Highfield House

Perched on a grassy rise overlooking the pristine sands of Fingal Bay, Highfield House is a beautifully restored Georgian-style homestead that offers a captivating glimpse into the early colonial history of the Port Stephens region. Built in the 1830s by Australian Agricultural Company officer William Dun, this elegant sandstone residence has been lovingly brought back to life as a museum and cultural venue. Wander through period-furnished rooms, admire the sweeping verandahs, and soak up the tranquil coastal setting that makes this a perfect stop for history buffs and beach lovers alike.

Highlights & What to See

• The Homestead Museum: Step inside to explore rooms furnished with original and period pieces, including a grand dining room, a cozy drawing room, and a kitchen that evokes 19th-century domestic life. Informative displays detail the house's role in the region's early settlement and the lives of the Dun family.
• The Gardens and Grounds: Stroll through the manicured gardens, which feature a mix of native and exotic plants, a lovely rose garden, and a kitchen garden. The grounds offer sweeping views across Fingal Bay and the surrounding coastline—perfect for a picnic or a quiet moment with a book.
• Fingal Bay: Just a short walk from the house, this stunning beach boasts crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and a popular rock pool at the southern end. It's an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or a leisurely coastal walk.
• Tomaree National Park: A short drive away, this park offers excellent bushwalking with rewarding lookouts. The summit of Tomaree Head provides panoramic views of Port Stephens, the coastline, and, on clear days, as far as the Hunter Valley.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate around 1–2 hours to tour the house and gardens at a relaxed pace. If you plan to combine a visit with time on Fingal Bay or a walk in Tomaree National Park, set aside a half-day to fully appreciate the area. The house is open on select days (check ahead), so it's best to plan your visit around its opening hours, typically Wednesday to Sunday, with guided tours available.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens & Nelson Bay – The vibrant hub of the region, with waterfront dining, dolphin-watching cruises, and a lively marina.
• Stockton Beach – Famous for its massive sand dunes, this beach is a playground for 4WD enthusiasts and sandboarding adventurers.
• Hunter Valley Wine Country – Just an hour's drive inland, Australia's premier wine region offers cellar doors, gourmet food, and scenic countryside.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A stunning network of lakes and waterways perfect for kayaking, fishing, and spotting wildlife.
• The Caves at Seal Rocks – A dramatic coastal headland with sea caves and a historic lighthouse, about 45 minutes north.

Please check official sources for current details.