Jess and Andy of Round & Round Coffee share their Sapphire Coast Itinerary.
The Sapphire Coast is the region in South East NSW stretching from Bermagui to the Victorian border. Having now spent two summer holidays serving coffee in this pristine region, it’s apparent this place has it all!
Here are some of our must see places if you’re planning a trip to the area.
A fisherperson’s paradise and a vibrant town, perfect for swimming, surfing, kayaking, or snorklelling. Be sure to have a dip in the “Blue Pool” that’s located at the base of a rocky cliff, off Pacific Drive. We also had an awesome coffee at Mister Jones on Bunga St.
One of our favourite national parks in Australia, Mimosa Rocks starts at the northern most end of Tathra Beach and runs for 16km. There’s an abundance of wildlife in the area as well – we saw wallabies, dolphins and goannas all in one day. Nelson Beach is a great swimming/fishing spot, perfect for kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. You can choose to drive here, or walk up the beach heading south from Gillard’s Campground, then over the dunes. Use google maps for reference.
Located in the Biamanga Cultural area, this is a sacred site to the Yuin people and must be respected. There’s an easy boardwalk in containing interpretive signage about the local aboriginal history here. There’s a lovely gorge and cascading waterfall with natural rock slide. It’s a great area for birdwatching too, so keep your eyes peeled for the azure kingfisher and other species.
Considered the heart of the Sapphire Coast, we came here to go snorkelling at Short Point. We then stumbled upon “Dulcie’s Cottage”. a quaint weatherboard house built in 1925 where they pump out some awesome cocktails, tasty burgers and oysters from a 1950s style caravan. Lovely outdoor seating area, located at 60 Main St, Merimbula. It’s a perfect spot for a post beach bevy and a bite.
A quaint village vibe in the main street with specialty shops and a pub. Just south of Pambula is our favourite “Severs Beach”. It’s where the Pambula River meets the ocean and the calm crystal clear turquoise water make this the ideal swimming spot. It’s an easy 500m walk in from the carpark, located in Ben Boyd National Park. On your way here, you can’t drive past “Broadwater Oysters”, an idealic waterfront setting and the best darn oysters we’ve come across on our travels.
Also worth checking out is “Longstocking Brewery” that has a lovely indoor/outdoor ambience, cold beers, woodfire pizzas and live music most weekends.
Wild Ryes Bakery in the main street also pumps out amazing coffee and baked goods daily.
The amount of bays and water in and around Eden is quite phenomenal. Even if the wind is blowing you can still escape it on a different side of town. In the height of peak season we still managed to find places to swim and relax that weren’t too crowded. Cocora Beach is one of our faves. It’s equipped with BBQs, playground, toilets and picnic tables. From here take part of the Bundian Way Story Trail over to Quarantine bay,(2km) and stop at the viewing platforms to take in the coastal scenery. Aslings beach is also great for surfing or body boarding and is a patrolled in summer. The Northern end of the beach links up to Lake Curalo, where you can take in the views and walk the 6km boardwalk. The foreshore also has a skate park and amenities.
Fancy some freshwater? Twenty minute drive inland from the heart of Eden, you’ll find “Nethercote Falls” which as a magic waterhole. From the carpark, it’s also a twenty minute walk down a steep hill, so be prepared to walk back up it! Well worth it though. The drive out here is gorgeous too, taking you through some spectacular properties and green rolling hills this shire is famous for.
Ben Boyd National Park is great too. Take a drive out to the Green Cape Lighthouse , the southern most lighthouse in NSW, located on an epic headland. Along the way pull into “Disaster Bay Lookout” for a photo opportunity and to purchase your park vehicle pass ($8).
If visiting between August to early November whales and dolphins are often seen sheltering in the various bays around town.
Whilst in Eden you must try the very popular “Hooked on Seafood” fish & Chips from the wharf. We also loved “Drift” bar/Restaurant in the same wharf area that has great cocktails, tasty food and water views.
We stayed and served coffee from Discovery parks Eden, which has direct beach access, a fantastic pool/spa area, jumping pillow, movie nights, playgrounds, and is now pet friendly. Great new clean amenities, good sized sites and perfect for families. If staying in the peak season of long weekends, be sure to book your site as they do fill up. Located out 7.5km South of Eden at Boydtown.
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