Port Stephens

Take the invigorating short hike to the summit of Tomaree Head, 161 metres above the entrance to Port Stephens. Along the track, enjoy unmatched views of Port Stephens and its coastline. From the top, you can see as far as Cabbage Tree and Boondelbah islands, the only nesting sites for the endangered Gould's petrel. At the summit, the north platform offers panoramic views of Yacaaba Head, Cabbage Tree, Boondelbah, and Broughton Islands. The south platform provides stunning vistas of Zenith, Wreck, and Box Beaches, Fingal Island, and Point Stephens Lighthouse. Don’t miss the historic World War II gun emplacements, and bring binoculars — you might spot some dolphins. There’s a picnic table at the lookout, perfect for a lunch break while taking in the view. On your way back, try the Fort Tomaree walk.

Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters lead the way in marine education, conservation, and fun. This unique experience allows visitors to interact with marine life during guided shark encounter tours, where they can pet and feed these creatures under the careful supervision of experienced guides.

The highest lookout in Port Stephens offers spectacular views, especially at dusk. On a clear day you can see all the way down the peninsula to the Newcastle docks, and north-west over Hawks Nest to the gigantic headlands of Nelson Head and Nelson Bay. The drive up Lily Hill road to Gan Gan Lookout, through an abundance of Gymea lilies, which grow to five metres, is gorgeous.

The Great Lakes Marine Park stretches from Stockton Beach to Forster, encompassing Port Stephens, the Karuah and Myall Rivers, Myall and Smiths Lakes, and extending three nautical miles offshore. On land, the surrounding bushland is rich with Indigenous cultural and spiritual sites. Offshore, submerged cliffs create a haven for divers. As an official marine conservation area, the park is home to a diverse array of marine life, including dolphins, turtles, fish, seabirds, and seaweeds, along with threatened species like grey nurse sharks and green turtles.

The award-winning Hunter Region Botanic Gardens spans over 30 hectares of tranquil, landscaped gardens showcasing the beauty and diversity of Australian native flora. The gardens also include a large expanse of natural bushland with several walking tracks, offering opportunities to spot local wildlife such as birds, goannas, possums, wallabies and koalas.

Stockton Beach stretches 32 kilometres, making it Australia’s largest moving coastal sand mass. The gigantic dunes behind Birubi Beach at Anna Bay attract sand boarders, 4WD, and quad bike enthusiasts. The beach is also ideal for swimming, surfing lessons, fishing and diving. After your adventures, relax with a picnic or barbecue in the park next to the beach.

If one event captures the spirit of Port Stephens, it’s this regatta. Each April, one of Australia's fastest-growing sailing events takes to the glistening waters of the marine park, navigating around islands and back. This stunning race course is set to gain international recognition. But it's not just about sailing — there's plenty of fun with family entertainment both on and off the water. Don't miss the Regatta Markets.