4 Day Long Weekend Road Trip

long weekend guide to the sapphire coast

From our secluded beaches and pristine estuaries, to boutique eateries, ocean vista pub views and ocean fishing adventures - here's the ultimate 4 day north-to-south itinerary for your long weekend on the Sapphire Coast. 



Day 1 - Bermagui & Tathra

Take the easy drive down the coast from Sydney and arrive via the northernmost town in the shire, Bermagui. Drop into any one of the cool cafes or take a seat on the deck of the Bermagui Beach Hotel and enjoy lunch and a beer overlooking the bay. Before continuing south, make sure you check out Bermagui Blue Pool, an iconic ocean pool just on the edge of town.

Head south toward the iconic town of Tathra, travelling the Bermagui-Tathra Road. Winding tracks with signposts that promise adventure lead off the main path (Moon Bay, Nelsons Lagoon and Bithry - home of award-winning oysters, just to name a few). 

As you get closer to Tathra glimpses of the ocean increase and finally, the trees give way and the stunning expanse of Mogareeka Inlet (swimming and fishing paradise) is ahead of you. Cross the bridge and head into Tathra town, where coffee, food and the beach await. Tathra Beach is superb, a 3 km stretch of shimmering sand and perfect ocean. Swim, surf, hire a SUP or just dip your feet in the swell. Keen anglers, head to famous Tathra Wharf or Kianinny Bay just up the hill - you can drop a line in at both and enjoy some great fishing. 

After you’ve checked into your accommodation, stroll along the beach whilst you decide where to go for dinner. It’s all about the local produce here. Uber fresh with low food miles and it really shows.

Day 2 - Merimbula & Pambula

A leisurely breakfast in town then it’s time to take the brisk 25 minute journey down to Merimbula. 

One of the best places in the region to enjoy, Merimbula shines all year round with fishing, golf and bowls, all ready to complement the beautiful and unspoilt beaches and estuaries on offer. 

If you’re not the leisurely breakfast type, we suggest a morning fishing charter. Our coast has some of the best inshore and offshore fishing in NSW and Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna Bluefin Tuna, Kingfish, Snapper are all caught in these pristine waters. Private charters can be arranged through Sapphire Coastal Adventures, Freedom Charters at Eden or Fish Bermi at Bermagui with these 3 towns also host big game fishing tournaments all year round. 

Lunch really has to be about oysters and seafood. This is Australia’s famous Oyster Coast, home to award-winning oysters (and the Sydney Rock Oyster) with over 8 million oysters harvested here every year. And you can buy them locally so be sure to visit the “farm gates”. 

The afternoon should be spent playing golf on one our famous courses, Merimbula-Pambula Golf Club (avoiding the resident kangaroos) or Tura Beach Country Club, with its championship course designed by Peter Thomson. Or if golf's not your thing, visiting the iconic, much loved and much photographed Pambula River Mouth. Whilst you’re in the area, drop into Pambula Village, one of the most unique shopping villages on the Sapphire Coast. Pambula is well-known for its bespoke shops, organic and local produce , bustling brewery and envied village vibe. 

Check into your accommodation at Merimbula and enjoy a walk on the beach to end the day.

Day 3 - Eden & BEOWA National Park

Take the 20 minute drive south to Eden, famous for its whaling history and stunning harbour. For lovers of walks, you can stroll along rugged clifftops overlooking stunning coastline, yet still be only minutes from town. Head to Snug Cove Wharf for fish and chips and revisit history with a trip to the Eden Killer Whale Museum. 

Return to Merimbula for your final night before heading home.

Day 4 - Heading home

Start your journey home via the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre where you can pick some award-winning cheese. And just 10 minutes further north, visit the North of Eden Gin cellar door and find out why they were award winners at this year’s International wine and spirit awards in London. Head north via neighbouring Tilba and get your cheese on for a second time before winding your way back to Sydney.