Tomaree National Park

Rising dramatically from the sparkling waters of Port Stephens, Tomaree National Park is a breathtaking coastal wilderness that rewards visitors with some of the most spectacular panoramic views on the NSW coast. The park’s centrepiece is the iconic Tomaree Headland, where a short but steep walk leads to a lookout that sweeps across endless blue ocean, the offshore islands of the Myall Lakes National Park, and the distant Barrington Tops. Beyond the summit, the park offers secluded beaches, quiet coastal heathlands, and a rich Aboriginal heritage that adds depth to any visit.

Highlights & What to See

• Tomaree Head Summit Walk – A 2.2 km return trail (moderate difficulty) that climbs through coastal scrub to a 360-degree lookout; arrive early to beat the crowds and catch the morning light over the bay.
• Zion Beach & Wreck Beach – Secluded sandy coves accessible by short walking tracks from the Tomaree Head car park; perfect for a quiet swim or picnic away from the main tourist spots.
• Boulder Bay – A peaceful picnic area with calm waters and a grassy reserve, ideal for families; keep an eye out for dolphins and migrating whales during winter.
• Aboriginal heritage sites – The park lies within the traditional country of the Worimi people; look for shell middens and rock engravings near the headland, and consider joining a guided tour to learn about local Dreaming stories.
• Coastal heath walks – The Yacaaba Headland track (2 km return) offers a less-crowded alternative with wildflowers in spring and superb views over Anna Bay.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors allocate a half-day to Tomaree National Park: allow 1–2 hours for the summit walk and another hour for a dip at Zenith Beach or a picnic at Boulder Bay. For a deeper experience, set aside a full day to combine the headland walk with a kayak or stand-up paddleboard session in the sheltered waters of Port Stephens, or explore the park’s quieter trails. The park is compact enough to visit as a morning or afternoon trip from Nelson Bay or Shoal Bay.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay – The lively heart of Port Stephens, with dolphin-watching cruises, seafood restaurants, and a bustling marina.
• Shoal Bay – A laid-back beach village with a long, patrolled beach, cafés, and easy access to the Tomaree Head walk.
• Anna Bay – Famous for its towering sand dunes (part of the Worimi Conservation Lands) where you can go sandboarding or take a 4WD tour.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast network of lakes, rivers, and forests just north, offering canoeing, birdwatching, and camping.
• Port Stephens – The broader region is a water-sports paradise; combine your park visit with a kayak, sailing, or fishing charter.

Please check official sources for current details.