The Best Accommodation In Merimbula

The best Merimbula accommodation is all about proximity to the waterways that serve as a playground for visitors to the seaside town. Here are some of the best places to stay in and around Merimbula.

Merimbula has long been a hit with weekenders from Victoria and the ACT. But the seaside village has also become a go-to getaway spot for visitors from around NSW who are extending their search for pristine places to stay and play. Merimbula is within the country of the Yuin-Monaro Nations on NSW’s Sapphire Coast. From resorts and motels to holiday homes and Airbnbs, and camping and caravan parks, here are some of the best Merimbula accommodation options for a Sapphire Coast stay.

1. Hillcrest Merimbula

Wear your best kaftan, crank that ‘70s playlist and pour yourself a glass of bubbles to enjoy on the balcony of your Exhale Deluxe suite at Hillcrest Merimbula – one of our top unique stays in NSW.

a Hillcrest Merimbula vehicle — Have a well-deserved break at Hillcrest Merimbula.

The rooms at the roadside motel have had a beautiful nip and tuck, with the pared-back interior including pops of colour inspired by the pink sandstone that is necklaced around Merimbula’s seaside surrounds. The chic boutique hotel, built in 1969, has 29 rooms and a one-bedroom apartment, pool, tennis court, fire pit and playground.

a chic bedroom at Hillcrest Merimbula — Stay in one of the chic rooms of Hillcrest Merimbula. (Image: Robbie Duncan – No Bad Days Photography)

2. Coast Resort Merimbula

In need of a serious break in idyllic surroundings? Book a weekend away at Coast Resort Merimbula , which has a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom townhouses and apartments. The coastal resort will suit road-trippers who want to see more of Merimbula. The activities list is huge in Merimbula and its surroundings.

the bedroom pool apartment at Coast Resort Merimbula — Step outside your bedroom pool apartment for a few laps.

As well as being a short walk from ocean beaches and inland waterways, it is near some of the best places to eat and drink in Merimbula. There’s a lap pool, and tennis court, too.

a pool at Coast Resort Merimbula — Sit on a sun lounger by the pool at Coast Resort Merimbula.

3. The South Seas Motel

It started with the Hillcrest Merimbula, and it continued with South Seas Motel Merimbula , one of Australia’s many retrofitted properties that pay tribute to our nostalgic road-tripping past. One of the best features of the pet-friendly motel in Merimbula is the solar-heated pool; it’s decked out with sun loungers and set against the backdrop of a juicy tangerine-tinted wall.

the property exterior of the South Seas Motel, Merimbula — Stay in the chic South Seas Motel.

Pull up right outside your comfortable room and engineer that gatho around the barbie. Like most of Australia’s best retro motels, the function of The South Seas Motel is far more impressive than its simple form might suggest.

an aerial view of the South Seas Motel, Merimbula — The retro motel is pet-friendly.

4. Surfside Holiday Apartments Merimbula

Those looking for a budget-friendly beachside holiday in Merimbula will appreciate the pricing at Surfside Holiday Apartments Merimbula , which is just minutes away from Merimbula Lake. The apartments are also within walking distance from the centre of Merimbula and Main Beach is so close the sound of the ocean echoes against the windows. Time your visit to coincide with the Merimbula Seaside Market & Fair held in nearby Ford Park on the third Sunday of the month.

5. The Love Shack

Start your day’s activities early so you can then kick back and retire to the comfort of the Love Shack , a pretty one-bedroom cottage in Pambula Beach, just a 10-minute drive from Merimbula.

the bedroom at The Love Shack, Merimbula — Get cosy in a one-bedroom cottage in The Love Shack.

Here, you can enjoy soaring views of sea, sand and sky in complete privacy and comfort from this humble beach shack on a hill, which will facilitate hours of quality time with that special someone.

the kitchen at The Love Shack, Merimbula — Prepare your meals at the Love Shack’s fully-equipped kitchen.

6. Tathra Beach Eco Camp

Want to marvel at the starry skies while toasting marshmallows around a communal campfire while in Merimbula? The Tathra Beach Eco Camp , about a half-hour drive from Merimbula, is set in the heart of the Australian bush with dedicated nature areas where sightings of kangaroos are virtually guaranteed.

The eco architecture here includes a range of camping options from powered and unpowered camp and caravan sites to spacious Bellbird and Driftwood tents, Gumnut Pods and cute Banksia Cabins.

the bedroom at Tathra Beach Eco Camp, Merimbula — Retire to the comfort of your bed at Tathra Beach Eco Camp.

7. Hotel Australasia

Hotel Australasia in nearby Eden is positioned to take advantage of all the Sapphire Coast has to offer. The refurbished boutique hotel is one of Eden’s grand old dames, a storied hotel that has been welcoming visitors for more than a century. The hotel was saved from demolition in 2019 by a local builder who has given it a multimillion-dollar transformation. The décor leans into old-world luxury and the elegance of the era: think claw-footed bathtubs, pressed-metal ceilings and sash windows. Hotel Australasia includes Pikes Italian Bistro named in honour of its original owner, female entrepreneur Sabina Pike, and the John Hines Bar which nods to the hotel’s original builder.

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8. Sugar Rock Ranch

The Sugar Rock Ranch reflects authentic Australian vernacular traditions. The rustic accommodation was built by hand using timber felled and milled on the Eden property. And it lies close to the surrounding wilderness.

the property exterior of Sugar Rock Ranch, Merimbula — Stay close to the wilderness at Sugar Rock Ranch.

If you want to choose somewhere to switch off, the Sugar Rock Ranch is an ideal centre from which to ramble down to the jetty at the dam. Alternatively, you can ponder the universe around the private fire pit. Forget Netflix. The ‘Barn Studio’ cabin has a library, vinyl record player and board games like Yahtzee.

the cabin interior at Sugar Rock Ranch, Merimbula — The cabins at Sugar Rock Ranch evoke a rustic charm.

9. The Homestead

This robust property has been part of the Bega community for more than 150 years. And although The Homestead looks quite humble from the outside, the inside of the newly restored property carries a kind of stoic, elegant sensibility from our pioneering past. And the attention to detail is impressive, from each tiny vintage teaspoon to the iconic quartz bath, chef’s kitchen and abundant rose garden. Feed the chooks. Gaze at the stars. And chat to the local real estate agents about that tree change.

10. Lotte’s Hjem

Lotte’s Hjem is the sister property to The Homestead and one of the real gems of the Sapphire Coast. It’s located in Pambula just a short drive from Merimbula and halfway between Melbourne and Sydney. And it’s got Escape to the Country written all over it.

the property exterior of Lotte’s Hjem, Merimbula — Lotte’s Hjem is sequestered between lush greenery. (Image: Luisa Brimble)

The owners saw the value in the weatherboard cottage and circled op shops and antique dealers to furnish it with treasures. As a result, Lotte’s Hjem pays an aesthetic tribute to the past. Harvest herbs and vegetables from the garden. Cosy up around the slow-combustion fireplace. Take a long bath. And relax.

the bedroom at Lotte’s Hjem — Cosy up to the chic bedroom at Lotte’s Hjem. (Image: Luisa Brimble)

11. Albacore Apartments

The spacious balconies at Albacore Apartments are what this property is all about. And the floor plans are dictated by those panoramic views over Merimbula Lake.

a top view of the pool at Albacore Apartments, Merimbula — The pool at Albacore Apartments invites you for a dip.

Each apartment plays into the indoor-outdoor open-plan living aesthetic that makes entertaining such a joy. The one- and two-bedroom apartments are fitted with fully equipped kitchens, washing machines and dryers and can accommodate a maximum of five guests with the addition of a fold-out bed.

the interior of Albacore Apartments, Merimbula — Albacore Apartments is stylish.

12. The Palms Apartments Merimbula

Each apartment at The Palms Apartments Merimbula has two bedrooms and sleeps up to four people. The location in the heart of Merimbula makes these apartments a great place to base yourself while on the Sapphire Coast. But the fully self-contained crash pads are also so comfortable you can stay in and dedicate your day to relaxing.

the stylish interior of The Palms Apartments Merimbula — Spend your beachside holiday at The Palms Apartments Merimbula.

Families who want a flop-and-drop holiday will love the solar-heated pool, laundry (essential) and fully operational kitchen. The fact The Palms Apartments Merimbula is just a short walk from some of Merimbula’s best restaurants is also a plus.

13. All Decked Out at Penguin Mews

All Decked out at Penguin Mews is designed to showcase Merimbula accommodation at its best. This quintessential Aussie beach pad has a cool contemporary palette of warm whites and taupe tones that complement the incredible blue-on-blue views over Merimbula Lake and Bar Beach.

the living and dining room at All Decked Out at Penguin Mews, Merimbula — All Decked Out at Penguin Mews has a cool contemporary palette.

What better way to end another delightful day than with drinks around the covered barbecue area? A handful of great local restaurants are also easily reached on foot.

the main bedroom at All Decked Out at Penguin Mews — Curl up in the chic pink-hued bedroom at All Decked Out at Penguin Mews.

14. NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort

If you’re searching for Merimbula accommodation overlooking the sea, the NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort provides an excellent base. It’s one of the best spots for caravanning, camping or glamping on the Sapphire Coast. The seaside resort is positioned on a headland under big skies, close to the region’s lakes, beaches and biodiversity.

an oceanview spa villa at NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort — Stay in an oceanview spa villa.

In addition to its poolside condos, ocean-view bungalows, powered and unpowered sites, the NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort now has a range of new accessible clifftop villas that are simply furnished in contemporary coastal style. It also has four new stylish safari tents featuring outdoor baths designed to take advantage of those killer coastal views.

Sunshine, sea breezes and sand-speckled locals: the Sutherland Shire is perfect for an idyllic Sydney summer.

The Sutherland Shire is one of Sydney’s most dynamic regions. Home to an eclectic mix of top-notch eateries and drinking holes, a flourishing arts scene, and striking land and seascapes, it’s a haven for foodies, culture seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

It’s also an ever-evolving destination with a constant wave of new places to eat and drink, and under-the-radar pockets to explore – many of which are dog-friendly.

If you’re venturing to this gorgeous part of the world this summer, here’s your guide to what’s new and worth discovering.

Savour the summer dining scene

Fred’s After Hours on the sutherland shire — Pop into Fred’s After Hours.

The Shire’s buzzing dining scene is one of its biggest drawcards, and many of the region’s culinary highlights can be found in the sun-soaked beachside hub of Cronulla. A bunch of newcomers have recently set up shop, making the area ripe for culinary adventure.

Homer Rogue Taverna is exactly as its name suggests: a cheeky take on classic Greek food. Expect meze and mains bursting with bold flavours and a wine list packed with standout Greek drops.

Freds Providore – a Cronulla favourite for casual cafe fare and excellent coffee – is now open late from Thursday to Sunday. Come sundown, it morphs into Fred’s After Hours, serving a refined European-inspired menu, wines, cocktails and a laid-back yet polished vibe.

Bobbys is a slick destination right on Cronulla Beach, where you can grab a plate of freshly-caught seafood and a summery cocktail while cooling off in the sea breeze.

And if you’re after a bit of everything, the sprawling and multifaceted Parc Pavilion is a melting pot of dining experiences. It blends a cafe, bistro, bar, Italian restaurant and a host of regular events, all tied together in a cool coastal setting.

Got a Saturday morning to spare? The Shire Farmers Market in Sutherland is a must-do ritual, letting you (and your four-legged friend) browse fresh produce, flowers and gourmet treats against a backdrop of live music and local chatter.

Dive into ocean pools

ocean pool on the sutherland shire — The ocean pools beckon.

Given its prime coastal positioning, the Shire teems with crystal-clear ocean pools and enclosed bathing spots. Silver Beach Tidal Baths offers a netted
swimming experience in Botany Bay. Tucked beside a small sandy beach, the tidal baths at Gunnamatta Park are calm and shallow – making them an ideal setting for less confident swimmers.

Just a hop and a skip away is Shelly Park Ocean Pool, a magical rock pool carved in the ocean. It’s well-suited to young kids and offers sweeping views towards the open sea.

Experience local arts and culture

Hazelhurst Arts Centre in Gymea is elegantly positioned within a lush garden landscape, serving as the Sutherland Shire’s premier destination for arts and culture. This summer, experience the Art on Paper Award 2025 – a celebration of innovation and creativity through the versatile medium of paper.

Set within the leafy surrounds of Hazelhurst Arts Centre, Hazel Kitchen & Bar has curated the ultimate picnic experience. Think abundant cheese platters, artisan charcuterie boards, fresh OJ and a thoughtfully chosen wine list, all available to take away and enjoy in the art-filled gardens just beyond the restaurant. Best of all, four-legged friends are welcome to join the fun.

Next, venture south to the artsy village of Bundeena for the monthly Bundeena and Maianbar Art Trail . This self-guided journey through local artists’ studios offers a glimpse into their work and creative spaces.

Relish the dog-friendly atmosphere

a dog on Greenhills Dog Beach sutherland shire — Let the dog off-leash at Greenhills Dog Beach.

The Sutherland Shire is a bona fide playground for pups and their humans. Find a string of dog-friendly beaches popular with locals, visitors and pups alike. Silver Beach in Kurnell is a peaceful pocket, allowing dogs off-leash without restriction. While Horderns Beach in Bundeena and Greenhills Beach in Cronulla are equally serene and provide off-leash access (be sure to check times and seasonal restrictions before you go).

If you’re planning to make a weekend of it, book yourself and your pooch into Quest Cronulla . With stylish and spacious pet-friendly accommodation, thoughtful amenities, and a prime location just steps from Cronulla Esplanade and a variety of dog-friendly cafes, it’s the perfect spot to rest after a full day of exploring.

Get into nature

Sunrise at Curracurrong Falls and Eagle Rock in the Royal National Park, Sydney. — Find natural beauty in Royal National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor escapes: imagine rugged bushwalks, breezy beachside tracks, meandering cycling trails and lookouts galore. The best part? Many of them are perfectly suited to dogs.

Take your canine to Cronulla Esplanade – the Shire’s version of the famed Bondi to Coogee Walk. This eight-kilometre route takes you past the region’s most picturesque beaches, offering panoramic vistas and an electric energy. It heaves with locals every morning and weekend, getting their steps in with a coffee in one hand and a dog leash in the other.

If you’re travelling without furry friends, stop by the Royal National Park. You’ll be engulfed in ancient bushland, craggy cliffs, towering rock formations, diverse wildlife and twisting tracks. The Jibbon Loop Track is a highlight, with spectacular views over the sea. Alternatively, the Karloo Track forms a loop that winds through untamed bush, freshwater pools and waterfalls. Re-lace your walking shoes or grab a bike to follow The Bundeena Drive to Marley Walk past freshwater pools and creeks, on to scenic beach views of Little Marley Beach.

Hit up the beautiful beaches

aerial of cronulla beach and esplanade — Enjoy postcard-perfect beaches. (Image: Destination NSW)

The stretch along Cronulla bursts with postcard-perfect beaches, each offering a different flavour. With rolling waves, regular patrol and a steady stream of beachgoers, Cronulla Beach and North Cronulla Beach are buzzy and built for all kinds of swimmers. Elouera Beach is a quieter option, attracting early-morning surfers hoping to catch the perfect wave.

If you prefer a side of dramatic scenery, visit Wanda or Greenhills – in addition to ocean panoramas, both are backed by towering golden dunes and wild scrub. Looking for something more subdued? Shelly Beach Ocean Pool is a relaxed – yet no less captivating – retreat.

Start planning your Sutherland Shire summer at visitsutherlandshire.com.au.

Merimbula accommodation: 14 stays for a bliss-filled seaside escape