Compare Car Hire Prices at Merimbula Airport (MIM)

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DriverAustralia · age 30
Used for driver eligibility and pricing.
Dates
  • Hertz
  • Budget
  • Avis
  • Thrifty
  • Keddy by Europcar
  • Europcar
  • Routes

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Finding a rental car at Merimbula Airport is easier with Road Genius. Compare prices of vehicles from dozens of brands all around Australia with no booking fees. We help you find low prices from hire companies conveniently located inside the terminal, putting the beaches and towns of the Sapphire Coast within easy reach.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Avis · Budget · Europcar · Hertz · Keddy by Europcar · Thrifty

Car Hire Locations and Options

LocationProsCons
Merimbula Airport (MIM)
  • Six rental companies at the airport
  • Pick up your car right after your flight
  • No extra transport needed
  • Good car selection for a small airport
  • Higher prices because it's at the airport
  • Limited service outside business hours
  • Hours depend on flight times
  • Must book ahead during busy times
Merimbula Town
  • Few offices in town centre
  • Most companies work from the airport
  • Need transport from airport (25 min walk/5 min taxi)
  • Prices not much better than airport
Bega
  • Different pickup location
  • May have more cars during busy times
  • 30 km from Merimbula (25-30 min drive)
  • Need transport from airport
  • Fewer rental companies

Rental Providers at MIM

Merimbula Airport has several rental companies for a small airport, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, Thrifty and Europcar.

Car Rental Prices

Average
AUD $81/day
From
AUD $29/day

How to pay less?

  • Compare all your options at Merimbula Airport on one site. You'd be surprised how much prices can vary for a similar car from different companies.
  • Hitting the coast during summer or school holidays? Book your car way ahead of time to lock in a better rate. If you're visiting in the cooler months, you can often find good deals closer to your trip.
  • Skip the pricey extras. Use your phone's map app instead of renting a GPS. Also, things like adding a second driver or renting a child seat add daily fees to your bill.
  • Don't wait to refuel at the airport. Fill the tank in Merimbula or Bega before you drop the car off, as local service stations are usually a bit cheaper.

Car hire prices at Merimbula Airport (MIM) 2025/2026

Parking Tips

LocationParking Options
Merimbula Airport
  • Short-term spots near terminal
  • Longer-term areas in designated zone
  • Follow signage for rental returns
Merimbula Town
  • 2-hour street spots in central areas
  • All-day areas available near club and sports fields
  • Beach spots are limited in summer months
Tourist Sites
  • Spots available at most beaches and lookouts
  • National park areas require park entry fee (park entry fees apply)
  • Pambula and Tura Beach have plenty of space

Local Driving Rules

  • Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 80-100 km/h on highways
  • School zones (40 km/h) active during school hours
  • Fixed speed camera on Merimbula Drive bridge, strictly 50 km/h
  • Princes Highway speed limit varies (80-100 km/h), follow posted signs
  • No toll roads in the entire region

Road Conditions

  • Princes Highway is well-maintained but mostly single-lane each way
  • Some steep grades on coast roads between beaches
  • Occasional wildlife on roads, particularly at dawn and dusk
  • Minor roads to beaches and lookouts may be narrow but sealed
  • Some national park access roads are unsealed. Check your rental agreement as many contracts prohibit driving on unsealed roads
  • Fog possible in early mornings, especially in valleys near Bega

Why rent a car in Merimbula

Book a rental car so you can visit:

  • Eden – Killer Whale Museum
  • Tathra – Wharf
  • Bermagui – Blue Pool
  • Pambula Beach – kangaroos
  • Ben Boyd National Park – lookouts, trails
  • Bournda National Park – beaches, trails

Local Rental Locations

Driving Distances from Merimbula MIM Airport, Australia

FAQs

Can I take my rental car on the ferry to Phillip Island?

No. There is no car ferry from Merimbula to Phillip Island, and Phillip Island itself is connected to the mainland by a bridge at San Remo (no vehicle ferries operate). From Merimbula it's a long drive of roughly 700–800 km. Nearby sandspits such as the Pambula River Mouth are accessed by road/foot. No car ferry is involved.

Are there unsealed roads I should avoid my rental car?

Most attractions are accessible via sealed roads. Some national park access roads have short unsealed sections but are generally 2WD accessible. Check your rental agreement as policies vary regarding unsealed roads, and driving on them may be prohibited.

Is it worth upgrading to an SUV for the Sapphire Coast?

A standard car is sufficient for most attractions. However, a higher-clearance vehicle can be beneficial for some beach parking areas and national park access roads, particularly after rain.

Can I pick up at Merimbula Airport and drop off in Sydney or Canberra?

Yes, one-way rentals are possible but incur additional fees. Not all companies offer this option, so check when booking. Drop off in Sydney or Canberra.

Are there EV charging stations on the Sapphire Coast?

Limited but growing. Merimbula and Bega have public charging stations, but they are sparse elsewhere. Plan carefully if renting an electric vehicle.

How long should I allow for returning my car at Merimbula Airport?

Return procedures are usually quick at this small airport. Allow at least 45 minutes before departure to fuel if needed, complete the return and meet airline check-in/boarding cut-offs (many regional flights close check-in 30 minutes prior).