or the Goodenia Rainforest picnic area sheltered by mighty eucalypts, located at the start of the picturesque 1.2 kilometre Goodenia Rainforest walking track.