Port Stephens

Port Stephens, Australia

Blessed with 26 white sandy beaches, a vast blue bay and many tranquil inlets, Port Stephens is an idyllic destination about 2.5 hours' drive north of Sydney. With a marine park rich in diversity, the area is famous for its resident dolphins, crystal clear waters and towering sand dunes. Daily dolphin-watching cruises depart from Nelson Bay and the ocean is great for watching whales during their annual migration. Charming towns are framed by bushland, wetlands and volcanic peaks. Enjoy fresh seafood and local wines in delightful settings.

Population:

65,000 approx

Currency:

1 Australian Dollar = 100 cents

Emergency Numbers:

Police, Fire, Ambulance 000

Opening Hours:

Usually 9am – 5pm Monday to Saturday
Weekend hours can be restricted.

Newspapers:

Newcastle Herald
The Port Stephens Examiner
The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW)
The Daily Telegraph (NSW)
The Australian (national)

Top Things to Do

Discover wonderful beaches and frolicking dolphins in Port Stephens, where you can enjoy exhilarating water sports such as sailing, kayaking, surfing and snorkelling. Choose from various dolphin-watching cruises departing from Nelson Bay. Other exciting activities include quad-biking and sand-boarding on the towering Stockton sand dunes, and horseriding through the surf at Anna Bay. Explore the many walking trails in magnificent national parks.

Towns of Port Stephens

Dotted along the stunning coast of Port Stephens are charming towns. The bigger towns of Port Stephens are Tea Gardens, Shoal Bay and Nelson Bay. Of the smaller towns, Anna Bay is the gateway to the famous Stockton Beach sand dunes and the oasis of One Mile Beach. Fingal Bay is a fishing destination in the Tomaree National Park. Lemon Tree Passage guards Tilligerry Creek point and is home to beautiful native flora walks. Salamander Bay is home to Holberts' delicious oysters. Soldiers Point enjoys a state-of-the-art marina and Tanilba Bay is where visitors flock to see koalas in their natural habitat.

Do & See

The natural wonders and idyllic climate of Port Stephens makes it a great destination for outdoor adventures. As well as swimming and surfing, you can try parasailing, jet-skiing, kayaking, sailing, or game fishing. Camp in a national park and go koala spotting, or hike to the peak of a mountain for gorgeous coastal vistas and dolphin and whale watching. Scuba divers can explore the sea caves, sponge gardens and shipwrecks at Fly Point Marine Park. Closer to shore, crystal clear rock pools teaming with life will enthrall young explorers. You can play an unforgettable round of golf, or pet a friendly shark - Port Stephens is a beach holiday destination with the lot.

Cafés, Dining & Bars

Port Stephens is a delicious destination for fresh seafood and seasonal produce. Waters are teaming with fish and there are many regional growers, producers and winemakers, Talented chefs create menus displaying culinary freshness, innovation and expertise. You'll be delighted with freshly caught seafood matched with local wines and splendid water views. Relax in a beautiful beachside café - fuss free is the motto. Enjoy a meal in a chic bistro, take the family for fish and chips or a hearty pub meal. The region also offers several great wineries and breweries to tour.