Port Stephens

Crystal-clear waters, dolphin pods, and vast sand dunes define Port Stephens, a stunning coastal haven just two hours north of Sydney. This natural playground offers a laid-back escape with world-class marine encounters, pristine beaches, and the rugged beauty of Tomaree National Park. Whether you're kayaking alongside bottlenose dolphins or climbing to panoramic lookouts, Port Stephens delivers an authentic taste of Australia's aquatic wonderland.

Highlights & What to See

• Dolphin Watching & Sandboarding: Cruise the bay with wild dolphins in their natural habitat – a near-certain sighting. Pair it with sandboarding down the towering Stockton Bight sand dunes, the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Tomaree Head Summit Walk: A short but steep climb rewards with jaw-dropping 360° views of the coastline, offshore islands, and the vast Pacific. Best at sunrise or sunset.
• Nelson Bay: The vibrant heart of Port Stephens, lined with cafés, seafood restaurants, and charter operators. Grab fresh fish and chips and watch the boats bob in the marina.
• Stockton Beach: A 32-kilometre stretch of golden sand perfect for swimming, 4WD adventures, and quad biking. The beach is also a haven for birdlife.
• Worimi Conservation Lands: Explore the ancient sand dunes on a guided tour, learning about Aboriginal culture and the area's rich Indigenous history.
• Port Stephens Koalas Sanctuary: Get up close to rescued koalas in a bushland setting – a must for wildlife lovers.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days allows you to soak up the highlights without rushing. Spend day one on the water – dolphin cruise and sandboarding – then day two tackling the Tomaree walk and exploring Nelson Bay. Add a third day for Stockton Beach 4WD tours or a leisurely kayak in the bay. If you're short on time, a full-day trip from Newcastle is feasible but you'll only scratch the surface.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nobbys Beach: A classic Newcastle surf beach with a historic lighthouse – perfect for a post-Port Stephens swim.
• Fort Scratchley: Explore WWII gun emplacements and tunnels with sweeping views of Newcastle's coastline.
• Newcastle City: A vibrant hub of street art, craft breweries, and the iconic Bogey Hole ocean pool – ideal for a day or two.

Please check official sources for current details.