The Tilligerry Peninsula

Sheltered by the blue waters of Port Stephens, the Tilligerry Peninsula feels a world away from the region's busier beachside hubs. This quiet, bush-fringed peninsula is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking uncrowded stretches of sand, with a relaxed village atmosphere in its main settlement, Tanilba Bay. Here, koalas snooze in the treetops, pelicans glide over calm waterways, and the pace of life slows to a gentle coastal rhythm.

Highlights & What to See

• Tanilba Bay – A peaceful waterfront suburb with a long, sandy beach perfect for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for families.
• Tilligerry Habitat – A community-run wildlife sanctuary where you can walk among kangaroos, wallabies, and emus in a natural bush setting. Don't miss the daily koala talks.
• Boat Harbour – A protected sandy cove with picnic tables and a playground, popular for paddlecraft and watching the sunset over the bay.
• Gan Gan Lookout – A short drive from the peninsula, this elevated viewing platform offers panoramic vistas of Port Stephens, the bay, and the surrounding national parks.
• Tanilba Bay House – A historic 19th-century homestead set in lovely gardens, offering a glimpse into the area's early settler history.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself a full day to explore the peninsula at a relaxed pace. Start with a morning walk at Tilligerry Habitat, then enjoy a lazy lunch at one of the Tanilba Bay cafés. Spend the afternoon swimming or kayaking at Tanilba Bay or Boat Harbour, and finish with a drive to Gan Gan Lookout for sunset. You could easily stretch this into two days if you're keen on longer bushwalks or want to try fishing in the estuary.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay – The lively heart of Port Stephens, with dolphin-watching cruises, restaurants, and the iconic Tomaree Head Summit walk.
• Anna Bay – Famous for its towering sand dunes that meet the sea; go sandboarding or take a 4WD tour.
• Stockton Beach – A vast, wild stretch of sand accessible via 4WD or guided tours, with historic shipwrecks and great fishing.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A pristine system of lakes, forests, and wetlands, perfect for canoeing, birdwatching, and camping.
• Tea Gardens & Hawks Nest – Charming riverside villages on the northern shores of Port Stephens, with beautiful beaches and the Myall River for boating.

Please check official sources for current details.