Retro Glamour, Fresh Seafood- Narooma’s Stunning New Boutique Resort opened by Merivale
Publicity Release /Images and publicity from MERITALAES Newsletter
Posted Tuesday 23 June,2026 on Sydney Times TOURIST GUIDE
NAROOMA, NSW
The highly anticipated, crown-jewel project on the NSW South Coast has officially been unveiled: the grand reopening of The Whale in NAROOMA, NSW
Coinciding with World Maritime Day, the launch marks a massive milestone for the transformation of this iconic coastal motel into an ultra-chic, 18-key boutique resort overlooking the turquoise waters of the Wagonga Inlet.
“THE JOURNEY TO NAROOMA is all part of the experience. Stop in at Honorbread in Bermagui for buttery croissants, Berry for cafés and bakeries, Milton for boutique shopping, and Braidwood for one of a kind antiques.”
Quote from MERITALES Newsletter
Retro Glamour Meets Coastal Luxury
The reimagined property draws deep inspiration from 1970s Ibiza, blending earthy textures, natural finishes, and a sultry retro twist that pays homage to the building’s original Australian motel roots.
The retreat features a mix of beautifully curated rooms, including nine Premium Suites and a spectacular two-bedroom Oceanview Penthouse—complete with panoramic water views and a private bar. Beyond the rooms, the property is designed to be a highly social, slow-down destination.
Resort Features & Wellness Amenities
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The Pool Club: A heated magnesium pool surrounded by landscaped gardens.
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Wellness Suite: A traditional sauna, an ice bath, and a sunset-facing firepit.
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Social Spaces: A dedicated pickleball court and a sunroom offering spectacular inlet views.
A New Culinary Destination
The food and beverage program at The Whale is anchored by Executive Chef Clayton Wells, who joined Merivale to oversee the group’s growing Narooma portfolio. Wells has designed an end-to-end culinary experience that champions local Eurobodalla suppliers.
Guests are treated to a communal, complimentary breakfast featuring local staples from Narooma’s celebrated Honorbread, while the all-day poolside dining menu pairs elevated classics like fried prawn sandwiches and chicken katsu burgers with fresh oysters and sashimi pulled straight from the surrounding waters.
Adding to the heavy-hitting culinary lineup, fan-favorite Queen Chow has opened its doors inside the resort, bringing Dan Hong’s iconic modern Cantonese flair, signature barbecued duck, and fresh seafood dumplings to the South Coast.
The Whale joins Merivale’s rapidly expanding South Coast footprint, alongside local favorites Quarterdeck, Lynch’s Hotel, The Inlet, and The Surf Park, solidifying Narooma as Australia’s next must-visit boutique holiday escape.
Bookings for the resort and restaurant are officially live here: https://whalenarooma.com
