Main Beach Recreation Reserve

Main Beach Recreation Reserve showing surfing and a beach
Main Beach Recreation Reserve featuring a sandy beach and general coastal views
Main Beach Recreation Reserve showing a beach and general coastal views
Main Beach Recreation Reserve
Main Beach Recreation Reserve featuring general coastal views and a beach as well as a small group of people


Check the swell at Merimbula’s lake entrance and stroll along the sandy expanse to find pristine coastal heathland, barbecue facilities and waterfront cafés.

Merimbula’s favorite strip of the Sapphire Coast is its spacious Main Beach Recreation Reserve. This stretch of beach, which stretches for about 3 miles (5 kilometers), draws visitors to its golden sandy shores year-round with its gorgeous coastal scenery and consistent surf breaks. Stroll down to the water’s edge and watch the local surfers or try out the Main Beach’s faithful left-hander breaks for yourself. Wander along the trails that lead from dense bushland to open stretches of grassy foreshore.

Explore the sandbank known as Merimbula Bar at the northern end of Main Beach. Sheltered from the northeast sea breeze by the headland, Merimbula Bar is the perfect place to make the most of the sun and the surf. If there’s a south swell, “the bar” will be dotted with surfers trying to catch a ride on the left-hand break. Watch the locals at work or see if you can catch a break. There’s plenty of room to play in the waves without a board, too. Lifeguards patrol this strip of beach, making it a popular choice for families.

Stretch out on the golden sand or check out Mitch’s Jetty near the lake entrance. Wander southward to relish the spacious stretch of beach and its beautiful foreshore greenery. A network of walking tracks weaves between banksias and tea-trees, presenting great views south toward Pambula. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the foreshore barbecue areas and relax on the wide grassy lawns.

Nearby Ford Park has a playground that is fun and inclusive for kids with disabilities. There is also a market held here on the third Sunday of each month. Grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafés and enjoy the beachside atmosphere.

Merimbula’s Main Beach Recreation Area stretches along its pretty sandbar beach. Parking and public restrooms are available at Ford Park. You can also catch a bus that travels along the waterfront boulevard. The beach is approximately 2 minutes’ walk from the street. The beach is free to visit at any time.

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