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Port Stephens beaches are a big draw card for the thousands of tourists who descend on the area every year. Located in central New South Wales, it is a mecca for boating, fishing, water sports and beach lovers in general.
Just 208 km from Sydney and an hours drive from New Castle , Port Stephens is the perfect getaway. Summer and especially school holiday time are super busy here. But there is still plenty of room to support the thousands who choose to make this summer haven their base for a few days or more.
It’s a mecca for beach goers, hiking opportunities, sand dune adventures and even diving.
Nelson Bay – for the most action
Nelson Bay is the main hub of Port Stephens with a stunning foreshore of parkland, boat harbour and beach access. The waters here are calm and suitable for young kids.
Every man and his dog are here, walking the shore line, enjoying a BBQ lunch, taking a dolphin cruise or dining in one of the waterfront restaurants.
Dutchman’s Beach Reserve hosts the Sacred Tree Markets on various nights throughout the year. You can grab a bite to eat and cruise the many local stalls.
Parking in this area day or night is pretty busy so if you can walk there definitely do so.
There is plenty of accommodation options which can fill up fast during peak season so book early if you’d like some choices.
Box Beach- for a quiet beach spot
Located a short drive from Shoal Bay is Box Beach. It’s one of the best Port Stephens beaches for those wanting some alone time as it’s not visited as much as some others. Parking is close to the beach. There is no shade so either bring an umbrella if you need or visit early in the morning before the heat of the day sets in.
The beach is ocean side so it’s not as suitable for young kids but a great place to sun yourself and read a book in a quiet setting. There is an abundance of space here.
Wreck beach is also close by. It is a local favourite as I was told but a bit of a walk in from the car park so I opted for Box Beach instead.
Corlette -for a family friendly spot
Head to the other side of Port Stephens and stop by Corlette.
This is a much smaller and quieter beach town. Families with younger kids will love this place.
Head to Conroy Park located on Sandy Point road. It has parking, a BBQ area and public toilets. The beach is nicely shaded in parts which is a god send on a stinking hot day and the water is shallow and calm. It’s also well short of the overcrowded beaches of Nelson Bay.
I came back three days in a row, my favourite hang out whilst here.
Sandpipers Restaurant – for the best local cuisine
If you get a chance reserve a table at Sandpipers on Magnus Street, Nelson Bay. It serves amazing modern Australian cuisine utilizing local produce and seafood.
This place is small and intimate so don’t expect to just show up and be seated. It’s also pretty popular.
The service and food is top quality, definitely a 5 star experience. Try one of their specialty tasting plates of seafood or a combination of calamari, pork belly and lamb back strap. It won’t disappoint. Check out the reviews on Trip Advisor.
Gan Gan Lookout- for panoramic views
Located on Nelson Bay road is the turn off to Gan Gan Lookout.
A steep descent and narrow road takes you up the the small car park. This is the highest accessible point at 160 metres.
Here, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the entire area and beyond.
Shoal Bay – for the best of all things
Many people who come to Port Stephens prefer the smaller and less crazy town of Shoal Bay. It doesn’t necessarily make it less crowded but the tone is definitely much more relaxed.
Shoal Bay has a gorgeous beach and plenty of dining options to choose from. It definitely feels like “the place to be”.
If you are up for a challenge, you can take the Tomaree Head Summit walk. This 2.2 km return trek takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.
Stockton Sand Dunes – for a day of adventure
Buckle up and get ready for a day of high thrills at Stockton Sand Dunes.
Thirty two kilometres of wide open space provides a sanctuary for four wheel drive enthusiasts. Choose to take on the dunes or just cruise up the beach at leisure. If you are keen but worried that you have limited to no experience, you can join a guided four wheel drive tour. There are a range of activities from sand boarding to camel rides.
You can read my post on this location here.
Other towns of Port Stephens
If you have arrived by car, take a full or half day to drive around and check some of these spots out. You can drive all the way to Soldiers Point to the West and Fingal Bay to the South. Its not very far in terms of distance.
It’s a great way of deciding what area you’ll stay next time you are here. Oh yes, yo’ be dreaming of your next visit to the magnificent haven of Port Stephens.
For a range of accommodation options.
