Photo: Photographic Collection from Australia / CC BY 2.0
Kurrajong is a serene coastal suburb of Port Stephens, offering a peaceful escape with easy access to stunning beaches, lush national parks, and abundant wildlife. This laid-back area is perfect for travellers seeking a quieter slice of the Port Stephens region, where you can kayak through mangroves, spot dolphins from the shore, or simply unwind on uncrowded sands.
Highlights & What to See
- Kurrajong Beach – A long, sandy stretch ideal for swimming, sunbaking, and long walks; less crowded than nearby Nelson Bay, with calm waters perfect for families.
- Kurrajong Point – A rocky headland offering panoramic views of Port Stephens and the chance to see dolphins and migratory whales during season.
- Tomaree National Park – Just a short drive away, hike to the summit of Tomaree Head for jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the coastline and offshore islands.
- Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary – Visit this dedicated conservation centre to see rescued koalas up close and learn about local wildlife protection efforts.
- Gan Gan Lookout – A quick stop for sweeping views over Port Stephens, especially beautiful at sunset.
Suggested Time to Spend
Kurrajong can be enjoyed as a half-day stop or a full-day beach escape. If you're short on time, spend a couple of hours at the beach and take a quick walk to Kurrajong Point. For a fuller experience, combine a morning at the beach with an afternoon hike in Tomaree National Park, then watch the sunset from Gan Gan Lookout. Many visitors use Kurrajong as a peaceful base for a longer stay in Port Stephens, spending 2–3 days exploring the area at a relaxed pace.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Nelson Bay – The lively hub of Port Stephens, with a marina, shops, and dining; take a dolphin-watching cruise or try sandboarding at Stockton Beach.
- Shoal Bay – Another beautiful beach suburb with calm waters and a popular holiday vibe, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.
- Fingal Bay – Home to a stunning beach and the Fingal Island walk, accessible at low tide.
- Stockton Beach – Famous for its massive sand dunes and 4WD adventures; you can also ride a camel or try sandboarding.
- Myall Lakes National Park – A short drive north offers pristine lakes, rainforest walks, and kayaking through tranquil waterways.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Shoal Bay — Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom / CC BY 2.0
- Fingal Bay — popejon2 from Paddington, Australia / CC BY 2.0
- Stockton Beach — AussieLegend / Public domain
- Tomaree National Park — AussieLegend / Public domain
- Myall Lakes National Park — Eduardo M. C. / CC BY 2.0
- Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary — Diliff / CC BY-SA 3.0