5 Day Saltwater Challenge

Explore Stunning Beaches of the Sapphire Coast

With 150+ beaches on the spectacular Sapphire Coast there are an endless number of ways to explore our coastal paradise. To make the most of your time on the Sapphire Coast, we've mapped out our top picks for a five-day itinerary with saltwater on the agenda.

It's 5 days, 5 towns, and one amazing coastal journey. Visit all our favourite spots, or take your pick of the bunch for rejuvenating days by the sapphire sea. From the rolling waves of our surf beaches, to the still water of secluded estuaries, the fast running currents of our rivers and the ever changing tides of our lakes, we challenge you to take a dip at least once in every town.

Day 1 - Bermagui

Start by taking a dip in the pristine waters of Bermagui's famous Blue Pool, or head to lesser-known Bruce Steer Pool for a swim in the stunning harbour with views to Gulaga.

Next up, jump in the car and head 7-kilometres north to Wallaga Lake, the largest coastal lake in southern NSW, a perfect place to swim, fish or canoe. 

While you're in Bermagui, take a trip on one of Bermagui's famous fishing charters departing out of Bermagui Harbour, or take a surf lesson with Camel Rock Surf School.

Heading south, visit secluded Barragga Bay or nudist-friendly Armands Beach.

Day 2 - Tathra

As you head south from Bermagui to Tathra, pick one of the dirt tracks that leads into stunning Mimosa Rocks National Park, where turquoise waters can be glimpsed through the colourful bark of spotted gums and prehistoric cycads. The crystal-clear waters of Middle Beach and Nelson Lagoon are idyllic places to enjoy a saltwater plunge.

As you approach Tathra, you'll reach Mogareeka Inlet, where the fresh water of the Bega River meets the mighty Pacific. It is a gorgeous family-friendly place to explore and abundant with marine and bird activity. Fish in the river and sea, or launch a kayak or SUP and paddle up the Bega River to Cohen's Lake at Kalaru.

Splash in the waves at Tathra Beach, then head five minutes out of town to Kianinny Bay - a beautiful local swimming hole where kids learn to snorkel.

Day 3 - Merimbula

Heading south, take a dip at the tiniest beach on the Sapphire Coast, Wallagoot Gap. Also known as 'Wine Glass Bay', this beach is located in Bournda National Park on your way to Merimbula and is famous for its sparkling blue waters that have cut into the cliffside to create a pool-like gorge.

If you're after surf, head to Dolphin Cove and find waves all to yourself along North Tura's wild, unspoilt beach. From here you can walk north along the sand all the way to Bournda Island and Bournda Lagoon in Bournda National Park.

Now it's time to find a patch of sand at Bar Beach, a local's favourite replete with famous Bar Beach Kiosk for all your coffee and brunch desires. On the outgoing tide you can join the locals in floating with the tide from the lake to the sea. Launch your kayak from here or Mitchie's Jetty, and explore stunning Merimbula Lake with a fishing rod in tow.

Day 4 - Pambula

Visit Pambula Beach, a family-friendly paradise with a picture-perfect sweep of sand that will take you all the way to Merimbula, for those inclined to walk. Rockpools on the southern end of main beach are places of discovery for littlies so don't forget the buckets and spades.

Surf or SUP at Lions Park Beach and then take a dip in pristine Pambula River Mouth, one of the most stunning estuaries on our coast. Beowa National Park is located on the southern side of Pambula River Mouth, where you can take the walking track to picturesque Severs Beach.

Don't miss canoeing or kayaking the serene waters of Pambula Lake, where you can also buy oysters straight from the farm gates or even take an oyster tour.

Day 5 - Eden

Swim at Aslings Beach, simply stunning and dog-friendly. While you're there, take a walk to the very southern end and take a dip in Aslings Rock Pool. 

Visit Cocora Beach for swimming and paddling in calm water, then take a walk along the Bundian Way Story Trail to Quarantine Bay.  Discover the history of the Aboriginal people that have lived in this land for thousands of years and stop for a swim along its hidden coves like Bungo Beach and Rixons Beach.

For the extra adventurous,  you can kayak up Kiah Inlet from Davidson Whaling Station, scuba the old shipwrecks that lie in Twofold Bay, or fish the Nullica River Mouth at the northern end of Boydtown Beach.

Drive south to southern Beowa National Park and discover Bittangabee Bay where you can swim, fish or explore the Light to Light Walk.