visit port stephens nsw

Australia Recommends 2024

Come and Say G'day

G'day, the short film

Discover your Australia

Travel videos

Deals and offers

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

South Australia

Western Australia

External Territories

The Whitsundays

Mornington Peninsula

Port Douglas

Ningaloo Reef

Airlie Beach

Kangaroo Island

Rottnest Island

Hamilton Island

Lord Howe Island

Tiwi Islands

Phillip Island

Bruny Island

Margaret River

Barossa Valley

The Grampians

Hunter Valley

McLaren Vale

Glass House Mountains

Alice Springs

Uluru and Kata Tjuta

The Kimberley

Flinders Ranges

Kakadu National Park

Eyre Peninsula

Karijini National Park

Great Barrier Reef

Blue Mountains

Daintree Rainforest

Great Ocean Road

Purnululu National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Litchfield National Park

Aboriginal experiences

Arts and culture

Festivals and events

Food and drink

Adventure and sports

Walks and hikes

Road trips and drives

Beaches and islands

Nature and national parks

Eco-friendly travel

Health and wellness

Family travel

Family destinations

Family road trips

Backpacking

Work and holiday

Beginner's guide

Accessible travel

Planning tips

Trip planner

Australian budget guide

Itinerary planner

Find a travel agent

Find accommodation

Find transport

Visitor information centres

Deals and travel packages

Visa and entry requirements FAQ

Customs and biosecurity

Working Holiday Maker visas

Facts about Australia

Experiences that will make you feel like an Aussie

People and culture

Health and safety FAQ

Cities, states & territories

Iconic places and attractions

When is the best time to visit Australia?

Seasonal travel

Events and festivals

School holidays

Public holidays

How to get to Australia's most iconic cities

How long do I need for my trip to Australia?

How to travel around Australia

Guide to driving in Australia

How to hire a car or campervan

How to plan a family road trip

How to plan an outback road trip

Port Stephens, New South Wales © Tourism Australia

Guide to Port Stephens

• Share Share on Facebook Share on Messenger Share on Twitter Share on WhatsApp Copy Link
• Getting to Port Stephens
• When to visit

Discover a beguiling list of attractions – from wildlife to wineries, soaring sand dunes to ancient rainforest – in this northern New South Wales town.

Port Stephens is a seaside getaway, surrounded by 26 stunning beaches and a majestic bay along the Legendary Pacific Coast route. In addition to world-class surf breaks, visitors can explore this aquatic playground by scuba diving with grey nurse sharks, swimming with wild dolphins or snorkelling in gentle bays. There are inventive tours on offer in the nearby Stockton sand dunes and Barrington Tops National Park, making Port Stephens the perfect place for a weekend away.

A popular way to get to Port Stephens is to self drive from Sydney. It's a scenic, coastal route with plenty of places to stop and explore along the way. If you're pressed for time, you can also fly into Newcastle and explore Port Stephens from there.

• Newcastle Airport (NTL) is approximately a 30-minute, or 35km (22km) drive to Port Stephens; domestic arrivals only.
• Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) is around 2.5 hours, or 210km (130mi) from Port Stephens; international and domestic arrivals.
• Hire cars are available upon arrival, however it is recommended to pre-book your desired vehicle.

Port Stephens is perfect for beach hopping and adventure activities, which is why it’s no surprise that summer is the best time to visit. However if you want to spot humpback whales as they make their annual migration down the east coast, you will want to visit between May and November.

• High season: Summer (December to February)
• Low season: Winter (June to August)

Trips and Itineraries

4 days in Sydney

Australia on a budget in 10 days

Drive the Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route

From Sydney to Cairns: A 14-day trip of cities, islands and reef

Destinations near port stephens.

Travellers' stories

Planning your trip to Australia?

Featured articles.

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience.  Find out more . By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies.

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

• New Zealand (English)
• United States (English)
• Canada (English)
• United Kingdom (English)
• India (English)
• Malaysia (English)
• Singapore (English)
• Indonesia (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Deutschland (Deutsch)
• France (Français)
• Italia (Italiano)
• 中国大陆 (简体中文)

*Product Disclaimer:  Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services. Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). Tourism Australia makes no representations whatsoever about any other websites which you may access through its websites such as australia.com. Some websites which are linked to the Tourism Australia website are independent from Tourism Australia and are not under the control of Tourism Australia. Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site.

• MyServiceNSW
• Manage account
• Logout of MyServiceNSW

Port Stephens Visitor Information Centre

Call into the Port Stephens Visitor Information Centre for information on Port Stephens and the surrounding area.

About this location

60 Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay NSW 2315

• Welcomes people with access needs
• Booking/Tour Desk
• Coach Parking
• Picnic Area
• Public Telephone
• Public Toilet
• Shop / Gift Shop

Contact details

Image gallery.

Port Stephens VIC

Port Stephens VIC 2

Port Stephens VIC 4

Port Stephens VIC Phone

Port Stephens VIC Map

Port Stephens VIC 5

This website contains information about products and services supplied by third parties and links to other websites. The information on this website and the links to other websites are provided as a general reference source only. All information on this website and links to other websites are provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness, fitness for purpose or of the results obtained from using this information. The information on this website and the links to other websites do not constitute or imply any endorsement or approval by the State of New South Wales of the information or the material at those websites, or any associated organisation, product or service. The information on this website and the links to other websites are provided on the understanding that the State of New South Wales is not providing professional advice on a particular matter.

Please see https://www.nsw.gov.au/disclaimer for more information.

The ultimate travel guide to Port Stephens

• Getting there
• NSW Destinations

Port Stephens is comprised of a collection of relaxed coastal neighbourhoods – including Nelson Bay, Anna Bay, Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay, and more – with each offering something a little different. Discover everything you need to know below in our Port Stephens travel guide.

Getting to Port Stephens

Drive north of Sydney for 2.5 hours or north of Newcastle for 1 hour to arrive in the New South Wales coastal region of Port Stephens. If you’re travelling from further afield, catch a domestic flight to Newcastle Airport and travel the further 25 minutes by rental car or taxi to Port Stephens.

Top things to do in Port Stephens

Top 15 things to do in Port Stephens

From swimming with wild dolphins and seeing whales up close or hiking to the top of Mt Tomaree through bushland brimming...

There is a l ong, enticing list of things to do in Port Stephens , with something to satisfy every traveller: thrill-seekers can opt to quad bike over the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere ; nature-lovers can head to the water to scuba dive with grey nurse sharks, brush up against majestic humpback whales and swim with the resident bottlenose dolphin population. Those accustomed to a more leisurely pace can simply spend long, hot summer days lazing on one – or all – of the 26 picture-perfect beaches on offer .

A guide to Port Stephens beaches and bays

Map out your sun-filled holiday in Port Stephens with this guide to its beaches and bays Flanked by the Pacific Ocean on one side...

A guide to Port Stephens whale watching

Increase your chances of spotting whales (and dolphins!) in Port Stephens with this handy guide. Port Stephens is an aquatic wond...

The best ways to experience the Stockton sand dunes

Here is how to hit the Stockton sand dunes in the Worimi Conservation Lands. The Stockton Bight sand dunes stretch 32 kilometres ...

Best places to stay in Port Stephens

From camping to glamping , motels, Airbnbs, hotels and luxury beach resorts , there’s plenty on offer when searching for the perfect Port Stephens accommodation.

The ultimate Port Stephens accommodation guide

There’s accommodation to suit all kinds of travellers in Port Stephens – no matter your budget, needs or style. You...

4 new luxe reasons to visit The Anchorage Hotel & Spa in Port Stephens

The new luxury experiences on offer at The Anchorage Hotel & Spa are reason enough to visit this sophisticated coastal village...

A guide to camping in Port Stephens

With 26 beaches and bays, a backdrop of ever-shifting sand dunes and large pockets of lush coastal forest, Port Stephens is a magn...

Escape to a luxury bayside retreat in Port Stephens

Whether you’re seeking exploration, adventure, pampering or the perfect hideaway, it’s time to set sail to your very own utopi...

Where to eat in Port Stephens

15 top Port Stephens restaurants

From fine dining to fish and chips and everything in between, the Port Stephens dining scene is diverse and ever-growing...

Port Stephens has some standout dining establishments tucked in shopping strips, overlooking beaches, and nestled next to public parks all along the coast that are so worth a stop when travelling to this gem of a destination.

More destinations in North Coast NSW

• NSW North Coast
• Central Coast
• Coffs Harbour
• Port Macquarie
• Hunter Valley

© Australian Traveller Media 2024. All rights reserved.

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Port Stephens

Things to do in port stephens, explore popular experiences, ways to tour port stephens.

• Port Stephens Day Tour with Dolphin Cruise, 4WDtour, Sandboarding

Unlimited Sandboarding

Port Stephens Unlimited Sandboarding and Sand Surfing

Port Stephens: Dolphin Discovery Cruise

General Admission Fighter World Museum

• Port Stephens day tour Departing from Newcastle

• Port Stephens Day Trip with Dolphin Watch Cruise from Sydney

Port Stephens 3 Hour Whale and Dolphin Watch Cruise

• Port Stephens Private Tour From Sydney, with Dolphin/ Whale Cruise Options

• Private Port Stephens Day Trip from Sydney incl Dolphin Cruise

Full-day Tours

Top Attractions in Port Stephens

Other Top Attractions around Port Stephens

Ports of Call Tours

Outdoor activities.

Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours

What travellers are saying

• Gan Gan Lookout
• Stockton Sand Dunes
• Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters
• One Mile Beach
• Nelson Head Heritage Lighthouse and Reserve
• Tomaree Head
• Oakvale Wildlife Park
• D'Albora Marinas
• Fingal Bay Beach
• 4WD Tag-Along & Passenger Tours
• 4WD Tours R Us
• Port Stephens 4WD Tours
• Sand Dune Safaris

The PERFECT Port Stephens Itinerary (for a 2024 Weekend)

• Last Updated: January 11, 2024

Planning on having a weekend in Port Stephens? You’re going to love it here! Read on for our ultimate Port Stephens itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

Located just 2.5 hours north of Sydney, the region of Port Stephens has quickly become one of the most popular holiday destinations in New South Wales.

Once you find out all the incredible things there are to do in Port Stephens , you’ll quickly understand why.

Besides boasting some of Australia’s most picturesque beaches, Port Stephens is home to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest moving sand dunes, a plethora of wildlife experiences (including dolphin and whale watching tours), gorgeous hiking trails and some of the best culinary options in the state.

If you’re planning a trip up here with a limited time frame, and want to get the most out of your Port Stephens itinerary, we’re here to help.

Table of Contents

10:30am – Quad Biking on the Stockton Sand Dunes in Worimi National Park

1pm – lunch at murray’s brewing co, 3pm – irukandji shark and ray encounters, 5pm – go for a walk along the foreshore for sunset, 7pm – dinner at shoal bay country club, 6am – climb mount tomaree for sunrise, 9am – breakfast at the little nel, 10:30am – whale watching or dolphin watching cruise with moonshadow tqc, 2pm – lunch at the inner light tea rooms, 4pm – stand-up paddleboarding at sunset, 7pm – dinner at the cheeky dog or rick stein bannisters in soldiers point, 9am – breakfast at crest birubi beach, 11am – tomaree coastal walk to fingal bay, 4pm – gan gan lookout for sunset or birubi beach for camel riding, 7pm – dinner at little beach boathouse, day 4 – heading home (or staying on), the perfect long weekend in port stephens itinerary.

We recently spent 4 days in the absolute paradise of Port Stephens, and managed to jam a lot in!

From the Stockton Sand Dunes which are the largest sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, to all the delicious restaurants and cafes in the Nelson Bay Area, to all the beautiful beaches and the Gan Gan Lookout, there is seriously so much to do!

There are also a few things we would do differently though, so if you’re ready for the best itinerary for Port Stephens, read on…

READ MORE: Don’t miss our list of the other top destinations in Australia !

Day 1 – Wildlife and Quad Biking

Whether you’re driving from the south or north, we recommend you aim to get to Port Stephens as early as possible in the morning so you can make the most of your first day.

It’s all about wildlife and sand dune adventures on your first day in Port Stephens!

We’re going to kick off your Port Stephens itinerary with a bang, by going quad biking on the Stockton Sand Dunes. These are the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere!

Book into the 11am morning tour with Sand Dune Adventures (definitely reserve your spot ahead of time, as they only have limited availability), and meet them at their office 30 minutes before departure for the official check-in.

After a short drive to the base in the national park, you’ll be given a safety briefing before jumping on your high-powered quad bikes for an hour of epic fun.

Your experienced guide will take you deep into the Stockton Sand Dunes, roaring through the shifting sands and dropping down steep embankments (if you feel up to it).

At about the halfway point you stop on one of the highest points in the area, where you’ll be rewarded with what feels like the endless vistas of rolling dunes fading into Pacific Ocean in the distance.

The quad bikes go up to speeds of 60km/h, so you’re guaranteed to get the adrenaline pumping.

And if you’re travelling with kids, you have two options. Put them on a smaller quad bike that’s speed-limited, or they can sit on the back of your own bike.

For a real unique Port Stephens experience though, sign up for their cultural tour, where you’ll learn more about the traditional custodians of the land, the Worimi people .

What makes Sand Dune Adventures unique in the area is that they are a non-profit organisation that supports not only the conservation of the land, but employ and provide education to Aboriginal people.

It’s a great company doing fantastic work, while providing a top-quality service in the Stockton Sand Dunes of Port Stephens.

By now you would have worked up an appetite (and a thirst) from all that fun in the sun, so it’s time to head to the legendary Murray’s Brewing Co to quench those desires.

Set on a stunning property with large, lush fields and an epic outdoor beer garden, Murrary’s is the perfect spot to enjoy an afternoon session and sample their delectable beers and cider.

The Whale Ale is arguably their most famous drop, but the IPA is hard to beat as well.

If you’re not a beer lover, don’t worry. There’s also a wine cellar on site, showcasing local, premium vintages.

The food menu is classic pub style with tonnes of flavour (and generous servings), but to take things up a notch they also cook up woodfire pizzas.

After lunch it’s time to jump back in the car and head to the next adventure.

Up the road in Anna Bay is the incredibly unique and interactive Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters .

Designed to introduce kids and adults to the fascinating underwater world, while changing perspectives on what are usually considered dangerous species, this conservation-focused aquarium allows visitors to get up close and personal with a variety of sharks and rays.

Education is a main element of the work the staff at Irukandji do, and their goal is to have everybody leave with a deeper appreciation of these misunderstood creatures.

Book your entrance ticket to Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters here!

It’s time to drive into the heart of the coastal town of Port Stephens and check into your accommodation.

You have a couple of different options of where to stay. If you love being close to nature, stay in Shoal Bay.

If you’d rather be closer to the action, Nelson Bay is the place to sleep.

And if you’d like to be tucked away at the quieter end of Port Stephens, head on down to Salamander Bay.

Personally we recommend staying at Shoal Bay or Nelson Bay.

Once you’ve unpacked the car head on down to the sea and take a walk along the foreshore for sunset.

The bays are beautiful at any time of day, but watching sailboats sway gently in the breeze while the light turns golden and crimson over the pale-blue ocean is a special moment.

There are a lot of fantastic restaurants in Port Stephens, so you’ll be forgiven for feeling overwhelmed about where to go.

If you’re staying in Shoal Bay or Nelson Bay though, it’s worth booking a table at the Shoal Bay Country Club .

Don’t let the name fool you, this place isn’t out in the countryside – it’s right by the water!

The upstairs restaurant and outdoor deck have amazing views over the ocean, making it a perfect place for a sundowner as well.

You’ll be spoilt for choice on the dinner menu, and there’s no shortage of wine to pair with your meal as well.

If you missed out on the woodfire pizza at Murray’s for lunch, they also do a great pizza here.

Day 2 – Sunrise Mission and Whale Watching

Hope you didn’t have too many glasses of wine at the Country Club last night, because we have an early start today!

If you’re an early riser and love a bit of a challenge first thing in the morning, then we highly recommend climbing Mount Tomaree for sunrise!

The crown jewel of the Port Stephens region, reaching the summit of Mount Tomaree is an absolute must-do on any visit, and those that make the top are rewarded with the most spectacular views.

You get to overlook all the pristine beaches and small islands that make up the interesting coastline of the Nelson Bay Area.

As a word of warning, the climb involves some steep paths and stairs, but the entire thing is well maintained, and a moderately fit person should be able to walk to the top from the carpark in about 20-30 minutes.

Hike back down the mountain, head to your accommodation for a shower to freshen up, then make your way to The Little Nel for an incredible breakfast.

A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, The Little Nel is always buzzing, and on a sunny day if you can grab a table outside you’ll be in absolute heaven.

The staff are friendly, coffee delicious, and food is amazing. Our recommendation; get the fritters!

Just a short walk down from the Little Nel you’ll find yourself at the Nelson Bay Marina. This is where you’re going to depart for what may just be your absolute highlight of this Port Stephens itinerary!

The waters off of Port Stephens are known to be one of the best places in Australia to see dolphins (year-round) and humpback whales (May to October).

Today you’re going to head out to try and spot them!

Book yourself into a morning departure with Moonshadow TQC , who operate the largest fleet of boats in the Port Stephens area, and get ready for an epic few hours.

As you depart the marina and start cruising through the bay, you’re almost guaranteed to see dolphins.

They often come right up to the boat and play in the wake, which always brightens up anyone’s day.

If you’re here in the winter months though, make sure you’re booked on a whale-watching cruise instead.

Not only do you have the high chance of seeing dolphins, you’ll also make your way out past the headlands and start to look for humpback whales.

READ MORE: Check out this article on the other New South Wales whale-watching hot spot, Jervis Bay !

From May to October these majestic creatures migrate north from Antarctica to breed, then head back down for the summer to feed.

They come very close to the shores of Port Stephens, making this one of the top whale-watching destinations in Australia.

If you’re lucky, you’ll be treated to an awe-inspiring display from the humpbacks as they breach, dive and play just a few hundred metres from the boats.

Tea and coffee is provided, and there’s a full bar and snacks available for sale on the cruises as well.

The Nelson Bay Lighthouse boasts lovely views over Port Stephens, and at its base is a fantastic cafe to grab lunch as well.

The Inner Light Tea Rooms mixes a vintage feel with modern cuisine, and with only a small number of tables available, it also has an air of exclusivity about it.

Naturally, with a name like this, the iced teas are what many people come here for, and coupled with the fresh scones, you’ll be in for a real treat.

The lunch meals aren’t too heavy either, which is refreshing.

After you finish your meal go for a little walk around the headland (and see the pelicans at the bottom of the hill), then head back to Shoal Bay for the afternoon’s activity.

To top off what has already been a marvellous day, we recommend hitting the water once again to go stand-up paddleboarding for sunset.

Rod from Shoal Bay SUP is an absolute character and loves nothing more than taking visitors out for an hour of fun.

You meet up at the boat ramp at the eastern end of Shoal Bay to get a quick training session from Rod, then it’s time to paddle out.

If the wind is down and water is calm it almost feels like you’re paddling across glass, and the ripples glisten as the sun goes down.

It’s not a guarantee, but if luck is on your side you may even have dolphins come check you out.

Don’t worry if you’re not experienced with SUP, or the weather is bad. Rod also has some unique paddle boards with handles for those rough conditions.

Book a taxi or drive out to Soldiers Point at the western end of Port Stephens for a delightful culinary experience.

Depending on what you’re feeling like, you have two options out here.

The first choice is the quintessential Aussie pub meals at the Cheeky Dog , which are guaranteed to satisfy even the hungriest patrons.

The large venue is split into two sections – the sports bar at the front and the restaurant in the rear.

The food is affordable, comes out quick, and the place has just enough ambiance to make you stick around for another drink or two afterwards.

If you are feeling like treating yourself though, book a table at Rick Stein Bannisters , located upstairs in the hotel.

Rick Stein has carved a name for himself as being one of Australia’s most prominent seafood chefs, and after the huge success of his restaurant in Mollymook, he has now expanded with Bannisters to open up in Port Stephens.

The food you’ll find here is of the highest quality, and you can rest easy knowing that the award-winning chefs will bring you out something you’re going to remember for a long time.

The waiters and waitresses are all very knowledgable when it comes to wine pairing too, so let them guide you with what to drink alongside your meals.

The Cheeky Dog and Rick Stein Bannisters are both located on the property of the Bannisters Hotel in Soldiers Point.

Day 3 – Epic Coastal Views

No need for an early start today. After all, yesterday was a massive one.

Instead have a leisurely sleep in (or if you’re really keen, check out Wreck Beach for sunrise) , then cruise on over to Nelson Bay.

Overlooking Birubi Beach in Anna Bay, Crest is one of the best breakfast restaurants in Port Stephens.

If you can book ahead, make sure you reserve a table outside for lovely ocean views while you enjoy your meals.

For a real treat, grab the Peanut Butter and Salted Caramel Smoothie. It might just change your life.

READ MORE: Check out our ultimate guide for travelling around Australia!

The entire Tomaree Coastal Walk is 20km long, and is one of the most spectacular hikes in New South Wales.

If you’re feeling really fit, you can tackle the entire thing from the base of Mount Tomaree right to Birubi Beach.

But if you just have a few hours to spare and want to see the highlights of Tomaree National Park, then do the hike to Fingal Bay.

As you depart through gorgeous forests, you wander over hills and down to the beautiful beaches of Zenith Beach, Wreck Beach and Box Beach. Also walk along Fingal Bay, where the Fingal Spit connects to the mainland with Shark Island at low tide.

Each point along the way gives you postcard-perfect views, and during the winter months you’ll often see humpback whales breaching out to sea.

Once you get to Fingal Bay grab a bite to eat at the Longboat Cafe, then grab a taxi back to town for a well-earned break.

For today’s afternoon adventure in Port Stephens you have a few options.

The first is to head up to Gan Gan Lookout for sunset. Driving the steep road up to the lookout, you’ll be rewarded with near-360 views of the Port Stephens region.

As the light changes into the Golden Hour, you’ll be amazed as the entire coast lights up in shimmering hues of yellows, reds and maroons.

You can reach all the viewpoints with a short walk, so it’s perfect if you’re feeling a bit tired after the coastal hike.

Alternatively, you can drive out to Birubi Beach for a truly unique Aussie experience – go camel riding on the beach!

Oakfield Ranch has a large number of trained camels that take visitors out on 20-minute beach walks every day.

Wandering down to the sea and towering above the breaking waves is quite a bit of fun, and something that guarantees some awesome photos.

If you’re in town on a Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday or Sunday, you can sign up for a 60-minute sunset camel ride, which is what we recommend.

Birubi Beach is one of the best places in Port Stephens to watch sunset, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an Arabian movie as you ride your camel around the dunes.

You don’t need any experience, and the tour is fully guided.

Tonight you can pick just about anything you feel like for dinner, and you’ll find no shortage of options in Port Stephens.

Our recommendation, especially if you like seafood, is to check out the Little Beach Boathouse.

Located in Nelson Bay right next to Little Beach Reserve, this legendary dining option has some of the best and freshest seafood in town.

Make sure you book ahead though, as it is very popular.

You’ve reached the end of our Port Stephens itinerary, but if you are sticking around for a few more days, there are plenty of other great things to do in this holiday spot north of Sydney.

Some of our favourite ideas are:

• Go snorkelling or scuba diving in Nelson Bay
• Learn to surf at One Mile Beach
• Rent a bicycle and peddle around Port Stephens
• Watch the sunsetat Sunset Beach at Soldiers Point
• Try to spot wild koalas at the Tilligerry Koala Habitat
• Go sand boarding down the sand dunes

That’s it for our weekend in Port Stephens and Nelson Bay itinerary. We hope you enjoy your time in this gorgeous region.

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

Getting Around Magnetic Island – ‘How to’ Transportation Guide

The Ultimate GUIDE to the Best MAGNETIC ISLAND BEACHES and Bays

The Perfect Magnetic Island Day Trip Itinerary [2024 GUIDE]

Related Posts

Wine and wildflowers – camping in khovsgol lake, getting your vietnam visa in phnom penh, cambodia, wandering the streets of tbilisi, georgia, the 21 best things to do in townsville [2024 guide], leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

We've detected that JavaScript is disabled in your browser.

Please enable JavaScript, or upgrade your browser to continue using this website.

Port Stephens Visitor Information Centre

Allow the trained staff at Port Stephens Visitor Information Centre to assist in planning your getaway.

The Visitors Centre located in the heart of Nelson Bay offers a complete range of information, including an online accommodation and tours booking service. Souvenirs, local produce, crafts, and other merchandise are available for purchase. Internet access and a quiet area for reading is offered for the convenience of travellers.

Services include reservations and sales for accommodation, tours, cruises and transfers, event information and general enquiries.

CALL TOLL FREE ON 1800 808 900

Port Stephens Visitor Information and Booking Centre Address: 60 Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay NSW 2315

T: 1800 808 900 E: [email protected] Operating hours: 9:00am to 4:00pm Monday to Friday 10.00am to 2.00pm Saturday Closed Sunday For all seasonal/holiday hours, please visit the Port Stephens Council website here:  https://www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/community/community-venues/holiday-parks/visitor-information-centre

60 Victoria Parade

35 Best Things To Do In Port Stephens NSW 2024 Guide

Discover why the best things to do in Port Stephens make it one of the most popular getaways from Sydney !

In my experience, Port Stephens has it all! Home to beautiful beaches, the famous Stockton Sand Dunes, one of the best places to see humpback whales in NSW, as well as the beautiful Salamander Bay and Shoal Bay. This list goes on! You’ll be coming back here time and time again as one of the best holiday destinations on the East Coast.

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do In Port Stephens

There are so many things to do in Port Stephens, so make the most of your Sydney getaway with some of my personal favourite activities.

1. Book a legendary dolphin watching cruise

You can’t come to Port Stephens in NSW and miss out on a dolphin watching cruise! This is home to one of the best places in Australia (and the world) to see dolphins as between 90-120 bottlenose dolphins living in the area.

Pre-book this Dolphin Watching Cruise which also includes slides and swimming. The 2 hour cruise is one of the most popular activities for families, friends and couples and gets booked up fast!

2. Be brave with the NEW shark cage diving & feeding experience!

Ever wanted to get up close to sharks and rays? You can now book a shark cage dive and feed experience with 50 or more shark and ray encounters! This activity is availble for anyone over the age of 10 but it also includes so much more than shark cage diving.

Expect to feed octopus, eels, sharks, rays, land turtles, learn about macaw birds and so much more. It also includes hot dog or pizza lunch, free coffee and slushys all day long!

3. Go sandboarding in Stockton Sand Dunes

Port Stephens sand dunes is one of the major Port Stephens attractions, because it’s the largest sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. The Stockton Bight Sand Dunes in Worimi Conservation Lands Port Stephens stretches from Anna Bay, nearly all the way back to Newcastle in NSW.

Pre-book your sandboarding tour  as it’s one of the most popular activities in Port Stephens. The good news is, it’s super affordable for families which is no surprise as being one of the most popular things to do in Port Stephens, located at Stockton sand dunes next to Birubi beach.

4. Visit koalas at the Koala Sanctuary

You can’t come to Port Stephens without going to the Koala Sanctuary . Learn all about the conservation which goes into protecting the koalas and help support this amazing cause.

5. Go snorkelling to the outer islands

Love snorkelling?  This snorkelling trip  to the outer islands and learn all about the area while getting up close to rays, wobbegongs, corals, sponges and loads of fish!

6. Swim with sharks and stingrays in Port Stephens

Ever wanted to swim with sharks and rays? Here at the Irukandji Shark & Ray Centre in Port Stephens, you’ll find a unique and interactive aquarium which allows visitors to interact with ocean life in the water. It’s a really affordable family experience, and one of the best things to do in Port Stephens.

7. Explore the sand dunes in a 4WD tour

Make the most of the largest dunes in the Southern Hemisphere and experience beach driving at its best along the Stockton Beach and Port Stephens dunes where you’ll be able to go and see the famous Tin City!

Unless you’ve been before, we recommend jumping on this  tag along 4wd sand dune tour , where you’ll follow your guide through various meadows within Tomaree National Park. Expect to explore the hidden beaches and areas of the famous sand dunes in Port Stephens.

5. Go on a whale watching cruise

Known as one of THE best places to go whale watching in New South Wales, put this on your best things to do in Port Stephens list. This whale watching cruise gives you the opportunity to get up close with humpback whales. If you’ve never been on a whale watching tour here, make sure you do – there is nothing quite like it. It also includes a 4wd tour along the sand dunes as well!

9. Port Stephens camel ride

Port Stephens camel rides are really popular activity and it’s no wonder why. How many places around Australia can you ride a camel along sand dunes and the beach? Oakfield Ranch offer camel rides for around 20 minutes along the sand dunes and a nice one hour sunset ride as well.

10. Horse riding in Port Stephens

If you’d love to go horse riding on the beach in Australia, here’s an opportunity to do it in Port Stephens! Sahara Trails will take you on a gorgeous adventure through bush trails and sand dunes. Find out more about  Horse Riding with Sahara Trails.

11. Find the best beaches in Port Stephens

There are 26 beaches in the area to explore! Head over to the stunning Salamander Bay next to the Port Stephens Harbour or Shoal Bay for calm waters. Head to Anna Bay to see the sun set over the water – a total novelty!

The first beach next to the Mount Tomaree in Tomaree National Park is Zenith beach which is easy to get to and it’s stunning with super soft sand. Just park at the Mount Tomaree car park and relax after your climb up to the Tomaree Mountain Summit! Wreck Beach and Box Beach next door are also a must visit!

Fingal Bay Beach is an amazing beach with white sand and home to Fingal Spit which where you can walk over to Fingal Island. If you’re going to walk over to the island, check the tides because you could get trapped there!

One Mile Beach is a busy one because of the people staying at the holiday park next door and also Kingsley Beach which is a bit of a hidden gem.

12. Discover the Champagne Spa in Boat Harbour

Image via  Port Stephens Instagram

There may well be many hidden gems to discover, but one of the best things to do in Port Stephens is to visit the amazing Champagne Spa in Boat Harbour. This hidden rock pool has crystal clear water and is screaming for influencers to come and take their best photos.

Wondering how to get to Champagne Spa in Port Stephens? Turn left at the whale watching platform on Blanch Street in Boat Harbour and climb down the rocks to find the Champagne Spa. I wouldn’t take young children down here but it’s a great place to explore, especially if you’re staying in the nearby One Mile Beach Holiday Park.

Warning: The Champagne Spa is located on a dangerous rock shelf. Unexpected large waves can cause serious injury, which can result in drowning. Be very careful if visiting this pool.

13.  Go on the Tomaree Mountain walk

You can’t visit the area and miss out on the views at the top of Tomaree Mountain out to the amazing Zenith Beach, Wreck Beach, Box Beach and Fingal Beach! The water at Shoal Bay is completely flat and you’ll see the beautiful Broughton Island out in the distance as well the Hawks Nest Peninsula and Tea Gardens as well.

The Tomaree Head Summit Walk is actually quite easy, and it took me 15 minutes of slow walking to complete the 1KM walk. It’s very easy to navigate and it’s a good path, I even saw small children walking up. It’s a steady path until you reach the stair cases. Obviously not advisable for the elderly or toddlers but should be OK for everyone else.

14. Gan Gan Lookout in Port Stephens

Check out the beautiful Gan Gan Lookout (which you can drive right up to), one of the best things to do in Port Stephens when you first arrive in the area. You’ll be able to get your bearings straight away as you’ll be able to see right across the bay.

15. Hire your own boat in Nelson Bay

We loved hiring a little tinny from  Nelson Bay Boat Hire  – and we always recommend this to everyone we know coming here. You don’t need a boat licence and it comes with safety gear as well. I’ve done this on three separate occasions that I’ve been in the area and absolutely loved it.

16. Go scuba diving in Port Stephens

If you’ve ever wanted to try scuba diving or do a scuba diving course in Australia then  Let’s Go Adventures  offers it all. Also, there’s so many shipwrecks just off the beaches so I can imagine it’s a total haven for the divers out there looking to see a lot of marine life under the water.

17. Go paddle boarding or kayaking in Port Stephens

If you’re up for an adventure, there are loads of water sports to try out.  Port Stephens Paddle Sports  have a guided kayak tour and a new paddle board (SUP) tour as well. Just note that they are closed in winter and open up again from September onwards.

18. Hire a bike in Port Stephens

Did you know there’s over 50KM of cycleways in Port Stephens? If you’re like me and love the freedom cycling gives you, then you’re in luck! Hire a bike from  Nelson Bay Bike Hire  and enjoy cruising around while doing all of the best things to do in Port Stephens.

19. Tomaree Markets

If you love to check out the local markets in Port Stephens, head over to Tomaree Markets which takes place on Sundays at Neil Carrol Park, Fly Point in Nelson Bay. Make sure you check the  Facebook page  first to find out if they are on during the weekend you are visiting.

20. Have fun at the Toboggan Hill Park

Did you know there’s a  Toboggan Hill Park  right in the middle of Nelson Bay? This is a great would spot for kids birthday parties and families looking to enjoy one of the fun things to do in the Port Stephens area.

21. Feed the animals at Oakvale Wildlife Park

Oakvale Wildlife Park  in Port Stephens is an awesome interactive experience with Australia animals. Get up close to koalas, snakes, meerkats, lemurs, and various Australian birds. There’s also a splash park at Oakvale Wildlife Park as well, so you could easily spend a whole day here with the family.

22. Go Karts Go Nelson Bay

Go Karts Go  in Bobs Farm, is home to the biggest 4-stroke outdoor go kart track in Nelson Bay! This is a fab family day out as they have small go karts specifically for kids from 5+ years and upwards. If you’d prefer to be a passenger, you’re in luck as there are also twin seater go karts to choose from as well.

23. Check Out Fighter World

30 minutes outside of Nelson Bay and a 20 minute drive from Newcastle will bring you to Fighter World, an aviation museum. Discover many incredible planes operated by the Royal Australian Air Force, in one of the largest Port Stephens indoor activities.

Where to Eat In Port Stephens

We’re going to share some of the best Port Stephens restaurants and cafes you need to know about.

25. Negroni’s

We stopped by Negroni’s for breakfast recently and absolutely loved it. Both of our breakfasts were fantastic and I highly recommend the breakfast bruschetta! Next time we are in town, we’ll book here for dinner too.

26. Mermaids

Mermaids at Shoal Bay Country Club offers up fantastic fresh food with exceptional views overlooking the bay. This popular choice has options like Shakshuka, ricotta pancakes and a healthy brekkie bowl on the menu.

27. Two Bobs Bakery

We couldn’t believe the long lines for Two Bobs Bakery ! Apparently their bread is so good, they sell out early. Join the line and see what the legendary bakery is all about.

28. The Little Nel in Nelson Bay

One of the best places to eat in Port Stephens is  The Little Nel Cafe in Nelson Bay . They serve local produce that’s healthy and rivals any decent healthy cafe in Sydney.

29. Long Boat Cafe in Fingal Bay

Another fantastic healthy cafe in Port Stephens is the  Long Boat Cafe  in Fingal Bay. Here you’ll be able to order smoothies and beautiful salads. I ordered the fresh poke bowl and really enjoyed it. After you’ve finished eating, set up camp at Fingal Bay and enjoy this stunning beach for the day.

30. Innerlight Tea rooms

I had planned to take Stevo’s mum to the  Inner Light Tearooms  for Mother’s Day but unfortunately the weather wasn’t on our side at the time. Just imagine having afternoon tea with some of the best views in Port Stephens?

31. Julio’s Mexican / Rick Stein at Bannisters

Looking for some beautiful Port Stephens restaurants? Let’s start with the famous British chef’s restaurant  Rick Stein at Bannisters . This is a fantastic place to come for those looking for a bit of luxury! I would also recommend Julios modern Mexican restaurant at Bannisters as well for fresh food and contemporary dining.

32. The Galley Kitchen at The Anchorage

The Galley Kitchen at The Anchorage Hotel is open all day long and serves lunch options like a steak sandwich or a Caesar salad. For dinner expect a menu consisting of Pan roast chicken, and Confit of duck for example.

33. Little Beach Boat House

Little Beach Boathouse  in Nelson Bay would be the perfect lunch or dinner spot for a romantic weekend from Sydney.

34. Murray’s Brewery

Located 20 minutes from Nelson Bay, Murray’s Brewing Company is a fantastic place to come for the afternoon with friends or family. Bring your dog and sit on the grass, or sit on the picnic benches next to the bar and watch live music. There’s seating inside and a shop as well. Order a burger – they are so so good!!

35. Home Interior for breakfast / lunch

The Home Interior  is a beautiful homewares shop and cafe, serving up classic Aussie food like avo toast. It’s easily one of the nicest cafes in Port Stephens and we’ve been there a couple of time and loved it!

Port Stephens Accommodation

There are loads of Port Stephens accommodation options to choose from. Here’s some of the best rated hotels on Booking.com you should consider.

• Luxury: The Anchorage  has it all! A stunning luxury accommodation option, complete with excellent restaurants and a beautiful pool.
• Midrange: Bannisters is a bit of an institution as one of the best places to stay in the area. with an infinity pool over looking the stunningly beautiful Shoal Bay, beautiful rooms with bath tubs to relax in, and of course the famous Rick Steins restaurant to eat at.
• Budget: Port Stephens Motel offers free wi-fi and an outdoor swimming pool, located just 1 minute from the Nelson Bay waterfront.
• Best Family resort: Ramada Resort – With multiple indoor and outdoor pools, spas, gym facilities, and free parking, it’s situated within walking distance of the main attractions at Shoal Bay. Choose between various apartments for the family stay and decide whether to cook meals or eat out at one of the three on site restaurants

More nearby travel guides to check out

Looking for more Sydney inspiration? With plenty to see and do, here’s some of our popular Sydney guides for you to check out:

• Reasons We love Seal Rocks
• 19 Best Things To Do In Blueys Beach
• Best Things To Do In The Hunter Valley
• Best Things To Do In Newcastle
• Best Beaches In Newcastle
• Best Beaches In NSW
• Best Secluded Beaches in Sydney

Thank you so much for such a detailed tour trip explaination. This really helped alot to plan my trip to Port Stephens.

That’s great to know. Hope you have a fab time!

A clear and concise information, helped me plan my trip to Nelson with my family.

I love Port Stephens and I like to visit there but not at Christmas time , because it is too busy . I love Myall Lake region too , especially Seal Rocks . I would like to visit Darkes point as the beaches are really scenic . Thank you for another amazing blog !

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get your FREE Sydney E-Guide

I consent to the terms and conditions

Couple of Steps

Travel & Lifestyle Blog

A Weekend Travel Guide to Port Stephens NSW

If you’re looking for a fun weekend away from Sydney to recharge your batteries, then a road trip is in order, to the coastal playground on the east coast. Port Stephens, the dolphin capital of Australia is an adventurer’s dreamscape. Placed perfectly at the end of the Tomaree Peninsula, it is home to some of the most pristine beaches and sand dunes. 

Located about 2.5 hours north of Sydney, this gorgeous coastal getaway is more a region than a township. You’ll find a plethora of activities in Port Stephens from adventures on the water and beneath it, sand-boarding, quad biking, beautiful beaches and much more. It is a popular holiday spot for the locals but, is quickly growing a reputation of its own with international travellers as well. We’ve compiled our list of 11 fab things to do in Port Stephens, so get out there and have some fun.

How to get to Port Stephens from Sydney

If you are availing public transport from Sydney, you can catch the train from Sydney’s central station to Hamilton which is more or less 2.5 hours. You will then need to catch a bus from Hamilton to Shoal Bay Road in Nelson Bay which is an additional 1.5-hour journey.

However, if you prefer to drive from Sydney to Port Stephens, it takes just over 2.5 hours along the M1 Motorway to get there. The nearest airport to Port Stephens is Newcastle. It takes 70 minutes from the airport by bus or a 30-minute drive if you opt for a hire car to get to Port Stephens.

Port Stephens Weekend Itinerary

Hike up to Mt Tomaree Summit Go on a Dolphin Watch Cruise Experience the adrenalin rush with Sandboarding and Quad Biking Try the guided Camel Ride in Stockton Sand Dunes Check out the Warbirds at Fighter World Visit the picture-perfect Fingal Bay Stop by at Gan Gan Lookout Catch a beautiful sunset at One Mile Beach Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters Koala Spotting at Tilligerry Habitat Snorkelling at Fly Point

Hike up to Mt Tomaree Summit

When you think of Port Stephens, the picture that comes to mind is the mesmerizing birds-eye views of the narrow neck where Tomaree head joins the mainland at Nelson Bay. Since we had an early start to our day, we decided to hike and work up an appetite by walking up to Mt Tomaree.

The Tomaree Head Summit Walk is a short but challenging 30-minute scenic hike to the top of the Mountain. At the summit, there are several lookouts, each offering magnificent views of the stunning coastline around Port Stephens including Zenith, Wreck and Box Beach.

Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and do pack plenty of drinking water along with your camera. There are opportunities to capture incredible pictures of the landscape, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Go on a Dolphin Watch Cruise

One of the most recommended activities in Port Stephens is Dolphin watching. With over 100 resident Bottlenose Dolphins, it is often referred to as the Dolphin Capital of Australia. The playful dolphins love to make their presence felt and are often seen frolicking around your catamaran. No wonder they are the most loved locals of this beautiful place.

Sailing around Nelson Bay, the cruise is roughly around 90 minutes with a 99% dolphin sighting success. You can either prefer to watch from the deck or choose to be dragged around in the bow-net, which gives you a unique opportunity to swim with the pod. If you don’t want to board on a cruise, you can spot them from the shore as well, as they sometimes swim close to the beach.

If you travel between May and November, during the annual migration season. You will also get to see the magnificent humpback whales.

Experience the adrenalin rush with Sandboarding and Quad Biking

Yup, you read that right, time to get in on some desert-themed activities. Port Stephens is home to the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. The combination of these massive dunes and the view of the open sea in the distance is an absolute sight to behold and a paradise for thrill-seekers and sand boarders.

Zipping down the 30 to 40 meters dunes gives you the simplest of joys and is ideal for a family with children. The best way to get to the dune is via local operators. Once at the dunes, operators will give you a safety briefing then you can slide down the golden dunes and stay there as long as you like. The operator runs regular return trips back out of the dunes, so once you’ve had your fair share of fun you can return to the parking area.

Now for people who want to kick things up a notch, get on an ATV/Quad Bike for some high octane thrill. Local operators like Sand Dune Adventures also provide quad bike tours. We were so impressed with these machines. The rush you feel as you ascend and descend the expanse along with several steep drops is surreal. Apart from the fun, the operators also give you an overview of the local history and insightful information about local Aboriginal culture and inhabitants.

Try the guided Camel Ride in Stockton Sand Dunes

The east coast of Australia, which is known for its coastal towns and beaches. A tourist attraction of the desert is truly a unique experience. No matter what the age group is, there is always excitement when you ride this graceful creature.

Guided Camel rides are operated by Oakfield Ranch and the entire sightseeing trip can be brief of about 20 minutes or an extended hour-long ride. Helmets are provided for additional safety and a maximum of 2 people can mount a camel. The camels are well trained and calm so the first time riders don’t have to do much except to enjoy the scenery. Take amazing pictures to share with friends and family later.

Check out the Warbirds at Fighter World

Fighter World is such an attraction, where you don’t need to be an aviation enthusiast to appreciate the display seen here. You will turn into one after just one visit. Large hangars are home to an extensive collection of fighter aircraft from the previous era.

Apart from the full-sized planes, the centre also houses miniature hand-made replicas. You also get to sit inside the cockpit to experience the perspective and complex flight and weapon systems. The Williamtown RAAF base, right next to the centre, provides visitors with viewing opportunities from an observation deck, where they can watch military planes take off and land. There are lots of photo opportunities to capture these beautiful creations or simply pose in front of them.

Visit the picture-perfect Fingal Bay

Fingal Bay, originally known as False Bay back in the day is located just after Box Beach. It is a magnificent C-shape beach, which we are sure you have seen in the Port Stephens travel brochure. It is loaded with opportunities for bushwalking, swimming, snorkelling, surfing and even stand-up paddleboarding.

The beautiful white sand beach is also known for its infamous walk across Fingal sand spit to reach Shark Island. As tempting as it may seem authorities recommend not to walk across the spit and catch a boat ride instead. The ocean can swell even during low tides and can be quite unpredictable and dangerous. The shark island has a guided nature walk with a visit to the aboriginal fish trap lagoon as well as a tour of the Point Stephens Lighthouse.

Stop by at Gan Gan Lookout

If you are travelling across Australia, coming across a lookout is nothing new as every region has its own unique and iconic lookout. Gan Gan lookout, which is off Nelson Bay Road in Port Stephens is a 160-metre high viewing area. It offers a spanning view of the entire layout of the township that might help you get your bearings right.

The viewpoint is easily accessible as you can directly drive up and park right next to the lookout area. The entry is free but parking spots are limited, so plan your drive well in advance. The ideal time to capture the scenery would be early morning or at dusk. We personally prefer Dusk, because the landscape is highlighted by the colourful sky. The name Gan Gan translates to “white-breasted fish hawk” in Gathang language that you will often see circling the hill.

Catch a beautiful sunset at One Mile Beach

A visit to this coastal town is not complete if you have not been to its beautiful family-friendly beach. Just 10 minutes from Nelson Bay, the beach is popular with families because of its shallow waters to swim, snorkel and play.

It is usually patrolled during the holidays and on weekends, the beach seems untouched because of the tall sand dunes. Watching a sunset here is magical as the sky turns pastel with combination of purple and pink. The beach is called as One Mile Beach not because of its length but because of its distance from Forster post office. Like every other beach in Australia, this beach too is well equipped with ample parking space, a large park with barbecue and picnic facilities.

Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters

A truly unique experience we have ever seen where visitors get to interact with the most misunderstood creatures of the ocean. Irukandji is intelligently designed to keep the young ones entertained and educated while also keeping it interesting for the adults.

You can choose the level of interaction by getting into water or by standing at the edge of the pool and feeding them. You can also get into the shallow end of the pool standing knee-deep to pat and interact with them. Getting up close and personal with these creatures will help you learn about their world and also squashing any unnecessary fears about them.

Koala Spotting at Tilligerry Habitat

Tilligerry Habitat is a nine-hectare reserve of flora and fauna in Tanilba Bay on the foreshore of beautiful Port Stephens. It is always a good feeling seeing the Koalas in their natural environment. Contrary to what people believe, they actually move around a lot to find eucalyptus leaves to eat and are surprisingly difficult to spot in the trees. Koala spotting on any given day is not guaranteed but they do try their best for you by giving you information about the previous spotting, most frequented trees etc.

Tilligerry Habitat is a flat two-kilometre walk on flat gravel paths and boardwalks. Visitors on arrival can check-in at the information centre where they are given information about various native plants and birds. The entry is free and visitors are free to do a self-guided walk. A map and information are given to you to show A list of birds that may be seen in the habitat and also information where koalas might be found. Open 7 days a week from 9.00 A.M to 3.00 P.M, they also offer a Full Interpretive Tour with a Guide for a nominal fee.

Snorkelling at Fly Point

Fly Point in the Halifax Park Aquatic Reserve is known for its clear blue water. The water is relatively calm even on windy days making it a perfect spot for snorkelers and divers. If this is your first time here, it’s better to go with a diving operator like let’s go adventures as the area is quite rocky underfoot.

There is an abundance of life and colour here even in shallow waters. Hand-feeding fish is extremely easy here, probably because of the fact that fishes are exposed to human interaction. One of the best activities to do on a sunny day. Take the plunge and see the school of fishes of varying sizes, explore the seagrass and kelp for octopus and wobbegongs.

Have you been to Port Stephens? What were your favourite spots? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

If you found this post helpful, please share it on your social media pages.

Pin and save this blog post for later.

Share this:

15 Reasons why you need to visit Coffs Harbour NSW

Canberra travel guide: The best things to do and see

02 comments on “ A Weekend Travel Guide to Port Stephens NSW ”

Hey Lovely post with tons of information. I would like to know how many days are required to cover major not all attraction and activities. Also if you could recommend any motels or Airbnb and restaurants there. Thank You

Thank you for your lovely comment 🙂 You will not need more than a weekend or 3 days to cover major attractions. However, depends on how much you want to explore as few people move on quickly after visiting the place but few stay on to explore all that the place has to offer. We ideally prefer Airbnb over hotels/motels as we get to stay with locals and seek recommendations but then again this is only possible if we book in advance. If we have impromptu trip, we don’t get desired airbnb and we end up staying at hotels/motels via booking.com

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Accommodation
• Travel Inspiration

• destinations
• north coast
• port stephens area

Beaches in Port Stephens

Clear turquoise blue waters, soft white sand and 26 beautiful beaches await in Port Stephens . With the tranquil bay on one side and Pacific Ocean on the other, there’s a range of coastal experiences to enjoy in this beachside paradise on the NSW North Coast . Discover incredible surf in the magnificent Tomaree National Park or find sheltered bays for swimming and stand up paddle boarding.

The Port Stephens – Great Lakes Marine Park is full of postcard-perfect beaches, and home to underwater gardens, islands and rock pools. It’s also a playground for dolphins, whales, turtles and fish. For a spectacular panorama of the bay, beaches and beyond, the Tomaree Head summit walk  is a rewarding experience.

Watery adventures

There are many surf beaches in Port Stephens, providing great surfing for all levels. Beginners can take surf lessons with Port Stephens Surf School at One Mile Beach or Fingal Bay Beach , which are also popular with experienced surfers. Lesser-known Samurai Beach is another good surf spot, along with Zenith and Box beaches near Tomaree Head.

Try stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking at Dutchmans Beach and Shoal Bay, and snorkelling or diving at Fly Point – Halifax Park Aquatic Reserve , located between Nelson Bay and Little Beach. Keep your eyes peeled, and you may spot blue groupers, octopus and seahorses. You can also join a fishing charter and dolphin or whale-watching cruise.

Beach picnics & barbecues

You’ll find picnic tables and barbecue facilities in pretty reserves at a number of beaches, including Bagnalls Beach, Dutchmans Beach and Little Beach, all near Nelson Bay . There are also barbecue facilities near Shoal Bay’s sandy strip, the stunning Fingal Bay Beach and gorgeous One Mile Beach.

The Stockton Bight Sand Dunes are the largest moving coastal dunes in the southern hemisphere and nicknamed the Golden Bight. Part of the Worimi Conservation Lands , the dunes are home to ancient Aboriginal cultural sites, as well as beautiful Birubi and Stockton beaches.

Explore the towering sandscape, stunning beaches, indigenous heritage and shipwrecks along the Golden Bight on a fun range of adventure tours. Choose from sandboarding, quad biking, 4WD touring and horse riding. You can also take your own 4WD onto the beach after buying a valid permit.

Enjoy NSW beaches by following these safety tips

Always swim between the red and yellow flags; surf lifesavers have identified this area as the safest spot to swim in the water. It's also a good idea to always swim with a friend.

Pay attention to the advice of the lifesavers and safety signs. Visit  SharkSmart  to understand any potential risks in the area you are swimming. You are always welcome to ask lifeguards for more safety advice. If you find yourself needing help in the water, stay calm and attract attention. Check conditions before you go. You can also find patrolled beach by visiting  beachsafe.org.au .

Beaches Highlights

Explore beautiful port stephens.

Food & Drink

Worimi Conservation Lands

Whale Watching

Fun port stephens activities, subscribe to our newsletter.

Stay connected to Visit NSW for all the latest news, stories, upcoming events and travel inspiration.

Discover Somewhere New

All the insider news, tips and inspiration you need to plan your next trip, delivered straight to your inbox.

Destination NSW acknowledges and respects Aboriginal people as the state’s first people and nations and recognises Aboriginal people as the Traditional Owners and occupants of New South Wales land and water.

• NSW Government
• Destination New South Wales (Corporate site)

VisitNSW.com is the official tourism site for Destination NSW. © Copyright 2024 Destination NSW. All rights reserved

Please enable javascript to access the full functionality of this site

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

Point Stephens Lighthouse and Fingal Island

Tomaree National Park

Affected by closures, check  current alerts  

View full screen Pause Play

Take a boat or a tour to Fingal Island and explore Point Stephens Lighthouse and historic ruins. Aquamarine Adventure run regular tours to Fingal Island. It's not safe to walk across the sand spit to the island as the tide and swell can change quickly.

• Fingal Island sand spit is extremely dangerous. There is a high risk of drowning and people have died while crossing and swimming at the sandbar.
• Conditions at Fingal Island sand spit are unpredictable and can change rapidly. Even when the water appears calm, tides, swell and deep channels can quickly cover the sandbar in water. Do not cross in any direction if there is any water over the sandbar.
• The Lighthouse Keepers' Cottages Ruins are closed for public safety reasons. Do not enter the site under any circumstances.
• The safest and most enjoyable way to experience Fingal Island is on an organised boat tour. Regular tours are available with Aquamarine Adventures  and  Moonshadow-TQC Cruises .

Point Stephens Lighthouse stands tall and elegant on Fingal Island with a view over the rocks of Fingal Bay. The coastal views from the island back to the mainland are worth the effort to get there. 

Built in 1862, Point Stephens Lighthouse features a swept tower base and first floor entrance that give a flared appearance. This construction, along with the terrace of Lighthouse Keepers’ quarters within the lighthouse precinct makes Point Stephens unique among Australian lighthouses.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Tours and events at this location

Fingal Island eco-walk and lighthouse tour

Discover the captivating history of Point Stephens Lighthouse and Fingal Island on this tour with Aquamarine Adventures. Take in the incredible views and immerse yourself in this magical landscape in Tomaree National Park, near Nelson Bay.

Fingal Island historical lighthouse tour

Take a step back in time with this tour of Point Stephens Lighthouse and Fingal Island in Tomaree National Park. Hear fascinating stories of the island's history from a passionate local guide on this engaging outing with Moonshadow-TQC Cruises, near Nelson Bay.

Download our app

The free NSW National Parks app lets you download maps and explore parks, things to do and places to stay—all without mobile reception.

Lighthouse tours in NSW national parks

Discover exciting lighthouse tours in NSW national parks to experience captivating maritime heritage and stunning costal views.

General enquiries

• National Parks Contact Centre
• 7am to 7pm daily
• 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS) for the cost of a local call within Australia excluding mobiles
• [email protected]
• in Tomaree National Park in the North Coast region

Tomaree National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

What's nearby:

Things to do (96).

• 4WD touring (4)
• Aboriginal culture (11)
• Adventure sports (3)
• Birdwatching and wildlife encounters (40)
• Cafes and kiosks (1)
• Canoeing/paddling (10)
• Cultural heritage (1)
• Cycling (14)
• Environmental appreciation/study (3)
• Fishing (16)
• Historic heritage (17)
• Horse riding (2)
• Picnics and barbecues (22)
• Road trips and car/bus tours (2)
• Sailing, boating and cruises (3)
• Sightseeing (27)
• Snorkelling and scuba (2)
• Surfing (8)
• Swimming (16)
• Walking (39)
• Waterfalls (1)
• Wildflowers (seasonal) (1)

Immersive stories (1)

Itinerary (1), camping and accommodation (32).

• Accommodation (5)
• Campgrounds (27)

School excursions (15)

Provide feedback.

Information submitted on this form, including any personal details, will be a matter of public record and will be stored in the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) records system. You can find out more about how DCCEEW handles the personal information it collects online by reading our privacy policy . By submitting this form, you consent to the collection and use of your personal information in accordance with this policy.

This site uses cookies to analyse traffic, remember your preferences, and optimise your experience. Learn more.

Shoal Bay Place Plan set to create a vibrant future

24 April 2024

Following broad community engagement, Port Stephens Council unanimously agreed to adopt the Shoal Bay Place Plan at its ordinary meeting on Tuesday 23 April 2024.

The Shoal Bay Place Plan has been developed in partnership with local residents and business to  guide future land use planning, new infrastructure investment and place activation.

Deputy Mayor Leah Anderson said it’s a great outcome for the community.

“Shoal Bay is a beautiful coastal town with a relaxed vibe and a tight knit community that values its natural assets,” Deputy Mayor Anderson said.

“The stunning beaches, National Park and vibrant town centre make Shoal Bay an attractive place to live and visit.  We know that over the next few years, more and more people will want to live in this incredibly special part of the world.

“The Shoal Bay Place Plan will guide how we manage this increasing demand – it will help support housing growth but also ensure we don’t lose the unique character and natural beauty of Shoal Bay while improving residents quality of life,” she said.

“Earlier this year, the community provided feedback on the draft plan and although we had lots of support for the actions, there were also some concerns raised by our community,” Deputy Mayor Anderson added.

“Many of these concerns and the feedback provided has now been incorporated into the final document – this includes further conversations around changes to building heights, supporting infrastructure and alternate access roads”.

Along with infrastructure improvements, the adoption of the Shoal Bay Place Plan will lead to improved economic outcomes for local businesses with upgrades to business areas, local events and improved shopfronts. It will also help to protect and celebrate Shoal Bay’s natural assets recognising a number of opportunities for projects including clean up days, beachfront stabilisation, environmental volunterering and education campaigns.

The Shoal Bay Place Plan includes actions that can be championed by our community.

“I know there are already some Shoal Bay residents who are itching to get started on some of the community led initiatives,” Deputy Mayor Anderson said.

“We’re working with the Towns Team Movement to set up a Shoal Bay Town Team to kick start and support the implementation of the plan. The first Shoal Bay Town Team event is on Thursday 16 May from 5:30-7:30pm at Shoal Bay Country Club – we encourage all residents and business to come along,” She added.

The Town Teams Movement is run by a non-profit company helping local communities to connect, organise and act to regenerate the fabric of their neighbourhoods and to create better places.

To read the Shoal Bay Place Plan or find out how to get involved in the Shoal Bay Town Team, visit pscouncil.info/shoal-bay-place-plan

Recovery support extended for flood-affected NSW communities

Service NSW news articles and media releases are point-in-time statements. Please note the date of issue.

Disaster assistance will be extended to the Armidale, Campbelltown, Lismore, Moree Plains, Northern Beaches and Port Stephens Local Government Areas (LGAs), following heavy rainfall and flooding across NSW from 1 April 2024.

The assistance measures are being provided by the Albanese and Minns Governments through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Support includes:

• Assistance for eligible residents to help meet immediate needs like emergency accommodation or small cash payments to purchase essential items generally provided from evacuation or recovery centres.
• Grants for eligible residents to replace lost essential household items to maintain basic standard of living.
• Grants for eligible residents to undertake essential structural repairs to restore their homes to a safe and habitable condition.
• Support for affected local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged essential public assets.
• Concessional interest rate loans for small businesses, primary producers, and non-profit organisations and grants to sporting and recreation clubs to repair or replace damaged or destroyed property.
• Freight subsidies for primary producers to help transport livestock and fodder.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Murray Watt said the extent of the flooding impact is still being assessed.

“This flood event has caused damage across communities, impacting homes, farms, businesses and volunteer groups,” Minister Watt said.

“Many Government agencies and community groups are still out on the ground to assess the damage and continue the mammoth clean-up effort.

“I know the Minns Government is continuing to assess the situation and is adapting as we gain a clearer picture of the impact of this disaster, and our Government stands ready to support as needed.”

NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the extension of the Natural Disaster Declaration is part of the NSW Government’s ongoing response to the flooding and storm events earlier this month.

“The extension of this disaster declaration unlocks assistance for additional communities in need, as the full extent of the damage becomes known,” Minister Dib said.

For information relating to financial assistance, replacing lost documents, location of your nearest recovery centre and more, please contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit www.nsw.gov.au.

To apply for a concessional loan or primary producer grant, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au .

Further information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au .

Media enquiries

For all media enquiries, please email [email protected]