With golden-beaches, clear-turquoise waterways, and vibrant green national parks, there is plenty to see and do both on and off the water in Port Stephens.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach, an adventure on the water, a walk with a view, or a day trip further afield, here are some of our favourites.
With more than 26 beaches around Port Stephens, there’s no shortage of places to swim, surf, explore, or simply relax by the water.
Fingal Bay Beach
A popular patrolled beach for swimming, surfing, fishing, and family days out. Take a walk to Barry Park or, when conditions allow, explore the spectacular Fingal Spit area.
One Mile Beach
A beautiful stretch of coastline popular with swimmers and surfers. Its consistent waves also make it a great place to learn to surf.
Shoal Bay Beach
Known for its calm, clear water and white sand, Shoal Bay is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and taking in views across the bay towards Tomaree Head.
Birubi Beach, Anna Bay
Where the beach meets the incredible Worimi Conservation Lands and Stockton Bight Sand Dunes. Swim, surf, explore the dunes, or simply enjoy the expansive coastline.
Little Beach, Nelson Bay
Calm water and a protected location make Little Beach a favourite for families and younger swimmers.
Dutchmans Beach, Nelson Bay
A smaller, sheltered beach that’s ideal for swimming, snorkelling, picnics, and a quiet afternoon by the water.
For surf conditions, patrol information, and beach safety, check Beachsafe before heading out.
Explore Worimi Conservation Lands
Stretching along Stockton Bight, the spectacular sand dunes are among the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Explore by foot, 4WD, tour, or sandboard.
Walk Tomaree Head
Make the climb to Tomaree Head for panoramic views across Port Stephens, its coastline, and offshore islands. It’s one of the region’s must-do walks.
Snorkel at Fly Point
Discover the marine life beneath the surface at Fly Point, part of the Port Stephens–Great Lakes Marine Park and one of the area’s best-known snorkelling locations.
Visit Nelson Head
Explore the historic lighthouse reserve and enjoy panoramic views across the entrance to Port Stephens.
Take in the view from Gan Gan Lookout
Drive to one of the area’s best vantage points for sweeping views across Nelson Bay, Port Stephens, and the surrounding landscape.
Catch a boat to Tea Gardens
Cross the water for a relaxed day exploring Tea Gardens and the Myall River waterfront.
Discover local produce
From fresh seafood and oysters to local wines, craft beer, macadamias, and farm produce, there are plenty of local flavours to discover throughout the region.
If you have a little more time, Port Stephens is also a gateway to the wider Hunter region.
Barrington Tops
Head inland to the World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops National Park, where rugged mountains, rainforest, waterfalls, wildlife, and walking trails offer a completely different experience from the coast.
Explore the Hinterland
Take the quieter roads through Raymond Terrace, Seaham, Woodville, Hinton, and Wallalong before visiting historic Morpeth on the banks of the Hunter River.
Discover Newcastle
Around an hour from Port Stephens, Newcastle combines beautiful beaches and coastline with heritage, restaurants, bars, galleries, shopping, and a lively harbour precinct.
