Just two and a half hours from Sydney, Port Stephens is a seaside myriad of quaint villages, pristine beaches and hidden coves. It is both an adventure seekers delight and a relaxation haven all in one. But the clincher? It’s spread out enough that if you choose one, you are unlikely to experience the other. Port Stephens is collectively the hamlets of Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay, Salamander Bay, Soldiers Point, Anna Bay and One Mile Beach visit Search and Stay to find the perfect holiday rental.
BEST TIME TO GO TO PORT STEPHENS
The best time to visit Port Stephens is from autumn through to spring. It can get busy during school holiday periods so be sure to book accommodation in advance.
The events calendar is well worth checking out, especially during the cooler months. Features include Sail Port Stephens in April and the Blue Water Country Music Festival over the June long weekend.
THINGS TO DO IN PORT STEPHENS
Say hello to your new neighbours. The pod of resident dolphins that live in the bay are friendly folk. Enjoy a late afternoon aperitif at Little Beach or Dutchies Beach and you are almost guaranteed to get a glimpse of these intelligent creatures. Or get out on the water to explore the port by boat, kayak or paddleboard. You could even take a dolphin watch cruise.
Port Stephens is some of the best whale watching you will get on the east coast. Perched on a peninsula, Port Stephens juts into the Pacific Ocean just enough to give you front row seats for the north and south whale migration (June to November).
Hit the Dunes
Stockton Sand Dunes, accessed from Anna Bay, is an adventure lovers playground. Hit the dunes for sandboarding, quad biking or 4WDing. Permits are required or join a tour, for a stress free, fun-filled day of exploring.
Hit the Heights
A visit to Port Stephens is not complete until you have walked Tomaree Headland. The hike to the top is worth it for the 360-degree views. On your return call in at Shoal Bay for a swim, coffee or relaxing brunch.
BEST FOOD AND COFFEE IN PORT STEPHENS
Bannisters at Salamander Bay is home to Stein Seafood, one of chef Rick Steins’ signature restaurants. You will need a reservation for this one.
Little Beach Boat House is another standout for relaxed dining. Indulge in some local seafood. It doesn’t get much better than a dozen oysters perched on the balcony overlooking Little Beach.
Murrays brewing co at Bob's Farm promises burgers and pork ribs coupled with awesome craft beer and chilled vibes - you won’t want to leave.
Other standouts to try are:
Crest, Birubi Beach - they have a great breakfast menu.
Holbert's Oysters, Salamander Bay – mostly wholesale seafood, but grab some of the freshest, juiciest, shucked oysters you will find with a side of prawns and head for a beach.
The Point, Soldiers Point – a Port Stephens stalwart that consistently produces great quality food.
The Little Nel - a locals favourite, everything leaving the kitchen is made in-house and from scratch. This is the inside scoop for a great brekky in Nelsons Bay.
Best coffee in Port Stephens
Coffee is serious business in Port Stephens. Its proximity to Sydney means both locals and visitors alike, have high expectations. Situated between the Nelson Bay lighthouse and maritime museum, Inner Light Tearooms promises the most spectacular views with your morning caffeine fix. Or try In House Kitchen at Home Interiors, a perfect blend of homewares and café.
You can’t really go wrong with coffee in Port Stephens. And you will find a range of café and coffee options as venture around the varying townships.
BEST SHOPPING IN PORT STEPHENS
Head to Nelson Bay Marina or Nelson Bay town centre for surf, boutique and resort style shopping. Shoal Bay has some cute boutiques for a shop while you stroll. Or for chain store essentials head to Salamander Shopping Centre. Port Stephens has a healthy market scene with local artisan wares, local produce, thriving plants and much more.
WHERE TO STAY IN PORT STEPHENS
Holiday homes for families are a great option with an abundance on offer in the villages of Port Stephens. Choose something close to the action in Nelson Bay or Shoal Bay. Or if you want something a little more chilled try Soldiers Point or Fingal Bay. Search and Stay also has superb beachside apartments and cozy, coastal cottages ideal for solos and couples.
TRAVELLING WITH KIDS
Families will love this hotspot of fun and activity. You will find an array of calm water beaches, fun activities and family friendly restaurants. Birubi Beach and One Mile Beach can be a great option for older kids to try their hand at surfing. Destination Port Stephens will keep you up to date with all the activities, offers and things going on over the school holidays. They also have a great event, festival and general what’s on the calendar to keep you up to speed with things to do.
THE HISTORY OF PORT STEPHENS
The Worimi people were the first inhabitants of the region with tribes living on the water’s edge around the port. There are still excellent examples of artefacts, such as shell middens, in the area today. The area later became a haven for convict escapees. And then in the early 1800’s shipping of timber and wool commenced. The Australian Agriculture Company carried produce from the hinterland to North Arm Cove (in Port Stephens) from 1824, including wool for distribution back to England. Whalers were also frequent visitors to the area.
SEARCH AND STAY SECRET TIPS
If you are a little bit old school and love a burger, drop into the Corlette Store for a mouth-watering, juicy burger. You will be transported back to your childhood summer holidays of terry toweling clothes and barefoot adventures. Take your burger to go and find yourself a patch of beach just across the road. Yum.
There aren’t many places on the east coast where you can watch the sunset over the water. But if you head to Soldiers Point (and the tide is high) the sunset is pure magic. Take a bottle of bubbles with you for some ultra-relaxed viewing.
For more information: PortStephens.org.au
Find your perfect holiday accommodation options at Search and Stay.