Most sights are within 20 minutes of Nelson Bay. Plan a morning on the water, an afternoon on the dunes, and climb Tomaree Head early or late in the day for the best light.
1 Stockton Bight sand dunes
A vast sea of moving dunes behind a beach that stretches for more than 30 km, managed jointly with the Worimi people. Sandboarding, 4WD tours, quad bikes and camel rides on the beach are the ways to see it.
Practical: Tours from Anna Bay. Private vehicles need a beach permit and a 4WD.
2 Dolphin cruises
Port Stephens has a resident population of bottlenose dolphins, often seen within minutes of leaving Nelson Bay. Cruises run all year.
Practical: Book a day or two ahead in summer. Allow 1.5–2 hours.
3 Tomaree Head Summit Walk
A short but steep climb, partly on steps, to the top of the southern headland. The views over the bay, the islands and the beaches are among the best on the coast, and whales are often visible in season. Second World War gun emplacements remain nearby.
Practical: Free. Allow about 1–1.5 hours return. Starts at Zenith Beach.
4 Nelson Bay
The main town, with the marina, cruise jetty, cafés and the Inner Lighthouse, a restored lighthouse cottage with views across the bay.
Practical: Free to wander. Cruise departures from d’Albora Marina.
5 Fingal Bay
A sheltered, curving beach with clear water. At low tide a sand spit links the shore to Point Stephens, but tides can rise quickly: only cross with local knowledge.
Practical: Free. Patrolled in summer.
6 Shoal Bay
A long, calm beach at the foot of Tomaree Head, ideal for swimming and paddleboarding, with a lively strip of cafés.
Practical: Free. Good for families.
