Home of the renowned CORONA Merimbula classic. Plenty of kiting options for all levels. It’s hard to go past The Bar in SE conditions. Safe launching/ landing at the spit near Fishpen. Now take your pick, if waves are your thing the bar produces a quality left hander that peels endlessly and holds shape in SE, have respect for local surfers still out in light conditions. Choose from waves to carve, natural kickers for freestylers or flat water whatever your adrenalin. The pond, an area inside the bar largely protected from breaking waves due to sand bars provides smoother water, perfect for learners. Or for ultimate flat water try inside the spit in the lake at fishpen the more south in the wind here the better and the run out tide is the key. Be mindful of fisherman, boats and swimmers and if it’s too crowded leave it for another day, don’t get it banned for the locals. If it’s light and the tide is running out fast, try the rip near the green buoy where the current meets the ocean for more power. Watch for boats crossing the bar.
In NE conditions there are more options to choose from, there’s Short Point, where you have the choice of waves, there is often a current pushing down the beach that wants to force you into the corner near the rocks so give yourself some room and walk up the beach. In summer you’ll need to do this anyway just to avoid swimmers but strong wind will usually sort the crowds. There’s a flat water option in the Back Lake behind the point, local young crew use kickers and sliders in here, but be warned it can be shallow.
Main Beach, is another option in both NE and SE, although it’s at its best in NE with swell. This beach runs from Merimbula south to Pambula and is a classic for downwinders. If you can’t be bothered holding ground or want a few miles of pristine beach to hone your skills, this is the place. If you are chasing solitude and more swell check Bournda Island or North Tura.