The world is divided into two types of vacationers: the one who likes to simply lay on the beach and enjoy a coldie, and the other who is all about ‘go-go-go’. The loungers usually come back home rejuvenated and rested, while the adventurous ones make lasting memories and have fewer regrets when all is said and done.
But none of that really matters when you’re in Port Stephens, because here, you can be both! Located three short hours away from Sydney, this coastal gem defies all conventions when it comes to a holiday destination by combining the laid-back charm of a seaside getaway with a spirit of adventure that awakens the explorer in you.
In this blog, we’ve curated a lowdown on the top things to do in Port Stephens (both adventurous and laid-back) to dig deeper into this fascinating and crowd-pulling paradox.
Living by the sea VS Glamping in a koala sanctuary
Wedged between world-famous sand dunes, dolphin-rich waters and mighty green mountains, there are a number of Port Stephens tourist attractions to satisfy both the chill and thrill seeker. Starting off with the accommodation. Living here is like living in paradise and we can’t stress that enough. And living by the sea? That’s the Aussie dream right there. Imagine waking up to the sound of the soothing waves, slippin into your swimmers, and hitting the beach. It’s all about those laid-back, slow living vibes.
But then, there are also thrilling options like glamping in a world-famous koala sanctuary! Sure, glamping can sound fancy and rejuvenating, and it definitely is. But imagine the thrill of being surrounded by lush Aussie bush and friendly creatures – with guided walks to discover the untamed side of life!
Swimming with wild dolphins VS Watching them on a cruise
Ain’t no better way to get your heart pumping than swimming with the wild ol’ dolphins of Nelson Bay. It’s a thrilling aquatic rendezvous with these playful swimmers as you plunge into the open waters and swim alongside them. The waters become your playground, and the adrenaline rush you feel and the connection you forge becomes a memory etched in your heart forever!
Fun fact: Nelson Bay is home to over 140 bottlenose dolphins – some of them even have names!
That said, a dolphin watching cruise in Port Stephens is a great way to unwind. Here, it’s all about watching the graceful acrobatics and playful behaviour of these ever-curious dolphins from a distance, from the comfort of a luxury boat. From the moment you board one of these Port Stephens cruises to spotting the very first splash – it's an exciting, yet contemplative experience.
So are you gonna be daring or seek a relaxing escape?!
Be a beach baby OR a Beach baddie
It’s no secret that Port Stephens has incredible beaches. In fact, this land of paradoxical choices is surrounded by 26 majestic beaches. For the sun and sea aficionados, the calmer, quieter beaches like Shoal Bay, Salamander Bay or Anna Bay offer the perfect setting to recline on the soft sandy shores and simply soak up the sun. Some of these beaches are also punctuated with chic waterfront cafes and food joints with a distinct seafood culture.
Yet, beyond this tranquillity lies a world of 4WD fun! The majority of vacationers who stop at Port Stephens have this activity high up on their itinerary. Home to the longest beach in NSW and the largest sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, Port Stephens is screaming adventure! A 4WD ride along these picturesque beaches offers a thrilling episode of dunes to conquer, coastal wilderness to explore and challenges to overcome! The tours also give you the opportunity to hire or use your own wheels – catch our drift?!
The choice is yours: the serene haven of sunbathing or the adrenaline-infused 4WD exploration.
On a side note, if you’re wondering about the best time to visit Port Stephens, we‘d recommend August through November as the weather is perfect for the beach and outdoor activities. Plus, you’ll also get a chance to see the migrating Humpback Whales along the Humpback Highway!
Zoning out with sharks OR Sandboarding down a sand dune
Here’s another twist to your options in Port Stephens. Much to everyone’s surprise, the shark encounter at Irukandji is as chill as it can get. It's like a zen underwater encounter where it's just you, the shark and the guide. What started out as a conservation-focused aquarium for endangered species is now a popular tourist hotspot where you can get up close and personal with a number of sharks and rays. Oh, we also have word that the Irukandji Jellyfish, the world’s deadliest jellyfish, is also on its way to the aquarium! So if you wanna hang out with some friendly sharks in a calming and safe setting, you know where to go.
No trip to Port Stephens is complete without sandboarding. Although it usually goes in tandem with 4WD adventures, it is an experience in itself. This isn't your typical adventure; imagine standing atop a sun-drenched sand dune, your heart racing as you wait in anticipation to crash down. Strap on board and push off! You’ll carve your way down the slopes with the wind in your hair, and the stunning coastal scenery whizzing by; creating a sensory overload. PS: You’ll have sand everywhere in your body afterwards – it’s part of the adventure.
In the world of Port Stephens where the ‘relax’ coexists with ‘exhilarate’, you have a number of experiences lined up to make it a vacation to remember. With sun-soaked beaches on one hand, and high-octane adventures on the other, this place breaks all the rules. This is the ultimate holiday destination where you can actually enjoy the best of both worlds.
But none of that really matters when you’re in Port Stephens, because here, you can be both! Located three short hours away from Sydney, this coastal gem defies all conventions when it comes to a holiday destination by combining the laid-back charm of a seaside getaway with a spirit of adventure that awakens the explorer in you.
In this blog, we’ve curated a lowdown on the top things to do in Port Stephens (both adventurous and laid-back) to dig deeper into this fascinating and crowd-pulling paradox.
Living by the sea VS Glamping in a koala sanctuary
Wedged between world-famous sand dunes, dolphin-rich waters and mighty green mountains, there are a number of Port Stephens tourist attractions to satisfy both the chill and thrill seeker. Starting off with the accommodation. Living here is like living in paradise and we can’t stress that enough. And living by the sea? That’s the Aussie dream right there. Imagine waking up to the sound of the soothing waves, slippin into your swimmers, and hitting the beach. It’s all about those laid-back, slow living vibes.
But then, there are also thrilling options like glamping in a world-famous koala sanctuary! Sure, glamping can sound fancy and rejuvenating, and it definitely is. But imagine the thrill of being surrounded by lush Aussie bush and friendly creatures – with guided walks to discover the untamed side of life!
Swimming with wild dolphins VS Watching them on a cruise
Ain’t no better way to get your heart pumping than swimming with the wild ol’ dolphins of Nelson Bay. It’s a thrilling aquatic rendezvous with these playful swimmers as you plunge into the open waters and swim alongside them. The waters become your playground, and the adrenaline rush you feel and the connection you forge becomes a memory etched in your heart forever!
Fun fact: Nelson Bay is home to over 140 bottlenose dolphins – some of them even have names!
That said, a dolphin watching cruise in Port Stephens is a great way to unwind. Here, it’s all about watching the graceful acrobatics and playful behaviour of these ever-curious dolphins from a distance, from the comfort of a luxury boat. From the moment you board one of these Port Stephens cruises to spotting the very first splash – it's an exciting, yet contemplative experience.
So are you gonna be daring or seek a relaxing escape?!
Be a beach baby OR a Beach baddie
It’s no secret that Port Stephens has incredible beaches. In fact, this land of paradoxical choices is surrounded by 26 majestic beaches. For the sun and sea aficionados, the calmer, quieter beaches like Shoal Bay, Salamander Bay or Anna Bay offer the perfect setting to recline on the soft sandy shores and simply soak up the sun. Some of these beaches are also punctuated with chic waterfront cafes and food joints with a distinct seafood culture.
Yet, beyond this tranquillity lies a world of 4WD fun! The majority of vacationers who stop at Port Stephens have this activity high up on their itinerary. Home to the longest beach in NSW and the largest sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, Port Stephens is screaming adventure! A 4WD ride along these picturesque beaches offers a thrilling episode of dunes to conquer, coastal wilderness to explore and challenges to overcome! The tours also give you the opportunity to hire or use your own wheels – catch our drift?!
The choice is yours: the serene haven of sunbathing or the adrenaline-infused 4WD exploration.
On a side note, if you’re wondering about the best time to visit Port Stephens, we‘d recommend August through November as the weather is perfect for the beach and outdoor activities. Plus, you’ll also get a chance to see the migrating Humpback Whales along the Humpback Highway!
Zoning out with sharks OR Sandboarding down a sand dune
Here’s another twist to your options in Port Stephens. Much to everyone’s surprise, the shark encounter at Irukandji is as chill as it can get. It's like a zen underwater encounter where it's just you, the shark and the guide. What started out as a conservation-focused aquarium for endangered species is now a popular tourist hotspot where you can get up close and personal with a number of sharks and rays. Oh, we also have word that the Irukandji Jellyfish, the world’s deadliest jellyfish, is also on its way to the aquarium! So if you wanna hang out with some friendly sharks in a calming and safe setting, you know where to go.
No trip to Port Stephens is complete without sandboarding. Although it usually goes in tandem with 4WD adventures, it is an experience in itself. This isn't your typical adventure; imagine standing atop a sun-drenched sand dune, your heart racing as you wait in anticipation to crash down. Strap on board and push off! You’ll carve your way down the slopes with the wind in your hair, and the stunning coastal scenery whizzing by; creating a sensory overload. PS: You’ll have sand everywhere in your body afterwards – it’s part of the adventure.
In the world of Port Stephens where the ‘relax’ coexists with ‘exhilarate’, you have a number of experiences lined up to make it a vacation to remember. With sun-soaked beaches on one hand, and high-octane adventures on the other, this place breaks all the rules. This is the ultimate holiday destination where you can actually enjoy the best of both worlds.
