Areas: where to base yourself
- Nelson Bay: marina, restaurants and cruise departures.
- Shoal Bay: calm beach and walking distance to Tomaree Head.
- Fingal Bay: quieter, with a beautiful beach.
- Anna Bay and One Mile: close to the dunes and surf beaches.
- Soldiers Point and Corlette: peaceful bayside resorts.
Food and drink
Port Stephens is known for oysters, farmed in the bay’s estuaries, and for fresh seafood. Eat by the marina in Nelson Bay or at the cafés along Shoal Bay.
Money-saving tips
- Visit outside the summer holidays for much lower rates.
- The Tomaree Head walk and the beaches are free.
- Combined dolphin and dune packages often cost less than booking separately.
Safety and practicalities
Swim at patrolled beaches between the flags. Be careful on the Fingal Bay spit, where tides can cut you off. On the dunes, carry water and sun protection.
Sample plans
One day
Morning dolphin cruise, lunch in Nelson Bay, then sandboarding on the dunes in the afternoon.
Two days
Add a sunrise climb of Tomaree Head and a swim at Shoal Bay or Fingal Bay.
Three days
Add the koala sanctuary, a kayak trip, or a whale-watching cruise in season.
