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Candelo village
Image credit: David Rogers Photography

Landmarks and Buildings

Candelo

Travelling inland along the valley of the Bega River, the road ambles through rich dairy and beef country before arriving at the historical village of Candelo. The town remains a meeting place and through fare for travellers, musicians and artists. Set on the banks of the Candelo River and with a population of just 300, you'll be surprised by the local fare and busy events calendar. On the first Sunday of each month, the town hosts one of the region's oldest markets and there are regular music festivals, open recordings and performances at the historical town hall and St Peter's Church. The famed Candelo Village Festival occurs every two years and is a celebration of music, arts, crafts and village life. Although bullock teams no longer pass through town and there is little need for blacksmith's shops, a walk along these streets conjures up images of a past way of life. Candelo today still retains many of its nineteenth-century old buildings, offering a warm and open reception to travellers. Candelo is surrounded by beautiful old forests and clear waterways. In South East Forests National Park you can take bushwalks through old-growth forest, go boulder hopping through the network of waterways, picnic by a creek or take exploratory drives along the forest trails.

Candelo NSW

0.1 km away

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Myrtle Mountain lookout

Natural Attractions

Myrtle Mountain lookout

You may think driving through the park’s lush wet-fern forest is as stunning as it gets, but then you arrive at Myrtle Mountain lookout. Located on Myrtle Mountain Road, this hidden gem offers a sweeping northern vista across Bega Valley farmland. You’re also treated to eastern views of scenic Candelo and Wolumla, as well as the fringing escarpment and rolling hills surrounding the valley. The ideal place to stretch your legs, take a tea break and soak up some views while driving from Eden or Bega, this lookout is popular with travellers and locals alike. Relax at a picnic table and feel the crisp NSW south coastal breeze. Listen out and scan the undergrowth for lyrebirds or, if you’re stopping by at night, look out for possums and gliders in the area.

Myrtle Mountain NSW

10 km away

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Goodenia Rainforest picnic area

Natural Attractions

Goodenia Rainforest picnic area

Grab a picnic table and cook up a tasty lunch on the barbecue at Goodenia Rainforest picnic area. Sheltered by mighty old-growth eucalypts in a patch of cool temperate rainforest, this picnic spot is the gateway to the exquisite Goodenia Rainforest walking track, an easy walk through a lush understorey of lilly pilly. The picnic area is a great spot to stop and relax before or after completing the 40-minute return walk. If you're lucky, you'll spy some of the numerous birds living in the area, including lyrebirds and satin bowerbirds. See if you can spot the marvellous striped tail of the fan-tailed cuckoo.

South Wolumla NSW

15 km away

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Goodenia Rainforest Walking Track
Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Goodenia Rainforest Walking Track

Set out on the Goodenia Rainforest walk and discover a magnificent stand of cool temperate rainforest that is unique in this part of NSW. An excellent track for walking with children, the 1.2 kilometre nature walk leads down into a lush gully of ferns and understorey species. Enjoy the shade provided by the dense lilly pilly canopy and keep an eye out for moss-covered rocks, vines and quirky-looking beetles as you explore. As you walk, listen out for the wonderful stream of mimicked calls performed by the superb lyrebird or the whip-crack song of the eastern whipbird. The walk starts at Goodenia Rainforest picnic area, so if you have time before or after the walk you could stop for a picnic or barbecue lunch.

South Wolumla NSW

15 km away

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Koala encounter

Amusement and Theme Parks

Potoroo Palace - Native Wildlife Park

Potoroo Palace Native Wildlife Park is located 10 minutes north of Merimbula on Princess Highway. They are passionate about conservation, education and community. Visit the park to see koalas, wombats, echidnas and long nosed potoroos. Wander among the kangaroos, touch a snake, stroll through the walk-through aviary with the gang gang cockatoos and have a great coffee at the cafe. And you might find a something precious and fun in our very popular shop. You can get up close to kangaroos, emus, ducks and native geese who roam the park freely and hand feed them with an Animal Feed Bag that is available at the entrance. And take a train ride on the popular train!

Yellow Pinch NSW

16 km away

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SECCA exterior view
Image credit: David Rogers

Galleries, Museums and Collections

South East Centre for Contemporary Art

South East Centre for Contemporary Art (SECCA) is the leading space for contemporary art, culture and ideas on the Far South Coast of NSW. SECCA hosts touring exhibitions of national significance along with its own exclusively curated artistic program as part of its cultural tourism plan that is designed to engage tens of thousands of visitors to the region annually. SECCA brings our community together, to build and share our identity, history, creativity and culture, through engagement with the arts. SECCA stimulates, develops and enhances the diverse visual culture of the region through viable, accessible, dynamic and relevant exhibition, education and collection programs. SECCA is a service of Bega Valley Shire Council and is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.

Bega NSW

17 km away

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Susan Hill

Shopping and Markets

Bega Produce Market

Every Friday the Bega Produce Market takes place right in the heart of Bega, with local growers and producers displaying their wares in Littleton Gardens, on Bega/Djiringanj country. From baked goods and sourdough, to seedlings and seeds, abundant seasonal produce, flowers, preserves, crafts and live music, come along in the cool Bega mornings to stock up on all that is green, grown and generous, and learn more about low carbon living! From 8am to 1pm.

Bega NSW

17 km away

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Diana Stewart
Image credit: D Stewart

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Spiral Gallery Cooperative

Spiral Gallery Co-operative is one of the longest established Artists Run Initiatives in NSW and Australia. Spiral Gallery Bega supports contemporary art practice through creative exhibitions and is a not for profit artists-run cooperative established in 1997. It has forged its way to become one of the icons of Bega Valley, working in partnership with many artists and organisations to mentor and support arts development in the Bega Valley and Sapphire Coast. The gallery promotes contemporary and innovative art practice through its exhibition program in this region. It offers opportunities for both established and emerging artists to exhibit and sell their work, hosting solo shows, community group shows and exhibitions by the Spiral artists themselves. It is the only open access gallery in the Bega Valley region. The Gallery caters to a broad range of artists including painters, sculptors, glass artists, gold and silversmiths, textile artists, printers, photographers, mixed media and installation artists living within the Bega Valley and beyond. The gallery offers the chance to use and share a professional exhibition space as well as to connect, exchange artistic dialogue and informal mentoring.

Bega NSW

17 km away

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Wandella Cheese Factory
Image credit: Bega Valley Historical Society

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bega Pioneers Museum

The Bega Pioneers Museum is housed in the second oldest extant building in Bega. It is dedicated to the history of the Bega Valley and its surroundings. It covers the time period from the early 1800s to the current day and includes military, domestic, transport and working equipment. It also provides a research facility. There is a large photographic and newspaper collection.

Bega NSW

17 km away

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And they are off
Image credit: Sapphire Coast Turf Club

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Sapphire Coast Turf Club

The Sapphire Coast Turf Club is a modern racecourse set on a stunning 300-acre site along Sapphire Coast Drive at Kalaru, conveniently located between Merimbula and Bega. As one of the newest country racecourses in New South Wales, it provides top-quality facilities for spectators. The venue hosts twelve race meetings each season, attracting jockeys and trainers from across southeastern New South Wales and East Gippsland. The Club also features a fully equipped Function Centre, perfect for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. Visitors and members can enjoy a wide range of services, including TAB facilities, local and interstate bookmakers, food and beverage options, free bus transport from major local centres, and family-friendly picnic areas. Most areas of the course, including the Members' and Reserve areas, the Function Centre, and the spacious banked lawns, offer unobstructed views of the racing action. The newly built facilities ensure an exceptional experience for race day functions, making the venue a popular choice for weddings and other events. Whether you're a racing enthusiast or simply looking for an enjoyable day out, the Sapphire Coast Turf Club offers something for everyone, with excellent amenities and plenty of reasons to visit.

Wallagoot NSW

20 km away

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Bournda National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Bournda National Park

Bournda National Park is a natural playground on the Far South Coast, packed with options to entice explorers of all ages. Get away from the crowds and drive to Turingal Head, then wander down to Wine Glass Bay and spend the afternoon picnicking by the beach. Discover secluded beaches and spectacular cliffs along the rugged coastline on the Kangarutha walking track. In the warmer months, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a passing whale. Hobart Beach makes a perfect base, with excellent camping facilities and loads of activities to keep the kids entertained. Enjoy swimming in the calm waters of Wallagoot Lake. Scour the nearby coastline and Bondi Lake on short walking tracks, or head off to explore on your bike. If you love sailing or just some gentle paddling, check out the northern shores of Wallagoot Lake as well. Launch your boat and indulge in some waterskiing on the glassy waters. And, of course, the waterways of Bournda offer fantastic fishing and birdwatching opportunities, too.

Wallagoot NSW

22 km away

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Wallagoot Lake picnic area and boat ramp

Natural Attractions

Wallagoot Lake picnic area and boat ramp

Set up a picnic on the shores of the lake while the kids swim in the protected waters. Launch your vessel from the boat ramp and enjoy waterskiing on the glassy waters, or explore the lake on your sail board or paddle ski. Wallagoot Lake's unique aquatic environment is home to a huge diversity of marine life, making it a popular destination for children eager to learn about the ecosystem. This distinctive waterway also offers excellent fishing and birdwatching. As well as several species of waterfowl, look out for threatened species like the little tern and fairy tern nesting on the foreshores during spring or foraging during summer.

Wallagoot NSW

22 km away

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Sandy Creek Loop Track
Image credit: Photo: BECC/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Sandy Creek Loop Track

Sandy Creek loop track is a moderately challenging hiking trail that will keep you interested all the way round. The track passes through various natural habitats, such as dry sclerophyll forests, she-oak thickets, pockets of rainforest and an avenue of paper barks that fringe the picturesque Bournda Lagoon. The loop takes in the coastline, Sandy Beach Creek and Bournda Lake so bring along your swimmers and fishing rod. Birdwatching is a great thing to do in Bournda, and you’ll be able to see and hear a range of birds while you’re walking this track. Keep an eye out for raucous glossy-black and yellow-tailed black cockatoos, and the graceful sea eagles can often be seen hunting along the coastline. Remember to also look down occasionally to see if you can spot any delicate rock orchids. In spring the air is sweetened by the orchid’s perfume and by other native wildflowers such as those of the giant honey myrtle. Keep an eye out, also, for swamp wallabies, kangaroos and water dragons.

Bournda NSW

22 km away

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Bournda Lagoon

Natural Attractions

Bournda Lagoon

Bournda Lagoon occasionally opens to the ocean but is usually a calm, warm swimming hole. An avenue of paperbarks fringes the lagoon and a cascade of giant honey myrtles grow down to the shore; their flowers perfume the air in spring and add to the beauty of this scenic location. Swans are often seen on the lagoon and sea eagles fly overhead as they hunt along the coastline. Wallabies and kangaroos also enjoy the tranquillity of this idyllic place to picnic. Only a short walk from the carpark, the lagoon is easily accessible. Sheltered and shallow, it’s a safe environment for children to swim and paddle a canoe to their hearts’ content, so bring the whole family and enjoy a day out. There are also plenty of shady spots for a picnic or just to relax and feel a million miles away from civilisation. Remember to bring along your fishing rod, and when you’ve made the catch of the day, spark up a wood fire barbecue and cook up a feast.

Bournda NSW

22 km away

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Magic Mountain Merimbula

Amusement and Theme Parks

Magic Mountain Merimbula

Merimbula's Magic Mountain is a great way to spend a day. You'll find a range of activities including grand-prix racing cars, toboggan, water slides, roller coaster, carpet slide, jumping castle, mini golf and more. Magic Mountain offers birthday, Christmas and corporate parties, and holds fantastic events throughout the year. The park boasts a fantastic performance stage for concerts, set amongst the tranquil bushlands of the far South Coast. Picnic and barbecue facilities are available for use and snacks are available from the Kiosk and Tram Takeaway Food Bar. Magic Mountain now offers the Tree Climb Challenge, a high ropes adventure course for all of the bigger kids. Age and Height restrictions apply so please see the website for more details. Entry into the park is free all year round.

Merimbula NSW

22 km away

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Dolphin Cove lookout
Image credit: David Rogers

Natural Attractions

Dolphin Cove and North Tura Beach

Dolphin Cove and North Tura Beach offer stunning coastal scenery and access to Bournda National Park. Located north of Merimbula, it is popular with swimmers, walkers and those just wanting to relax on the sand. North Tura Beach stretches from Dolphin Cove in the south, to Bournda Island in the north. Dolphins are frequent visitors, as are whales in the late winter and spring months. Dolphin Cove viewing platform provides spectacular views and great whale and dolphin watching. The vibrant red Devonian rock of Tura Headland offers a unique setting and is a significant geological feature. Explore the 1.6 kilometre return walking track along Tura Headland, leading to an epic lookout with panoramic ocean views. Other scenic shorts walks in this area include the Sandy Creek Loop Track (6 kilometre loop), and a beach walk to Short Point or Bournda Island. Access to Dolphin Cove is via stairs. The beach is not patrolled, and there are no toilets or facilities.

Merimbula NSW

23 km away

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Learn to shuck oysters
Image credit: Broadwater oysters

Shopping and Markets

Gourmet Coast Trail - Merimbula

Gourmet Coast Trail is a self-directed trail of food and beverage experiences offering quality service and products, each reflecting local character and something a little different. It brings together memorable tourism experiences and outstanding food and drink. Visit the website and use the trip planner to tailor the trail to your own preferences. The question is, how much do you want to do? Relax on beautiful beaches, unwind by the lake, or get active. Walk the boardwalk, explore the Oyster Trail including learning to shuck oysters at Broadwater Oysters, or kayak with Navigate Expedition. Enjoy views and great coffee at Merimbula Wharf, try your luck fishing, or book a farm visit at Saarinen Organics. For the energetic, hike nearby national parks or enjoy water sports and mountain biking, then head north to Tathra or south to Eden for more exploring. For lunch, linger at Merimbula Wharf, enjoy seafood from Wheeler's Seafood Restaurant, or dine at Kitty's or Umi Ko Izakaya. Heading north, savour oysters from Tathra Oysters overlooking the ocean, or enjoy gourmet pizza at Drift Pizza. The afternoon is perfect for tastings at Long Stocking Brewery in Pambula or Grand Matriarch Distilling Company in Merimbula. As evening arrives, choose between Merimbula Wharf, Wheeler's Seafood Restaurant, Umi Ko Izakaya, Bar Monti, or Kitty's. Then plan tomorrow: north to Tathra or Bermagui, or south to Eden.

Merimbula NSW

23 km away

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Top Fun
Image credit: Top Fun

Amusement and Theme Parks

Top Fun - Merimbula

Step into an enchanting Family Entertainment Center, where every corner resonates with the symphony of joy and the resonance of laughter. Nestled at the town's zenith, this haven of happiness offers a medley of exhilarating experiences, weaving unforgettable memories for all who venture within. Ten Pin Bowling sets the stage for timeless amusement, where the resounding clash of pins is harmonized with the jubilant cheers of camaraderie. A captivating Mini Golf course awaits, adorned with whimsical twists and turns that invite patrons to embark on a journey through vibrant landscapes, igniting the spirit of adventure. Laser Tag beckons the bold to engage in adrenaline-pumping escapades, where strategic prowess meets heart-pounding excitement. The arcade games area resonates with the vibrant glow of flashing lights and echoes of jubilant cheers, capturing the essence of unbridled delight. This remarkable centre stands open each day, a steadfast sanctuary of merriment, with the exception of the revered Christmas day. For an optimal experience, especially during holidays, reservations for Ten Pin Bowling are advisable. Booking is a breeze through a simple phone call , ensuring a cherished place in the tapestry of this exuberant narrative.

Merimbula NSW

23 km away

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Merimbula Old School Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Merimbula Old School Museum

The Merimbula Old School Museum occupies the sandstone building in Main Street that was the former teacher's residence and classroom, all under one roof. It is a rare example of this type of building still held in public ownership in NSW. Formal application for a school at Merimbula was made in October 1869, signed by the Rev. W. Thom, Adam K. Page and Armstrong L. Munn. Parents undertook to pay one-third of the cost of the building. Sir William Montague Manning donated the land on Main Street, and the school began in temporary premises on the site in 1870. The stone building was first occupied in October 1875 with an enrolment of 39 children. The building was vacated at the end of 1945, and the school moved to a new site on Main Street in premises which have been enlarged over the years. The residence was repaired and leased for accommodation, and the schoolroom was used for community purposes for a number of years. The building was eventually abandoned. In 1967, the Imlay Historical Society was formed and requested permission to use the building as a museum, which, after extensive repairs, was opened in 1973. This NSW National Trust-classified building is leased from the BVSC and managed by the Merimbula-Imlay Historical Society.

Merimbula NSW

23 km away

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Safir House

Spas and Retreats

Safir House

Nestled on the Sapphire Coast, Safir House has redefined relaxation, offering guests the opportunity to "disconnect to reconnect"—with themselves and the world around them. Positioned at the crossroads of luxury and science, Safir House integrates cutting-edge wellness technology with evidence-based services. In this serene yet sophisticated setting, the expert team guides each guest on a personalized journey toward rejuvenation. From the healing warmth of state-of-the-art infrared saunas to the invigorating chill of ice bath treatments and the restorative benefits of a lymphatic massage suit, every experience is tailored to individual needs. Safir House is committed to ensuring that every guest leaves feeling recentered, relaxed, and deeply reconnected. It's more than a destination—it's a return to self.

Merimbula NSW

24 km away

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Market St Facade of THE TWYFORD
Image credit: The Twyford Hall Complex Ltd

Entertainment Venues

The Twyford

The Twyford is a performing arts, visual arts, boutique conference and community venue in the centre of Merimbula, NSW. Merimbula was voted NSW's Top Small Tourist Town in 2025. The 199-tiered-seat Theatre, completed in 2025, hosts touring theatre, dance, and music shows, and has state-of-the-art stage lighting, audio and AV systems installed. The heritage-listed Twyford Hall seats up to 170 and has been at the heart of community events since 1931, including art exhibitions, dance, music and theatre. There are two dressing rooms (6 people and 12 people) for performers/speakers. The lower dressing room and bathroom are fully accessible. The upper dressing room includes laundry facilities. The complex also has a licensed Foyer Cafe/Bar that can be hired for small functions in its own right when the Theatre is not being used. The Supper Room is a small meeting or exhibition space that can seat up to 20. There is a commercial-grade kitchen that can be hired or used by third party caterers for preparing meals for Hall or Foyer events.

Merimbula NSW

24 km away

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Merimbula to Pambula Cycle and Walkway
Image credit: Sapphire Coast Destination Marketing

Natural Attractions

Merimbula to Pambula Cycle and Walkway

Embark on a leisurely ride or walk along the 10 kilometre shared pathway connecting Merimbula to Pambula Beach. Ideal for both cycling enthusiasts and families, this sealed trail features a dedicated path separated from the road, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. This popular route is a favourite among walkers, runners, and cyclists alike. While it attracts steady use, you'll still find moments of tranquillity, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. The majority of the trail follows a smooth, paved surface, though you'll encounter a few short sections of standard footpath and on-road riding along the way. Starting from Market Street in Merimbula, near the boardwalk cafés and shops by the lake, the path crosses the iconic Merimbula Bridge. From there, it follows Arthur Kaine Drive toward Pambula, then continues along Pambula Beach Road until reaching the golden sands of Pambula Beach.

Merimbula NSW

24 km away

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Old School Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Old School Museum

Housed in a heritage building dating from 1873, Merimbula Old School Museum is one of few buildings of its type remaining in Australia today. Built with locally quarried stone, the building was originally built as a school with the master's residence attached. It is a rare example of this type of complex under the one roof remaining in public ownership in NSW. In 1971 the Merimbula-Imlay Historical Society was given permissive occupancy of the building and after undertaking extensive restoration work, began operating the museum in 1973. The structure is listed on the register of the National Trust of Australia. Wander the displays and discover stories of Merimbula and Pambula through text, photos and artefacts, tracing the history from the custodianship of the Yuin people through to the development of local industries. The museum is open on select days or by appointment and is highly recommended for those keen on the history of the area.

Merimbula NSW

24 km away

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Merimbula Boardwalk
Image credit: David Rogers

Natural Attractions

Merimbula Boardwalk

Please note: Recent high tides and powerful winds have caused damage to the timber structure at the eastern end of Merimbula Boardwalk near Merimbula Bridge, prompting Bega Valley Shire Council to close this section for public safety. Repair works on the western end of the Merimbula Boardwalk near Sunny's Kiosk are now complete, and this section of the popular lakeside walk has reopened. Merimbula Boardwalk meanders around the lake shore and through mangrove forests, under eucalyptus canopies and past pristine oyster farms. It's approximately 3.4 kilometres return and will take around 1.5 leisurely hours to complete. It's famous for sunset views, and dotted with seats and jetties to enjoy them. Look for Merimbula's resident seal, who sleeps nearby and patrols the oyster leases looking for fish to snack on.  Sunny's Kiosk is a great place to grab a coffee or hire a boat or kayak to get out on the water. Begin from Lakewood Drive at the back of the lake or park next to the bridge at the bottom of Market Street. Please note, no bike access on the boardwalk. Foot traffic only. The boardwalk is suitable for wheelchairs and is dog friendly (on leash).

Merimbula NSW

24 km away

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