Tucked away at the bottom corner of NSW and with a positioning overlooking glittering Twofold Bay, Eden is immediately enchanting.
Where is it?
Eden is 545km south of Sydney (6hr drive), 265km southeast of Canberra (3hr 20min drive), or 555km east of Melbourne (6hr 40min drive) in the South Coast NSW region. It is the state’s most southerly town.
Why go?
For its ability to balance a feeling of ‘getting away from it all’ with fascinating attractions and experiences; for its vibe that conveys instantaneous relaxation; and for its succession of sparkling coastal vistas among much more.
The essentials – things to do in Eden, NSW
Eden Killer Whale Museum
Possibly the most popular attraction in Eden, the museum has a sharp focus on the town’s thoroughly fascinating whaling past, including the incredible antics of iconic Tom the Killer Whale.
In addition, the distinct two-storey building details other local history themes, making it an excellent starting point when visiting Eden.
Beaches of Eden
This stretch of coastline is simply sparkling. Here are some must-visit beaches.
- Aslings Beach: Central and suited to swimming and surfing. Borders Lake Curalo and a rock pool.
- Cocora Beach: Beautiful sheltered stretch favoured by families.
- Bungo Beach: Dog friendly. Also known as Keith Pinch Beach.
- Legges Beach: Metres from beachfront cabins at BIG4 Eden with appeal for families and fishers.
Bundian Way Story Trail
This picturesque path extends for almost 2km and follows an ancient Aboriginal walking track along the shores of Twofold Bay. It links Cocora Beach with Quarantine Bay and gifts glittering views.
Quarantine Bay is a popular departure point for fishing adventures thanks to its boat ramp and other relevant facilities. In fact, Eden is an angling hotspot with ample game, bay, and reef fishing opportunities to take advantage of.
Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre
This is a great choice for families. The discovery centre allows visitors to interact with an assortment of marine creatures. Activities include fish feeding and touch-tank sessions along with seasonal snorkelling and rockpool discovery tours.
Must-visit attractions near Eden, NSW
Ben Boyd National Park
This treasure-stuffed national park blends natural wonders with historical relics and comprises distinct northern and southern sections either side of town.
In its southern reaches are iconic structures Boyd Tower and Green Cape Lighthouse. They are linked by the 30km-long Light to Light Walk, which is dominated by stunning views.
Other highlights include historical Davidson Whaling Station and beautiful beaches and bays led by Saltwater Bay and Bittangabee Bay.
In the northern section, Pinnacles lookout reveals colourful cliffs and coastal vistas, best viewed late afternoon when the sun glows on the rocks.
Distance: 11km north of Eden to Pinnacles lookout car park; 35km south to Boyd Tower.
Pambula
This heritage-rich gold-mining village oozes charm with its past easily visualised through its collection of historical buildings. Pambula Beach is a sparkling strip of sand and Panboola Wetlands is ideals for walks and birdwatching.
Just south of town is Oaklands Barn, home to an animal barn, microbrewery, art gallery, café, and more.
Distance: 23km north of Eden.
Merimbula
Just past Pambula is this alluring town, surrounded by glittering waterways. Merimbula Lake, the main beach, and Bar Beach are among the headliners.
Elsewhere, leading attractions include Merimbula Aquarium with its assortment of marine life and related activities while Magic Mountain Merimbula explodes with fun-filled amusements for kids.
Distance: 26km north of Eden.
Whale watching in Eden
Eden’s whaling culture is firmly entrenched in the past, and nowadays the town is better known for its outstanding opportunities to witness these mesmerising marine mammals at play.
Enjoy up-close encounters with breaching humpbacks from land-based vantage points, such as Eden Lookout at Rotary Park, or book a tour where cruise companies declare near-100% sighting success rates in season.
Typically, the whale-watching season in Eden extends from mid-September until mid-November.
However, boat cruises in Eden operate year round and provide a brilliant perspective of the spectacular waterways and other sights.
Random fact
The name Boyd is all around Eden. It relates to Scottish-born entrepreneur and stockbroker, Ben Boyd, a one-time influential figure in town with grand dreams. Ultimately, he failed with his lofty ambitions.
An example of this is Boydtown, the first settlement in Twofold Bay and a short drive from the town centre. Boyd founded the village and anticipated that it would be a huge success, yet it never came to fruition. Today, little remains of it, but it is worth a visit if only for a memorable dining experience at the waterfront-positioned Seahorse Inn.
Accommodation in Eden, NSW
Searching for Eden accommodation? Look no further…
BIG4 Eden Beachfront Holiday Park
Park type: Holiday.
Capturing a stunning waterfront location with private beach frontage – and within a gorgeous valley – BIG4 Eden has immediate visual and ambient appeal. And the attraction only increases.
Its extensive cabin accommodation includes various beachfront options alongside ensuite, powered, and unpowered sites.
An inviting beachfront BBQ area and sizeable camp kitchen with views towards the water are among BIG4 Eden’s impressive facilities, while for kids there is the likes of a jumping pillow, tennis court, and playground.
The spacious park is an easy drive to the town centre and other attractions.
Isn’t it time you uncovered the riches of Eden? Plan your South Coast NSW getaway with BIG4 now.