10 Dreamy Airbnbs In Merimbula To Call Home

The Sapphire Coast makes a case for an immersive break with our guide to Merimbula’s best Airbnbs.

Finding a Merimbula Airbnb that feels like home is a must for those who like to holiday with all the mod cons. Most of the best Airbnbs in Merimbula are by the beach. Yes, there are some unique holiday homes and great caravan parks on the Sapphire Coast. But the coastal community also attracts travellers who are drawn to the idea of a simple seaside holiday. Bonus points if your accommodation is near to Sapphire Coast treasures worth exploring.

1. Dunes Retreat

Think boathouse. Think beach shack. This magical Merimbula Airbnb is at the rear of a block occupied by the hosts. But there’s plenty of space and a large private garden to soak up some rays, too.

Dunes Retreat is bright and airy.

The dinky Dunes Retreat has two bedrooms with district views and sleeps four, so is perfect for families. There’s also a chicken coop, fruit orchard and trampoline for kids. Merimbula’s restaurants and cafes are also just a short stroll away.

the interior of Dunes Retreat with windows

Soak up some rays at Dunes Retreat.

2. Beach Cottage

Digital nomads wanting to try before they buy should road-test this Merimbula Airbnb for a weekend. The Beach Cottage is an easy stroll to Bar Beach and Short Point for surfing as well as the local cafes and shops.

Bask in serenity at Beach Cottage.

The cottage boasts bay and lake views and has a telly with Amazon, Prime Video, Disney+ and Apple TV. The two-bedroom cottage is dog-friendly and has a fully fenced backyard. Cook up a storm in the dinky kitchen. Curl up in the sunroom with a good book. And enjoy the serenity.

outdoor seating area on the terrace at the Beach Cottage in Merimbula

Curl up and chill out on the terrace.

3. Bellbird House

All up, there are over 550 Merimbula Airbnbs to choose from. So the fact this tranquil home is featured as a Guest Favourite means it makes the cut. The interiors of Bellbird House look like they could feature on a Coastal Style mood board.

the interior of Bellbird House Airbnb, Merimbula

The interior of Bellbird House gives off coastal style.

Add to this the soundtrack of native whipbirds and bellbirds and you have some calming head noise for your holiday. The open-plan living arrangements and proximity to the beach and town are also worth a mention. The house sleeps seven guests and has wi-fi, Netflix and Binge, as well as a fully equipped kitchen.

the garden fronting the property at Bellbird House Airbnb, Merimbula

Spend your summer getaway at Bellbird House.

4. Shack with a View

Being able to check the surf from the couch makes this Shack with a View one of the most popular Airbnbs in Merimbula. In fact, about 95 per cent of guests gave the property a five-star rating. The pet-friendly home sleeps four and has a sleek, compact kitchen, open-plan living area and patio.

a drone shot of Shack with a View Airbnb, Merimbula

Shack with a View is nestled near the beach.

Best of all is the fact you can walk from the front door to Bar Beach in minutes. Grab a coffee from the Bar Beach Kiosk while you’re there: it’s one of the best cafes in Merimbula.

the interior of Shack with a View Airbnb, Merimbula

Shack with a View has a sleek interior.

5. Heather Merimbula

Heather is named after the rich purple blooms that carpet the ground in Scotland. The brand-new Merimbula Airbnb sleeps eight and has a monochromatic palette of greys and whites with the occasional pop of pink.

Heather Merimbula has a modern, fully-equipped kitchen.

The distinctly modern home also has a fully equipped kitchen, unlimited wi-fi, air conditioning and a coffee machine. The fully fenced large backyard will also accommodate your furry four-legged friend. Sleeps eight.

Heather Merimbula is pet-friendly.

6. Sea180

This three-bedroom Merimbula Airbnb is only 1.4 kilometres away from Main Beach Merimbula and a five-minute walk into town. Sea180 features floor-to-ceiling windows with 180-degree wrap-around views of both the ocean and Merimbula Lake.

an al fresco dining area at Sea180 Airbnb, Merimbula

Soak up serene views atop Sea180.

The property sleeps eight and has been renovated with holiday rentals in mind. Watching for whales from the patio is a ritual here during whale watching season and is a must-do when in Merimbula. Parents with tiny tots will appreciate the fact there is a cot.

The three-bedroom Sea180 sleeps eight.

7. Toad Hall

Toad Hall is an excellent example of a boutique stay done right. The historic home started life in 1860 as a Telegraph Office for the tiny town of Pambula, before serving as a saddlery, gift shop and antique store. But it’s this latest incarnation that has given the Sapphire Coast village something to really shout about.

Check into the historic Toad Hall Airbnb in Merimbula.

Toad Hall retains the charm of its bullnose veranda and apricot weatherboards, which are inextricably linked to its identity. And it’s been fitted out with a mix of modern and period furniture that complement its heritage feel.

There’s a heritage feel attached to it.

8. The Surf Studio on Bar Beach

This classic Australian beach house boasts spectacular ocean and bay views and offers everything you need to relax and rejuvenate: The Surf Studio has proximity to swathes of sand, large windows that pull in the sunshine and, most importantly, a bit of privacy during a weekend away. This contemporary beach house just two minutes from Bar Beach sleeps six and has a room with single beds for the kids and wi-fi. We’re happy with the veranda situation, too.

9. Rolling Waves 3

There are only a handful of properties that have private and exclusive access to Merimbula’s main surf beach. Rolling Waves 3 is one of them.

Stay at Rolling Waves 3 for the night.

The quiet coastal retreat can sleep up to eight guests and it’s stacked with amenities such as a designer kitchen with stone benchtops, a bathroom on all three levels, a glass lift, rumpus room and killer coastal views. There’s also a fenced yard on ground level at this pet-friendly property.

the interior of Rolling Waves 3, Merimbula

Rolling Waves 3 boasts killer coastal views.

10. Ads on Collins

ADS on Collins brings a bit of romance and luxury to the seaside town of Merimbula. While there is plenty to see and do on the NSW South Coast, this secluded sanctuary provides an opportunity for guests to just switch off and make the most of Merimbula’s sun-drenched days.

the living room interior of ADS on Collins, Merimbula

Settle in the cosy and luxe Airbnb at ADS on Collins.

The fully renovated, split-level pet-friendly home is just a short walk to the beaches and the main street of Merimbula, which is lined with cafes and boutiques.

ADS on Collins is a cosy place for a weekend away.

The best Merimbula accommodation is all about proximity to the waterways that serve as a playground for visitors to the seaside town. Here are some of the best places to stay in and around Merimbula.

Merimbula has long been a hit with weekenders from Victoria and the ACT. But the seaside village has also become a go-to getaway spot for visitors from around NSW who are extending their search for pristine places to stay and play. Merimbula is within the country of the Yuin-Monaro Nations on NSW’s Sapphire Coast. From resorts and motels to holiday homes and Airbnbs, and camping and caravan parks, here are some of the best Merimbula accommodation options for a Sapphire Coast stay.

1. Hillcrest Merimbula

Wear your best kaftan, crank that ‘70s playlist and pour yourself a glass of bubbles to enjoy on the balcony of your Exhale Deluxe suite at Hillcrest Merimbula – one of our top unique stays in NSW.

Have a well-deserved break at Hillcrest Merimbula.

The rooms at the roadside motel have had a beautiful nip and tuck, with the pared-back interior including pops of colour inspired by the pink sandstone that is necklaced around Merimbula’s seaside surrounds. The chic boutique hotel, built in 1969, has 29 rooms and a one-bedroom apartment, pool, tennis court, fire pit and playground.

Stay in one of the chic rooms of Hillcrest Merimbula. (Image: Robbie Duncan – No Bad Days Photography)

2. Coast Resort Merimbula

In need of a serious break in idyllic surroundings? Book a weekend away at Coast Resort Merimbula, which has a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom townhouses and apartments. The coastal resort will suit road-trippers who want to see more of Merimbula. The activities list is huge in Merimbula and its surroundings.

the bedroom pool apartment at Coast Resort Merimbula

Step outside your bedroom pool apartment for a few laps.

As well as being a short walk from ocean beaches and inland waterways, it is near some of the best places to eat and drink in Merimbula. There’s a lap pool, and tennis court, too.

Sit on a sun lounger by the pool at Coast Resort Merimbula.

3. The South Seas Motel

It started with the Hillcrest Merimbula, and it continued with South Seas Motel Merimbula, one of Australia’s many retrofitted properties that pay tribute to our nostalgic road-tripping past. One of the best features of the pet-friendly motel in Merimbula is the solar-heated pool; it’s decked out with sun loungers and set against the backdrop of a juicy tangerine-tinted wall.

the property exterior of the South Seas Motel, Merimbula

Stay in the chic South Seas Motel.

Pull up right outside your comfortable room and engineer that gatho around the barbie. Like most of Australia’s best retro motels, the function of The South Seas Motel is far more impressive than its simple form might suggest.

an aerial view of the South Seas Motel, Merimbula

The retro motel is pet-friendly.

4. Surfside Holiday Apartments Merimbula

Those looking for a budget-friendly beachside holiday in Merimbula will appreciate the pricing at Surfside Holiday Apartments Merimbula, which is just minutes away from Merimbula Lake. The apartments are also within walking distance from the centre of Merimbula and Main Beach is so close the sound of the ocean echoes against the windows. Time your visit to coincide with the Merimbula Seaside Market & Fair held in nearby Ford Park on the third Sunday of the month.

5. The Love Shack

Start your day’s activities early so you can then kick back and retire to the comfort of the Love Shack, a pretty one-bedroom cottage in Pambula Beach, just a 10-minute drive from Merimbula.

the bedroom at The Love Shack, Merimbula

Get cosy in a one-bedroom cottage in The Love Shack.

Here, you can enjoy soaring views of sea, sand and sky in complete privacy and comfort from this humble beach shack on a hill, which will facilitate hours of quality time with that special someone.

the kitchen at The Love Shack, Merimbula

Prepare your meals at the Love Shack’s fully-equipped kitchen.

6. Tathra Beach Eco Camp

Want to marvel at the starry skies while toasting marshmallows around a communal campfire while in Merimbula? The Tathra Beach Eco Camp, about a half-hour drive from Merimbula, is set in the heart of the Australian bush with dedicated nature areas where sightings of kangaroos are virtually guaranteed.

Tathra Beach Eco Camp is set in the heart of the Australian bush.

The eco architecture here includes a range of camping options from powered and unpowered camp and caravan sites to spacious Bellbird and Driftwood tents, Gumnut Pods and cute Banksia Cabins.

the bedroom at Tathra Beach Eco Camp, Merimbula

Retire to the comfort of your bed at Tathra Beach Eco Camp.

7. Hotel Australasia

Hotel Australasia in nearby Eden is positioned to take advantage of all the Sapphire Coast has to offer. The refurbished boutique hotel is one of Eden’s grand old dames, a storied hotel that has been welcoming visitors for more than a century. The hotel was saved from demolition in 2019 by a local builder who has given it a multimillion-dollar transformation. The décor leans into old-world luxury and the elegance of the era: think claw-footed bathtubs, pressed-metal ceilings and sash windows. Hotel Australasia includes Pikes Italian Bistro named in honour of its original owner, female entrepreneur Sabina Pike, and the John Hines Bar which nods to the hotel’s original builder.

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8. Sugar Rock Ranch

The Sugar Rock Ranch reflects authentic Australian vernacular traditions. The rustic accommodation was built by hand using timber felled and milled on the Eden property. And it lies close to the surrounding wilderness.

the property exterior of Sugar Rock Ranch, Merimbula

Stay close to the wilderness at Sugar Rock Ranch.

If you want to choose somewhere to switch off, the Sugar Rock Ranch is an ideal centre from which to ramble down to the jetty at the dam. Alternatively, you can ponder the universe around the private fire pit. Forget Netflix. The ‘Barn Studio’ cabin has a library, vinyl record player and board games like Yahtzee.

the cabin interior at Sugar Rock Ranch, Merimbula

The cabins at Sugar Rock Ranch evoke a rustic charm.

9. The Homestead

This robust property has been part of the Bega community for more than 150 years. And although The Homestead looks quite humble from the outside, the inside of the newly restored property carries a kind of stoic, elegant sensibility from our pioneering past. And the attention to detail is impressive, from each tiny vintage teaspoon to the iconic quartz bath, chef’s kitchen and abundant rose garden. Feed the chooks. Gaze at the stars. And chat to the local real estate agents about that tree change.

The Homestead offers barefoot luxury sequestered in nature.

10. Lotte’s Hjem

Lotte’s Hjem is the sister property to The Homestead and one of the real gems of the Sapphire Coast. It’s located in Pambula just a short drive from Merimbula and halfway between Melbourne and Sydney. And it’s got Escape to the Country written all over it.

the property exterior of Lotte’s Hjem, Merimbula

Lotte’s Hjem is sequestered between lush greenery. (Image: Luisa Brimble)

The owners saw the value in the weatherboard cottage and circled op shops and antique dealers to furnish it with treasures. As a result, Lotte’s Hjem pays an aesthetic tribute to the past. Harvest herbs and vegetables from the garden. Cosy up around the slow-combustion fireplace. Take a long bath. And relax.

Cosy up to the chic bedroom at Lotte’s Hjem. (Image: Luisa Brimble)

11. Albacore Apartments

The spacious balconies at Albacore Apartments are what this property is all about. And the floor plans are dictated by those panoramic views over Merimbula Lake.

a top view of the pool at Albacore Apartments, Merimbula

The pool at Albacore Apartments invites you for a dip.

Each apartment plays into the indoor-outdoor open-plan living aesthetic that makes entertaining such a joy. The one- and two-bedroom apartments are fitted with fully equipped kitchens, washing machines and dryers and can accommodate a maximum of five guests with the addition of a fold-out bed.

the interior of Albacore Apartments, Merimbula

Albacore Apartments is stylish.

12. The Palms Apartments Merimbula

Each apartment at The Palms Apartments Merimbula has two bedrooms and sleeps up to four people. The location in the heart of Merimbula makes these apartments a great place to base yourself while on the Sapphire Coast. But the fully self-contained crash pads are also so comfortable you can stay in and dedicate your day to relaxing.

the stylish interior of The Palms Apartments Merimbula

Spend your beachside holiday at The Palms Apartments Merimbula.

Families who want a flop-and-drop holiday will love the solar-heated pool, laundry (essential) and fully operational kitchen. The fact The Palms Apartments Merimbula is just a short walk from some of Merimbula’s best restaurants is also a plus.

13. All Decked Out at Penguin Mews

All Decked out at Penguin Mews is designed to showcase Merimbula accommodation at its best. This quintessential Aussie beach pad has a cool contemporary palette of warm whites and taupe tones that complement the incredible blue-on-blue views over Merimbula Lake and Bar Beach.

the living and dining room at All Decked Out at Penguin Mews, Merimbula

All Decked Out at Penguin Mews has a cool contemporary palette.

What better way to end another delightful day than with drinks around the covered barbecue area? A handful of great local restaurants are also easily reached on foot.

the main bedroom at All Decked Out at Penguin Mews

Curl up in the chic pink-hued bedroom at All Decked Out at Penguin Mews.

14. NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort

If you’re searching for Merimbula accommodation overlooking the sea, the NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort provides an excellent base. It’s one of the best spots for caravanning, camping or glamping on the Sapphire Coast. The seaside resort is positioned on a headland under big skies, close to the region’s lakes, beaches and biodiversity.

an oceanview spa villa at NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort

Stay in an oceanview spa villa.

In addition to its poolside condos, ocean-view bungalows, powered and unpowered sites, the NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort now has a range of new accessible clifftop villas that are simply furnished in contemporary coastal style. It also has four new stylish safari tents featuring outdoor baths designed to take advantage of those killer coastal views.

10 dreamy Airbnbs in Merimbula to call home