Medowie

Medowie is a peaceful rural suburb in the Port Stephens region, offering a tranquil escape from the coast's busier beaches. Known for its lush farmland, horse properties, and the popular Medowie Olives, this area is perfect for travellers seeking a taste of country life just minutes from Nelson Bay and Newcastle. With its rolling green hills and friendly community, Medowie provides a serene base for exploring the wider Port Stephens area.

Highlights & What to See

• Medowie Olives – Visit this family-run olive grove for tastings of award-winning extra virgin olive oils, tapenades, and dukkah. The rustic farm shop is a delight for foodies.
• Walkabout Park – An intimate wildlife sanctuary where you can hand-feed kangaroos, meet koalas, and learn about native Australian animals. A must for families.
• Gan Gan Lookout – Just a short drive away, this viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of Port Stephens, the coast, and the surrounding national parks. Particularly stunning at sunset.
• Medowie State Forest – Explore walking and cycling trails through tall eucalypt forests. Keep an eye out for wallabies and birdlife in this serene natural area.
• Local Farm Gates – Pick up fresh produce, free-range eggs, and homemade jams from roadside stalls dotted around Medowie's country lanes.

Suggested Time to Spend

Medowie can be enjoyed as a half-day stop or a relaxed overnight stay if you want to soak up the rural atmosphere. Spend a couple of hours at Medowie Olives and Walkabout Park, then take a short drive to Gan Gan Lookout. For a slower pace, combine a morning at the wildlife park with an afternoon exploring the state forest. Many visitors use Medowie as a lunch or picnic break while travelling between Newcastle and the Port Stephens beaches.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay – The heart of Port Stephens, with dolphin-watching cruises, beaches, and waterfront dining, just 15 minutes away.
• Shoal Bay – A stunning beach with clear waters and a relaxed vibe, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
• Anna Bay – Famous for its sand dunes and the Stockton Beach 4WD adventures, offering a unique desert-like landscape.
• Port Stephens – The broader region includes the Tomaree National Park, with excellent coastal walks and lookouts.
• Newcastle – A vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, historic architecture, and great cafes, about 30 minutes south.
• Hunter Valley – Australia's premier wine region, just an hour's drive, perfect for a day of wine tasting and gourmet food.

Please check official sources for current details.