Port Stephens Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)

Port Stephens, Port Stephens, Sydney is a great place to see dolphins. It is said that the chance of seeing dolphins is over 95%. In the morning, I took the cruise ship to the sea with full expectation. The result did not form one of the 5% did not see the dolphins. But its good to have a beautiful view of the harbour. Interestingly, the cruise ship will drop the water viewing platform surrounded by nets. The friends can put on the swimsuit and go to the net to play with water. If they encounter dolphins, they can swim with the dolphins, Very good, worth recommending.

Hidden Gem in the Coastal Charm

Nestled along the beautiful Australian coast, Port Stephens is a hidden gem that offers a unique mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. With its pristine beaches, stunning sand dunes, and vibrant marine life, this destination is a must-visit for travelers seeking an authentic Australian experience. Step into a world of awe-inspiring landscapes as you explore the Stockton Sand Dunes, the largest sand dune system in the Southern Hemisphere. Whether you choose to sandboard down the slopes or embark on a thrilling quad bike tour, the adrenaline rush is guaranteed. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see. For those seeking tranquility, head to the Tomaree National Park and hike to the Tomaree Head Summit. As you ascend to the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the sparkling turquoise waters and the surrounding coastline. It's a hike that blends both adventure and nature, making it a perfect escape from the everyday bustle. For the beach lovers, Port Stephens boasts a coastline dotted with stunning sandy stretches. Relax on the idyllic Shoal Bay Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sands. Dive into the vibrant underwater world by snorkeling along the famous Fly Point Park. Here, you'll be mesmerized by the kaleidoscope of colorful fish and the majestic presence of marine creatures. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Nelson Bay Marina, where you can take a dolphin-watching cruise. These intelligent creatures often playfully swim alongside the boats, creating unforgettable memories. Look out for the iconic bottlenose dolphins that call these waters home, as well as the chance to spot majestic humpback whales during their annual migration. To complete your Port Stephens experience, indulge in the region's delicious seafood. From fresh oysters to succulent prawns, the local seafood is a true culinary delight. Visit one of the waterfront restaurants and savor the flavors while enjoying the mesmerizing sunset views. In conclusion, Port Stephens is far more than just a picturesque coastal town. It's an enchanting destination that offers a little something for everyone. So pack your sense of adventure, your love for nature, and your appetite for relaxation, and get ready to experience the hidden gem nestled along Australia's beautiful coastal charm. #falltrip#mytravelhacks#historicallandmarks

Port Stephens NSW

This place is a gem!

Port Stephens, the US military's naval base, is located in Nelson Bay, Nelson Bay, Australia, only 3 hours drive from Sydney. In addition to the sea, there is a beach where you can "sand". There are 26 large and small golden beaches, and the most popular beaches for visitors are Shoal Beach, Fingal Beach, and the widest Stockton Beach. There are a variety of water sports and ATV projects here. In addition, the scenery here is also superb, especially the sunset of the day, we came here specifically in the fast sunset, just for the sunset. When the setting sun comes, this calm shock hits my heart. We stood on the pier in the sunset and watched the sun fall in a foreign country, leaving a brilliant afterglow. Can't miss the morning and sunset of a city. Come here, don't miss the sunset at this pier. Every second of the scenery here is like the picture of every frame in the movie, so beautiful is not true. My instinctive reaction, pick up the camera and press the shutter. Time passed slowly, and the sun disappeared a little bit until the night fell. I was glad to record this picture every second in the camera. I am also very glad that I have you around.

Gan Gan Lookout

At a height of 160 metres, Gan Gan Lookout is Port Stephens’ highest and most accessible lookout. It is about 30 minutes drive from Port Stephens, NSW Australia. It is a beautiful lookout to view the whole Nelson Bay area and there are two different lookouts which are very short walks to get to. From the lookout, you will experience commanding views from Gan Gan Hill of the whole of Port Stephens right through to Newcastle in the south and the Myall Lakes to the north. It is possible to look south to the opposite side of the peninsula, with close views of the eastern beaches, Anna Bay and Stockton beaches. The Gan Gan Lookout is truly one of the highlights of the Nelson Bay area and the panorama is breathtaking, especially at dusk. The viewing platform is wheelchair accessible and there is limited free parking available.

View the panoramic view of Port Stephens on Gan Gan Mountain

🌟Highlights: There is a lookout here specifically for viewing the panoramic view of Port Stephens. The viewing platform has signs pointing to the direction and distance of various places. There is only one small road on the mountain, and there are few parking spaces, so don't go on holidays 📝Note tips: This is not a popular scenic spot, it is just that people living nearby like to come up and see how far their place is and in which direction 🚉Travel strategy: Drive up the mountain at the GanGan intersection

Shoal Bay Beach

🌟 Highlights: During the Easter holidays, Shoal Bay Beach saw an influx of tourists, quickly filling up the small town. The narrow sidewalks couldn't accommodate the crowds, and cyclists had to shout from a distance to make way for pedestrians. The number of boats on the water also increased, with boat rentals, life jackets, and restaurants doing brisk business. The parking lot was full, forcing cars to park along the roadsides and in the woods, creating a lively scene 📝 Tips: This place has always been a tourist destination, but it is not open to tour groups, only to private cars on self-drive visits, due to the small scale of the town It is a little over a two-hour drive from Sydney.

Fine and white sandy beaches in Shoal Bay

Took a road trip with my wife from Melbourne along the coastal roads to Shoal Bay in New South Wales, staying overnight or two in Lakes Entrance, Bega and Cringila and making many pitstops for coffee and snacks was truly and surprisingly restful, recreational!

Camel riding 🐫🇳🇿

View the panoramic view of Port Stephens on Gan Gan Mountain

🌟Highlights: There is a lookout here specifically for viewing the panoramic view of Port Stephens. The viewing platform has signs pointing to the direction and distance of various places. There is only one small road on the mountain, and there are few parking spaces, so don't go on holidays 📝Note tips: This is not a popular scenic spot, it is just that people living nearby like to come up and see how far their place is and in which direction 🚉Travel strategy: Drive up the mountain at the GanGan intersection