Picture this: 26 pristine beaches, the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, and over 140 resident bottlenose dolphins waiting to welcome you. That’s Port Stephens – your ultimate coastal escape just 2.5 hours north of Sydney.
If you’re wondering about things to do in Port Stephens, you’re in for a treat. I’ve spent years crafting travel experiences across NSW, and this sparkling harbour never fails to impress. From free beach days to thrilling wildlife encounters, romantic sunsets to family adventures, this guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect trip.
Whether you’re a budget traveler, adventure seeker, or planning a family getaway, Port Stephens delivers unforgettable experiences without the Sydney crowds.
Why Port Stephens is Worth Visiting 🌊
Is Port Stephens worth going to? Absolutely, and here’s why.
Port Stephens isn’t just another beach destination. This 134-square-kilometer natural harbour – three times larger than Sydney Harbour – offers a unique combination of marine wildlife, adventure activities, and coastal beauty that’s hard to match anywhere else in NSW.
Here’s what makes it special:
- Dolphin Capital of Australia: Home to 140+ bottlenose dolphins that you can spot year-round
- 26 stunning beaches: From calm bay swimming spots to world-class surf breaks
- Stockton Sand Dunes: The longest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere stretching 32 kilometers
- Whale watching heaven: 40,000+ humpback whales pass through between May and November
- Tomaree National Park: Protected wilderness with spectacular coastal walks and viewpoints
In my experience managing tours across Australia, Port Stephens consistently ranks as one of the most versatile destinations. You can fill an entire week here or enjoy a perfect day trip from Sydney. The bay’s calm waters make it ideal for families, while adventure activities like sandboarding and dolphin swimming attract thrill-seekers from around the world.
The best part? Unlike crowded Sydney beaches, Port Stephens retains its laid-back coastal charm. You’ll find space to breathe, genuine local hospitality, and that authentic Australian beach experience.
How to Spend a Day in Port Stephens ⏰
How do I spend a day in Port Stephens? Here’s my tried-and-tested 1-Day Itinerary that captures the best of what this region offers.
06:00 AM – Sunrise at Zenith Beach
Start early to beat the crowds. Drive to Zenith Beach via Zenith Beach Loop Road off Nelson Bay Road. This sheltered beach between Tomaree Mountain and Stephens Peak glows beautifully at sunrise. The aquamarine water and golden sand create perfect photo opportunities. Pack a thermos of coffee and enjoy the tranquility before the day begins.
08:00 AM – Tomaree Head Summit Hike
Just 5 minutes from Zenith Beach, tackle the Tomaree Head Summit Walk. This 2.2 km return hike takes 45-60 minutes and rewards you with 360-degree views from 161 meters above sea level. You’ll see all of Port Stephens spread below, offshore islands, and if you’re lucky, dolphins playing in the waves. Wear proper hiking shoes – the track includes steep sections and stairs.
10:30 AM – Dolphin or Whale Watching Cruise
Head to d’Albora Marina in Nelson Bay for a 1.5-2 hour cruise. Multiple operators like Moonshadow TQC Cruises, Imagine Cruises, and Aquamarine Adventures offer daily departures. Expect to pay $50-$65 for dolphin watching (year-round) or $60-$75 for whale watching (May-November). The success rate for dolphin sightings is an impressive 99%.
01:00 PM – Lunch in Nelson Bay
Refuel at one of Nelson Bay’s waterfront restaurants. I recommend Little Beach Boathouse for fresh seafood with harbor views, or grab fish and chips from a local takeaway and enjoy them at Dutchmans Beach Reserve.
02:30 PM – Stockton Sand Dunes Adventure
Drive 15 minutes to Birubi Beach in Anna Bay. You have two options here:
- Free option: Walk onto the dunes from the beach access and explore on your own
- Paid tour: Book sandboarding with Port Stephens 4WD Tours or Sand Dune Adventures (approximately $50-$80 per person)
The 32 km of undulating sand dunes create a surreal desert landscape. Some dunes reach heights of 50 meters!
05:00 PM – Sunset at Gan Gan Lookout
End your day at Gan Gan Hill Lookout in Nelson Bay. This easily accessible viewpoint offers sweeping panoramic views of the entire Port Stephens region. Watch the sun set over the water while planning your return visit. The golden hour light here is absolutely magical.
07:00 PM – Dinner with a View
Finish with dinner at Rick Stein at Bannisters in Soldiers Point for a special treat, or try Seabreeze Hotel in Nelson Bay for excellent bistro food with water views. Make sure to try the local oysters – they’re some of the freshest you’ll find anywhere.
Things to Do in Port Stephens – Must-See Attractions 🏖️
Beaches & Coastal Walks
Port Stephens’ 26 beaches each have their own personality. Here are the ones you can’t miss:
Zenith Beach sits at the foot of Tomaree Mountain, sheltered by headlands creating gentle surf perfect for swimming. The brilliant aquamarine water and soft white sand make it one of the most photogenic beaches in NSW.
Fingal Bay features a stunning C-shaped beach stretching over 1 kilometer. At low tide, a sandbar connects the mainland to Shark Island – you can walk across, but check tide times and exercise caution. The beach is popular with surfers and offers spectacular views of Fingal Island and its 1862-built lighthouse.
Shoal Bay curves 2.5 kilometers from Nelson Head to Tomaree Head. This calm harbor-facing beach is ideal for families, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The crystal-clear water lets you see the sandy bottom even from your kayak.
One Mile Beach offers a wilder experience with striking rocky coastline framing the surf beach. It’s great for surfers and long beach walks. The southern end tends to have gentler, longer waves perfect for learning to surf.
Birubi Beach at Anna Bay marks the start of the massive Stockton Beach. This patrolled surf beach offers both swimming and access to the famous sand dunes. The beach cafe, Crest Birubi Beach, serves excellent coffee with ocean views.
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and surf lessons are available at most major beaches. Check with Port Stephens Surf School for lessons starting from $75 per person.
Wildlife & Marine Experiences 🐬
Dolphin Spotting (Year-Round)
Port Stephens earned its title as “Dolphin Capital of Australia” for good reason. Over 140 bottlenose dolphins live in these waters year-round. You’ll spot them from shore at Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, and Fingal Bay, but boat tours offer closer encounters.
Daily dolphin watching cruises depart from d’Albora Marina in Nelson Bay. Most tours last 1.5-2 hours and include boom net swimming – a unique experience where you’re towed through the water on a net attached to the boat while dolphins swim alongside.
The most adventurous option? Dolphin Swim Australia offers the only permitted wild dolphin swim experience in NSW. Departing at 6:15 AM, this 4.5-hour tour takes you offshore to swim with wild oceanic common dolphins. Expect to pay around $180-$220 per person, including wetsuit, snorkel gear, and brunch.
Whale Watching (May-November)
Between May and November, approximately 40,000 humpback whales migrate past Port Stephens. They travel from Antarctica to the warm waters of Queensland to mate and calve, then return south.
The peak months are:
- June-August: Northward migration (whales are usually more active)
- September-November: Southward migration (includes mothers with calves)
Whale watching cruises operate daily during this season ($60-$75 per person). Moonshadow TQC Cruises operates the largest vessels, while Imagine Cruises and Aquamarine Adventures offer smaller, more intimate experiences.
Free land-based whale watching is excellent from Tomaree Head Summit, Gan Gan Lookout, and Barry Park in Fingal Bay (which has a dedicated whale watching platform).
Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters
For something completely different, visit Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters at Salamander Bay. This tropical aquarium allows you to get up close to various shark species, rays, turtles, and marine life in a safe, controlled environment. It’s perfect for families and those who want marine encounters without getting wet. Admission is around $30 for adults.
Hikes, Lookouts & Scenic Views ⛰️
Tomaree Head Summit Walk
This is THE hike to do in Port Stephens. The 2.2 km return trail starts from the car park at the end of Shoal Bay Road. The well-maintained track includes stairs and steep sections but is manageable for most fitness levels.
At the summit (161 meters), you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of:
- The entire Port Stephens bay
- Cabbage Tree Island, Boondelbah Island, Broughton Island
- Fingal Island and lighthouse
- The Tasman Sea stretching to the horizon
- Stockton Beach and sand dunes to the south
Allow 45-60 minutes for the return journey. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes (not flip-flops!), and start early to avoid the midday heat in summer.
From my experience, the best times to hike are at sunrise (magical light and fewer people) or late afternoon (cooler temperatures and beautiful golden hour photography).
Gan Gan Hill Lookout
Located in Nelson Bay, this easily accessible lookout requires just a short walk from the car park. You’ll get panoramic views from Hawks Nest in the north to Stockton Beach in the south. It’s wheelchair accessible and perfect for sunset viewing.
During whale season (May-November), this is one of the best free whale watching spots. Bring binoculars and scan the horizon for whale spouts.
Other Walking Tracks
The Tomaree Coastal Walk spans 27 kilometers from Tomaree Headland to Anna Bay. You don’t need to complete the entire walk – shorter sections like the 1 km Boat Harbour to Slot Canyon Lookout track offer beautiful coastal scenery without the commitment.
Nelson Head Heritage Lighthouse offers a short, easy walk with magnificent harbor views and is perfect for a coffee break (cafe open until 4 PM).
Sand Dunes & Adventure Activities 🏜️
Stockton Sand Dunes
The Stockton Bight Sand Dunes stretch an incredible 32 kilometers along Worimi Conservation Lands, making them the longest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Some dunes reach heights of 50 meters, creating an otherworldly desert landscape.
Access Options:
Free Exploration: Park at Birubi Beach in Anna Bay and walk onto the dunes. You can explore on foot for free, though the soft sand makes walking challenging. Bring plenty of water and sun protection.
4WD Tours: Port Stephens 4WD Tours and Sand Dune Adventures offer guided tours (approximately $70-$100 per person) that take you deep into the dunes you can’t reach on foot.
Activities Available:
- Sandboarding: Race down massive dunes on specially designed boards ($50-$80 per person including equipment and instruction). It’s like snowboarding on sand – thrilling and perfectly safe as the sand provides a natural cushion.
- Quad Biking: Adrenaline-pumping rides across the dunes ($120-$180 per person for 1-2 hour tours)
- Camel Rides: Oakfield Ranch Camel Rides offers unique 20-minute guided tours along Birubi Beach and into the dunes ($35-$45 per person). Sunset rides are particularly spectacular.
- 4WD Camping: Apply for a permit to drive your own 4WD on Stockton Beach and camp in the dunes (permit details available through NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service)
The cultural significance of this area is important to note. The Worimi people are the traditional custodians, and the land is managed jointly with National Parks. Always respect signage and stay on designated tracks.
Food, Dining & Local Culture 🍽️
Port Stephens punches above its weight in the food scene. Fresh local seafood, particularly oysters, takes center stage.
Must-Try Dining Spots:
Rick Stein at Bannisters (Soldiers Point): The famous British chef’s Australian outpost serves exceptional seafood in a stunning waterfront setting. It’s on the pricier side (mains $40-$60) but worth it for a special occasion.
Little Beach Boathouse (Nelson Bay): Modern Australian menu with locally sourced produce and gorgeous sunset views. Perfect for romantic dinners.
The Galley Kitchen at The Anchorage Hotel (Corlette): All-day dining with options from casual lunches to refined dinners. Try the pan-roast chicken or confit of duck.
Murray’s Brewery (Bob’s Farm): Craft brewery with excellent burgers (one of my favorites!), beautiful outdoor seating on grass, and live music on weekends. Dog-friendly too.
Holberts Oyster Farm (Taylors Beach): For the freshest oysters in the region at real-world prices. Grab a dozen oysters and some prawns, then enjoy them at the basic picnic tables with harbor views – it doesn’t get more authentic.
Markets: Tomaree Markets operate on Sundays at Neil Carrol Park, Fly Point in Nelson Bay (check their Facebook page for dates). Browse local crafts, fresh produce, and artisan foods.
Things to Do in Port Stephens for Free 💰
Experiencing Port Stephens doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are the best free activities:
Hiking Tomaree Head Summit: No entrance fee to Tomaree National Park. The summit hike offers million-dollar views for zero dollars.
Beach Days: All 26 beaches are free to access. Spend days swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, or building sandcastles with the kids.
Gan Gan Hill Lookout: Free parking and spectacular 360-degree views of the entire region.
Exploring Sand Dunes on Foot: While tours cost money, walking onto the dunes from Birubi Beach is completely free.
Dolphin Spotting from Shore: Patient observers often spot dolphins from Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, and Fingal Bay beaches. Bring binoculars and watch for dorsal fins breaking the surface.
Nelson Bay Foreshore Walk: A lovely paved path perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling with water views throughout.
Coastal Walks: Shorter sections of the Tomaree Coastal Walk like the Boat Harbour to Slot Canyon track (1 km) offer beautiful coastal scenery.
Tilligerry Habitat: This 9-hectare flora and fauna reserve features walking trails and boardwalks through different ecosystems. It’s one of the best spots to see wild koalas – completely free! Located in Tanilba Bay, about 30 minutes from Nelson Bay.
Sunset and Sunrise Viewing: Some of the best sunsets I’ve witnessed have been at Anna Bay (sun sets over the water – unusual for the east coast!), Bagnalls Beach, and Soldiers Point.
Things to Do in Port Stephens with Toddlers / Family 👶
Port Stephens is exceptionally family-friendly. Here’s what works best with little ones:
Best Beaches for Toddlers:
Dutchmans Beach and Little Beach offer calm waters, playgrounds, shaded picnic areas, and BBQ facilities. The gentle slopes and protected bays mean toddlers can safely splash in ankle-deep water.
Shoal Bay provides calm bay swimming with patrolled areas, while Bagnalls Beach (Corlette) offers shallow calm water perfect for introducing kids to the beach.
Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
Located in One Mile, this 8-hectare sanctuary offers:
- Sanctuary Story Walk: A 250-meter educational pathway with sculptural representations teaching kids about koalas
- Newcastle Airport SKYwalk: A 225-meter elevated platform providing treetop perspectives to spot koalas
- Koala Hospital Viewing Window: Watch veterinary staff care for sick and injured koalas
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM daily (excluding Christmas Day), 9 AM – 4 PM in winter Admission: Adults $28, Children (4-13) $15, Concession $19, Family Pass $72 (2 adults + 2 children). Children 3 and under free.
The sanctuary also offers glamping tents and deluxe rooms if you want to make it an overnight adventure with early morning koala feeding encounters.
Oakvale Wildlife Park
Set on 25 acres in Salt Ash, this park lets kids get hands-on with Australian animals. Highlights include:
- Bottle-feeding baby animals
- Hand-milking cows
- Tractor-trailer tours around the park
- Pat-a-koala experiences
- Splash Bay water play area (summer)
It’s perfect for 2-10 year olds who love animals. Plan for a full day visit.
Toboggan Hill Park (Nelson Bay)
This adventure park features:
- 1 km toboggan ride reaching speeds up to 50 km/hour
- Mini golf
- Rock climbing
- Tractor rides
- Indoor activities for rainy days
Other Family Activities:
- Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters: Safe marine life viewing
- David Graham’s Golf Complex: Mini golf, driving range, baseball batting cages
- Go Karts Go (Bobs Farm): Outdoor go-kart track with double karts for adults and kids 5+ to ride together
- Spirited Play Café (Taylor’s Beach): Indoor play center with separate toddler area
Toddler Gear Checklist:
- Swim diapers and sun protection (50+ sunscreen, rash guards, hats)
- Beach tent or umbrella for shade
- Water shoes for rocky beach areas
- Sand toys and buckets
- Snacks and plenty of water
- Stroller with good wheels for beach boardwalks
- Life jackets for water activities
Things to Do in Port Stephens with Dogs 🐕
Port Stephens offers excellent dog-friendly options:
24-Hour Off-Leash Beaches:
Bagnalls Beach (Corlette): The favorite dog beach! Calm shallow water, completely off-leash 24/7. Features a dedicated dog exercise area in the adjacent reserve.
Billy Beach (Mallabula): Wonderful harbor beach with calm water, off-leash all day. At low tide, sand flats extend far out creating great running space.
Time-Restricted Off-Leash Beaches:
Birubi Beach (Anna Bay):
- May-September: Off-leash all day
- October-April: Off-leash before 9 AM and after 5 PM (must be 100 meters from flagged areas)
Shoal Bay Beach (eastern end from boat ramp to Tomaree Lodge): Off-leash between 5 PM and 9 AM
Boat Harbour Beach:
- May-September: Off-leash all day
- October-April: On-leash only between 5 PM and 9 AM
Fenced Dog Parks:
- Fingal Bay Foreshore: Fenced off-leash area near surf club
- Lancaster Park (Soldiers Point): Open 7 AM – 7 PM
Dog-Friendly Cafes:
Cheeky Dog Cafe (Soldiers Point): Dogs allowed both inside and outside! Regular dog-friendly events.
Murray’s Brewery (Bob’s Farm): Extensive outdoor seating with grassy areas perfect for dogs.
Kin Cafe: Beautiful courtyard with “puppaccinos” available.
Little Nel Cafe: Outside patio seating, great for people and puppy watching.
Important Note: Always check official Port Stephens Council signage as regulations can change. Clean up after your dog and keep them under control near wildlife areas.
Things to Do in Port Stephens for Couples 💑
Looking for romance? Port Stephens delivers:
Sunset Cruises
Champagne on Ice luxury yacht offers intimate sailing experiences including sunset cruises. Sip champagne while watching the sun sink into the bay – pure magic.
Port Stephens Lux Picnics & Proposals creates beautifully styled luxury picnics at scenic coastal locations. Perfect for anniversaries or proposals.
Spa Experiences
Spa Bannisters (Soldiers Point) offers couples massages, facials, and indulgent treatments. Book side-by-side treatments and follow with champagne by the pool.
Romantic Dining
As mentioned earlier, Rick Stein at Bannisters and Little Beach Boathouse excel at romantic waterfront dining. For something more casual but equally atmospheric, grab fresh oysters from Holberts Oyster Farm with a bottle of champagne and enjoy a picnic at Soldiers Point Boat Ramp while watching sunset.
Adventure for Two
- Horse riding along the beach at sunrise or sunset with Sahara Trails
- Hot air ballooning over Port Stephens at dawn
- Helicopter rides for bird’s-eye views of the bay
- Parasailing for breathtaking aerial views
- Sailing lessons on the calm harbor waters
Romantic Walks
The Nelson Bay to Corlette Point walk (also called “Bridle Walk”) offers waterfront strolling with benches positioned for sunset viewing.
Tomaree Mountain summit at sunrise provides unforgettable shared memories – pack a thermos of coffee and watch the world wake up from 161 meters high.
Things to Do in Port Stephens at Night 🌙
Port Stephens is quieter at night than Sydney, but that’s part of its charm. Here’s what’s available:
Dining Hotspots
Most restaurants close by 9-10 PM. Make reservations for popular spots like Seabreeze Hotel and Rick Stein at Bannisters, especially on weekends.
Shoal Bay Country Club offers live music on weekends, pokies, and bistro dining. It’s a local favorite with a relaxed vibe.
The Game Fishing Club may look rough around the edges, but locals swear by the killer bay views and friendly atmosphere.
Stargazing
With minimal light pollution, Port Stephens offers spectacular night skies. The best stargazing spots are Anna Bay and Soldiers Point away from town lights. On clear nights, you’ll see more stars than you ever thought possible.
Twilight Activities
Gan Gan Lookout is magical at twilight – watch the lights twinkle on across the bay as darkness falls.
Evening beach walks at Bagnalls Beach or Dutchmans Beach offer peaceful moments with gentle wave sounds.
Port Stephens vs Nelson Bay – What’s the Difference?
This confuses many visitors, so let’s clarify:
| Aspect | Port Stephens | Nelson Bay |
|---|---|---|
| What It Is | Large region encompassing entire bay area and surrounding suburbs | Main town within Port Stephens region |
| Vibe | Diverse – ranges from quiet nature spots to active beach towns | Energetic hub with shops, restaurants, marina activities |
| Best For | Overall destination planning, multiple beaches, variety of experiences | Central base, easy access to tours, dining, shopping |
| Accommodation | Spread across multiple suburbs (Anna Bay, Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay, Soldiers Point, Corlette, Salamander Bay) | Concentrated hotel and apartment options |
| Dining | Scattered across region in various suburbs | Highest concentration of restaurants and cafes |
| Size | 134 square kilometers of water and surrounding areas | Small town of approximately 3.4 square kilometers |
Think of it this way: You’re visiting Port Stephens (the region), and Nelson Bay is where you’ll likely base yourself or spend significant time due to its central location and amenities.
Other suburbs worth knowing:
- Anna Bay: Gateway to Stockton Sand Dunes
- Shoal Bay: Quieter, beautiful bay beach
- Fingal Bay: Upmarket, stunning beach, Shark Island walk
- Soldiers Point: Home to Bannisters resort
- Corlette: Residential area with lovely waterfront
- Salamander Bay: Shopping hub
Best Time to Visit Port Stephens 📅
Summer (December-February)
Best for: Beach activities, swimming, water sports, sandboarding
Pros: Warm water (20-23°C), long daylight hours, perfect beach weather (25-30°C), all beaches are swimmable, vibrant atmosphere
Cons: Peak season crowds, higher accommodation prices, school holiday busy periods (mid-December to late January), limited parking at popular beaches
What to book ahead: Accommodation, popular restaurants, wildlife tours
Winter (June-August)
Best for: Whale watching, bushwalking, quieter beach experiences
Pros: Whale season at its peak, cooler weather perfect for hiking (15-20°C), lower accommodation rates, fewer crowds, crisp clear air
Cons: Chilly water (16-18°C), shorter daylight hours, some outdoor activities may be weather-dependent
What to book ahead: Whale watching cruises (they fill quickly)
Spring (September-November)
Best for: Excellent all-rounder season
Pros: Returning whale migration (mothers with calves), warming weather, wildflowers in national parks, pleasant water temperature, shoulder season pricing
Cons: Can be windy, weather can be unpredictable
Autumn (March-May)
Best for: Quiet getaways, mild weather
Pros: Fewer crowds, mild temperatures, still warm enough for swimming in March-April, cheaper accommodation
Cons: Water starts cooling by May, whale season hasn’t started yet
My Recommendation: For the full Port Stephens experience, September-November (spring) offers the best balance – you get whale watching, pleasant weather for all activities, and shoulder season prices. For pure beach time, December or February (avoid January school holidays if possible).
FAQs About Things to Do in Port Stephens ❓
Q1. How far is Port Stephens from Sydney and how to get there?
Port Stephens is 209 kilometers (130 miles) from Sydney, approximately 2.5 hours drive via the M1 Motorway. Take the M1 north, exit at Raymond Terrace/Nelson Bay after crossing Hexham Bridge, then follow Richardson Road to your destination. Alternatively, fly into Newcastle Airport (just 25 minutes from Nelson Bay) or catch Port Stephens Coaches from Sydney’s Central Station (3.5-4 hours including transfers, around $30-$40).
Q2. What are the best beaches at Port Stephens?
The top beaches are Zenith Beach (most picturesque, sheltered swimming), Shoal Bay (calm family beach with 2.5 km of sand), Fingal Bay (stunning C-shape, Shark Island walk), One Mile Beach (surfing, long walks), and Birubi Beach (surf beach, sand dune access). For toddlers, choose Dutchmans Beach or Little Beach with playgrounds and calm water. Each of the 26 beaches offers something unique.
Q3. Is Port Stephens good for kids?
Absolutely! Port Stephens excels for family travel with calm bay beaches perfect for young swimmers, Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary ($72 family pass), Oakvale Wildlife Park, kid-friendly dolphin cruises, Toboggan Hill Park, and countless playgrounds with BBQ facilities. The shallow waters at Dutchmans Beach and Shoal Bay are ideal for toddlers. Most restaurants offer kids’ menus, and accommodation options include family-friendly resorts and holiday parks.
Q4. Can you see dolphins in Port Stephens year-round?
Yes! Over 140 bottlenose dolphins live permanently in Port Stephens waters, making sightings possible 365 days a year. Dolphin watching cruises report a 99% success rate. The best viewing times are early morning (first 3 hours after sunrise) when dolphins are most active during feeding. You can spot them from shore at Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, and Fingal Bay, or book a cruise from d’Albora Marina for closer encounters.
Q5. Are there free activities in Port Stephens?
Yes, many! Tomaree Head Summit hike (no park entry fee), all 26 beaches, Gan Gan Hill Lookout, Nelson Bay foreshore walk, dolphin spotting from shore, exploring Stockton Sand Dunes on foot, Tilligerry Habitat for koala spotting, coastal walks, and sunset viewing. The region’s natural attractions mean you can have an incredible experience without spending a cent. Bring binoculars for whale watching from land during May-November.
Q6. Where is the best place for sunset in Port Stephens?
Anna Bay offers the rare east-coast experience of watching the sun set over water (due to the bay’s orientation). Other spectacular sunset spots include Gan Gan Hill Lookout (panoramic 360-degree views), Soldiers Point Boat Ramp (peaceful with picnic tables), Bagnalls Beach (calm water reflections), and waterfront restaurants like Little Beach Boathouse for sunset dining. In winter, earlier sunsets mean you can enjoy dinner with twilight views.
Conclusion
Port Stephens isn’t just a destination – it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave. From the moment you spot your first wild dolphin to watching the sun set over golden sand dunes, from hiking to panoramic summit views to savoring fresh local oysters by the water, every moment offers something special.
Whether you’re planning a day trip from Sydney, a romantic weekend escape, or a week-long family adventure, Port Stephens delivers. The combination of 26 stunning beaches, incredible wildlife encounters, adventure activities, and that authentic Australian coastal vibe makes it one of NSW’s most rewarding destinations.
The best part? You can do it on any budget. Free beach days and hiking offer just as much magic as paid tours and fine dining.
Ready to explore Port Stephens? Start planning your trip today. Book accommodation early if you’re traveling during summer or whale season, and don’t forget to check weather conditions before outdoor activities.
Have you visited Port Stephens? What was your favorite experience? Drop a comment below and share your tips with fellow travelers planning their Port Stephens adventure!
Safe travels,
Wahid Ali
Operations Lead, Astamb Holidays
LinkedIn Profile
References & Citations
This comprehensive guide to things to do in Port Stephens is backed by authoritative sources, extensive research, and professional travel industry experience:
- Tourism Australia – Guide to Port Stephens: https://www.australia.com/en-us/places/sydney-and-surrounds/guide-to-port-stephens.html
- Visit NSW – Port Stephens Attractions & Activities: https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/port-stephens-area
- Destination Port Stephens Official Website: https://www.portstephens.org.au/
- NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service – Tomaree National Park: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/tomaree-national-park
- Port Stephens Council – Dog Parks & Beaches: https://www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/services/dog-parks
- Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary Official Website: https://www.portstephenskoalasanctuary.com.au/
- Moonshadow TQC Cruises – Dolphin & Whale Watching: https://moonshadow-tqc.com.au/
- Australian Traveller – Port Stephens Whale Watching Guide: https://www.australiantraveller.com/nsw/north-coast/port-stephens/port-stephens-whale-watching/
- Travelnuity – Dog-Friendly Port Stephens: https://www.travelnuity.com/dog-friendly-port-stephens/
- Port Stephens Council – Whale Watching Season Information: https://www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/council/news/2025/whale-watching-season-now-in-full-swing-in-port-stephens
- Newy with Kids – Port Stephens Family Activities: https://newywithkids.com.au/things-to-do-in-port-stephens-with-kids/
- CoastXP – Top Things to Do in Port Stephens: https://www.coastxp.com/top-10-things-to-do-in-port-stephens-nsw/
- Hunter Hunter – Family-Friendly Port Stephens: https://www.hunterhunter.com.au/port-stephens/things-to-do/activities-to-do-in-port-stephens/
- The Wildlife Diaries – Port Stephens Guide: https://www.thewildlifediaries.com/things-to-do-in-port-stephens/
- Imagine Cruises Official Website: https://imaginecruises.com.au/
- Aquamarine Adventures – Small Group Eco-Cruising: https://aquamarineadventures.com.au/
- Australia Travel Hub – Best Times for Dolphin Watching: https://australiatravelhub.com/best-times-for-dolphin-watching-in-port-stephens/
- Nomadasaurus – Port Stephens Activities Guide: https://www.nomadasaurus.com/things-to-do-in-port-stephens/
- Pupsy – Dog Friendly Port Stephens Beaches & Cafes: https://pupsy.com.au/dog-friendly-port-stephens-great-lakes-region
- Rome2Rio – Sydney to Port Stephens Travel Guide: https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Sydney/Port-Stephens-Shire
All information was verified and cross-referenced across multiple authoritative sources. Prices, opening hours, and seasonal information are accurate as of January 2026 but visitors should verify directly with operators before traveling.
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