Found in New South Wales, the Sapphire Coast is located approximately halfway between Sydney and Melbourne. Our gorgeous capital, Canberra, is actually the closest city to it – making it the perfect addition to any east coast trip! But what towns are along the way? And what’s so special about it? Well, keep reading to find out more!
The Sapphire Coast is a part of the Bega Valley Shire Council, and encompasses the towns of: Bermagui, Bega, Tathra, Merimbula and Eden.
Bermagui
Heading south along the coast, the first town you’ll have the pleasure of meeting is the stunning Bermagui. Hugging a spectacular harbour, this little seaside village is the perfect place to unwind. With a lovely coast as far as the eye can see, it’s the ideal spot if you enjoy coastal walks and serene beaches - not to mention all the quaint shops and restaurants that can be found here!
Image credit: Destination NSW
Image credit: Above Down Under by Kramer Photography; www.kramer.photography
Bega
Further along you’ll find the town of Bega. If Bega sounds familiar, it’s probably because it’s the brand of cheese that’s sitting in your fridge right now! The small town of Bega is located in the heart of the Sapphire Coast and is famous for its cheese production. They have a rich history with dairy - going all the way back to the 1850s – where the doors to the first Bega cheese factory opened up in 1900. Imagine your town being famous for cheese? What a dream, right! But tasty cheese aside, you’ll also find magnificent national parks where you can explore the diverse landscapes this region boasts.
Tathra
Characterised by its historic wharf, Tathra is the next town along this route. Built in 1862, it’s the only deep sea timber wharf on the east coast of Australia and it’s a total photographer’s delight! The terracotta coloured walls of the adjacent museum create a beautiful contrast to the bright blue hues of the beach below. In addition to the gorgeous coast, Tathra is jam packed with beautiful nature tracks for any keen walkers but, if food is more your thing then there’s plenty of that too! With an oyster farm nearby it’s fresh produce galore in this seaside village.
Image credit: Destination NSW
Merimbula
Merimbula offers rugged beaches and peaceful lakes but, is perhaps best known for its whale-watching spots. Merimbula is a local first nation term meaning, ‘two lakes’, which is a reference to Merimbula Lake on the southern side of the town and the smaller Back Lake on the northern side. Both Merimbula Aquarium and Potoroo Palace Wildlife Sanctuary are also popular with visitors, showcasing the unique wildlife found in the region.
Image credit: Destination NSW
Eden
Eden is the final town along the sparkling Sapphire Coast. Likewise, Eden is also known for whale-watching, and it’s here that you’ll find plenty of vantage points to see the spectacular creatures migrate annually. The humpback whales thrive in the deep waters of Twofold Bay, which is actually the third-deepest natural harbour in the Southern Hemisphere. Eden is also the gateway to Ben Boyd National Park, a stunning area where postcard worthy scenery greets you at every turn.
Image credit: Kramer Photography; www.kramer.photography
Image credit: Destination NSW
A total mecca for spectacular scenery enthusiasts, New South Wales Sapphire Coast needs to be seen to be believed. From bright blue seas to open national parks, and delectable food to friendly locals; this coastal region is a must-see for any Australian.
