Nelson Bay
The heart of Port Stephens and its main tourist precinct, centred on a busy marina with restaurants, galleries and a seafood market run by local fishers.
Best for: First-time visitors, cruises and dining
Overview
Popular Port Stephens Cruises
Port Stephens cruises bring you closer to the marine life of the region, with opportunities to spot more than 140 resident bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. As you cruise through the bay, enjoy sweeping views of Tomaree and Yacaaba headlands, Shoal Bay and Jimmy’s Beach, making the ride as memorable as the wildlife encounters. Cruise from Nelson Bay to spot migrating Humpback Whales along the coast or venture out to the offshore islands to discover Port Stephens’ underwater world. From fur seals to wobbegong sharks, rays and colourful reef fish beneath the surface, each cruise offers a different perspective of the region’s rich marine life.
Port Stephens Cruise Experiences
Famous Attractions
Most of the best-known attractions in Port Stephens are in and around Tomaree National Park and the Stockton Bight sand dunes. Visitors will find coastal lookouts, World War II history and protected snorkelling spots, along with koalas living in the wild.
Tomaree Head Summit Walk
Known for its rugged headlands, coastal scenery and spectacular ocean views, Tomaree National Park is one of Port Stephens’ standout natural attractions. A highlight is the Tomaree Head Summit Walk, a steep 2.2 km return hike leading to two viewing platforms with panoramic views of Shoal Bay, Yacaaba Head, Fingal Island and the surrounding coastline.
The park is also home to remnants of Fort Tomaree, a World War II coastal defense site where around 500 military personnel were once stationed. Visitors can explore the historic gun emplacements and discover the area’s wartime history. Allow 1.5–2 hours for the summit walk.
Stockton Bight Sand Dunes
The largest moving coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere stretching for 32km along the coast between Anna Bay and Newcastle. Some dunes rise more than 30m high, with slopes as steep as 60°. The area is part of the Worimi Conservation Lands, which the local Worimi Aboriginal community owns and co-manages with NSW National Parks.
Anna Bay is the main entry point, and guided 4WD tours, sandboarding, quad biking, and horse and camel rides all start from here. Every vehicle on the dunes needs a Worimi Conservation Lands permit, and NSW annual park passes are not valid here.
Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
A koala sanctuary and working wildlife hospital at One Mile, opened in 2020 by the Port Stephens Council in conjunction with a local rescue group and the NSW Government. The 225m elevated Skywalk winds through the treetops, bringing visitors to eye level with wild koalas resting in the gum trees. Below, a self-guided walking path passes through eucalyptus and native gardens and suits all ages.
At the hospital, vets and volunteers care for rescued koalas and other native animals. The sanctuary also has an on-site café, and visitors can stay overnight in glamping-style tents within the sanctuary grounds.
Point Stephens Lighthouse & Fingal Island
Fingal Island lies just off Fingal Bay, at the southern edge of Tomaree National Park, and is home to the Point Stephens Lighthouse, which has stood there since 1862. The island and lighthouse are also visible from the southern viewing platform on Tomaree Head.
At low tide, a narrow strip of sand called Fingal Spit joins the beach to the island, but crossing it is not safe, as fast-moving water can cover the sand without warning. The safest way to see the island up close is from the water. Boat tours run around it, and in the warmer months, island snorkelling trips also visit Fingal Island.
Fly Point–Halifax Aquatic Reserve:
A protected stretch of water on the Nelson Bay shoreline, between Nelson Bay and Little Beach, known as one of the best places in New South Wales to snorkel and dive straight from the shore. It is a sanctuary zone, which means fishing and collecting anything from the water, including shells, are not allowed. That protection has been in place since 1983, and it has helped marine life thrive close to the shore.
Underwater, large sponge gardens and kelp forests are home to blue gropers, octopus, wobbegong sharks and even seahorses. Fly Point is also described as one of the best places to snorkel in Port Stephens. For the best conditions, snorkel at the top of the high tide
Gan Gan Hill Lookout
At 160m, this lookout point in Port Stephens is located just off the main road into Nelson Bay. From the viewing platforms, the view stretches across the whole region, from Newcastle in the south to the Myall Lakes in the north. On a clear day, the bay, the Tomaree and Yacaaba headlands, Tomaree National Park and the Stockton sand dunes are all visible.
The lookout is reached by car, and a short, flat concrete path with wheelchair access leads to the platforms. The name comes from the Gathang word for the white-breasted sea eagle, a large bird found along this coast.
Birubi Point Aboriginal Place
A culturally significant site in Tomaree National Park at Anna Bay, legally declared an Aboriginal Place for its strong connection to the Worimi people. Its name means "Place of the Southern Cross", a well-known group of stars in the southern sky that can be seen above the point on clear nights.
A cultural artwork by Worimi artist Gerard Black is also there for visitors to see. From the seating platforms, the view takes in the 32km golden curve of Stockton Beach, and visitors can watch for dolphins and sea eagles. Between May and November, migrating Humpback Whales may be seen too. Birubi Point also marks the southern end of the Tomaree Coastal Walk.
Honourable Mentions
Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters: An Anna Bay attraction where visitors can pet and feed sharks and rays.
Oakvale Wildlife Park: A family-owned wildlife park at Salt Ash, open since 1979, home to koalas, Tasmanian devils and other Australian animals.
Tanilba House: A state heritage-listed home on the Tilligerry Peninsula, dating from around 1831.
Oakvale Wildlife Park: A family-owned wildlife park on 25 acres at Salt Ash, open since 1979 and home to koalas, Tasmanian devils and other Australian animals.
Known for its rugged headlands, coastal scenery and spectacular ocean views, Tomaree National Park is one of Port Stephens’ standout natural attractions. A highlight is the Tomaree Head Summit Walk, a steep 2.2 km return hike leading to two viewing platforms with panoramic views of Shoal Bay, Yacaaba Head, Fingal Island and the surrounding coastline.
The park is also home to remnants of Fort Tomaree, a World War II coastal defense site where around 500 military personnel were once stationed. Visitors can explore the historic gun emplacements and discover the area’s wartime history. Allow 1.5–2 hours for the summit walk.
The largest moving coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere stretching for 32km along the coast between Anna Bay and Newcastle. Some dunes rise more than 30m high, with slopes as steep as 60°. The area is part of the Worimi Conservation Lands, which the local Worimi Aboriginal community owns and co-manages with NSW National Parks.
Anna Bay is the main entry point, and guided 4WD tours, sandboarding, quad biking, and horse and camel rides all start from here. Every vehicle on the dunes needs a Worimi Conservation Lands permit, and NSW annual park passes are not valid here.
A koala sanctuary and working wildlife hospital at One Mile, opened in 2020 by the Port Stephens Council in conjunction with a local rescue group and the NSW Government. The 225m elevated Skywalk winds through the treetops, bringing visitors to eye level with wild koalas resting in the gum trees. Below, a self-guided walking path passes through eucalyptus and native gardens and suits all ages.
At the hospital, vets and volunteers care for rescued koalas and other native animals. The sanctuary also has an on-site café, and visitors can stay overnight in glamping-style tents within the sanctuary grounds.
Fingal Island lies just off Fingal Bay, at the southern edge of Tomaree National Park, and is home to the Point Stephens Lighthouse, which has stood there since 1862. The island and lighthouse are also visible from the southern viewing platform on Tomaree Head.
At low tide, a narrow strip of sand called Fingal Spit joins the beach to the island, but crossing it is not safe, as fast-moving water can cover the sand without warning. The safest way to see the island up close is from the water. Boat tours run around it, and in the warmer months, island snorkelling trips also visit Fingal Island.
A protected stretch of water on the Nelson Bay shoreline, between Nelson Bay and Little Beach, known as one of the best places in New South Wales to snorkel and dive straight from the shore. It is a sanctuary zone, which means fishing and collecting anything from the water, including shells, are not allowed. That protection has been in place since 1983, and it has helped marine life thrive close to the shore.
Underwater, large sponge gardens and kelp forests are home to blue gropers, octopus, wobbegong sharks and even seahorses. Fly Point is also described as one of the best places to snorkel in Port Stephens. For the best conditions, snorkel at the top of the high tide
At 160m, this lookout point in Port Stephens is located just off the main road into Nelson Bay. From the viewing platforms, the view stretches across the whole region, from Newcastle in the south to the Myall Lakes in the north. On a clear day, the bay, the Tomaree and Yacaaba headlands, Tomaree National Park and the Stockton sand dunes are all visible.
The lookout is reached by car, and a short, flat concrete path with wheelchair access leads to the platforms. The name comes from the Gathang word for the white-breasted sea eagle, a large bird found along this coast.
A culturally significant site in Tomaree National Park at Anna Bay, legally declared an Aboriginal Place for its strong connection to the Worimi people. Its name means "Place of the Southern Cross", a well-known group of stars in the southern sky that can be seen above the point on clear nights.
A cultural artwork by Worimi artist Gerard Black is also there for visitors to see. From the seating platforms, the view takes in the 32km golden curve of Stockton Beach, and visitors can watch for dolphins and sea eagles. Between May and November, migrating Humpback Whales may be seen too. Birubi Point also marks the southern end of the Tomaree Coastal Walk.
Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters: An Anna Bay attraction where visitors can pet and feed sharks and rays.
Oakvale Wildlife Park: A family-owned wildlife park at Salt Ash, open since 1979, home to koalas, Tasmanian devils and other Australian animals.
Tanilba House: A state heritage-listed home on the Tilligerry Peninsula, dating from around 1831.
Oakvale Wildlife Park: A family-owned wildlife park on 25 acres at Salt Ash, open since 1979 and home to koalas, Tasmanian devils and other Australian animals.
Port Stephens Neighbourhoods
Shoal Bay
A calm stretch of soft white sand and turquoise water, with Mount Tomaree at one end.
Best for: Swimming, paddleboarding and the Tomaree walk
Anna Bay
A coastal village at the northern end of Stockton Beach and the main entry point to the sand dunes.
Best for: Dune adventures and wildlife encounters
One Mile & Boat Harbour
A stretch of coast where the bush meets rugged headlands, with a popular patrolled surf beach.
Best for: Surfing, koalas and whale spotting from the rocks
Soldiers Point
A quiet point on the shores of Port Stephens with an award-winning marina and calm swimming beaches.
Best for: Sunsets and relaxed waterfront stays
Corlette & Salamander Bay
Leafy bayside suburbs with parks, walking tracks and cycle paths that lead to Nelson Bay.
Best for: Oysters, cycling and families
Tilligerry Peninsula
A peaceful corner of Port Stephens with World War I-themed street names and koalas in the bushland.
Best for: History, koala spotting and a slower pace
Things To Do In Port Stephens
Dunes & Outdoor Adventures
Sandboard down the Stockton dunes (recommended)- Ride the dunes by 4WD
- Climb Tomaree Head
- Hike the Tomaree Coastal Walk
- Quad bike Stockton Bight
Wildlife Encounters
- Walk the Koala Sanctuary Skywalk (recommended)
- Meet Tasmanian devils at Oakvale
- Feed rays at Anna Bay
- Camel ride on the dunes
History & Culture
- Visit Birubi Point Aboriginal Place (recommended)
- Explore Fort Tomaree gun emplacements
- Tour historic Tanilba House
- Visit Nelson Head Inner Lighthouse
- Join a Worimi-guided dune tour
Popular Day Trips From Port Stephens
Port Stephens sits within easy reach of some of the best-known places in regional New South Wales. From wine country and a coastal city to lakes, lighthouses and World Heritage-listed rainforest, these day trips are all within a few hours of Nelson Bay.
Hunter Valley
The oldest wine region in Australia and the largest in New South Wales, with more than 150 wineries and vines dating back to the 1820s. A guided wine tour is the easiest way to visit several cellar doors in a day without driving. Don't miss a glass of Semillon, the signature variety of the Hunter Valley.
Newcastle
Australia's second-oldest city, south of Port Stephens and known for its harbour, beaches, ocean baths and cafés. Its best-known coastal walk is the six-kilometre Bathers Way, which follows the shoreline between Merewether Baths and Nobbys Beach. On a lucky day, whales can be seen offshore. Don't miss the Newcastle Memorial Walk, a 450m raised walkway with 360° views of the coast.
Myall Lakes National Park
A coastal national park north of Port Stephens, home to one of the largest coastal lake systems in New South Wales and more than 40km of beaches. The calm lakes are popular for canoeing, kayaking, boating and fishing, while the ocean beaches are for swimming and surfing. Don't miss the Grandis, a giant eucalyptus tree that stands 76 m tall and is one of the tallest trees in New South Wales.
Barrington Tops National Park
Part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, rising from near sea level to more than 1,500 m. It is a long day, with around five hours of driving there and back, and some areas may be closed, so check park alerts before setting out. Don't miss a walk through the ancient rainforest, one of the oldest types of forest in the world.
Suggested Itineraries
Day One: Dolphins, Fly Point & Soldiers Point Sunset
- Morning: Dolphin-watching cruise from Nelson Bay
- Afternoon: Lunch by Nelson Bay Marina & snorkelling at Fly Point
- Evening: Sunset drinks & dinner at Soldiers Point
Day Two: Tomaree Head, Koalas & Fingal Bay
- Morning: Tomaree Head Summit walk & Fort Tomaree
- Afternoon: Swim at Fingal Bay & Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
- Evening: Sunset views from Gan Gan Hill Lookout
Day Three: Dunes, Beer & Stargazing
- Morning: Worimi-guided tour & Stockton sandboarding
- Afternoon: Craft beer tasting at Bobs Farm
- Evening: Southern Cross stargazing at Birubi Point * With an extra day, add a guided wine tour of the Hunter Valley.
* You can mix and match these itineraries according to your time, interests and convenience to create your own Port Stephens experience.
How To Get To Port Stephens
Port Stephens can be reached by road from Sydney along the M1 Motorway, or by air through Newcastle Airport (NTL) at Williamtown, around 25 minutes from Nelson Bay.
International travellers
Most international flights land at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD), the nearest major international airport to Port Stephens. Flights from Sydney to Newcastle Airport run only a few times a week. Because of this, most international travellers continue from Sydney by car, bus or train. Newcastle Airport also has direct flights from Bali. Compare fares across airlines and travel sites when booking flights.
Domestic travellers
Newcastle Airport has direct flights from Brisbane, Melbourne, Gold Coast and Canberra, with fewer weekly flights from Perth, Adelaide and Hobart. Flight schedules can change, so visit the official Newcastle Airport site for more information. From Sydney, a daily bus service runs from Central Station to Port Stephens. For timetables and bookings, visit the official Port Stephens Coaches website. NSW TrainLink trains also run from Sydney to Newcastle, with bus connections onward. For timetables, visit the Transport For NSW website.
Useful Links
| Resource | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Destination Port Stephens | Find things to do, events, beaches and local travel information across Port Stephens. |
| NSW National Parks: Tomaree National Park | Check walking tracks, lookouts, closures and safety alerts before visiting. |
| NSW National Parks: Worimi Conservation Lands | Check dune access, beach vehicle permits and park alerts |
| Port Stephens | Learn about marine park zones, snorkelling sites and rules on the water. |
| Newcastle Airport | Check flights, airlines and transport options to and from the airport. |
| Port Stephens Coaches | Check coach services from Sydney and local bus timetables |
| Transport for NSW | Plan journeys by train, bus and ferry across New South Wales. |
| The Bureau of Meteorology | Check the Nelson Bay weather forecast and warnings before heading out. |
Know Before You Go
Best Time To Visit
With its abundance of beaches and thrilling adventure activities, Port Stephens is an ideal destination for beach hopping. It comes as no surprise that summer is the prime time to visit. However, if you’re looking to witness the majestic Humpback whales during their annual migration along the east coast, plan your visit between May and November.
With its abundance of beaches and thrilling adventure activities, Port Stephens is an ideal destination for beach hopping. It comes as no surprise that summer is the prime time to visit. However, if you’re looking to witness the majestic Humpback whales during their annual migration along the east coast, plan your visit between May and November.
Australia-wide Holidays
1 Jan (Thu) – New Year’s Day
26 Jan (Mon) – Australia Day
3 Apr (Fri) – Good Friday
4 Apr (Sat) – Day following Good Friday
5 Apr (Sun) – Easter Sunday
6 Apr (Mon) – Easter Monday
27 Apr (Mon) – ANZAC Day Holiday
25 Dec (Fri) – Christmas Day
26 Dec (Sat) – Boxing Day
28 Dec (Mon) – Boxing Day Holiday
New South Wales Observed Holidays:
9 Jun (Tue) – King’s Birthday
5 Oct (Mon) – Labour Day
28 Dec (Mon) – Additional Public Holiday (Christmas Period)
Regional Holidays:
3 Aug (Mon) – Bank Holiday
1 Jan (Thu) – New Year’s Day
26 Jan (Mon) – Australia Day
3 Apr (Fri) – Good Friday
4 Apr (Sat) – Day following Good Friday
5 Apr (Sun) – Easter Sunday
6 Apr (Mon) – Easter Monday
27 Apr (Mon) – ANZAC Day Holiday
25 Dec (Fri) – Christmas Day
26 Dec (Sat) – Boxing Day
28 Dec (Mon) – Boxing Day Holiday
New South Wales Observed Holidays:
9 Jun (Tue) – King’s Birthday
5 Oct (Mon) – Labour Day
28 Dec (Mon) – Additional Public Holiday (Christmas Period)
Regional Holidays:
3 Aug (Mon) – Bank Holiday
Shoal Bay Food & Wine Festival (March)
Love seafood? Then you should definitely check out this culinary event that showcases the region's fresh seafood offerings with the best wine in the region. Expect various dining experiences, cooking demonstrations, and food tastings.
Sail Port Stephens (April/May)
Held in the pristine waters of Port Stephens, this annual yachting regatta also includes a fun social and entertainment program for all ages!
Tomaree Trail Run Festival
A running event that offers various distances and challenges, allowing participants to explore the scenic trails of Tomaree National Park, while enjoying breathtaking coastal views.
Love seafood? Then you should definitely check out this culinary event that showcases the region's fresh seafood offerings with the best wine in the region. Expect various dining experiences, cooking demonstrations, and food tastings.
Sail Port Stephens (April/May)
Held in the pristine waters of Port Stephens, this annual yachting regatta also includes a fun social and entertainment program for all ages!
Tomaree Trail Run Festival
A running event that offers various distances and challenges, allowing participants to explore the scenic trails of Tomaree National Park, while enjoying breathtaking coastal views.
TERM 1 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026
New South Wales: 7 April to 17 April
TERM 2 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026
New South Wales: 6 July to 17 July
TERM 3 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026
New South Wales: 28 September to 9 October
TERM 4 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026
New South Wales: 18 December to 27 January 2027 (Eastern division)
18 December to 3 February 2027 (Western division)
New South Wales: 7 April to 17 April
TERM 2 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026
New South Wales: 6 July to 17 July
TERM 3 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026
New South Wales: 28 September to 9 October
TERM 4 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026
New South Wales: 18 December to 27 January 2027 (Eastern division)
18 December to 3 February 2027 (Western division)
With its undeniably stunning coastal setting, it’s no wonder that most accommodation in Port Stephens offers excellent views of nature and its splendid sights. Wake up to ocean views in a beachside resort, glamp at the water's edge, or sleep in luxury at a boutique hotel. Popular services like Airbnbs are also available.
Port Stephens boasts a vibrant dining scene that showcases the region's abundant local produce. From waterfront restaurants to cosy cafes and charming breweries, there is something to suit every palate. Indulge in freshly caught seafood, savour dishes inspired by farm-fresh ingredients like macadamias, avocados, and figs, and experience the culinary creativity of talented chefs.
Port Stephens is just a convenient 2.5hr drive north of Sydney. If you prefer flying, Newcastle Airport is the closest, only a 30-minute car ride from Nelson Bay in Port Stephens. To fully experience the region's 26 stunning beaches and charming coastal villages, having a car at your disposal is highly recommended for optimal exploration. Pre-book your car before arriving here.
Port Stephens Tourist Information
Port Stephens harbour is twice as big as Sydney’s with many gems waiting to be discovered. The Woodville Store in Port Stephens hinterland is where you can fish out all things snacky – meals, local goodies and everything in between. Expect good country hospitality, plus, you'll be supporting a local business.
Salamander Bay Square is a hub for fashion, food, and other services. And for an alternate, non-expensive and unconventional shopping site, head to Salamanca Bay Recycling. It is the epitome of ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’.
Salamander Bay Square is a hub for fashion, food, and other services. And for an alternate, non-expensive and unconventional shopping site, head to Salamanca Bay Recycling. It is the epitome of ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’.
Continue Your Planning
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