Summary

This return walk is a unique experience as the boardwalk follows the northern shore of the splendid Merimbula Lake - through mangroves and past oyster farms - with a grand mountain range backdrop.

Description

Experience the Merimbula Boardwalk and become part of the beautiful scenery as you travel just above the lake surface.

This scenic, flat walking path is celebrated for many reasons. It is one every generation can enjoy. It is the highest latitude mangrove boardwalk in the world.

The adventure starts at the small car park beside Merimbula 's Market Street bridge. It continues as you walk around the northern shore of the top lake to the western reserve, jetty and car park at the other end.

It is pleasurable walking for everyone and a must do if you are in the area. For those who like to contemplate their surroundings or tire easily, there is seating en route.

There is plenty to enjoy. Being directly above and so close to the transparent water, marine observations are common. Stingrays, mud skippers and whiting may be spotted in the shallows.

Fishing is a common pastime from the platforms and jetties provided, where many a tale is told.

The lake edge is bordered by coastal vegetation through which you also walk. Bellbirds and whip birds provide a lovely background orchestra while dainty wrens twitter and busy themselves at your feet and soaring White-bellied sea eagles hunt overhead.

If you like people - expect to meet the happy walking type on the boardwalk.

Along the way interpretive signs provide interesting information about the farming, ecosystems and natural history of the lake. The lake is famous for its lattice of extensive oyster farms. You might even spot a seal looking for a meal.

A kiosk (check if open) and toilets can be found at the western end of the walk.

Merimbula town centre is just a short distance over along Market Street for anything else you might require.

Note: foot traffic only. Bike, scooter, skateboard and rollerblade access is not permitted. Dogs must be on a leash at all times.

Other Sapphire Coast walks:
Pambula River Mouth walk
Mimosa Rocks / Aragunnu Beach walk
Middle Lagoon & Beach loop walk
Jiguma coastal walk
Lake Street / Djirringanj People's walk
Goodenia Rainforest walk
Pinnacles loop walk
Sandy Creek / Bournda Lagoon loop walk
Tathra Headland loop walk
Wajurda Point / Moon Bay walk

4723 Views

Points of Interest

1. Start point

As a return walk you can start at either end. There are car parks at both locations. Pictured is the car park beside the Market Street bridge.

2. Popular for fishing

At the bridge the water narrows between the bottom and top lakes. Nearby is popular for fishing. There is always a conversation to be had about what has been caught and how big.

3. Looking back to the bridge

Market Street bridge links Merimbula township across the lake.

4. Rounding the corner

The views along the lake are just great.

5. Informative signs

Interesting informative signs describe the farming and natural history of the lake.

6. Oyster farms

Merimbula oyster farms are famous for their purity. They are also not a bad spot for a pelican to rest up.

7. Seating with a view

There are seats en route from which to soak up the surroundings or for rest stops.

8. Lake shore vegetation

Attractive shoreline vegetation includes melaleuca, ti tree and juncus rushes.

9. In and out of the salt marsh

The boardwalk crosses salt marsh areas between mangroves, over water and tidal foreshore areas.

10. Salt tolerant

Salt tolerant salt marsh plants include colourful succulents.

11. It isn't all boardwalk

Some parts of the walking path are land based. These tracks are firm and wide of smooth compacted gravel.

12. Jetty and kiosk

At the western end of the walk is a small jetty and kiosk (check if open). Car parking and toilets are also available here.

Features

Picnic spot

Drinking water available

Seating available

Public toilets

Pram friendly

Historical interest

Nature trail

Lake, creek, river

Park / Garden