Glen Inness Scenic Drive

Winding through the heart of the stunning Tomaree National Park, Glen Inness Scenic Drive is a short but spectacular road trip that delivers some of Port Stephens' most dramatic coastal scenery. This sealed, one-way loop takes you through dense coastal forest, past hidden beaches, and up to jaw-dropping lookout points where the turquoise ocean meets the rugged headlands. It's a must-do for any self-drive itinerary exploring the Port Stephens area, offering quick walk-ins to nature without requiring a full day commitment.

Highlights & What to See

• Tomaree Head Summit Walk – The star attraction: a moderately steep 2.2 km return climb rewarded with 360-degree views over Shoal Bay, Yacaaba Head, and the coastline stretching to the south. Arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat.
• Zenith Beach – A secluded, patrolled surf beach accessed via a short boardwalk from the carpark. Perfect for a refreshing dip or a picnic on the sand.
• Boulder Bay – A quiet, rocky cove ideal for snorkelling and exploring rock pools at low tide. Keep an eye out for dolphins playing offshore.
• Gan Gan Lookout – A quick stop on the drive offering panoramic views over Nelson Bay and the Myall Lakes hinterland. Great for sunset photography.
• Little Beach – A sheltered, family-friendly beach with calm waters, picnic tables, and a playground – a lovely spot for a relaxed lunch break.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can comfortably complete the scenic drive itself in about 20 minutes, but to truly experience the area, allocate a half-day. Start early with the Tomaree Head Summit Walk (allow 1.5 hours return including photo stops), then visit Zenith Beach for a swim, and finish with a leisurely lunch at Little Beach. If you're a keen photographer or hiker, you might want to stretch it to a full day by adding the longer Boulders Trail or a kayak paddle in Shoal Bay.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Shoal Bay – A lively beachside village with great cafes, restaurants, and a long, sheltered beach – just minutes from the drive's start.
• Nelson Bay – The main hub of Port Stephens, offering dolphin-watching cruises, marina strolls, and excellent seafood dining.
• Fingal Bay – A quieter beach town with a striking lighthouse walk and a sand spit that appears at low tide.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast freshwater lake system north of Port Stephens, ideal for kayaking, fishing, and bushwalking among paperbark forests.
• Stockton Beach – Famous for its massive sand dunes and 4WD beach driving – a thrilling contrast to the national park's forested headlands.

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