Shoal Bay

With its talcum-white sand lapped by impossibly clear turquoise water, Shoal Bay feels more like a tropical island than a two-hour drive from Sydney. This pristine crescent on the southern side of Port Stephens is the kind of place where you kick off your shoes the moment you arrive and don't put them back on until you leave. The calm, shallow bay is perfect for swimming, while the surrounding Tomaree National Park offers world-class coastal walks with jaw-dropping views.

Highlights & What to See

• Shoal Bay Beach – The star attraction: a long, powdery stretch of sand with gentle waves. Swim, sunbathe, or snorkel around the rocky headlands where friendly fish gather.
• Tomaree Head Summit Walk – A steep but short 2.2 km return climb rewarded with 360-degree views over Port Stephens, the bay, and offshore islands. Go early to avoid crowds and catch the morning light.
• D'Albora Marina – A lively hub with waterfront cafes, restaurants, and charter operators. Book a dolphin-watching cruise or a fishing trip – the marine life here is prolific.
• Gan Gan Lookout – Drive up for a panoramic view across the entire Port Stephens region, especially stunning at sunset.
• Worimi Conservation Lands – Just north, these towering sand dunes are the largest moving dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Try sandboarding or a 4WD tour.

Suggested Time to Spend

Shoal Bay can be enjoyed as a day trip from Newcastle or Sydney, but to truly unwind, spend at least two nights. A full day allows you to tackle the Tomaree walk in the morning, laze on the beach in the afternoon, and enjoy a relaxed dinner at one of the marina restaurants. If you're self-driving, add an extra day for sandboarding at the Worimi dunes or a dolphin cruise – Port Stephens has the largest resident population of bottlenose dolphins in Australia.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay – The lively heart of Port Stephens, just 5 minutes away, with more dining, shopping, and the departure point for most cruises.
• Fingal Bay – A quieter beach with a striking spit that emerges at low tide, leading to a lighthouse with great views.
• Anna Bay – Gateway to the Worimi sand dunes and a popular spot for camel rides along the beach.
• Stockton Beach – A vast, wild beach stretching 32 km, accessible by 4WD, with historic shipwrecks and excellent fishing.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A short drive north, this water wonderland offers kayaking, birdwatching, and peaceful camping among paperbark forests.

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