Sapphire Coast Scenic Pub Trail
Pubs to visit on the Sapphire Coast
It’s interesting isn’t it, that most historic pubs on the Australian coast were built in such amazing positions? High atop headlands and with bays lapping at their doors, the Sapphire Coast’s small but quality clutch of hotels each welcome you with their own brand of hospitality. Sports bars, bistros, incredible decks, cosy fireside moments, family fun, music and some amazing local brews and food, take yourself on a journey from bar to bar, with a few sandy moments in between.
BERMAGUI BEACH HOTEL
The historic Bermagui Beach Hotel, in the very heart of town, was built in 1895. She graces the main street, looking over Horseshoe Bay towards Gulaga, and it’s a perfect view to while away a few hours with a couple of frothies, a long lunch, or dinner with family or mates. Recently fitted out and upgraded, the hotel boasts a delicious contemporary menu and a well-stocked bottle shop, plus you’ve got to love a country pub that serves an Aperol Spritz and VB Growler with the vista!
There are small plates for big grazing, burgers, Schnitzels and local fish alongside Wagyu beef, or perhaps a slow cooked pork belly and truffly, mushroom pasta. Large and light and bright, the hotel spaces invite you to relax for a while, chat to the locals, swap fishing stories, and enjoy a cold one at the end of a gorgeous day on the coast.
HOTEL AUSTRALASIA, EDEN
Once known as the ‘Grand Old Lady’ of Eden,
Hotel Australasia reopened its historic doors in late 2022 after a long-awaited restoration. Step into a world where the past meets the present and where the flavours of history come to life. Their Pikes Italian Bistro and John Hine's Bar bring locals and visitors together to enjoy amazing cocktails, local craft beers, traditional Italian cuisine and gorgeous antipasto (including local oysters of course). There is nothing more to say except see you there!
TATHRA HOTEL
Beautifully refurbished, the glorious Tathra Hotel building sits upon its rugged headland with 180 degree views as far as the eye can see. From its large deck to the tall ceilinged dining room, all eyes rest on the gorgeous Sapphire Coast horizons… north to headlands and south over wind swept walk ways, and seal basking rocks.
With the Humpback Brewery ensconced in the old pokie room, a busy eclectic kitchen and live music on weekends, a fabulous kids playground and various styles of accommodation, this pub has got a lot to offer. Weekly specials like venison ragu, Cajun salmon and tasty curries join the pub regulars.
GREAT SOUTHERN INN, EDEN
Where else but Eden could you sit back with a cold schooner, a big plate of surf ‘n’ turf or bangers and mash, and look out over the ancient whaling waters of the Sapphire Coast? Originally built as a store in 1857, as a pub The Great Southern Inn has been a landmark in Eden town for over 140 years, and sits high on the hill watching over the changes Eden has undergone over the years. Eden’s whaling history is fascinating and the museum is a short walk from the pub.
So after a day of exploring gather the family for a meal of pub grub and a few coldies while keeping up with all live sport action in the Sports Bar. Oysters, cheesy garlic bread, a choice of Schnitzels and Parmies and all your pub favourites as well as ribs and a seafood platter.
MERIMBULA LAKEVIEW HOTEL
Is there a better, more absorbing view than across Merimbula Lake? Its sleepy oyster beds, moored boats, SUP boarders, swimmers and crazy people on floating flamingos? From high up in the front bar at the Merimbula Lakeview Hotel (the Lakey to locals) you can forget what’s going on in the rest of the world through its huge scenic windows. You can even step off an adventure cruise boat right in through the front door at nearby Sapphire Coastal Adventures.
The lounge bar is light and airy with spectacular views and an outdoor deck and beer garden. The Grill Restaurant serves pub favourites like reef ‘n’ beef, catch of the day, Schnitzels, lamb chops, and also curries and stone baked pizzas and plenty of specials. Plenty of beer on tap and a TAB, Fox Sport, Sky and free wifi for those rainy days.
SEAHORSE INN, BOYDTOWN
Built to the romantic vision of controversial entrepreneur Benjamin Boyd way back in 1843, this gracious mansion/hotel on the shores of Twofold Bay is a sight to behold. Polished floorboards, light filled atriums, sweeping stair cases and tall ceilings… you could get lost wandering the wide halls and the landscaped gardens.
The Seahorse Inn recently underwent refurbishment, and some of its history has been sensitively modernised. After Ben Boyd left in 1849, Boydtown and the hotel were left abandoned for almost a century. The building was bought by the local Whiter brothers in 1936, who renovated and added the second story, creating the base for the building you see now and she has seen more evolution since.
The bar and cocktail lounge is one lovely long room situated on the bay side of the building, facing the lawns (perfect for weddings). Call in for a beer and stay for lunch, soaking up some intriguing local history of which there is much.
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