Port Stephens Great Lakes Marine Park

Stretching from the sparkling waters of Port Stephens north to the Myall Lakes, this sprawling marine park is a watery wonderland where bottlenose dolphins arc through boat wakes and ancient paperbark forests meet the sea. It’s a sanctuary for marine life and a paradise for paddlers, snorkellers and sailors, with calm, protected waterways that feel a world away from the busy coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Dolphin-watching cruises – Pods of resident bottlenose dolphins are almost guaranteed; join a cruise from Nelson Bay for close encounters.
• Tomaree Head Summit walk – A steep but short climb rewards with 360-degree views over the park, offshore islands and the Tasman Sea.
• Myall Lakes National Park – Paddle through a labyrinth of tea-tree-lined lakes and channels; hire a kayak or canoe from Bulahdelah or Hawks Nest.
• Fingal Island and the ghostly shipwreck of the SS Sygna – Snorkel around the wreck or stroll the beach at low tide; the island is a seabird rookery.
• Stockton Bight sand dunes – The largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere; try sandboarding or a 4WD tour from Anna Bay.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least two full days to explore the park’s diversity. Spend the first day on the water – a morning dolphin cruise followed by an afternoon kayak on the Myall Lakes. The second day can be split between the Tomaree walk and the Stockton Bight dunes. If you have a third day, venture north to the quieter reaches of the Great Lakes or take a snorkelling trip to the offshore islands.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay – The main hub for tours, restaurants and accommodation; stroll the marina and grab fish and chips.
• Hawks Nest – A laid-back coastal village at the southern entrance to Myall Lakes; great for swimming and kayak hire.
• Tea Gardens – A historic river town on the northern shore of Port Stephens; ferry across from Nelson Bay for lunch.
• Boat Harbour – A quieter beach spot with a scenic coastal walk and good surfing.
• Karuah – A small town on the Karuah River, famous for its oysters and river cruises.

Please check official sources for current details.