Paddington

Paddington is a charming coastal suburb of Port Stephens, offering a relaxed seaside vibe with stunning views over the bay. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet escape, with pristine beaches, bushwalks, and a friendly local community. The area feels refreshingly uncrowded, making it ideal for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to water activities.

Highlights & What to See

• Boat Harbour Beach – a beautiful, sheltered beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The white sand and clear water are perfect for a lazy afternoon.
• Tomaree National Park – just a short drive away, this park offers excellent walking trails with panoramic views of the coastline. The Tomaree Head Summit walk is a must-do for incredible ocean vistas.
• Watersports & Fishing – the calm waters of Port Stephens are perfect for sailing, jet-skiing, and fishing charters. You can also try stand-up paddleboarding right off the beach.
• Local Dining – enjoy fresh seafood at casual eateries with water views. The local fish and chips are a highlight.
• Dolphin Watching – Port Stephens is famous for its bottlenose dolphin population. Several operators offer cruises from nearby Nelson Bay.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that two to three days in Paddington is ideal. This gives you time to relax on the beach, tackle a few walks in Tomaree National Park, and join a dolphin-watching cruise. If you’re short on time, a day trip from Newcastle or Sydney is possible, but you’ll miss the unhurried pace that makes Paddington special.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay – the lively hub of Port Stephens, with shops, restaurants, and dolphin cruises, just a 10-minute drive away.
• Shoal Bay – another beautiful beachside suburb with a golf course and more dining options.
• Anna Bay – famous for its sand dunes and the Stockton Beach sandboarding experience.
• Tomaree National Park – combine a walk to the summit with a visit to the historic gun emplacements.
• Myall Lakes National Park – a short drive north, offering kayaking, birdwatching, and peaceful lakeside camping.

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