Sapphire Sunrises
First Impressions & Southern Drives
Hello everyone, Brett Ryan here. There’s a unique energy that fills the air (and my garage) when an extended road trip looms. It’s a chaotic mix of last-minute jobs, packing puzzles, and the sheer anticipation of hitting the open road. For this Easter break, the destination was New South Wales’ beautiful Sapphire Coast – a region known for its stunning coastline, national parks, and yes, the promise of those golden coastal sunrises. Getting there required sorting out the trusty rig and piling in everything we’d need for a mix of camping, exploring, and staying active.
My vehicle, the reliable 2016 Amarok Highline TDI420 is built for these kinds of adventures. Key modifications include a robust dual battery system featuring a Redarc BCDC40 charger paired with a significant Wattcycle 300ah Lithium Mini Battery. This powerhouse setup, kept topped up by a 120w fixed solar panel mounted on the roof, is essential for powering the ARB 47L Classic Fridge Freezer and keeping all our electronic gear charged. In the hectic final days leading up to departure, I was deep in the trenches of preparation: fitting a custom 3D printed housing for the Anderson plugs and sockets in the rear, securing the tie-down points for the fridge, installing a tap and hose onto the Proquip 22L Jerry Can for convenient water access, and firmly bolting down that hefty lithium battery. I even wrestled with fitting an extension to a salvaged old awning using some cleverly designed 3D printed brackets I’d whipped up. The final tweaks saw me finishing around 3 am on Good Friday. Standard procedure when chasing horizons!
My partner in crime, Kat, was incredibly understanding when I messaged her about the late night and suggested a slightly later departure than our optimistic 8 am plan. We eventually managed to leave Croydon closer to 11:30 am. The Amarok was loaded, the fridge was humming, the Travel buddy oven was ready for action, and the promise of the Sapphire Coast lay ahead. The road trip had officially begun.
The initial drive covered a good stretch of Victoria, heading south-east from Croydon. Our first planned stop for lunch was at the Traralgon Railway Reservoir Conservation Reserve. One of the simple pleasures of travelling in the Amarok is the ease of creating an impromptu setup. We opened up the back, and the tailgate became our dining table as we enjoyed prosciutto and salad rolls with a pleasant view overlooking the lake. It’s in these moments that the practical modifications to the vehicle really earn their keep – everything accessible and a solid surface for preparing a quick meal.
As we continued south towards Orbost, the kilometres started to weigh a little, and I felt myself getting drowsy. We pulled over at the Driver Reviver just out of town. These roadside stops are a brilliant service, and the SES volunteers running them are always incredibly friendly and welcoming. Chatting with them for a while was a genuine pleasure and a great way to break up the drive.
As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows, and the roads started to wind more tightly, Kat took the helm for the final push into Mallacoota. We arrived in town around 7 PM, ready for dinner after a solid day on the road. Scallywags was our chosen spot. Kat opted for the classic Fish & Chips, highlighting the local catch, while I tucked into a pulled pork burger with chilli mayo. The blend of spicy mayo and refreshing slaw was excellent, a really satisfying combination. I washed it down with a cold Asahi. With our hunger sated, we headed to our designated campsite. We had secured a spot right on the waterfront – an absolute gem, and well worth the small extra charge of $9 for the incredible views. We rolled out our SwagIt double swag onto the ground, making sure to place our durable heavy-duty tarp underneath for protection, and settled in. Utterly exhausted, we drifted off to sleep, lulled by the constant, soothing sound of the waves breaking nearby.
Mallacoota Mornings & Across the Border
Waking up on Easter Saturday was a moment of pure holiday magic. Peeking out of the swag, I was greeted by a truly glorious sunrise. Golden light flooded the horizon, making the waterfront campsite feel incredibly special and instantly validating that extra cost. We started the day with the essential morning ritual: coffee. The efficient Companion Wok Burner proved its speed once again, boiling water in moments. Fueled by caffeine, I decided to get the legs moving with a short, brisk 30-minute out-and-back run along the sealed path that hugs the lake. My ASICS Gel Kayano 31 Paris Edition runners felt incredibly light and responsive on the paved surface, making the run feel effortless. The lake itself was a beautiful sight in the morning light, dotted with numerous boats and ideal spots for fishing, a clear favourite pastime in Mallacoota.
After the run, we packed up our camp setup, including the SwagIt double swag, and headed for a shower. Our next mission was finding a good coffee. Many cafes were closed for the Easter public holiday, but a tip led us to the local market. Amongst the stalls, we found a friendly coffee van operator. His coffee was excellent, though there was a slight mix-up in our orders – I ended up with a soy mocha and Kat an oat latte – but they were delicious regardless! We then drove to Bastion Point where the Amarok’s tailgate served as a mobile kitchen bench, while we prepared our breakfast bowls.
Following breakfast we checked out the Mallacoota Boardriders Far Easter 2025 Wig Out Surf Comp, enjoying the view and vibes of the competition, and the surf.
We then dipped our toes at Betka Beach and admired the sheer power of the waves rolling onto the shore
Before continuing our journey north, crossing into New South Wales and making our way towards the town of Eden.
Trail Challenges and Unexpected Company
Upon arrival in Eden, our first task was to set up a basic camp at the campground and prepare some lunch. The ARB fridge kept our ingredients cool and fresh. After a quick bite, we headed to Aslings Beach, home to a well-known ocean rock pool. That afternoon, the ocean swells were quite significant, resulting in rough conditions that made swimming in the rock pool feel a little risky. We decided against a dip but enjoyed walking along the beach, noting the surprisingly coarse texture of the sand, and just dipping our toes in the edge of the water. It’s a beautiful location, and we resolved to return when the tide and swell were more favourable.
Later, we made a stop at the historic Australasia Hotel. I was keen to sample a local spirit from the North of Eden distillery. I tried their Oyster Shell and Connoisseurs Gins – both were intriguing and offered a distinctive taste profile tied to the local region.
Back at camp, Kat was the chef for the evening, preparing a delicious Pesto Paparadelle. The new Companion Single Wok Burner impressed us again with its efficiency, boiling a substantial 2 litres of water for the pasta remarkably quickly. We finished the meal with some Easter eggs for dessert (Travel buddy wasn’t needed for those!) before settling into the comfort of the SwagIt swag for some camp cinema on the Samsung Tablet. Another full and satisfying day drew to a close.
Easter Sunday unfolded with a wonderfully slow and relaxed start – exactly what was needed. Breakfast was a simple joy: hot cross buns stuffed with chocolate Easter eggs, warmed perfectly in the ever-reliable Travel buddy oven. It’s these small culinary comforts that enhance the camping experience.
After breakfast, we headed out for a drive to Boyds Tower. While the history of Ben Boyd is complex, our primary reason for visiting wasn’t historical tourism but to access the stunning coastal trails for a run. I laced up my Nike Pegasus Trail 4 runners, designed for mixed terrain, while Kat opted for her Brooks Cascadia GTX 16, known for trail stability. We set off on an out-and-back route; I covered approximately 9km, and Kat extended her run to about 10km. The scenery along the coast was absolutely breathtaking throughout. There were a few sections on the trail where the surface was rocky and uneven, leading to a couple of moments where I briefly lost my footing. Nothing serious, but a reminder to stay focused. These weren’t issues with the Nike shoes’ grip, more likely my own foot placement on loose rocks or dragging my feet slightly where I shouldn’t. Small stumbles can sometimes niggle at your confidence on trails. Kat, however, found her Brooks Cascadia GTX 16 to be a truly dependable companion, especially appreciating the built-in rock plate that provided excellent protection across some of the more technical rocky sections. She noted the lugs caught slightly on a small section of Mini FRP pathway we encountered, but overall, she was very happy with their performance. Despite my minor mishaps, it was an incredibly beautiful part of the world to explore on foot.
Completing our run, it was time for well-earned recovery. We settled in with an Iced Coffee Nedd’s for me and a Dutch Chocolate Rokeby’s for Kat. On a whim, we decided to mix a little of each drink together. The result? We genuinely think we discovered our new favourite recovery drink combination! A delicious and unexpected bonus.
Just as we were relaxing, a text came through from Kat’s cousin, Allie. She, her partner Rohan, and their Chocolate Lab, Astrid, were also on a road trip and happened to be passing through Eden, looking for a dog-friendly beach. It was the perfect opportunity for a spontaneous catch-up. We headed back to Aslings Beach, met up with them, enjoyed some relaxed conversation and welcomed pats from Astrid, and then headed into the water for a body surf. The waves had come good since our last visit – I managed to catch some fantastic rides, powering into the shore.
Knowing that Astrid was welcome in their outdoor courtyard, we decided to pop back into the Australasia Hotel for a late lunch. We had just missed the main kitchen hours, but they were serving Chicken Pesto Toasties, which were absolutely perfect after the beach session. After saying goodbye to Allie, Rohan, and Astrid, we made your way back to the beach for one last swim, catching a few more great waves.
As the late afternoon progressed, the sky began to look increasingly heavy and grey, signalling potential rain. Anticipating this, we headed back to camp promptly to make sure the awning was set up securely. It turned out to be a good call, as it started raining later that evening. After a refreshing shower back at camp, we began preparing dinner as dusk settled, cooking under the light of our torches. Kat prepared a delicious mushroom and haloumi burger cooked over the Companion Wok Burner, while I put the chicken schnitzel patty for my burger into the ever-useful Travel buddy oven. Both meals were incredibly satisfying after a busy day of exploring and activity. It began raining quite steadily just before we went to bed, and we settled into the comfort of the SwagIt swag, drifting off to sleep to the soothing sound of the rain drumming down.
Damp Mornings and Coastal Vistas
Easter Monday dawned, bringing with it the lingering dampness from the overnight rain. We started the day simply: toasting the last of our hot cross buns in the Travel buddy oven – a reliable source of warm comfort food. After making our coffees, we began the packing process. Everything felt a bit damp from the dew and rain, so we left the SwagIt swag and awning partially set up for a while to air out in the morning breeze. I noted that I hadn’t angled the awning quite enough the night before, as water had definitely pooled on it.
Our first destination for the day was the Eden Rock Pool at Aslings Beach, hoping for calmer conditions for a proper swim. It was a lovely dip; I had the pool mostly to myself, while a fair number of people looked on from the edges, perhaps hesitant due to the water temperature, though I found it quite invigorating.
We enjoyed some fruit and nuts for morning tea, sitting on the tailgate overlooking the beach, before setting off towards Tathra. As we drove north, we could see some dark, ominous storm clouds building on the horizon. Despite the weather outlook, we stopped in Tathra and decided to walk out onto the wharf. The views from there were absolutely stunning, and the water below was incredibly clear and a vibrant blue – a beautiful contrast to the moody sky.
Lunch was at the Wild Orchid Cafe, a place that came highly recommended. Kat chose the Prawn and Blue Swimmer Crab Roll with Pickled Fennel and Capers served on a locally sourced Milk Bun, paired with a soy iced Matcha with White Chocolate. I opted for the Five-Spice Pork Belly Báhn Mì with an Oat Iced Mocha. Both dishes were utterly delicious and showcased a real attention to fresh, quality ingredients. It’s definitely a cafe we’d seek out again if we are back in Tathra.
Even with the storm clouds threatening, we decided to head down to the beach, hoping to catch a little bit of the late afternoon sun. The sand here is wonderfully fine and white. I went for a quick body surf while Kat simply dipped her toes in the edge of the water. Interestingly, the most ominous clouds seemed to shift and bypass us, and we ended up lying on the beach for a while, soaking up some warmth and discussing our next moves. One of the great things about this trip is the flexibility we have with the itinerary – being able to work around the weather allows for moments like this. Those dark clouds were heading directly towards where we had initially planned to camp for the night, so waiting them out on this gorgeous beach felt like the perfect alternative.
Inland Detours & Lakeside Beauty
With our evening camping plans altered by the weather forecast, we headed inland to Bega. Our primary stops were to refuel the Amarok and pick up some groceries for dinner. Our quick impression of Bega is that it’s a quaint town with a strong heritage tied to cheese – which makes sense given the name! We didn’t spend much time exploring beyond the necessary errands. For dinner supplies, we found some hoisin pork steaks and decided to pair them with a chilli lime crunchy noodle salad kit. These modern salad kits have come a long way and are surprisingly fresh and convenient for camp cooking. We also grabbed some sweet potato fries for a simple carbohydrate side.
Leaving Bega, we headed towards Picnic Point, taking the route via Dr George Mountain Rd. It’s a well-maintained dirt road and a pleasant drive through varying landscapes. We then turned onto the Tathra Bermagui Road. Finding a suitable spot along the roadside, we pulled over briefly to pop the sweet potato chips into the Travel buddy oven – using the travel time efficiently to get part of dinner underway.
Turning onto Wapengo Lake Rd just as the sun was setting was a truly magical experience. The golden light bathed the landscape, creating a spectacular scene over the oyster farms dotted across the lake. The road itself was incredibly active with wildlife; kangaroos and wallabies were abundant. We drove very slowly, simply taking in the beauty of the light and the sheer number of animals around us.
We pulled up at Picnic Point Campground and were immediately thrilled with how visually stunning the location was, nestled between the lake and the coast. However, a slight hiccup ensued: we realised we had completely forgotten our allocated site number. And, frustratingly, there was absolutely no Telstra reception at the campground itself. This meant a brief backtrack of about 2km down the track until we finally found a signal strong enough to access my confirmation email and retrieve the number. A useful lesson learned about saving crucial details offline!
The campsites here are generally very good and offer simple, essential facilities. Some are located quite close together, which can vary the experience depending on your neighbours. We had two sets of nearby campers, but luckily, everyone was friendly, quiet, and respectful of each other’s space, so we had a positive experience.
The beaches right nearby looked absolutely gorgeous in the fading light. We made plans to check them out properly in the morning and see if the conditions were suitable for a swim. We quickly set up our awning and the SwagIt double swag, establishing our home for the night. We began preparing dinner; the hoisin pork and noodle salad was an absolute winner – easy to prepare and delicious, definitely a meal we’ll make again on future trips. The sweet potato chips in the Travel buddy oven got about 90% cooked to perfection, but our patience wore thin waiting for absolute crispiness, so we finished them off quickly in the fry pan on our stove.
After dinner, we leaned back in our camp chairs, enjoying the vastness of the night sky. While lightning was visible flashing in the distance both north and south of us, directly overhead, the stars were beginning to emerge – a truly spectacular display. Once the last of the weather clouds rolled over, we settled in with the Samsung Tablet and started watching ‘Killer Heat’, a modern noir detective movie. We were hooked within minutes; it was very enjoyable. Before heading into the swag for the night, I managed to convince Kat to agree to getting up early to watch the sunrise. I had high hopes for a beautiful one!
Mornings with Wallabies & Bermagui Flavours
Tuesday morning arrived… and it wasn’t a spectacular sunrise. However, the view peering out of our SwagIt swag to find a wallaby casually grazing just outside the tent? That was a pretty special start to the day. When we wandered down to the viewpoint hoping for a better sunrise, we were joined by another wallaby who seemed to have found the ideal patch of grass for its morning meal.
We made the short return trek (all of about 25 metres!) back to our campsite and boiled the kettle on the Companion Wok Burner for our morning coffee. We then wandered back to the ocean’s edge for another look at the beaches and the coastline. Picnic Point truly is a delightful place; it has a peaceful charm, and I’d love to spend more time exploring this area in the future.
With the weather forecast suggesting things might become less settled, we made the practical call to head to our next planned stop, Bermagui, a little earlier than originally intended, seeking potentially more sheltered conditions within the town’s caravan park.
Arriving in Bermagui, our attention was immediately drawn to a significant line outside Honorbread. This was a place Kat had specifically shortlisted for a visit, so we pulled over to investigate. The queue was a strong endorsement! We sampled some pastries: I chose the distinctive ham and cheese croissant coated in caraway seeds, while Kat opted for the Mushroom Zont. We followed these with a Kardemummabullar to share, and I ordered an Oat Latte. Everything was absolutely delicious, truly exceptional baking that lived up to the hype. The taste and aroma of the Kardemummabullar particularly evoked memories of a trip we took to Europe a couple of years ago. Kat was even wearing a hat from Copenhagen that day, which felt perfectly fitting. It’s quite remarkable how a specific taste, a smell, or even the prevailing weather can trigger such strong, vivid memories of past travels.
We decided to take a walk around the town centre to get our bearings. It was still before 10 am, so most of the shops were closed, but we enjoyed browsing the streetscape and seeing what the main street had to offer.
Our stroll took us down to the Blue Pool, another stunning ocean pool carved directly into the coastal rock formation. It was a gorgeous spot, offering incredible views of the turbulent ocean. This time, I didn’t venture in for a swim myself. The winds off the coast were blustery, but we sat for a while, mesmerised by the powerful waves breaking over the rocks surrounding the pool.
While checking over the vehicle, I noticed a small issue with my fixed solar panel setup – one of the mounting brackets had shifted slightly, likely due to vibration on the corrugated roads. A quick trip to the local Mitre 10 provided the necessary supplies: some spring washers and a piece of adhesive-backed rubber padding. Using the Kincrome Tool Kit and DeWalt Drill (essential items to carry on these trips!), I fitted the spring washers as a temporary measure to add more tension. I hoped this quick roadside fix would suffice for the remainder of the trip!
For lunch, we decided on a scenic drive to Camel Rock, taking our postponed breakfast bowls with us to eat overlooking the water. After enjoying our meal and walking out to view the distinctive Camel Rock formation, we decided to take a short drive inland to the village of Tilba. This quaint, historic town certainly has a charm, though it feels quite geared towards tourists. However, it has its genuine highlights. The Tilba Dairy was well worth the visit – a great spot to sample and purchase local produce. We also kept an eye out for Nancy’s Deli Food Truck, a local institution known for moving around the area daily; spotting it is part of the experience!
From the dairy, we picked up some delicious local Yoghurt, Honey, and a Jersey Dip – a tasty blend of cheese curds and herbs that was incredibly moreish.
We headed back to Bermagui to check in to the caravan park for the next couple of nights. Once camp was set up, including deploying the awning and the SwagIt double swag, we relaxed for a while with a cheese platter featuring our Tilba Dairy purchases before getting ready for dinner.
Dinner was at Bluewave Seafood, conveniently located right next to the local fishermen’s co-op – a very promising sign for freshness. I ordered the calamari and chips pack, which was perfectly cooked, while Kat chose a half dozen Oysters (incredibly fresh!) and the Ocean Dory. It was absolutely fantastic seafood; the quality was outstanding. If you find yourself in Bermagui and enjoy fresh seafood, this place is an absolute must-try.
After dinner, we made our way back to camp. We started watching ‘The Ministry of Ungentlemanmanly Warfare’ on the Samsung Tablet, but the activities of the day and the sea air had caught up with us, and we didn’t make it very far before feeling quite drowsy and ready for sleep.
Coastal Runs and Aerial Perspectives
We woke up rather early the next morning. The wind was still noticeable, blowing quite blustery off the coast, but thankfully, the air was not cold. We managed to catch the very last vestiges of a colourful sunrise painting the sky with soft hues.
My first order of business was the essential morning coffee. I made a brew using the Picopresso portable espresso maker – it’s a great piece of kit for getting a quality coffee on the road. I’m currently using a specific grind from Rebel Roasters, and their ‘Simon the Likeable’ blend is indeed very, very likeable!
Kat prepared for her morning run while I pottered around the campsite, unpacking and repacking a few things and making a small adjustment to my solar panel fixings from the previous day – hoping to ensure that temporary fix held up. I would have loved to join her for a run along the coast, but I’d picked up a small cut on the bottom of my foot from a sharp rock back at Aslings Beach a few days earlier. It hadn’t really bothered me much with walking, but I thought the impact of running might irritate the wound, so I decided it was wiser to rest it.
After Kat returned from her run, we assembled our breakfast bowls on the tailgate of the Amarok. These bowls were becoming more and more packed with delicious fresh, local produce we were discovering as we travelled down the coast. We followed this up with another coffee, this time from a local favourite, Gulaga Wholefoods + Specialty Coffee – seeking out the best local brews is part of the fun.
Next, we headed back to the Bermagui Blue Pool for a swim. Despite being close to low tide, the waves were still crashing spectacularly into the pool, creating a dynamic and exciting swimming environment. A truly fascinating sight was the presence of several sleeping seals in the waters nearby, just outside the pool. It was quite cool to see them floating so calmly, seemingly guided by the currents, with one fin raised in the air, completely relaxed despite the choppy water around them.
Returning to camp, we prepared bacon, egg, and haloumi rolls for lunch – a comforting and satisfying camping meal. In the afternoon, I took the DJI Mini Pro 3 drone out for a few flights. Despite the blustery conditions off the coast, the drone handled it exceptionally well, flying spectacularly and remaining stable and responsive. We walked around town while I was flying, allowing me to capture some incredible aerial perspectives of the coastline. Seeing Bermagui’s rugged beauty from above truly highlights its spectacular setting.
Later, we stopped for a treat at the Bermagui Gelati Clinic. I chose a double scoop of Chilli Choc and Caffe in a waffle cone – the Chilli Choc had a surprising and enjoyable kick to it! Kat opted for the Fig flavour. Both were absolutely delicious and hit the spot perfectly. After getting back to camp, I had that sinking feeling – I realised I’d lost my sunglasses. We retraced our steps around town and back to the clinic but had no luck finding them immediately. Fingers crossed they would turn up somehow!
Sunnies Reunion & Campfire Bliss
Upon arrival at Hobart Beach Campground, we took some time to explore the area, checking out the lake and the beach – both looked beautiful and tranquil in the late afternoon light. After our scout around, we gathered some sticks and kindling for a fire, had a small snack, and set up the SwagIt swag for the night before heading to the campground showers. The shower facilities here are distinct – you get a timed four minutes of hot water with each button press. It certainly encourages efficiency, but those four minutes of hot water are absolutely delightful and refreshing after a few days of camping.
Once showered and changed, I got the campfire started – just enough to provide warmth and ambiance. Kat prepared dinner, a delicious Sweet and Smoky pork steak served with an American-style slaw with ranch dressing – a fantastic, simple meal perfectly suited for camp cooking. We enjoyed a lovely evening sitting by the fire, relaxing and watching the stars begin to emerge above. We sampled a ginger beer from Capital Brewing Co, which was very refreshing and a good accompaniment to dinner. The fire provided just enough warmth to keep us comfortable and toasty until it was time to head into the swag for bed.
Thursday, April 24th. A very pleasant start to the day: Kat made me a coffee – definitely earned her points! She went for her morning run while I began the process of packing up camp. As expected after a dewy night, everything felt a little damp, so we left quite a bit of the gear, like the SwagIt swag and awning, set up for a while to air out and dry in the morning breeze before fully packing them away.
We took a walk down to Boneless Cafe to grab some morning coffees. It’s a lovely spot with a relaxed vibe. There was a minor mix-up with our coffee order, which amusingly resulted in us receiving a couple of bonus coffees! They were very tasty, using a coffee blend from Wabi Sabi.
On our way back towards camp, we swung past the Nancy’s Deli van again, having enjoyed it previously. We picked up a Haloumi Waldorf and a Chicken Sando – planning for a potential later snack or lunch. The Haloumi Waldorf was the clear favourite for me, incredibly delicious, but both were solid, satisfying sandwiches.
We checked out of the Bermagui caravan park. Before leaving town entirely, on a hunch, we decided to make one last stop back at the Gelati Clinic to ask if anyone had possibly handed in sunglasses. To my immense relief and joy, they had! Someone had found them, and I was incredibly happy to be reunited with my sunglasses.
We spent a bit more time in Bermagui – Kat wanted to look for a hat, and I took the opportunity for one last quick flight of the DJI Mini Pro 3 to capture a different angle of the harbour before we left. We munched on some incredibly good apples we’d picked up locally. Then, we headed south along the coast, making stops to explore the beautiful areas of Araganuu and Mimosa Rocks, before deciding to return to Picnic Point for a very late tailgate picnic lunch. It felt fitting to have our final main meal of the day back in a spot we had enjoyed so much earlier in the trip. While there, I took the DJI Mini Pro 3 up for another flight to get some additional aerial perspectives of the area.
We drove back via Tathra to have another look at the beach and enjoy watching a kitesurfer and kiteboarder gracefully riding the wind and waves – always an impressive sight. From there, we continued on to our final campground destination for the trip, Hobart Beach.
ANZAC Day Nature & Southern Shores
ANZAC Day. We allowed for a slightly slow and respectful morning – coffee brewed with the Companion Wok Burner, breakfast, a quiet walk down to the lake, more coffee, and then the final packing up of camp.
Kat had planned to do a run along a section of the Kangarutha track, a well-known trail that starts nearby. Once we finished packing up the Amarok, we walked towards the beach car park and the path leading towards the dunes. As we approached, right on the path directly in front of us, was a Red Belly Black Snake. We immediately stopped and decided to give it a very wide berth, waiting for it to move off the path. We also made sure to let other people who were approaching know that the snake was there. Unfortunately, one older gentleman started poking at it with sticks, which, unsurprisingly, made the snake defensive and a bit aggressive. Kat and I, wanting to avoid any potential conflict or risk, simply found an alternative way to access the beach further down.
I flew the DJI Mini Pro 3 drone over the beginning of Kat’s planned run route along the Kangarutha track – from the air, you could really appreciate the ruggedness of the coastal terrain and the challenge ahead. While she started her run, I enjoyed a refreshing swim at Hobart Beach. The plan was for me to meet her in Tathra at the end of the trail. Partway along the track, Kat encountered a creek crossing that was proving difficult to navigate safely, so she sensibly backtracked and took a fire trail instead. I managed to spot the fire trail she was heading along from my map and drove the Amarok to meet her at the end. And, in a stroke of incredibly good timing, I just happened to park right outside Tathra’s award-winning Oysters!
Kat’s recovery after her trail run was perfectly fuelled by a half dozen Cocktail Oysters from Tathra Oysters. She was absolutely thrilled with this serendipitous post-run treat – you couldn’t plan it better!
Knowing that our holiday days were rapidly drawing to a close, we decided to continue south towards Merimbula to maximise our time exploring the Merimbula/Pambula area before beginning the journey home on Sunday morning.
We stopped in Merimbula for lunch at Yummy Thai before checking into the Pelican Motel. It felt nice to have a break from camping for a night and enjoy the convenience of a motel room. We took a quick breather and relaxed briefly by the motel pool – a welcome change of pace.
We finished out the day by visiting the Nine Circles Distillery. We had some food there – I ordered the beef tacos, and Kat got the chicken toasted sandwich. While they filled us up adequately, they were perhaps more functional than particularly memorable meals – I’d probably explore other options for food on a return visit. However, we did the distillery tasting paddle and were very impressed with the spirits. We particularly liked the Nine Circles x Dulcies Cocktail Gin and the Double Distilled Vodka – both were excellent. After our visit, we headed back to the Pelican Motel and, tired from the day’s activities, fell asleep promptly.
Merimbula Activities & Culinary Delights
Waking up on Saturday, we started the day with coffee one at the motel before heading out for our morning run. I completed an 8km out-and-back run along the scenic Merimbula boardwalk, extending it with a short loop into Spencer Park – a great path for running. Kat did a 10km route, starting along the boardwalk with me until I turned around at Sunny’s Kiosk, then climbing some local hills before running along the main street and out to the wharf before returning.
After our respective runs, our post-run ritual involved coffee and a well-earned treat at Sunny’s Kiosk. Located directly on the jetty, it offers truly exceptional views from the tables overlooking the water. We enjoyed coffee and a delicious slice of carrot cake while soaking in the scenery.
Next, we ventured into Merimbula for a little bit of shopping now that the town felt fully open and bustling. After finishing up our retail therapy, we headed to Wheelers for a classic fish and chips lunch. Kat chose the Grilled Orange Ruffy, and I went for the Squid Jig – their salt and pepper squid, served with chips. Both were perfectly cooked and very tasty.
The afternoon called for some time on the water. We went out to Main Beach. Kat was hoping to hire a Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP), but unfortunately, none were available for hire that day. So, I decided to inflate my Inflatable Kayak for a paddle instead. Pumping it up takes a bit of effort, but once ready, I took it out onto the water. I even paddled out of the river mouth and into the surf zone! It was a lot of fun catching a couple of small waves in the kayak, but it was also surprisingly hard work, perhaps because I had the seat in the wrong position. Despite the effort, I had a blast. We relaxed on the beach for a while afterwards before heading back to our motel room to clean up and enjoy a cheeky pre-dinner drink.
Dinner was the culinary highlight of the trip, at Bar Monti in Merimbula. We started with the Crumbed and Stuffed Olives as an appetizer – they were delicious. Kat ordered a Negroni, and I chose an Espresso Martini. We both agreed that the Espresso Martini was near-perfect – exceptionally well-made! For mains, Kat had the Lamb Ragu, which was very good, and I ordered the pork and veal lasagne, which was truly exceptional – rich, flavourful, and perfectly cooked. The only minor point was the pairing of a slightly bitter leaf salad with my lasagne; personally, I didn’t feel it matched the richness of the dish, although Kat quite liked it. We finished the meal by sharing a fantastic chocolate mousse for dessert.
Back at our motel room, we started the process of preparing for our early departure the following morning, the reality of the holiday ending beginning to set in.
The Journey Northward
Sunday morning arrived promptly. We were up early to finish packing the Amarok, ensuring everything was secure for the long drive home. Our first stop was breakfast at Toast Pambula. We ordered the Desolation Bay Chilli Scramble, but unfortunately, we couldn’t really recommend it – it didn’t quite hit the mark for us taste-wise. The coffee, however, was good.
With breakfast done and the car packed, we hit the road heading north. It was a long haul ahead back towards Melbourne. We planned to stop in Bairnsdale for lunch. Adding a layer of complexity, I had to dial into a Body Corporate meeting while we were stopped. When we went to find a place for lunch, it seemed everything noteworthy was closed for the public holiday weekend. Faced with the prospect of paying an exorbitant price for a basic sausage roll from a very limited option, we ended up at McDonald’s. Ever resourceful, I managed to “hack” the menu slightly to put together a surprisingly filling lunch for around six dollars – you learn to find value where you can on the road!
Our next stop was in Traralgon, where we stopped for some roadside ice creams – a welcome, refreshing treat on a warm day – and swapped drivers. The final leg of the journey was a straightforward drive home. Upon arrival back in Croydon, the familiar routine of unpacking the Amarok began, sorting through gear and bringing everything back into the house. The wet awning from the previous night was hung out to dry in the backyard. With the car unloaded and the gear sorted, it was time to mentally prepare ourselves to transition back to regular life after a truly memorable Easter escape.
Gear Reflections & Holiday Highlights
This extended Easter holiday along the Sapphire Coast served as a comprehensive test for all the gear we brought along. The integrated vehicle setup – the Redarc charging system, Wattcycle lithium battery, and 120w solar panel – performed flawlessly throughout, providing reliable power to keep the ARB 47L Classic Fridge Freezer running continuously and all our essential devices charged. The Travel buddy oven was undoubtedly an MVP for camp cooking, handling everything from heating up breakfast treats to cooking dinner components and snacks perfectly. The Companion Wok Burner proved its worth for its sheer speed and power, boiling water for pasta and coffee in remarkably quick time. Our SwagIt double swag provided comfortable sleep every night, proving resilient regardless of the weather conditions. Even the awning, with my improvised 3D printed brackets, did its job effectively, providing shelter when needed (though a lesson was learned about optimal angle!).
Our running shoes – the ASICS Gel Kayano 31 for sealed paths, the Nike Pegasus Trail 4 for general trail use, and Kat’s Brooks Cascadia GTX 16 for rougher terrain – all got a good workout on varying surfaces and performed well, proving to be reliable companions for our running adventures (my foot cut notwithstanding!). The DJI Mini Pro 3 drone was a brilliant piece of technology for capturing unique perspectives of the stunning coastline, handling windy conditions admirably and adding an extra dimension to our documentation of the trip. The Inflatable Kayak provided a spontaneous and fun opportunity for some unexpected time on the water and even a bit of body surfing from a different angle.
Having essential tools like the Kincrome Tool Kit and DeWalt Drill readily accessible in the back of the Amarok was invaluable for addressing unexpected minor repairs, like my solar panel bracket issue, quickly and effectively. Simple but crucial items like the Proquip 22L Jerry Can with its modified tap and hose setup for easy water access, and a reliable Esky for easy-access cold drinks, just make the logistics of camping and touring much smoother and more enjoyable.
New South Wales’ Sapphire Coast truly delivered an incredible and diverse holiday experience. It offered stunning natural beauty, enjoyable drives including accessible dirt roads, genuinely fantastic food experiences at local cafes and restaurants (Bluewave Seafood, Bar Monti, and Wild Orchid Cafe were particular highlights), and ample opportunity for activities like swimming in ocean pools and beaches, coastal trail running, and exploring charming towns. The campgrounds were generally excellent, providing basic comforts and beautiful locations, and the motel stay offered a welcome change of pace and comfort.
These trips are about much more than just the destinations or testing out the gear; they’re about embracing spontaneity, enjoying the simple pleasures of camp life, discovering unexpected moments (like waking up to wallabies or seeing sleeping seals), and sharing the entire experience with good company. Kat was an absolute star throughout the holiday – navigating, assisting with cooking, tackling challenging runs, and simply being the best travel companion you could ask for.
We returned home feeling tired but incredibly happy and fulfilled, packed with wonderful memories and already beginning to think about where the next adventure might take us. If you’re looking for an accessible and diverse holiday destination not too far from the major cities, the Sapphire Coast is certainly worth considering. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure, your appetite for good food, your runners, and maybe a little patience for those inevitable small travel hiccups that add to the story!
Words by Brett Ryan
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