Welcome to the heart of coastal beauty! Whether you’re a visitor seeking adventure or a local looking for hidden gems, let this guide be your compass to navigate the charm and excitement of Port Stephens. Explore, indulge, and make the most of your time in this coastal paradise!
THINGS TO DO
ATTRACTIONS
Embark on a journey of exploration as we unveil the allure of Port Stephens’ captivating attractions. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature enthusiast, or someone seeking relaxation, Port Stephens has something for every traveller.
ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
From sandy shores to wildlife encounters, Nelson Bay offers a playground for all ages. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full family vacation, there are a myriad of activities that make Nelson Bay a perfect destination for creating cherished memories together.
ACTIVITIES FOR COUPLES
Indulge in the enchanting allure of Nelson Bay, where love meets coastal charm. Nelson Bay offers an idyllic backdrop for creating lasting memories with your special someone.
RAINY DAY ACTIVITIES
Embrace the charm of Nelson Bay even when the skies are grey! Our guide to Rainy Day Activities in Nelson Bay invites you to turn dreary weather into delightful experiences.
Dine and cruise at Aquila Cruises Nelson Bay
- 0412678811
- Anchorage Marina Port Stephens, Corlette Point Road, Corlette NSW, Australia
- www.aquilacruises.com.au
Aquila Cruises offers lunchtime and sunset cruises around the stunning bays of Port Stephens. Departing from Anchorage Marina, indulge in the bay’s beauty while savouring champagne and local seafood.
Cruise with style at Moonshadow-TQC
Moonshadow-TQC, found in scenic Port Stephens, NSW Australia, is a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney and 45 minutes from Newcastle. With the largest fleet in the area, we offer custom cruises for any event. We… specialise in: Dolphin Watching Whale Watching Delicious Food Cruises Weddings Private Charters Corporate Team Building Schools Educational Programs
Savour the charm at Inner Light Tea Rooms
Inner Light Tea Rooms, a heritage-listed café in Nelson Bay, overlooks the scenic Shoal Bay. Enjoy delightful breakfasts and lunches amid sparkling waters at this perfect spot.
Immerse in artistry at the Port Stephens Community Arts Centre
Port Stephens Community Arts Centre showcases incredible artworks and special crafts created by skilled local artisans. Garden Café offers tea or coffee, fresh homemade cakes, and light lunches. Entry… is free at the Port Stephens Community Arts Centre. We are open: Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm Sunday from 10 am to 1 pm The Garden Café is open every Saturday
Choose your thrill at Quad Bike King
- (02) 4965 0007
- 2130 Nelson Bay Road, Williamtown Port Stephens, NSW 2318, Australia
- quadbikeking.com.au
Discover the perfect ride for any skill level. Opt for the leisurely Scenic Safari or rev up your adventure on the renowned Safari Tour, reaching speeds of up to 40 km/hr across Stockton Beach.
Enjoy a day of fun at Port Stephens Paddlesports
Explore the waters of Port Stephens with us! Paddle through Shoal Bay or discover nearby coastlines and marine sanctuaries. Enjoy a safe beach for kayak activities and a wondrous journey with local dolphins.
Take a Waterfront stroll
Enjoy a romantic waterfront stroll from Nelson Bay to Corlette Point, known as the “Bridle Walk.” Port Stephens offers a wealth of beautiful nature, rainforest, and beach walks.
Toboggan Hill Park
Located amid natural bush off Salamander Way in Nelson Bay, Toboggan Hill Park offers family-friendly fun. Each toboggan is equipped with brakes, allowing you to control the descent speed.
Go Koala spotting
Port Stephens Council in partnership with Port Stephens Koalas Hospital have created a Koala Sanctuary for the long-term rehabilitation, preservation and conservation of koalas in the wild. Opened daily,… the sanctuary lets you: Spend an hour or a night immersed in an idyllic natural koala habitat. Support the provision of long-term, first-class care to sick, injured and orphaned koalas.
Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters
Experience the true nature of sharks, rays and the weird and wonderful world of the ocean. You can choose to enter the animal’s world by going into the water or feeding and patting them from the edges… of the pools, read below for visitor info.
Imagine Cruises
The whales have arrived and Imagine Cruises is heading offshore on our Whale & Dolphin Watch Cruises. Come and witness the majestic Humpback Whales as they travel up and down our coastline. Book now… for an experience of a lifetime!
Dare to glide at the Stockton Sand Dunes
Embark on an unforgettable sandboarding adventure at Stockton Sand Dunes. Regular tours offer a thrilling experience for the whole family. Come feel the wind in your hair, but keep your mouth closed!
Peppertree GP Medical Centre
- (02) 8378 4206
- Peppertree GP Medical Centre, shop 7 Peppertree Road, Medowie NSW 2318, Australia
- www.peppertreegp.com.au
Peppertree GP is a brand new general practice opening in the heart of Medowie. Owned and led by two young GPs with extensive experience, their vision is to develop a friendly and caring family practice… with your best interests at heart. Our close-knit team of professional staff are ready to care for your medical needs whilst being open to any queries you may have.
Cruise with style at Moonshadow-TQC
Moonshadow-TQC, found in scenic Port Stephens, NSW Australia, is a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney and 45 minutes from Newcastle. With the largest fleet in the area, we offer custom cruises for any event. We… specialise in: Dolphin Watching Whale Watching Delicious Food Cruises Weddings Private Charters Corporate Team Building Schools Educational Programs
Toboggan Hill Park
Located amid natural bush off Salamander Way in Nelson Bay, Toboggan Hill Park offers family-friendly fun. Each toboggan is equipped with brakes, allowing you to control the descent speed.
Go Koala spotting
Port Stephens Council in partnership with Port Stephens Koalas Hospital have created a Koala Sanctuary for the long-term rehabilitation, preservation and conservation of koalas in the wild. Opened daily,… the sanctuary lets you: Spend an hour or a night immersed in an idyllic natural koala habitat. Support the provision of long-term, first-class care to sick, injured and orphaned koalas.
Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters
Experience the true nature of sharks, rays and the weird and wonderful world of the ocean. You can choose to enter the animal’s world by going into the water or feeding and patting them from the edges… of the pools, read below for visitor info.
Imagine Cruises
The whales have arrived and Imagine Cruises is heading offshore on our Whale & Dolphin Watch Cruises. Come and witness the majestic Humpback Whales as they travel up and down our coastline. Book now… for an experience of a lifetime!
Dare to glide at the Stockton Sand Dunes
Embark on an unforgettable sandboarding adventure at Stockton Sand Dunes. Regular tours offer a thrilling experience for the whole family. Come feel the wind in your hair, but keep your mouth closed!
Relax and rejuvenate at Laze Infrared Saunas
Discover tranquillity at Laze, a wellness haven dedicated to relaxation and recovery. Our space is designed for you to fully reconnect, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of today’s world. We… offer the following services: Infrared Sauna Float Therapy Ice Bath Massage Therapy
Cruise with style at Moonshadow-TQC
Moonshadow-TQC, found in scenic Port Stephens, NSW Australia, is a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney and 45 minutes from Newcastle. With the largest fleet in the area, we offer custom cruises for any event. We… specialise in: Dolphin Watching Whale Watching Delicious Food Cruises Weddings Private Charters Corporate Team Building Schools Educational Programs
Choose your thrill at Quad Bike King
- (02) 4965 0007
- 2130 Nelson Bay Road, Williamtown Port Stephens, NSW 2318, Australia
- quadbikeking.com.au
Discover the perfect ride for any skill level. Opt for the leisurely Scenic Safari or rev up your adventure on the renowned Safari Tour, reaching speeds of up to 40 km/hr across Stockton Beach.
Enjoy a day of fun at Port Stephens Paddlesports
Explore the waters of Port Stephens with us! Paddle through Shoal Bay or discover nearby coastlines and marine sanctuaries. Enjoy a safe beach for kayak activities and a wondrous journey with local dolphins.…
Take a Waterfront stroll
Enjoy a romantic waterfront stroll from Nelson Bay to Corlette Point, known as the “Bridle Walk.” Port Stephens offers a wealth of beautiful nature, rainforest, and beach walks.
Relax and rejuvenate at Laze Infrared Saunas
Discover tranquillity at Laze, a wellness haven dedicated to relaxation and recovery. Our space is designed for you to fully reconnect, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of today’s world. We… offer the following services: Infrared Sauna Float Therapy Ice Bath Massage Therapy
January – 2025
The Presets
- Shoal Bay Country Club, Shoal Bay Road, Shoal Bay NSW, Australia
- tickets.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/759c3e86-b128-462a-9c46-256b545c37de?utm_source=website&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=the-presets
- 22 Jan 2025
- 7:00 pm
After an incredible sold out show last year, Shoal Bay Country Club is getting ready for another unforgettable night as The Presets return to the SBCC stage on Wednesday 22nd January 2025. Since forming… in 2003 The Presets were quick to make waves by blending dance music with rock energy with hits like “My People” and “Ghosts”. Their groundbreaking live shows have rocked iconic festivals worldwide, from Coachella to Glastonbury, and their 2018 album HI VIZ shot to #1 on iTunes within hours. Recently, they’ve been back on stage for their 20-year anniversary tour, reconnecting with fans and celebrating the beats that started it all. Their music continues to evolve, keeping fans hooked for over two decades. Don’t miss the chance to experience an epic night of music. Tickets are limited!
Australia Day in Port Stephens
- Fly Point, Nelson Bay NSW, Australia
- www.portstephens.org.au/events/show/australia-day-port-stephens
- 26 Jan 2025
- 9:30 am to 3:45 pm
Fly Point Park – 9:30am to 3:45pm Citizenship Ceremony RAAF fly past Live Music and dancing Army band Food Court, BBQ, hot and cold drinks, soft serve ice cream Alpaca and sheep shearing… demonstrations and baby animals Markets with over 90 stalls Vintage and classic cars on display Be amazed by JD’s World of Magic, displays and workshops Displays by Rural Fire Service, NSW Fire Brigade, Spinners and Weavers FREE flags and jumping castles for children Free Giant Games – Ample parking is available at top of Neil Carroll Rotary Park. – Optional gold coin donation in support of local charities.
Fleetwood Mac ‘Dreams’
- Shoal Bay Country Club, Shoal Bay Road, Shoal Bay NSW, Australia
- tickets.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/1beca082-5f4b-45ab-9170-f67b9075c623
- 31 Jan 2025
- 7:00 pm
Join SBCC on Friday 31st January 2025 and get ready to be transported back in time with The Dreams Show, your ultimate ticket to experiencing the iconic sounds of Fleetwood Mac and the unforgettable solo… career of Stevie Nicks. Since their debut in 2017, Dreams has captivated audiences nationwide, earning high praise from fans and even Fleetwood Mac’s own Dennis Dunstan, who said ” these guys deliver… Big Time!” Surrender to the spellbinding performances as Dreams brings to life Fleetwood Mac’s timeless classics, complete with stunning outfits, meticulous choreography, and impeccable harmonies. This tribute show is more than just a concert, it will have you singing along to legendary hits like “Go Your Own Way,” “Gypsy,” “Edge of Seventeen,” and many more. Don’t miss out on an evening of nostalgia, music, and magic. Secure your tickets now and join us for a night you’ll never forget, celebrating the music that defined a generation.
February – 2025
Fingal Bay Parkrun
- Fingal Bay NSW, Australia
- 02 Feb 2025
Parkruns are free, weekly, community events all around the world. Saturday morning events are 5k and take place in parks and open spaces. Parkrun is a positive, welcoming and inclusive experience… where there is no time limit and no one finishes last. Everyone is welcome to come along, whether you walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate.
Author Visit – Sally Jane Smith
- 4988 0670
- 7 Community Cl, Salamander Bay NSW 2317, Australia
- www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/community/events/2024/author-visit-sally-jane-smith-tomaree-library
- 08 Feb 2025
- 12:30 pm
Sally Jane Smith has lived on five continents and visited thirty-four countries, but she gives credit to Greece for turning her into a writer. Sally also co-hosts two book clubs and assists the organisers… of a biennial book-themed convention. She is currently based in Australia and is the author of Unpacking for Greece and Repacking for Greece. $5 per person Adult Event Refreshments provided Bookings are essential. Please contact us to secure your place. – Tomaree 4988 0670
2025 Raymarine Interclub State Championships
- 0423 727 195
- d’Albora Marina Nelson Bay, Teramby Road, Nelson Bay NSW, Australia
- 20 Feb 2025 – 23 Feb 2025
Start- Thursday 20 February 2025 End- Sunday 23 February 2025 Ladies Day Date- Thursday 20 February 2025
March – 2025
Shoal Bay Food & Wine Festival
- Shoal Bay Road, Nelson Bay NSW, Australia
- www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/community/events/2024/shoal-bay-food-and-wine-festival
- 01 Mar 2025
- 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm
This exciting free event will transform Shoal Bay Road and the stunning foreshore into a vibrant alfresco dining precinct, showcasing the region’s diverse food and beverage scene. Bringing together… top chefs, wine makers and distillers from Port Stephens and the Hunter Region, the festival offers an opportunity for the community to come together to enjoy on-stage discussions and live music while savouring the best of local cuisine.
2025 Sail Port Stephens Passage Series
- 31 Mar 2025 – 05 Apr 2025
Please note our all-important dates for the 2025 Sail Port Stephens Passage Series – Monday MARCH 31 to Saturday APRIL 5. Book your berths, book your accomm and start counting the days! We’d love to see… you back here.
April – 2025
May – 2025
Bay Series – Sportsboat & J70s
- 02 May 2025 – 04 May 2025
Bay Series – Sportsboat & J70s The Bay Sailing Centre at Salamander Bay is hosting a regatta for sports boats, trailer sailers, off-the-beach classes and Windsurfers under the ‘Bay Series’… banner. The weekend of 2-4 May 2025 has been set aside, with the dinghies and sailboards to sail 3-4 May. Registration Times Thursday 1 May – 4.30pm to 5.30pm Friday 2 May – 7.30am to 9.00am Briefings from approximately 9.00am
Bay Series – Off the Beach
- 02 May 2025 – 04 May 2025
The Bay Sailing Centre at Salamander Bay is hosting a regatta for sports boats, trailer sailers, off-the-beach classes and Windsurfers under the ‘Bay Series’ banner. The weekend of 2-4 May 2025 has… been set aside, with the dinghies and sailboards to sail 3-4 May. Registration Times Friday 2 May – 4.30pm to 5.30pm Saturday 3 May – 7.30am to 9.00am Briefings from approximately 9.00am
Bay Series – Windsurfing
- 02 May 2025 – 04 May 2025
The Bay Sailing Centre at Salamander Bay is hosting a regatta for sports boats, trailer sailers, off-the-beach classes and Windsurfers under the ‘Bay Series’ banner. The weekend of 2-4 May 2025 has… been set aside, with the dinghies and sailboards to sail 3-4 May. Registration Times Friday 2 May – 4.30pm to 5.30pm Saturday 3 May – 7.30am to 9.00am Briefings from approximately 9.00am
Port Stephens
Port Stephens is possibly the most ideal family-friendly vacation spot in New South Wales. Situated just two and a half hours north of Sydney, this destination provides a diverse range of holiday accommodations tailored to fit every budget.
Spanning an impressive two and a half times the size of Sydney Harbour, Port Stephens is a sprawling waterway adorned with numerous offshore islands and abundant fishing grounds.
For boating enthusiasts, it’s nothing short of a paradise, boasting extensive miles of navigable waterways, convenient access for trailer boats, and an abundance of marinas catering to larger vessels and provisioning needs.
History of Port Stephens
The Port Stephens area was initially inhabited by the Worimi Tribe, characterised by Charles Grimes as a taller and stouter people with a distinct language compared to those near Sydney.
Upon white settlement, around 400 Aborigines resided in the Port Stephens estuary. However, by 1873, the tribe had dwindled to only 50 members, and by 1900, few tribal Aborigines remained. Observers from that era provided glimpses of a way of life that has largely vanished.
The region harbours numerous Aboriginal relic sites, notably the “Canoe Trees” at Little Beach. The specific locations of these sites are confidential. From Wallis Lakes to Newcastle, there are 37 recorded ceremonial sites (stone arrangements, bora grounds, carved trees, and burial sites), 115 campsites (mia mia, scarred trees, open campsites, shelters with deposits, wells, fish traps, abraded grooves, and quarries), and 97 middens. Yacaaba Head hosts four middens and a burial site, while middens are found at Fingal Spit, Anna Bay, Schnapper Point, Boat Harbour, Skate Bay, and Fishermans Bay. Skate Bay also features a burial site, and grinding grooves are present at Morna Point.
Port Stephens gained European attention in May 1770 when Captain James Cook documented it as “an opening forming a bay.” He went on to describe, “Wind southerly in the day and the night westerly, a gentle breeze and clear weather. At 4 pm past, at a distance of one mile a low rocky point which I named Point Stephens… on the north side of this point is an inlet which I called Port Stephens that appears from the masthead to be sheltered from all winds”.
Nelson Bay
The heart of Port Stephens is undoubtedly Nelson Bay. It has always been an incredibly popular holiday destination for families and offers a wide range of houses, duplexes, townhouses and units available for holiday accommodation.
There are many Nelson Bay activities and things to do. Nelson Bay CBD offers a range of restaurants, cafes and numerous shops to keep the shop-a-holic busy as well as an incredibly popular golf course, bowling club, Wests Diggers club and world-class marina complex with its collection of shops and restaurants.
Shoal Bay
Shoal Bay is perhaps the ideal holiday spot for those who want to lie on the gorgeous beach all day and party all night at either the Country Club or Wests Diggers Club (both within walking distance). Shoal Bay offers a variety of accommodation choices to suit all budgets.
Surf beaches can be found on the Eastern side of Shoal Bay accessed via Tomaree National Park and the walking trail up Tomaree headland is also very popular with the more energetic tourists.
Fingal Bay
A quiet little suburb throughout most of the year, Fingal Bay comes alive in summer with the onslaught of tourist season. Little wonder too, Fingal Bay has an incredibly popular beach offering protected areas ideal for small children yet just further along the beach are some out-of-the-way board riding spots very well known amongst locals.
Fingal Bay Beach is patrolled by volunteer lifeguards (check at the clubhouse for patrol times) so it is perhaps the ideal beach to suit all the family members (including the fishermen). Fingal Bay has a couple of shops just a block back from the beach offering takeaway food and general store items.
Fingal Bay offers predominantly duplexes and houses for holiday accommodation with a handful of small units and townhouse blocks close to the beach.
Corlette
Accommodation in Corlette features proximity to the pristine sands of Bagnall Beach, which is a pet-friendly “off-leash” beach and just a 3-minute drive to Nelson Bay or a 2-minute drive to Salamander shopping centre. Corlette is the ideal place for swimming, dolphin spotting or just simply relaxing with a coffee overlooking the boats at “The Anchorage”.
Salamander Bay
Long stretches of sandy beaches with unsurpassed views are the theme for your accommodation at Salamander Bay. The safe beaches for children, boating and all aquatic pastimes are either right outside or very close to your accommodation. Shopping and restaurants are within close walking distance of most accommodation.
Soldiers Point
Located right on the end of the Tomaree Peninsula, Soldiers Point is an ideal spot for families seeking a beachside holiday without too much hustle and bustle. All holiday accommodation properties at Soldiers Point are either on or very close to the waterfront.
Anna Bay
Located roughly 10 minutes from Nelson Bay, Anna Bay gives access to Birubi Beach as well as the famous Stockton Beach. Numerous shops are located at Anna Bay and properties close to the water are very popular holiday accommodation choices. For those with 4WD vehicles, Stockton Beach is an experience not to be missed (permits are required and available at Anna Bay Newsagency).
Boat Harbour
Virtually surrounded by National Park and ocean, Boat Harbour has become incredibly popular over the last few years. Boat Harbour has a small child-friendly beach which also allows the launching of small boats from the beach as well as access trails down to One Mile Beach and Kingsley Beach. Boat Harbour has tennis courts that can be hired and is just a few minutes’ drive from Anna Bay and about 10 minutes from Nelson Bay.
Taylors Beach
Taylors Beach is a small coastal town located in Port Stephens on the Tomaree Peninsula with a population of around 120 people. The shoreline is dotted with tall pine trees and there is a public jetty which is ideal for fishing, a boat ramp and BBQ and picnic facilities on the foreshore with public amenities including disabled toilets. You will feel like you are miles away from the hustle and bustle in this peaceful waterside town but still, less than ten minute’s drive to Salamander Bay Square Shopping Centre, eight minute’s drive to restaurants and shops at Old Salamander Village or fourteen minutes drive into Nelson Bay Town Centre.
