Top 10 Romantic Activities for Couples in Port Stephens
Looking for a spot to reconnect, unwind, and enjoy some quality time together? The beautiful Port Stephens has you covered. With its postcard-perfect views, quiet corners, breathtaking attractions, and a few surprises, this place knows how to do romance right. Here’s a list of ten activities to set the scene for an unforgettable couple’s getaway.
1. Watch the Sunrise (or Sunset) from Tomaree Head
his one’s a rite of passage. Tomaree Head Summit Walk isn’t long, but it’ll get the legs working. At the top, you and your one and only love will enjoy one of the best views in all of New South Wales. Looking out over Shoal Bay, the islands, and that big stretch of blue, there’s just something about it that hits differently when the sky’s lighting up.
Fun fact: Tomaree offers one of the most iconic coastal views in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a sunrise you’ll talk about for years.
Bring a thermos, a couple of pastries, maybe even a cheeky cheese and wine situation if you’re doing sunset. Either way, it’s magic.
If you’re planning to visit Tomaree National Park, staying in Shoal Bay makes life a whole lot easier. You’ll be just minutes from the trailhead. Just roll out of bed, grab your gear, and off you go.
2. Set Sail with the Dolphins at Sunset
Port Stephens is famous for its resident bottlenose dolphins. The regular cruises are great, but for a romantic twist, why not opt for a twilight sail? Think smaller boats, softer lighting, champagne upon arrival, fresh local seafood, sailing lessons, and wild dolphins gliding alongside the hull “Champagne on Ice“, a luxury yacht cruise with a more lavish and private feel, located at the Anchorage Marina Corlette Point Road, Corlette, NSW.
If you’re lucky and visiting during migration season, you might even spot a whale or two breaching in the distance. Whale watching in Port Stephens is a seasonal highlight, especially from May to November.The twilight cruises set off from Anchorage Marina, so if you want a sunset sail without the stress, find a place that’s just a quick walking distance around Corlette. You can stroll down, glass of bubbly in hand, and be back in time for dessert.
4. Ride Into the Sunset… Literally
Sunset camel or horse rides along Stockton Beach are unforgettable. The sand dunes stretch on, and as the light changes, everything turns golden and cinematic. Add in a gentle stroll across the sand, some quad biking, a look at the Sygna shipwreck, and that salty breeze off the ocean. It’s pretty hard not to feel like you’re in a movie.
These rides take you across the Worimi Conservation Lands. It’s not just romantic; it’s also culturally and naturally significant.Heading out to Anna Bay for one of those golden-hour dune rides? It makes sense to stay nearby. That way, after your ride, you’re just cruising home as the stars come out.
5. Spoil Your Loved One with a Luxury Picnic
A perfectly styled beach picnic with no setup stress? Yes, please. Companies like Port Stephens Lux Picnics & Proposals do all the work: cushions, candles, grazing platters, drinks, and a prime location overlooking the water. All you have to do is turn up, kick off your shoes, and enjoy. Great for proposals, anniversaries, or just making an ordinary day feel a bit special.
Or, if you’d rather let someone else do the setting up, grab a table at Little Beach Boathouse. It’s perched right over the water, the food’s fantastic, and it’s has that effortless, toes-in-the-sand kind of romantic feel.
Picnics are great, but knowing you’ve got a comfy place to kick back afterwards? Even better. There are plenty of accommodation near the best picnic locations in Nelson Bay, so you don’t have to go far once the grazing’s done.
6. Feast on Fresh Oysters by the Water
Treat yourselves to fresh oysters at Holberts Oyster Farm, which is within driving distance to Soldier’s Point. Sit right by the water, tray of oysters in front of you, glass of bubbly in hand, and that salty tang in the air. It’s unfussy, unpretentious, and one of those little local experiences that really sticks with you.
If you’re planning to spend an afternoon indulgin in oysters by the water, consider staying out near Salt Ash. It’s peaceful, it’s close, and you’ll be back at your place with your feet up before sunset.
7. Paddle the Karuah River
For a quieter adventure, head inland to the Karuah River. The water’s calm, the bushland peaceful, and you’re far from the busy bay. Rent a kayak or paddle board and meander along, spotting birdlife as you go. Pull up at Black Oaks picnic area for a lazy lunch, then paddle back at your own pace. It’s low effort, high reward.
After a lazy paddle and riverside picnic, you’ll want somewhere quiet to wind down. Staying around Karuah or the nearby pockets makes it all feel smooth and easy.
8. Wander Through Local Wineries & Breweries
Port Stephens might not be the Hunter Valley, but it’s got a few gems of its own. Boutique wineries like Tynan Wines and Sunset+Vine serve up local drops in lovely settings, it’s an easy way to spend an afternoon together. If beer’s more your thing, Murray’s Craft Brewing Co. does great local brews with a relaxed beer garden and often live music. Tasting paddles, shared platters, and a bit of banter – it’s the perfect casual date.
Booking a Port Stephens winery or brewery trail? Best to stay close so you can sip, snack, and soak it all in without the worry of a long drive back. We’ve got some great little spots not far from the vines.
9. Spot a Koala in the Wild
The Tilligerry Koala Habitat is a great little walk, with a bit of luck and patience, you might spot one of the locals up in the gum trees. There are no cages and no fences. Just you, the bush, and a real chance of seeing a koala in its natural home. Bring binoculars and take it slow. It’s quiet, it’s simple, and it’s something most people never get to see.
Looking to catch a glimpse of a koala in the wild or enjoy the low-key beauty of the Tilligerry Creek? Set yourself up near Tanilba Bay. It’s a peaceful part of the Port Stephens area, and staying close means more time in the bush and maybe more chances to spot a sleepy furball.
10. Stroll the Bridle Walk from Nelson Bay to Corlette
If you’re after a slower pace, this gentle waterfront trail ticks all the boxes. Starting in Nelson Bay and winding through to Corlette Point, it hugs the coast and gives you that perfect mix of sea breeze, scenic views, and shady spots to sit and chat. Stop for coffee or breakfast along the way and just let the day unfold.
If a long, lazy coastal stroll is your idea of romance, you’ll want to stay along the route. Nelson Bay and Corlette both have some great places to stay.
Book a Romantic Holiday in Beautiful Port Stephens Today!
When the day winds down and the stars start poking through, you’re going to want somewhere lovely to put your feet up. That’s where Nelson Bay Accommodation comes in. They’ve got the perfect spot for couples, whether it’s a snug little apartment by the water, a private hideaway tucked into the bush, or something with a view that’ll knock your socks off.
And the best part? Romance in Port Stephens isn’t just a summer thing. These moments are waiting for you year-round. Whatever the season, the love story keeps writing itself.
If you’re planning a romantic getaway in Port Stephens, don’t just wing it. Book a place that’ll make the whole trip feel special from start to finish.