Eden overlooks Twofold Bay at the southern end of the Sapphire Coast. Its history is bound up with whaling — and with the remarkable orcas that helped whalers here in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today it is a fishing and timber port, a cruise-ship stop and a superb base for whale watching and for Beowa National Park.
Things to do in Eden
- Eden Killer Whale Museum — home of the skeleton of Old Tom and the story of the whalers and orcas of Twofold Bay.
- Whale watching — from the headlands around town (Rotary Park lookout is popular) or on a cruise in season. See whale watching.
- The wharf — watch the fishing fleet and buy fresh seafood.
- Aslings Beach and Lake Curalo — the town’s surf beach and a walking track around the lagoon.
- Davidson Whaling Station — the historic whaling station site across the bay in Beowa National Park.
- Boyds Tower — the sandstone tower at Red Point, start of the Light to Light Walk.
Eden Whale Festival
The town celebrates the whale season each year with the Eden Whale Festival, usually in spring. Check the festival’s own website for dates.
Cruise ship visitors
Ships anchor or berth at the Eden breakwater wharf. If you have a few hours, a guided shore excursion is the most efficient way to see the bay and lookouts. See tours.
Getting there
Eden is on the Princes Highway, about 25 km south of Merimbula. The nearest airport is Merimbula.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
What is Eden NSW famous for?
Whale watching, Twofold Bay and the history of the orcas who helped local whalers, told at the Killer Whale Museum.
When is whale season in Eden?
Humpbacks pass from about June, with the peak in spring (September to November) when they rest in Twofold Bay.
Can you do a tour from the Eden cruise port?
Yes — the Eden 4-hour shore excursion is designed for cruise passengers.
