Looking for the Best Things to Do on the Sapphire Coast?

April 9, 2026

G’day cruisers,


If you’re in search of the best things to do in the Sapphire Coast, we’ve got something special for you. This spectacular stretch of coastline is known for abundant wildlife and wonderfully wild times on the water. From Eden to Bermagui, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the region, but if you ask us, the real magic begins offshore.


At Sapphire Coastal Adventures, we spend our days exploring this extraordinary part of the world on board our specialised whale watching boats, and we can tell you first-hand that some of the best things to do in the Sapphire Coast are the ones that bring you closer to the ocean. We operate whale watching tours, marine wildlife cruises and fishing charters in Merimbula, Eden and Bermagui, and our mission is to help connect people with nature and inspire them to help preserve and protect it. 


One of the most unforgettable experiences in the region is Whale Watching on the Sapphire Coast. Every year, tens of thousands of humpback whales migrate along this coastline from May to November. The Sapphire Coast is especially remarkable because whales don’t just pass through but also rest, nurse calves and feed. 


See adults that stretch almost 16 metres long on the move during the northern migration or encounter mothers and calves cruising more slowly on the southern migration. Every journey is different, and that unpredictability is part of the beauty.

Whale Watching Cruises Merimbula


Merimbula whale watching cruises run during the northern migration from May to July and the southern migration from August to early November, with whales often sighted within minutes of departure.


It is also not uncommon to find mothers and calves in Merimbula Bay. That’s a big reason Whale Watching Cruises Merimbula rank so highly among the best things to do in the Sapphire Coast.

Best whale watching tour in Merimbula
Australia's best whale watching location in Eden

Whale Watching Cruises Eden


Eden is described as Australia’s premier whale watching location, and for good reason. Set around spectacular Twofold Bay, Eden combines extraordinary marine life, and deep maritime history into one unforgettable experience.


There’s something special about seeing humpback whales in a place so strongly shaped by the sea. 

Whale Watching Cruises Bermagui


Further north, Whale Watching Cruises Bermagui add another brilliant option for visitors exploring the region. Bermagui is a stunning seaside village with a rugged, volcanic coastline and access to rich marine waters near Montague Island and the continental shelf.


The setting is wild and beautiful, and the region is known as a marine hotspot. 

See whales in Bermagui on a whale watching cruise
Whale watching cruise in Merimbula

Whale Watching Cruises Merimbula


Not visiting during whale season? No worries. There are still plenty of incredible things to do on the Sapphire Coast, especially if you love wildlife and coastal scenery. Wildlife Cruises Merimbula running from November to is a fantastic way to explore the region’s marine environment outside the main whale migration months.


Encounter dolphins, seals and seabirds in their natural environment while taking in the stunning beaches and colourful headlands.

Wildlife Cruises Eden


Likewise, Wildlife Cruises Eden are one of the best off-season experiences in the region. The Eden Wildlife Cruises are known for their rare sightings of penguins, turtles, and in Twofold Bay and also takes in historic landmarks such as Boyd’s Tower, Davidson Whaling Station and Edrom Lodge.


That combination of nature, scenery and local history makes Wildlife Cruises Eden one of the most rewarding things to do in Eden.

See Killer Whales on a wildlife cruise in Eden
Best fishing charters in Merimbula

Fishing Charters Merimbula


For travellers wanting a more hands-on adventure, Fishing Charters Merimbula gives guests the chance to head offshore with an experienced crew to catch a feed of fresh fish. This is one of those classic coastal holiday activities that never goes out of style.


Whether you’re a keen angler or simply want to try something different on your trip, Fishing Charters Merimbula offer a fun and memorable way to connect with the local marine environment.

Why an Ocean Adventure Belongs on Your Sapphire Coast Itinerary


There are countless things to do on the Sapphire Coast, but few compare to the feeling of being out on the water. Whether you choose an exhilarating Whale Watching Cruise or explore our spectacular coastline onboard a Wildlife Cruise, Merimbula, Eden and Bermagui offer the kinds of experiences that stay with you long after you’re back on land. 


If you’re visiting during whale season, Sapphire Coastal Adventures offers a whale sighting guarantee on eligible direct whale watching bookings, with a free return cruise offered if whales are not sighted. 


We hope to see you this whale season!

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