Towns & villages on the Far South Coast of NSW

Eden

The coastal town of Eden is a fantastic place to start a visit to the Far South Coast region, with beautiful Twofold Bay and the surrounding mountains providing spectacular backdrops to the town.
George Bass and Mathew Flinders were the first Europeans to ‘discover’ Twofold Bay in 1798, but the region had been inhabitated by members of the Yuin nation for thousands of years, attracted by the rich food resources offered by the sea and surrouding forests. Local Aboriginal people had a strong spiritual connection with killer whales, and this connection extended to include the harvesting of small whales and fish that the killer whales herded into the shallows.This history of collaboration between killer whales and eden-boatshumans was the subject of the documentary “Killers Of Eden”, screened on ABC TV in 2006.
A permanent shore-based whaling station was first established by the Imlay Brothers in the 1830s, and whaling continued on for a century. You can experience some of the town’s history at the Eden Killer Whale Museum, and see the skeleton of “Old Tom”, Eden’s famous killer whale. For a real taste of life in the whaling industry you can also visit Davidson’s Whaling Station, the longest-operating shore-based whaling station in Australia, located on Kiah Inlet at Twofold Bay.
Eden is now famous as a destination for whale-watching, with migrations occurning in late autumn and spring. To celebrate the significance of whales to the township, Eden holds a Whale Festival in October or November each year.
Eden is a wonderful base to explore the surrounding areas, with National Parks and State Forests all within easy reach. It is increasingly popular as a destination for small luxury cruise ships that berth at the multi-purpose wharf over summer. There are beautiful beaches, coastal rivers and fish waiting to be caught, and lots of cafes, shops and galleries in town to help visitors unwind and enjoy this coastal paradise.

Pambula

Pambula, or as it has been known, Panbula, was developed on flat ground below the existing township in the mid 1800s. Towards the end of that century, during the 1880s, gold was discovered and a number of satellite villages developed around the original settlement. A bridge divides Pambula from the southern rural villages of South Pambula, Lochiel, Nethercote and Greigs Flat. Pambula remains the core of the area and retains a village atmosphere with its restored buildings and churches, country hotels, craft, gift and book shops, as well as a number of superb restaurants and cafes. There are markets held regularly in the recreation grounds and halls. The village is set amidst a backdrop of lush farmland, forests and national parks, but east of the town is Pambula Beach where you can enjoy all that a beautiful beach can offer, or stay on the edge of the water in the ultimate family friendly resort. A walking and bike track joins Pambula and Pambula Beach and you can also enjoy a walk from the beach to the river mouth. Visit South Pambula and indulge in some of the Rock Oysters that Pambula is famous for. The lake is particularly picturesque as it is surrounded by National Park. If you enjoy Golf,  visit Pambula Merimbula Golf Course, the venue for a number of major golfing events throughout the year.

Merimbula

Merimbula is a thriving coastal town situated between Tathra and Pambula.  From almost any vantage point within the town boundary, a visitor can feast on the spectacular panorama of the ocean, lake and lagoon. North of the town, and only a short drive away, are Tura Beach and Bournda National Park. The history of Merimbula is linked to being an important port for the transportation of not only passengers but produce such as pigs, butter, sheep cattle, sleepers and cornflour during the 19th and 20th centuries. The early town boasted a thriving industry in the production of cornflour. Mathew Munn, William Manning and Thomas Mort were key participants in the industry until it folded in 1917.
Visitors interested in exploring the history of the town can find more information at the merimbula-3original schoolhouse which is now a Museum on Main Street. The part of the town known as Fishpen is situated to the south of the main centre, and is particularly beautiful as it stretches along the lake foreshore. Recent landscaping of the foreshore provides a traquil place to take a stroll, have a picnic, or just feed the pelicans. Fishpen was so named because fishermen used to net salmon off Merimbula Beach and pen them inside the lake for harvesting and transportation to markets.The lake is a tranquil setting for a spot of fishing, or for those more adventurous types, enjoy game and reef fishing cruises (access from the Marina).
As a coastal town, Merimbula has the lot. Local Clubs offer Golf and Bowls. Merimbula has an airport providing scenic flights so you can take in the magic of the town from the air. The historic Wharf and Aquarium are not to be missed as a place to enjoy some fine food, take in the views over the lake or see the amazing array of fish in the aquarium.
Finally, the delightful and utterly unique boardwalk in the centre of town is a place to stroll along the edge of the lake, enjoy a cold Icecream or a meal in one of the cafes or restaurants.
At the top of the town you can find the best pizza around and next door find Top Fun, where adults and children can join the excitement of Ten Pin Bowling, Video Games and Laser Games.

Bega

Bega is the business and administrative heart of the Bega Valley, being home to the Shire Council offices, a hospital, medical specialists, numerous schools and state and commonwealth government offices. It is also a place of natural beauty, surrounded by lush pastures and forests hugging the escarpment. Views of Mumbulla Mountain to the north and the escarpment to the west are best appreciated from the Lookout, located just 3 kms north of town on the Princes Hwy.
In the language of local Aboriginal people, members of the Yuin nation, Bega is said to mean “large camping ground”; it would have been a place of great abundance, with an underground lake feeding a series of wetlands, providing plenty of tucker.
The dairy industry has always played a major part in the Bega economy, and this is still the case today, with the Bega Cheese Co-op one of Australia’s leading manufacturers of dariy products, exporting some $50m of product every year. A visit to the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre is a must for anyone new to the region; housed in a reproduction of one of the first buildings on the site, the Heritage Centre has a wonderful display of cheese and butter-making equipment from the 1900s, and provides an insight into how early farmers lived, worked and transported their products. The Heritage Centre is also home to the Bega Tourist Information Centre, which provides a wealth of information about attractions throughout the region.
Bega is still a friendly country town, even though the demographics have changed over the past 30 years, with many people moving from cities to enjoy the relaxed country lifestyle. Bega has a thriving arts community with its own Regional Gallery, which hosts several major exhibitions each year, as well as the artist-run Spiral Gallery.

Tathra

With its spectacular views, gorgeous beaches and relaxed community, Tathra is an ideal holiday destination for families and couples. It boasts a host of eating and entertainment venues. The Clubs and Hotel offer a diverse range of social activities including live performances and discos, as well as superb dining. Overlooking the water, at the top of Tathra, is the historic Wharf, now classified a National Trust Maritime Museum.
Over the years, this significant site has become a popular fishing spot and a main tourist attraction for those looking for a nice day out and a relaxing meal. The township's tranquil environment and relaxed setting has something for everyone. Why not picnic at one of the many barbeque areas, try your hand at prawning or sailboarding along the Mogareeka Inlet.
The pristine waters of the surrounding lakes and rivers offers excellent fishing, swimming, surfing, snorkeling and boating opportunities. The nearby National Parks, Mimosa Rocks & Bournda, provide a natural beauty that makes Tathra one of the most picturesque parts of the Far South Coast.

Bermagui

Bermagui was originally established as a port facility for the local dairy industry, but today it is fishing that has made Bermagui famous, particularly  big game fishing.  Warm currents bring huge fighting fish close to the coast. If it's surfing you are looking for, try Beares, Mooreshead or Haywards Beach, while Horseshoe Bay is a sheltered beach ideal for children. Alternately, the Blue Pool by the caravan park offers a sea pool, the only one in the area.
Within the surrounding National Parks and Lakes, there is a host of spectacular scenery to enjoy. Don't miss out on the Montreal Goldfields. The old Goldfields are in excellent condition and the natural regeneration makes it a place of great beauty. Admission to the site is by guided tour only, so contact the Bermagui Tourist Info Centre for bookings and details on 6493 3054.
The waterways surrounding Bermagui, are ideal for fishing, boating, canoeing, sailing and many other water activities.
Visit Umbarra Cultural Centre for an indigienous experience.

Cobargo

Cobargo, is situated north of Bega. While the Dairy and Timber industries feature in the town's economy, Cobargo is a working village of local artisans. Many of the buildings in the town, are over 100 yrs old and reflect the charm of the Art & Craft within them.
The town was once known as Wattletown because from the 1860's, wattle bark was stripped from wattle trees and used in the tanning industry in Sydney and Melbourne. The industry ceased in 1964. Cobargo was also known as 'The Junction' because of the junction of the Narira and Bredbatoura Creeks in the middle of the town.
The township was established with a Post Office, General Store, School, Hotel, Church and Blacksmith Shop during the 1870's around the butter and cheese making industries.
A Butter Factory and Co-op were established in 1901 and continued production, except for a short break due to fire, until 1980 when it closed because of changes in bulk milk production.The town was large enough from the 1890's onwards, to support a newspaper, 'The Cobargo Watch'.
Remnants of the old town are to be seen within this working village. The site of the Kinetix Sport Clothing Store is the original Bank of NSW and later the Westpac Bank, built in 1917.
The two storey building that houses "Bangles Gallery" is a fine example of 100 year old architecture and features lovely wrought iron lace work around the verandahs.
Take a stroll around the town and experience the delightful ambience of yesteryear. Take your pick from an array of Art and Craft, Pottery, Woodwork & Leatherwork. Hunt among the Collectables, Curios and Old Wares on offer.
Quaama is a small village just south of Cobargo with a great rest spot near the bridge to break your trip. You’ll find Fruit Ballad Wines in Quaama - drop in and sample some of the unusual flavours of wonderful hand-made wines.
North of Cobargo and only a short drive away, you can find two more delightful villages, Tilba Tilba and Central Tilba. To the south of Cobargo are Bega and Merimbula, and Cobargo is only minutes away from the lovely seaside town of Bermagui.

Tilba

The villages of Central Tilba and Tilba Tilba lie on the slopes of Mount Dromedary and any visit to the Sapphire & Eurobodalla Coast is not complete unless you journey there.
Many of the buildings were constructed in the late 1880s and at its peak, when there was a gold mining boom, Central Tilba boasted a School of Arts, library, hotel, two butchers, a blacksmith, post office, court house, general store, police station, doctor, shoe maker and nine other businesses. When mining declined, Central Tilba remained viable due to the success of the local cheese industry. Since the decline of this industry, Central Tilba has depended on visitors for its survival and through the efforts of the townspeople. The National Trust classified the entire township in 1974 signifying the importance of preserving a unique part of Australia’s heritage.
The town has become the centre for Arts and Craft on the Far South Coast. You can see the works of local artists  and leather craftsmen and browse through the unusual clothing, antique & jewellery shops. Try some home made Tilba Fudge!  We recommend Gulaga Gallery and Studio Corner.
With the stunning blue waters of Wagonga Inlet surrounding the town, and Gulaga (Mt Dromedary) in the background, Narooma is one of the most picturesque places on the Far South Coast.
Delightful timber buildings, like Narooma's historic Uniting Church, reflect the area's early dependence on sawmilling.

Narooma

Narooma has also maintained its maritime traditions with fishing charters, whale-watching trips and boat hire all available around town.
visit to Narooma would not be complete without a trip to the Montague Island Nature Reserve with its historic light station, opened in 1881. The Island is a nesting place for three species of sea birds, home to a colony of Little Penguins, and a haul-out site for Australian and New Zealand Fur Seals. Back on shore, there are great shared walking and cycle tracks around Narooma, including from the Wharf along the foreshore to the Narooma Bridge, the Mill Bay boardwalk (look out for stingrays and fish) to Apex Park, Dalmeny to Mummaga Lake (great ocean views) and the Bridge to the marinas at Forster’s Bay.
Narooma’s main beach, located at the southern end of the golf course, is patrolled during summer.
There are several playgrounds around town, a skate bowl, cinema, lawn bowls, plenty of shops, cafes, even an indoor pool and rock-climbing centre.
For more information, visit the Narooma Visitor Information Centre on the Princes Highway, or freecall 1800 240 003 or email

Tuross Heads

Tuross Head, one of the most picturesque headlands in Australia, is well known for its ocean and lake waterways offering the boating and fishing enthusiast a choice.
Tuross Head was visited by George Bass in 1797. In 1850 a wine and spirits importer, Patrick Mylott owned most of the Tuross Peninsula. Tuross House was purchased in 1924 by Hector McWilliam. McWilliam was responsible for the planting of numerous Norfolk Pines that are such an outstanding feature at Tuross Head.
The Country Club offers facilities with views comparable with the best in the world. The Club has three bowling greens and a nine hole golf course, The Club Restaurant offers excellent value meals.

Mogo

Bateman's Bay

The 'Bay', is located along the banks of the Clyde River with yet another of the Far South Coast's beautiful bridges providing access to the township from the north. The bridge is a focal point of the town as it is a lifting span bridge, built in 1956. It is the oldest of its type in Australia.. As in the past, timber, fishing and oyster farming are a mainstay of the Batemans Bay economy.
This area is a major source of Sydney Rock Oysters and the town is a major tourist and retirement destination.
As a visitor to the 'Bay', all the popular water sports such as fishing, windsurfing, diving and surfing are enjoyable in any number of the waterways and beaches.Follow the Clyde bay-bridge-1River south and discover beautiful beaches along the coastline like Batehaven, Malua Bay and Rosedale, or go north across the bridge and experience Long, Pebbly and Depot Beach.
While there, take a walk in the Murramarang National Park. For those of you, who, after a day at the beach, enjoy a drink or some entertainment or prefer a delicious meal in a cafe, restaurant or club, access our entertainment and eating guides for a superb selection.