Tomaree National Park

Rising dramatically from the coast just north of Sydney, Tomaree National Park is a stunning headland reserve that delivers one of the most spectacular coastal walks in New South Wales. The centrepiece is the Tomaree Head Summit walk, a steep but short climb rewarded with 360-degree views over the sparkling blue waters of Port Stephens, the sand dunes of Stockton Bight, and the offshore islands. This is a place where the bush meets the sea, with pockets of rainforest, rocky coves, and quiet beaches waiting to be explored.

Highlights & What to See

• Tomaree Head Summit Walk: A 2.2 km return hike with a steep climb, but the panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking — one of the best vantage points on the NSW coast.
• Zelma Facing Lookout: A shorter, easier walk that offers stunning coastal views and a glimpse of the historic gun emplacements from WWII.
• Shoal Bay Beach: A beautiful, sheltered beach perfect for swimming and picnicking, right at the base of the headland.
• Fingal Island & Point Stephens Lighthouse: Accessible at low tide via a sandbar from Fingal Beach, this historic lighthouse offers a sense of isolation and great photo opportunities.
• Gan Gan Lookout: A short drive from the park, this lookout provides a different perspective over Port Stephens and the surrounding national park.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is ideal for Tomaree National Park. Start early with the summit walk to avoid the heat and crowds, then spend the rest of the morning exploring the beaches and lookouts. If you want to include Fingal Island and the lighthouse, check the tide times and allow an extra hour or two. The park can be combined easily with a lunch at one of the nearby cafés in Shoal Bay or Nelson Bay.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay: The main town of Port Stephens, with a lively marina, dolphin-watching cruises, and excellent seafood restaurants.
• Stockton Bight Sand Dunes: The largest moving sand dunes in the southern hemisphere, where you can try sandboarding or quad biking.
• Myall Lakes National Park: A vast system of lakes and waterways ideal for kayaking, fishing, and camping.
• Port Stephens: The broader region offers swimming with wild dolphins, whale watching in season, and the charming town of Anna Bay.
• Hunter Valley Wine Region: About an hour's drive inland, perfect for a day of wine tasting and gourmet food after your coastal adventures.

Please check official sources for current details.