33 Things to Do in Port Stephens + Activities This 2025

Looking for things to do in Port Stephens?

The Port Stephens area is famous for its vast sand dunes and a substantial main port area full of marine life.

This makes it an excellent place for people who want to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

If you add all of this together with a variety of walks and drives that lead to beautiful views of a wide range of colours, you’ve got a place that’s just waiting for you to explore before it gets too trendy.

Hence, find out the best things to do in Port Stephens in this article.

Short on time? Check out my top pick for the best thing to do in Port Stephens!

Things to Do in Port Stephens

Make the most of your time in Port Stephens by taking advantage of some of my personal favourites.

1. Go Quadbiking in Sand Dunes

As the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere, the Port Stephens sand dunes are key to the town. Indeed, the Quad Riding excursion promises to be unlike any other.

Hop on a ride securely from bush to beach with some skilled guides and take in the splendour of Stockton Beach’s Worimi Sand Dunes.

During your hour quad bike tour, you’ll see the southern hemisphere’s tallest sand dunes, and stunning views of the coastline and learn some interesting facts about the area’s past.

Moreover, the Worimi Sand Dunes in NSW, Australia is famous as the most extensive coastal moving sand mass.

With that in mind, Sand Dune Adventures provides guests with a distinctive ‘Cultural Quad Bike Riding‘ experience.

In fact, for the ultimate experience, they can transport you to Worimi Sand Dunes, one of Australia’s best-kept secrets! Indeed, one of the best things to do in Port Stephens.

2. Dolphin watching

Adding to your list of things to do in Port Stephens is a sailing trip around Nelson Bay.

Here, you’ll be able to see marine creatures in their natural habitat, which is also home to more than 150 bottlenose dolphins.

Sailing through Nelson Bay, you’ll have a chance to see a massive colony of these creatures off the coast of Port Stephens.

Moreover, on this 1.5-hour tour of the lovely canals, you can search for dolphins and maybe ride in the bow net or boom net as well.

Indeed, a thrilling chance to get up and personal with the dolphins is on offer here, and the trip has a 99 per cent dolphin sighting success record and a 100% guarantee of a memorable experience!

In addition, a whale-watching boat is an excellent way to observe humpback whales during their yearly migration from May to November around the Tomaree National Park’s headlands.

You can even have a once-in-a-lifetime experience by swimming with wild marine dolphins.

3. Sandboarding at Birubi Beach

I’m sure you’ve always wanted to go sledding in the snow, but it was either too far or too costly for you. Fortunately for you, I can think of just one idea.

Sandboarding is perhaps the most usual form of family enjoyment and an exciting thing to do in Port Stephens.

The sand dunes at Birubi Beach in Anna Bay, await a treasure trove of family fun and pleasure for you!

Located near Port Stephens, the Stockton Sand Dunes are the most enormous moving dunes in the Southern Hemisphere.

They are a haven for sand borders and fun-seekers from all over the world, making them an ideal location for this kind of sport.

Suppose you’re looking for an experience that’s a little more personalized. In that case, you’ll find it at Sand Dune Safaris, which is also located on Birubi Beach and offers a selection of slopes to accommodate all ages and strengths.

Best of all, kids can ride on their parent’s laps and even stand up if they are bold enough.

4. Try on Snorkelling

Let’s Go Adventures provides a solid introduction to the region for first-time snorkelers and divers.

Fly Point is famous for its high visibility and pure blue/aqua-coloured water normally shielded from the wind.

In between Nelson Bay and Little Beach, Fly Point offers stunning views of the bay. In fact, you can find succulent kelp forests, octopus and wobbegong sharks a few feet from the shore.

Indeed, this place stretches from the high water park to 500 metres offshore.

So if you want to remember the experience, carry an underwater camera to record the sights and sounds.

Moreover, divers flock to the aquatic reserve, one of the most popular dive spots in New South Wales.

Moreso, to get to the aquatic reserve, descend the stairs next to the amphitheatre in Neil Caroll Park.

5. Take Surfing Lessons

Indeed, surfing is one of Australia’s best lifestyle sports, and one of the most productive things to do in Port Stephens leading the way in giving enjoyable, well-structured, and stimulating surfing lessons!

So come on down and give it a go! Take part in one of the world’s most thrilling and popular pastimes!

With that, stand-up paddleboarding and surfing can be a lot of fun when you learn to do them with the help of some experts! Over 30 kilometres of coastline are available for surfers to explore, with a wide variety of levels to suit all skills and abilities.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer trying to hone your skills; Port Stephens Surf School has courses for everyone.

6. Camel Riding in Port Stephens

Birubi Beach, Anna Bay, is a popular spot for camel rides in Port Stephens.

Taking a guided tour of Port Stephens’s beaches and sand dunes is a must-do when visiting the area. I’m telling you when the sun sets, it’s a really unforgettable journey.

From beginner’s rides to incredible beach rides, the boutique beach and dune extravaganza ride is an absolute blast for the brave.

After a day of trail riding in the woods, riders emerge at the shore to traverse some sand on their bikes. To add to that, taking a sunset ride at twilight is a great way to enjoy the tranquillity of nature.

Furthermore, the Oakfield Ranch’s “look and see” tour you can do in various ways, including a quick tour of the region or a lengthy one-hour ride to see the area’s famed sunsets.

Not to mention, when it comes to the safety of first-time camel riders, they provide helmets. Definitely a must-do on your things to do in Port Stephens!

7. Visit Toboggan Hill Park

Toboggan Hill Park is an amusement park in Nelson Bay, Australia that offers a variety of fun and exciting Port Stephens activities.

This natural bush setting offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities for the whole family.

Even though Toboggan Hill is a small amusement park, it nevertheless has a lot to offer visitors to complement its famous toboggan rides.

In addition, you may go as fast or as gently as you desire on the 1km toboggan course, which features 11 downhill twists and turns.

Tractor rides, a maze, and an indoor activity area are available at Toboggan Hill Park. Not to mention, indoor rock climbing, “hot” ice skating, jumping castles, air hockey, and games for younger children are all available in this indoor activity zone.

8. Take a trip to the Koala Sanctuary

Several koalas injured in vehicle accidents or wildfires reside at this sanctuary. In fact, the Koala Sanctuary in Port Stephens attempts to restore as many marsupials as possible back to their natural habitat as soon as possible.

Indeed, this is definitely a must-add to your things to do in  Port Stephens if you want a close encounter with some of Australia’s most adorable creatures.

These beautiful species are in danger of extinction, so you may take a stroll in the park to learn about them during the daytime.

The Sanctuary Narrative Walk, a 250-meter interactive exhibit, chronicles the koalas’ story through a series of striking artworks.

Moreover, the SKYwalk and observation platform at the Newcastle Airport enables visitors to observe koalas in their treetop habitat from a height of 10 metres.

Moreover, the ultra-modern sanctuary has its own hospital, complete with four critical care units, therapy rooms, and holding enclosures for the animals.

If you’d want, you can even watch the vets in action through a large viewing window.

9. Enjoy the Viewpoint at Tomaree Head

Visitors and residents should not miss out on the Tomaree Head Summit Walk when making a list of things to do in Port Stephens.

To get to the start of the hike, go to Tomaree National Park, which is on the other side of Shoal Bay.

At 161 meters above sea level, you’ll find some of the most breathtaking views in the whole area after a one-kilometre ascent.

Tourist brochures for Port Stephens often feature tourists with their arms wide at the peak, savouring the panoramic vistas of Zenith Beach and Shoal Bay below.

Moreover, if you have time, bring a picnic lunch or a cup of coffee to sip while taking in the view from the viewpoint.

Let me tell you that no photograph has ever been able to depict the majesty of Tomaree Head in all its glory.

Stunning, to say the least. Indeed, there is no better way to appreciate Port Stephens than this scenery at sunset.

10. Enjoy a “birds-eye” view of Zenith Beach

In the Port Stephens district of New South Wales, Zenith Beach is only a short distance from Shoal Bay.

Even though it’s just a short distance, this beach has a lot of natural grandeur.

If you’d like to start with the walk, you’ll ascend the mountain and enjoy a “birds-eye” view of Zenith Beach.

This is a challenging hike, so be sure to have lots of drinks and energy with you.

You may also take a refreshing dip after a long stroll in the national park that encircles the area.

This breathtaking location is popular for weddings because of its dramatic surroundings.

11. Carry out your wildest and most adventurous dreams at the Wreck Beach

Hearing the phrase “island paradise at Wreck Beach” brings up pictures in your head. However, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed when you arrive.

It’s one of the world’s most gorgeous places to relax and soak up the sun, thanks to the two steep headlands on each side.

To get to Wreck Beach from Verona Road, take Verona Road up a steep slope and onto the fire trail. Here, a secluded island awaits you to carry out your wildest adventurous fantasies.

Moreover, walking through the coastal Angophora forest leads to a bit cove with stunning beach and ocean views ideal for whale viewing during the summer months.

In fact, swimming is even possible! However, it’s usually best to stay close to the coast since the water might affect the rip currents.

With that in mind, summer is the best time to see bottlenose dolphins and their calves frolicking together. So enjoy a barefoot stroll on the beach while the sea laps at your feet.

Next to Wreck Beach is the Box Beach. The beach has a relatively consistent surf break and is often frequented by local surfers.

The crystal-clear waters of Box Beach also make it a great spot for snorkelling and diving, as there is an abundance of marine life in the area.

There are also plenty of walking tracks and scenic lookout points around the beach, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area.

12. Take in the stunning scenery of Fingal Bay

Fingal Bay is a tiny seaside village tucked in the Tomaree National Park.

Nearby Nelsons Bay, the bigger and more renowned municipality, Fingal Bay is only a 12-minute drive away.

In fact, not until Captain Phillip Parker King published a map in 1845, “Fingal Bay” had never been used.

Basically, the moniker “False Bay” was given to it because it was commonly mistaken for the entrance to Port Stephens Harbour, which is just 4.5 kilometres north.

Furthermore, as you travel over “the spit” to the outer lighthouse dwelling, you’ll be treated to a stunning beach. Whether you’re hoping to catch a wave or sunrise, this haven surf beach is the place to be.

The vicinity is awe-inspiring amid the park’s magnificent background.

Even if you’re simply looking for a relaxing day on the beach or a picnic, Fingal Bay provides a plethora of options for recreation.

13. Explore the Gan Gan Lookout

The Gan Gan Lookout is situated on Nelson Bay Road, just before the town centre of Nelson Bay.

While driving towards Nelson Bay, you may get a sense of the towns’ relative sizes and locations by stopping at one of these lookout points along the way.

From the overlook, you can see the waters of Port Stephens and the villages on the opposite side of the sea in a 180-degree panorama.

A must-see is the Gan Gan Lookout, located in the middle of the region. In particular, around night, the view is spectacular. There’s a great view down to Stockton Bay and the eastern beaches of the peninsula from this vantage point.

14. Horse riding at Sahara Trails

Horseback riding adventures for all levels are available at Sahara Trails Horse Riding in Port Stephens. If you’re searching for a relaxing experience, go no farther than this ranch’s picturesque pathways and welcoming horses.

Whether you’re an expert rider or want to give it a whirl, their beginner’s ride is an excellent option.

In detail, a combination of trail-riding through the woods and sand-crossing on the shore is part of the experience.

Taking a sunset ride at twilight is a great way to enjoy the tranquillity of nature.

15. Swim with the Sharks and Stingrays

An unforgettable experience awaits you on your Port Stephens trip!

If you’ve ever fantasized about swimming with sharks or experiencing the rush of clutching a stingray, then you’d like this.

Experience Irukandji, a one-of-a-kind, interactive aquarium where you can learn about marine life up and personal!

Observe sharks and rays in their natural habitat and learn about their role in the marine ecosystem.

A visit to the aquarium offers the opportunity to feed and touch the creatures!

In addition, you may take part in unique Port Stephens activities like private shark feeding or even a snorkelling excursion in the lagoon’s more shallow waters.

16. Shopping at Tomaree Markets

There’s a lot to see and do in Port Stephens, but the market is a must-see among them.

Your best trip memories may be made when you’re out and about doing some market shopping.

Outdoor food markets in particular, with their vibrant produce, mouthwatering street cuisine, and swarms of friendly residents, make for an unforgettable experience.

Located less than ten minutes from Nelson Bay’s town centre, the Tomaree Sports Complex hosts the second and fourth Sunday markets each month.

You’ll have plenty of time between 8 am and 2 pm to peruse the booths, pick up a bargain, and mingle.

Craft, cuisine, designer goods, live music, and more can all be found in this market.

Everything from jewellery to local artists to olive oils and creative types may be found at Tomaree Markets.

To top it all off, there is free off-street parking accessible at a plethora of spots.

17. Fighter World Experience

The biggest indoor activity in Port Stephens is devoted to maintaining Australia’s strong military aviation legacy.

Visitors may stroll around and peer into some of Australia’s most renowned aircraft hangars.

 All of these items may be found in the main hangar, which also houses the Norm Forrester Collection.

As a bonus, Cafe Fighter World provides an inviting setting, delicious food, and a warm welcome.

18. Wellness Retreat In Port Stephens

In an effort to unwind and refresh, we take a vacation once a year.

While a typical vacation is only a break from the daily grind, a retreat offers a more meaningful respite from the pressures of life. They provide a safe haven for both physical and mental rejuvenation.

Retreats are a healthy alternative to a traditional vacation, offering a wide range of healthy Port Stephens activities and services. So, make a point of visiting Wellness Centre Port Stephens if you find yourself in the city.

With five acres of subtropical gardens and lush forests, it’s a peaceful refuge to spend your weekend.

To that end, the Wellness Centre Port Stephens is proud to offer several programs.

They help improve one’s overall well-being and foster a deeper connection to one’s inner healing power.

19. Whale Watching at The Boat Harbour Beach

If you ask me, I can spend hours watching and anticipating the playful antics of migrating whales because they are such magnificent animals.

Luckily, Port Stephens’ coastline is dotted with national parks, which account for around half of the state’s coastline.

Specifically, visitors and residents go to The Boat Harbour Beach to unwind or learn more about this charming part of town.

In fact, towards the southern shore near Solace Place, there is a walking trail with whale-themed signage for visitors to follow.

However, take note that it is not possible to sit on a platform and watch for passing whales. But fret not since the headland and stroll provide plenty of opportunities to do just that.

20. Scuba Diving In Port Stephens

There are several excellent dive sites in the vicinity where you may do scuba diving or snorkelling.

Indeed, these Port Stephens activities are highly popular with tourists. Dive into the crystal-clear waters that are just right for beginners at Nelson Bay’s Fly Point

New South Wales’s most extraordinary beach diving is right at your fingertips.

With its abundance of fish and nudibranchs and its proximity to The Pipeline in Nelson Bay, this is a must-visit for macro divers and photographers alike.

Discover marine caverns, sponge gardens and shipwrecked vessels while on this trip. You may even take a boat ride and then plunge into the water for a more relaxed experience.

21. Hole in One at David Grahams Golf Complex

The best approach to unwind and rejuvenate is to take a vacation. Why not take your Port Stephens experiences to the next level by visiting a mini-golf course?

You’re all set to go on a series of fantastical adventures with a putter and a ball.

As you approach the Nelson Bay district, the David Grahams Golf Complex is situated near Anna Bay, on Nelson Bay Road.

You can’t miss the signs offering putt, driving range, and a lot of Port Stephens activities in one handy location.

22. Fast and the Furious Experience at Go Nelson Bay

To the delight of all speed fanatics worldwide, there is nothing like the high-pitched shriek of a track full of karts speeding around a circuit.

Among all of Nelson Bay’s go-kart tracks, Go Nelson Bay’s has the largest and fastest 4-stroke karts.

Their 350-metre course has rapid straights, lengthy fast turns, and a decent balance of gentler turns.

In fact, this can challenge any driver on their track, from the novice to the most skilled!

Each vehicle that uses its track gets a printout of its best lap times to measure your driving skills.

23. Go wine tasting at Wonganella Estate

After already taking in the sights, including the Port Stephens beaches, parks, and shopping centres, you’ve most likely tasted the local food and a few drinks at a few local taverns. Isn’t it time to talk about wine?

Let go of your worries and enjoy a wine tour in Wonganella with a fully-escorted guide.

Wonganella is a ‘coastal’ vineyard with a bistro, a cellar door, and a small inn on the premises for guests to stay.

Overlooking Wonganella Estate’s vineyard and Tilligerry Creek is Wonganella Estate’s hilltop location.

Indeed, Wonganella is a great place to relax and drink till the afternoon since it is just two hours from Sydney and 15 minutes from Nelson Bay.

24. Appreciate Art at the Tomaree Community Art Centre

Going to art galleries is the best thing you can do for yourself as a creative outlet.

Visit the Tomaree Community Art Centre in Port Stephens if you feel the need to let loose your inner artist. You become more inventive if exposed to the arts and creative people.

Take advantage of the free admission to the Tomaree Community Art Centre.

You can view the magnificent works of local artists on display.

If you’re looking for presents or souvenirs to remember your time in Port Stephens, stop by their Gallery, which is open daily.

25. Explore d’Albora Marina

Nelson Bay has a lot to offer, and the d’Albora Marina is just one of them.

Specifically, the d’Albora Marina’s gorgeous yachts, cruisers, and fishing boats are a treat to look at. Indeed, a must-do in your Port Stephens experiences.

Their 10 outstanding marina sites are all intended to provide you with the best possible care for boats and first-class experiences.

A short drive from Sydney’s CBD and only a few minutes from Mona Vale, there are a variety of fishing, grilling, and picnic locations to select from in this lovely environment.

26. Watch a movie at the Nelson Bay Cinema

For beach or mountain vacations, the weather is always for discussion. In the event of a storm, swimming pools and Port Stephens beaches are closed for the benefit of swimmers.

On the other hand, the heat might sometimes be unbearable, and you simply need a break from it all. When you’re on vacation, it’s nice to have something to do that isn’t centred on the place you are staying.

Consequently, the Nelson Bay Cinema is a complex that displays the most recent movies in Nelson Bay.

All week long, this theatre offers its customers a variety of specials and discounts.

27. Rock and Bowl at the Super Strike Ten Pin Bowling

Are you looking for a change of pace in your Port Stephens experiences? You’ve had enough of the Port Stephens beaches and the mountains, haven’t you? You may want to think about how a trip to the local bowling alley might offer the right mix of fun and friendly rivalry for your break!

SuperStrike Ten Pin Bowling is perfect for families, organizations, and special events.

They even offer special packages for birthdays, business occasions, Christmas parties, and more! Then there’s bowling and arcade games, which are always a good time.

It doesn’t end there, either. There are several advantages to participating in a bowling league, including savings on food and games! It doesn’t matter what age group you’re in; SuperStrike has a social competition for you.

28. Visit The Nelson Head Lighthouse

The Nelson Head Lighthouse Reserve is a picturesque location situated in Port Stephens, a popular coastal town in New South Wales, Australia.

The reserve is home to the historic Nelson Head Lighthouse, which was built in 1875 and remains an iconic landmark in the area.

Aside from the lighthouse, the reserve boasts stunning panoramic views of the ocean, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Visitors can also take a walk along the nearby beach, enjoy a picnic in the park, or explore the local museums and galleries.

The Nelson Head Lighthouse Reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a relaxing getaway with a touch of history and natural beauty.

29. Beat the heat at SPLASH Waterpark

People of all ages and backgrounds flock to water parks, which are becoming more popular destinations.

When it comes to visiting a nice water park, there is no age restriction. If you’re looking for a Port Stephens experience like no other, this is the place to go.

As such, SPLASH Waterpark is a seasonal inflatable water park that is set up during summer near Little Nelson Bay.

Bouncy obstacles of all shapes and sizes may be jumped over, crawled under, or bounced off in this favourite family activity. It’s fun to do as a family since everyone can participate.

A one-hour session costs $27.50 per person, with a six-year-old minimum. Take note that a 16-year-old or older chaperone is required for all kids between 6 and 9.

Online booking is available; however, please check the weather forecast before visiting to confirm that activities haven’t been cancelled due to heavy winds.

30. Watch the Theatre at Port Stephens Coaches

It’s easy to forget how amazing life can be when surrounded by the commotion of your normal routine.

Consider taking time for yourself and what truly matters in your Port Stephens experiences. Indeed, there is no better way to do this than to experience live theatre arts!

Port Stephens Coaches is your best bet if you want to see the finest shows and concerts in the nation.

In Port Stephens, they have access to the greatest forthcoming live music shows, concerts, and other events. This is definitely something you should not miss!

31. Cooking class at the Port Stephens’ The Retreat

To get the most out of your trips, remember that you can only develop and thrive in your life by trying things you haven’t done before.

Port Stephens’ The Retreat offers cooking lessons to satisfy the appetite of hungry tourists.

To demonstrate the versatility of seafood and how it can be used in excellent home-cooked meals, a local chef will host a seafood cooking lesson each week.

When visiting Port Stephens, be sure to get your fill of the area’s world-famous seafood exactly where it’s caught.

If you’re lucky, you’ll have a chance to meet the local oyster farmers who have been harvesting the waters for ages.

32. Romantic Dinner at the Little Beach Boathouse

If you ask me, eating at the beach enhances the flavour of whatever you eat. Spending a day at the beach is enough to whet one’s desire for some tasty seafood.

With this, the Little Beach Boathouse in Port Stephens has everything you need to enjoy a meal out.

From here, you and your special someone may enjoy breathtaking ocean views. The cuisine is excellent, with a special emphasis on their fish and meat dishes.

To top it all off, their outstanding service takes pleasure in providing exceptional, friendly staff.

When combined with exquisite cuisine, superb wine, and beer, it’s easy to see why Little Beach Boathouse is a big hit for tourists and locals.

33. Fishing at Nelson Bay

If you’re looking for a fun hobby with your family, consider taking up fishing as a leisure pastime. Because of this, visitors to Port Stephens flock to Nelson Bay, one of the area’s most breathtaking sites and a popular spot for water sports.

Fishers will delight in the bay’s many streams and beaches, prime locations for their craft.

Estuary or game fishing may be found here, no matter what kind of angler you are.

You don’t need a boat to catch a few fish in the Port Stephens region since you can fish from the open ocean.

What You Need To Know About Port Stephens

Before anything else, let me give you brief information about this stunning place.

Basically, Port Stephens is an adventurer’s paradise, only a short drive north of Newcastle along the beaches.

While Port Stephens is well-known for its beautiful Port Stephens beaches, water sports, and relaxed atmosphere, it really offers something for everyone.

In fact, in Port Stephens, you’ll find crystal-clear turquoise seas, smooth white sand, and 26 stunning beaches.

This seaside haven on the NSW North Coast borders the quiet bay solely on a single side and the Pacific Ocean on the other.

In addition to that, one of the best things to do in Port Stephens is to see hundreds of migratory whales from the end of May through the end of August.

Sun-kissed days followed by milder nights in the spring, are from September through November.

Indeed, it’s the best time of year to go riding, hiking, and exploring the National Parks.

Getting to Port Stephens

There are several reasons to visit Port Stephens, a natural wonderland throughout the year. Because of the beauty of the surrounding waters, Port Stephens is famous as the “Blue Water Paradise.”

It has a population of about 50,000 and is situated in New South Wales, roughly two and a half hours north of Sydney on Australia’s East Coast.

Port Stephens has a thriving tourist and fishing industry because of its 19-mile white-sand beaches stretch. Getting there, you have a few options:

Drive

Driving to Port Stephens from Sydney takes less than two and a half hours.

You may use the M1 Motorway or formerly the F3 freeway if you’re coming from Sydney. Next, continue on the Pacific Highway, turning right at the roundabout for Hexham at the end of the freeway.

With that, you’ll pass the Hexham Bridge and enter the New England Highway, where you’ll continue on to the Pacific Highway and the town of Taree.

Following signs to Port Stephens, turn left at the junction into Nelson Bay Road and continue the road until you reach Tomago Road.

Air

It is about a 30-minute drive from Newcastle Airport to Port Stephens and Nelson Bay’s central business district if you are arriving by plane.

You may reach a wide range of domestic and international locations by plane from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Ballina and Sydney to Port Stephens and Canberra and Melbourne.

Other flights to Port Stephens are from regional carriers REX, Brindabella, and Aeropelican.

Port Stephens is easily accessible by airport shuttle or cab. If you’d rather have your own wheels for the duration of your trip, I would highly suggest booking from Discover Cars for a budget and cheap car hire.

Via Public Transport

You may also reach Port Stephens by public transportation, which is convenient and cost-effective.

On their journey, from Sydney to Port Stephens coaches in Hornsby, Pymble, Chatswood, and Raymond Terrace. All of these destinations service these coaches when they arrive in Port Stephens.

To go from Newcastle Airport to Port Stephens, you may take a frequent bus service from Newcastle Railway Station or the airport.

From anywhere in New South Wales, you may take the CountryLink train service to neighbour Newcastle, where you can then transfer to the Port Stephens line.

Where to Stay in Port Stephens

It doesn’t matter what degree of comfort you choose; the best hotels in Port Stephens can handle it. These are my picks for the best places to stay in Port Stephens, ranging from budget options to five-star retreats.

Budget

📍Ingenia Holidays Middle Rock

• ⭐ Rating: 8.6 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Swimming pools, free private parking
• 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com

Located in One Mile, Port Stephens, Ingenia Holidays Middle Rock is a vacation park. It has a heated plunge pool and two swimming pools with lots of room for sunbathing.

Ingenia Holidays Middle Rock has something for everyone, whether you’re a family, a couple, or a group of friends.

clean, quiet , comfortable, great location , friendly staff.”

-jason (see more reviews)

More importantly, caravans, camper trailers, or tents provide a selection of grassland tent-powered and unpowered camping sites.

In addition, their camp kitchen and other park amenities are available to visitors at all of our campsites.

Mid-range

📍 Thou Walla Sunset Retreat

• ⭐ Rating: 8.9 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Beach front, tennis court
• 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com

Luxury self-contained villas and safari tents are available at the Thou Walla Sunset Retreat, which overlooks the coastline or the lake.

To add to that, an outdoor swimming pool is available to guests. So delight yourself in the stunning sunset views across the bay from Thou Walla Sunset Retreat at the end of Soldiers Point.

“Great location Glamping great Cleaner guy was a bit rude to my son Staff at desk reallly nice and helpful”

-alex (see more reviews)

In fact, their ‘glamping’ tents allow you to enjoy a one-of-a-kind camping experience beneath the stars.

You can also stay in touch with nature while enjoying modern conveniences, including a king-sized bed, en suite bathroom, flat-screen TV, and a daybed on the veranda.

Luxury

📍 Anchorage Port Stephens

• ⭐ Rating: 9.0 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Beach front, good breakfast, family rooms
• 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com

The Anchorage Hotel & Spa in Port Stephens, New South Wales, offers a wide range of luxurious waterfront accommodations. I

n particular, they have spacious rooms and top-floor loft suites. Anchorage Port Stephens situates on an idyllic stretch of beach as a luxury hotel. Just 30 minutes from Newcastle Airport and 2.5 hours from Sydney.

Every thing was close by.Breakfast facilities were great

-tim (see more reviews)

Indeed, Anchorage is the perfect getaway. Even more so, this opulent resort is in what is perhaps the most beautiful harbour in the world, Port Stephens, and offers couples and families alike a five-star experience.

You will never run out of things to do in Port Stephens in this place.

Looking for other accommodation options?

Use this interactive map to see rentals and hotels in the area. You can zoom in, select travel dates and more!

Frequently Asked Questions: Visiting Port Stephens

The Takeaway – Things to Do in Port Stephens

With a reputation as a “blue sea paradise,” Port Stephens, New South Wales, naturally lives up to it.

Although Port Stephens is just a tiny speck on the world’s tourist map, the bay is six times the size of Sydney’s more famed harbour.

In addition, this is home to the Sydney Opera House, the country’s most recognizable landmark.

Hence, I’m sure after reading this article, you’ve come to think that Port Stephens truly has a plethora of nature-based activities.