On the doorstep of Merimbula, Pambula Beach is a laid-back town on the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales. It lies where the Pambula River meets the Pacific Ocean and attracts holidaymakers with its sun-drenched beaches, coastal walking trails and surf breaks.
Things to do in Pambula Beach
Spend your days relaxing on the sands of Pambula Beach, which is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months. It’s an idyllic spot for swimming and offers good surfing conditions, whle it’s also home to a friendly mob of kangaroos. At low tide, you can fossick in the rock pools or stretch your legs on the walking trail that connects around the headland to the Pembula River mouth.
To escape the summer crowds, head to Haycock Beach, a long stretch of sand that extends from Haycock Point to Quondola Point. It’s renowned for its colourful rock formations and is a popular place for spotting pods of dolphins and whales breaching offshore. Haycock Beach can be accessed via a network of scenic bushwalking trails.
Want to get up close to native fauna? Visit the Potoroo Palace, a wildlife sanctuary and education centre home to wombats, kangaroos and koalas. One-on-one encounters are available with the resident dingos, bettongs and echidnas while homegrown produce is showcased at the Blue Wren Cafe. Nearby is Bournda National Park, which offers coastal walking trails and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Getting around Pambula Beach
Pambula Beach is around 10 minutes’ drive from Merimbula and Merimbula Airport, which has regular flights to Sydney and Melbourne. By road, Sydney is six hours’ drive. Buses connect to Pambula Beach, although the town is small enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the area.