Tomaree National Park

Tomaree National Park, a coastal gem on the Port Stephens peninsula, offers some of the most spectacular ocean views in New South Wales. The park's centerpiece is the Tomaree Headland, where a short but steep walk rewards with a 360-degree panorama of golden beaches, sapphire waters, and the distant islands of the Myall Lakes system. This is a place where the bush meets the sea, with walking trails threading through scribbly gum woodlands and heath, and lookouts that make you feel like you're on the edge of the world.

Highlights & What to See

• Tomaree Head Summit Walk – A 2.2 km return climb (steep in parts) that delivers arguably the best coastal view on the NSW coast: Shoal Bay, Zenith Beach, and the blue expanse of Port Stephens.
• Zenith Beach – A stunning, patrolled surf beach at the foot of the headland, perfect for swimming and bodysurfing. The walk down from the car park passes through coastal heath and offers whale-watching opportunities in season.
• Wreck Beach – A wilder, north-facing beach accessible via a short track from the Tomaree Head car park. It's a great spot for a peaceful stroll and rock fishing, with views of the offshore islands.
• Stewarts Point & the Tomaree Coastal Walk – For longer hikes, the 10 km one-way coastal walk links Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay, passing through secluded coves and heathland. Keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos and sea eagles.
• Historical WWII Sites – The headland was a key defence post during World War II, and you'll find remnants of gun emplacements and bunkers along the summit walk, adding a layer of history to the natural beauty.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors devote half a day to Tomaree National Park, which is enough to tackle the Tomaree Head Summit Walk (allow 1–1.5 hours round trip with photo stops) and then relax on Zenith Beach or explore the shorter trails. If you're keen on the full Tomaree Coastal Walk, plan for a full day – start early, carry plenty of water, and wear sturdy shoes. The park is compact but feels wild, so don't rush; the best moments come from lingering on a headland watching the waves.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Shoal Bay – A lively beach town at the park's doorstep, with a great café scene, kayak rentals, and the famous Shoal Bay Country Club for a post-walk drink.
• Nelson Bay – The hub of Port Stephens, offering dolphin-watching cruises, the d'Albora Marina with restaurants, and the walk to Little Beach and Gan Gan Lookout.
• Stockton Beach – North of the park, this massive sand dune system is a playground for 4WD tours and sandboarding, and a stark contrast to the rocky headlands.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A short drive north, this water-based park is perfect for canoeing, birdwatching, and camping among paperbark swamps.
• Port Stephens – The broader region is a natural playground for swimming, fishing, and whale watching (May–November), with plenty of accommodation options from caravan parks to resorts.

Please check official sources for current details.