Port Stephens

A picturesque coastal destination north of Newcastle known for its beautiful bay, pristine beaches, and abundant marine life including dolphins and whales. It offers water sports, wildlife cruises, and charming beachside villages.

Things to do

• Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruises — Take a guided boat tour from Nelson Bay to spot bottlenose dolphins year-round and humpback whales during migration season (May-November).
• Sand Dune Surfing at Stockton Beach — Experience the unique activity of sand tobogganing down the massive dunes at Stockton Beach, one of Australia's largest coastal sand dune systems.
• Snorkelling at Seal Rocks — Explore the underwater marine life and swim alongside seals at this protected rocky outcrop located at the mouth of Port Stephens.
• Fishing at Nelson Bay — Charter a boat or fish from the pier for flathead, bream, and kingfish in these productive waters favoured by both amateur and professional anglers.
• Beach Swimming at Anna Bay and Shoal Bay — Enjoy patrolled family-friendly beaches with calm waters, rock pools, and picnic facilities suitable for swimmers of all levels.
• Walk the Tomaree Head Summit Track — Hike to the 73-metre headland for panoramic views of Port Stephens, secluded beaches, and coastal wildlife.
• Kayaking in Port Stephens Bay — Paddle through the sheltered bay to observe dolphins, stingrays, and seagrass beds while exploring coves and islands at your own pace.

Food to try

• Fresh Local Barramundi — Sample barramundi caught fresh from Port Stephens waters, typically grilled or pan-fried at beachside restaurants in Nelson Bay.
• Oysters from Port Stephens Oyster Lease — Taste premium fresh oysters farmed in the bay's clean waters, available at local seafood markets and restaurants year-round.
• Fish and Chips from Nelson Bay Wharf — Experience classic Australian coastal dining with freshly battered flathead or bream served with hot chips and tartare sauce near the working fishing boats.
• Mud Crab — Enjoy locally caught mud crab prepared steamed, grilled, or in pasta at waterfront restaurants, particularly popular during summer months.
• Prawn Dishes — Try king prawns or banana prawns sourced from local fisheries, commonly served as garlic prawns or on seafood platters with lemon and aioli.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Marine Wildlife Viewing Ethics — Maintain a safe distance from dolphins and whales (minimum 100 metres), avoid feeding wildlife, and choose operators following responsible wildlife tourism guidelines.
• Beach Safety and Sun Protection — The Australian sun is intense year-round; always wear SPF 30+ sunscreen, swim between the flags at patrolled beaches, and check conditions before water activities.
• Local Fishing Culture — Port Stephens has a strong commercial and recreational fishing heritage; be respectful around working fishing boats at the wharf and purchase fresh seafood directly from fishmongers.
• Seasonal Weather Awareness — Summer (December-February) is hot and can be crowded, while winter (June-August) offers cooler conditions and the best whale watching; pack layers and check forecasts before outdoor activities.