Murrays Brewery

Murrays Brewery, perched on the northern edge of Port Stephens, is a craft-beer lover's paradise that doubles as a family-friendly destination. With its sprawling lawns, live music, and taproom pouring award-winning ales, this is the kind of place where you can easily while away an afternoon. The brewery’s scenic setting, overlooking vineyards and bushland, adds a relaxed, rural vibe that contrasts beautifully with the coastal energy of nearby Nelson Bay.

Highlights & What to See

• Taproom tastings: Sample the full range of Murrays’ beers, from the iconic Whale Ale to seasonal specials. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through flights or paddle tastings.
• Brewery tour: Peek behind the scenes on a guided tour (weekends usually) to see the copper kettles and fermenters, and learn about the brewing process from grain to glass.
• Beer garden & food: The outdoor area is perfect for families, with picnic tables, a kids’ play area, and a rotating menu of woodfired pizzas, burgers, and share plates that pair beautifully with the beers.
• Live music & events: Check the calendar for Sunday sessions with local bands, trivia nights, and seasonal festivals like Oktoberfest celebrations.
• Cellar door & merch: Pick up bottles, growlers, and branded glassware to take home. Limited-edition releases often sell out fast.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours if you’re just doing a tasting and a snack, but it’s easy to stretch to a half-day if you join a tour, linger over lunch, or catch live music. The brewery is open from late morning to early evening, making it a great stop between beach time and dinner. If you’re self-driving, it’s a pleasant 15-minute drive from Nelson Bay.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay: The hub of Port Stephens, with dolphin-watching cruises, the dune-backed Little Beach, and the Tomaree Headland walk offering panoramic views.
• Shoal Bay: A quieter beachside suburb with calm swimming waters, the scenic Wreck Beach, and the Gan Gan Lookout for sunset.
• Anna Bay: Famous for the Stockton Beach sand dunes – you can go quad-biking, sandboarding, or take a 4WD tour to the Birubi Point Aboriginal site.
• Myall Lakes National Park: Just north, a vast network of lakes, forests, and wetlands perfect for kayaking, birdwatching, and bushwalking.
• Port Stephens Winery: Also in the area, this vineyard offers tastings and a cellar door, ideal for a wine-and-beer crawl.

Please check official sources for current details.