Merimbula
NSW 2548 • Rest of NSW
About Merimbula
Merimbula is a picturesque coastal town on the Sapphire Coast of far south New South Wales, situated around Merimbula Lake approximately 450 kilometres south of Sydney. With a population of nearly 4,000, it serves as a major tourist destination and regional centre for the Bega Valley. The town sits at the meeting point of ocean, lake and bushland, with palaeontologically significant rock formations at Merimbula Point.
Life in Merimbula revolves around the water and natural beauty. Residents enjoy pristine beaches, world-class oyster farming, excellent fishing, and whale watching in season. The town offers quality dining, local markets, and attractions like Magic Mountain theme park and Potoroo Palace wildlife sanctuary. It attracts retirees, sea-changers, and tourism workers who appreciate the laid-back coastal lifestyle with good access to both Sydney and Melbourne via the local airport.
Merimbula falls under postcode 2548 and is governed by Bega Valley Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Bega electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- Flexibus On-Demand — Tura Beach, Pambula, Eden On-demand booking
- Regional coaches — Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne Daily services
Commute to Sydney
🛣️ Regional town with airport (QantasLink/Rex to Sydney/Melbourne). Canberra is 3 hours drive. Local Flexibus on-demand service available.
Town centre is compact and walkable; car recommended for broader area
Supermarkets Nearby
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Woolworths111 Main Street Merimbula 2548 NSW
Schools
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Merimbula Public School ICSEA 1001Main St
Heritage-Listed Places
There is 1 heritage-listed place in or near Merimbula, listed on the NSW State Heritage Register.
Housing Costs 2021 Census
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 214
- 2. New Zealand 47
- 3. Netherlands 30
- 4. Germany 28
- 5. India 26
- 6. Thailand 26
- 7. South Africa 25
- 8. Philippines 23
- 9. Scotland 21
- 10. United States 17
- 11. Ireland 12
- 12. Nepal 11
- 13. France 8
- 14. Chile 7
- 15. Zimbabwe 6
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)