Wollongong to Merimbula road trip: Distance, drive time & stops

Wollongong to Merimbula drive: Narooma to Bega

From Narooma, there’s a strong argument for sticking to the coast and going to Merimbula via Bermagui and Tathra. But there’s also plenty to see nearer the quicker Princes Highway route.

The highway turns inland just before Mystery Bay, and soon afterwards you can visit the Tilba Winery in Corunna, Gulaga National Park or the cutesy shops of Central Tilba. You’ll also skirt the fringe of Kooraban National Park before heading into Cobargo. The Leaping Lizard Lookout offers fine mountain and forest views if you fancy a photo stop here.

The Narooma to Merimbula drive then continues past Biamanga National Park and Mumbulla Mountain towards cheese-making town Bega.

Things to do in Bega include visiting the Mimosa Rocks National Park and the Bega Valley Regional Gallery. If you just want a photo stop, the Bega Valley Lookout does the job nicely.

The last leg: Bega to Merimbula

It’s only another 24 minutes from Bega to Merimbula and the main attraction on the route is the slightly scruffy Potoroo Palace wildlife park, which you can book online.

Things to do in Merimbula once you’re there include swimming at Bar Beach and enjoying the rides at Magic Mountain Merimbula.

The best Merimbula accommodation options

The best Merimbula accommodation choices are:

For a holiday park with lots of kid-friendly facilities: NMRA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort.
For an affordable motel with an outdoor pool: Sapphire Waters Motor Inn.
For central location: Pelican Motor Inn.
For overall quality: Sails Luxury Apartments.