Take Advantage of Beautiful Nelson Bay Over the Australia Day Long Weekend
Ready for Australia Day long weekend from January 24th to January 26th, 2026? It’s your golden chance to ditch the grind and head to Nelson Bay for the ultimate escape! And here’s the kicker – Australia Day lands on a Monday, January 26, 2026, creating a perfectly timed three-day weekend for you to enjoy and celebrate!
Events to Watch Out For
Australia Day allows Port Stephens Council to get people involved in celebrations that will have you immersed in the spirit of the day. Here’s a rundown of the must-see events happening this Australia Day long weekend:
Did you know? The first official Australia Day was celebrated in 1818, 30 years after the arrival of the First Fleet.
Pool Parties at Lakeside Leisure Centre and Tomaree Aquatic Centre
Date: Saturday 24 January 2026
Time: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Locations: Lakeside Leisure Centre (Raymond Terrace) and Tomaree Aquatic Centre (Salamander Bay)
Celebrate Australia Day in a cool, refreshing way at both Lakeside Leisure Centre and Tomaree Aquatic Centre. These are made possible with the support of National Australia Day Council (NADC) grant funding.
- Free pool entry
- Inflatables and water slides
- Sausage sizzle and refreshments
- Family-friendly entertainment and activities
Australia Day: Nelson Bay Celebrations
Date: Monday 26 January 2026
Time: 9:00 am to 3:45 pm
Location: Fly Point Park, Nelson Bay
Enjoy a full day of family-friendly activities and community celebrations at the Fly Point Park in Nelson Bay. Ample parking is available at the top of Neil Carroll Rotary Park. Optional gold coin donation in support of local charities.
Here are some of the highlight events this year:
- Citizenship Ceremony – 1:00 pm
- RAAF Fly Past
- Live Music, Dancing, ArmyBand
- Ambassador visit
- Over 90 market stalls from local businesses
- Food Court, BBQ, hot and cold drinks, soft serve ice cream
- Alpaca and sheep shearing demonstrations and baby animal markets.
- Vintage and classic cars on display
- Fun activities, free flags, and jumping castles for children
Raymond Terrace Celebration at Riverside Park
Date: Monday 26 January 2026
Time: 8:00 am to 2:00 pm
Location: Raymond Terrace Rotary Club and Riverside Park, Raymond Terrace
Join the Raymond Terrace community in celebrating Australia Day, hosted by the Rotary Club of Raymond Terrace. Here are some of the activities you can enjoy:
- The Raymond Terrace Bowling Club Great Aussie Breakfast – 8:00 am to 9:00 am
- The Citizenship Ceremony and the Port Stephens Annual Awards presentation – 9:00 am to 10:30 am
- A visit from the nominated Australia Day Ambassador
- RAAF Fly Past
- Markets, food vendors, and food trucks
- Children’s rides, including ice skating and water slides
- Car Club Display
- Live music and dancing throughout the day
Karuah RSL Australia Day Festivities
Date: Monday 26 January 2026
Time: 10:00 am to late
Location: Karuah RSL
Karuah RSL is hosting a full day of activities for the whole family and the community in the Karuah area. Some of the events that are scheduled to happen are:
- Fresh food competition with produce auctioned off, and all money proceeds going to the Rural Fire Service (RFS)
- Annual thong-throwing competition
- Bowls and live entertainment
- Fireworks display – 9:00 pm
Local Attractions and Activities
Whether you’re a nature lover or thrill-seeker, Nelson Bay has it all.
- Dolphin and whale-watching cruises
- Guided hike in Tomaree National Park
- Sunset kayaking
- Stand-up paddleboarding
Fun fact: Australia Day is also known for backyard cricket games – it’s a classic Aussie tradition that brings families and friends together!
Dining Experiences
Australia Day is the ideal time to indulge in fresh seafood. Nelson Bay’s waterfront restaurants serve up some of the best catches in the region, if you want to experience the magic of a delicious and relaxed meal. For a more casual experience, pack a picnic by the beach with local delicacies and be amazed with the natural beauty around you.
Did you know? Over 13 million Australians celebrate Australia Day with a sausage sizzle, making it one of the most beloved traditions of the holiday!
Discover the Perfect Holiday Rental in Nelson Bay
Looking for the perfect holiday rental in Nelson Bay? You’re in the right place! With so many fantastic properties to choose from, you’ll find the ideal spot to suit your needs and make your getaway unforgettable.
Imagine waking up to stunning water views at Albacore 1, where you can enjoy a modern apartment with a complex pool, Wi-Fi, and amazing ocean views. Or, if panoramic coastal views are more your style, Unit 12 Kiah offers breathtaking views of the Harbour and Nelson Bay beach from the moment you step inside.
For those who love Shoal Bay Beach and the Little Beach area, Cottage Court provides the best of both worlds. Suppose you’re looking for a cosy retreat. In that case, The Croft offers the amenities you need for a comfortable holiday stay, great for families or groups who would like to just stroll to Fingal Bay Beach and enjoy swimming, surfing, windsurfing, fishing, and Stand Up Paddle Boarding.
For a spacious holiday retreat, the Beached Inn in Salamander Bay is a top choice, featuring a four-bedroom beachfront house with air conditioning, an expansive view deck, and secure parking even for your boat. Prefer something more relaxed? Villa Serene offers a peaceful escape in Fingal Bay that provides a lounge setting, alfresco dining, and gas BBQ facilities.
If you’re looking for a blend of privacy and convenience, Tropicality features a private solar-heated pool and is just a 3-minute drive into the heart of Nelson Bay CBD. For those who want a larger family home, the Away @ Nelson Bay is a five-bedroom, pet-friendly home that is in proximity to Nelson Bay CBD and only a short distance to Bagnall Beach, where pets can walk and play.
For a cosy two-bedroom getaway, the first-floor unit at Krait Court is just 450 metres from Little Beach, offering radiant sunshine, refreshing breezes and calm swimming waters. Blue Waters, on the other hand, provides stunning water views with modest living areas and a fully equipped kitchen, recommended for a romantic retreat or a peaceful solo escape.
Whatever you’re after, there’s a suitable holiday rental waiting for you in Nelson Bay!
Make the Most of the Australia Day Long Weekend
Nelson Bay has the right spot waiting for you, with a range of properties that cater to every type of getaway. From breathtaking water views to beachside escapes and family-friendly retreats, there’s no better place to relax and recharge. But don’t wait, these spots fill up fast!Get in touch with Nelson Bay Accommodation today to book your dream holiday rental and make this Australia Day one to remember. Your perfect getaway is just a phone call away!
