New Farm

New Farm is a serene, leafy suburb on the shores of Port Stephens, offering a quiet escape with easy access to the area's famous waterways and national parks. This is where you come to unwind, with a handful of excellent cafés and a real community feel, all while being just minutes from the aquatic playground of the bay.

Highlights & What to See

• Gan Gan Lookout: A short drive from New Farm, this lookout provides panoramic views over Port Stephens, the bay, and the surrounding national park. It's particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset.
• Tomaree National Park: A must-visit for hikers and nature lovers. The walk to the summit of Tomaree Head offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the coastline and offshore islands. Keep an eye out for dolphins and migrating whales.
• Port Stephens Ferry: Catch the local ferry from nearby Soldiers Point or Nelson Bay to explore the waterfront restaurants and shops, or simply enjoy a scenic ride across the bay.
• Watersports & Dolphin Watching: The calm waters of Port Stephens are perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing. Join a dolphin-watching cruise to see the resident bottlenose dolphins up close.
• Local Cafés & Dining: New Farm has a small but charming café scene. Grab a flat white and a pastry at one of the local spots, then head to the water's edge for a picnic.

Suggested Time to Spend

New Farm itself can be enjoyed in a half-day, especially if you're combining a visit with a walk to Gan Gan Lookout and a relaxed lunch. To fully experience Port Stephens, including Tomaree National Park and a dolphin cruise, plan for at least two full days. If you're self-driving, use New Farm as a quiet base to explore the wider region at a leisurely pace.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay: The bustling heart of Port Stephens, with a marina, shops, and a lively waterfront. It's just a 10-minute drive from New Farm.
• Shoal Bay: A stunning beachside village with a pristine beach and excellent dining. It's a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.
• Anna Bay: Famous for its massive sand dunes, where you can try sandboarding or take a 4WD tour. The Stockton Beach dunes are an unforgettable landscape.
• Myall Lakes National Park: A vast network of lakes and wilderness perfect for canoeing, fishing, and bushwalking. It's about 30 minutes north of New Farm.

Please check official sources for current details.