18 BEST Things To Do In Port Stephens New South Wales 2025 Guide
LOOKING FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN PORT STEPHENS?
Nestled along the stunning coastline of New South Wales, Port Stephens is a coastal haven filled with adventure activities, pristine beaches, lively marine life, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it one of the most popular weekend getaways from Sydney!
Located just 2.5 hours from Sydney, Port Stephens is one of our favorite holiday destinations on the East Coast. From the famous Stockton Sand Dunes, iconic Tomaree Head Summit, and best whale watching spots in NSW, to the breathtaking Salamander Bay and Nelson Bay – we have got you covered with the best things to do in Port Stephens!
DAY TOURS FROM SYDNEY
If you don’t have a car or aren’t renting one, check out
This Port Stephens Tour from Sydney:
HIGHLIGHTS:
Drop off and pick up from Central Station
Dolphin watching cruise
Koala Sanctuary Visit
Lunch
Stockton Beach 4WD and sandboarding
Port Stephens winery
Best Things To Do In Port Stephens
We visited the region twice last year and are excited to share our favourite activities with personal reviews so you never have to wonder what to do in Port Stephens!
1. Tomaree Head Summit Walk
Hike the 2.2-kilometer Tomaree Head Summit near Shoal Bay for stunning views of Port Stephens, Yacaaba Head, and Broughton Island. The summit is also a great spot for whale watching and offers a glimpse of historic WWII gun emplacements along the trail.
This is a Grade 5 Track (quite steep with many stairs). However, in my opinion, it is one of the best short (yet quite challenging) hikes in NSW with the most rewarding views. At the end of your hike, you could even take a dip at the beautiful Zenith beach next to Mount Tomaree in Tomaree National Park.
Tomaree Head Summit Walk TIP:
If you’re here to catch a sunset (as you should!), be sure to start making your way back downhill before it gets too dark on the trail!
2. Join a Dolphin Watching Cruise in Port Stephens
This Dolphin Watching Cruise in Port Stephens is a must-do experience and is one of the best things to do in Nelson Bay. It’s a 2-hour cruise with slides and boom nets so you can get into the water and see playful dolphins up close.
Dolphins can be seen year-round and since this is one of the most popular activities in Port Stephens, we highly recommend pre-booking your tour.
Check prices and availability here
3. Quad Biking and Sandboarding at Stockton Sand Dunes
Get ready to go sandboarding or Quad Biking down the slopes of the largest sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere! These Port Stephens sand dunes stretch over 32 kilometers from Anna Bay, all the way to Newcastle.
Book your 4WD Tour with Sandboarding & Sandsurfing to experience The Stockton Bight Sand Dunes in Worimi Conservation Lands Port Stephens to its fullest! It is affordable and suitable for all ages.
Best of all, you can play as long as you like! There is a shuttle to the dunes and back every 15 minutes.
Check prices and availability here
Best Time to Visit:
The dunes are spectacular all day, but we suggest visiting early in the day or post 3pm as it gets quite hot around midday.
4. Experience Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters
Experience Stingray and Shark up close in NSW at Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters! You can interact with these marine animals in a safe environment and even swim with sharks and rays.
It is an affordable family friendly experience and one of the best Port Stephens attractions for kids too! Check out our reel if you still need convincing!
Check prices and availability here
5. Pet and feed animals at Oakvale Wildlife Park
Oakvale Wildlife Park in Port Stephens, also known as Oakvale Farm and Fauna World till 2018 is an interactive zoo where you can get up close to a variety of native Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, emus and tasmanian devils, as well as alligators, ostriches and reptile such as snakes, turtles and lizards.
Plan your visit around the daily Keeper Talks and Tractor Trailer rides (typically 11.30 am and 2.30pm), and enjoy Oakvale Wildlife Park’s onsite splash park and fun farmyard feeding sessions (typically 11 am and 2 pm), making it one of the most popular things to do in Port Stephens with kids.
OAKVALE WILDLIFE PARK DISCOUNT CODE
USE “HATEXPLORESKLOOK” FOR 10% OFF
Check prices and availability here ▶️
6. Swim with Dolphins in Port Stephens
Keen to swim with Dolphins in Australia? You can experience it right here in Nelson Bay in New South Wales! The dolphin swim experience is led by Ellie and Adam from Dolphin Swim Australia – NSW’s first and only permitted WILD dolphin swim!
Their package includes breakfast, mimosas, a custom video of the day, photos and equipment so you are all set for your adventure. Check out our reel to see what swimming with dolphins is like!
BEST MONTH TO SWIM WITH DOLPHINS:
Tours run from October to April/May. We recommend timing your visit to Oct – mid Nov for a chance to see whales or Feb – Apr to see baby dolphins!
7. Explore Broughton Island
Pack your snorkeling gear and set off on a day trip to Broughton Island—a hidden gem waiting to be explored! This aquatic paradise is teeming with vibrant marine life, making it an ideal spot for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
8. Go Horse Riding in Port Stephens with Sahara Trails
Experience the stunning beauty of Port Stephens on horseback with Sahara Trails guided tours. Join one of their scenic trails or even go horse riding on the beach along the sandy shores for an unforgettable adventure.
9. Camel Riding in Port Stephens
Go camel riding on the vast sand dunes of Port Stephens! Oakvale Ranch offers 20-minute camel rides between 10:00 am – 3:30 pm, where you can just walk in and sign up on the day. Alternatively, you prebook and join a one hour sunset camel ride along the stunning Birubi Beach in Anna Bay and up the the Stockton sand dunes in Worimi National Park.
10. Check Out the Australia’s Military Aviation History
Port Stephens largest indoor activity, The Fighter World Museum offers a family friendly, ‘hands on’ experience showcasing Australia’s military aviation history through interactive exhibits and impressive aircraft displays. Just 30 minutes from Nelson Bay or a 20 minute drive from Newcastle, this operational Air Force Base is a must-see for aviation buffs of all ages!
Check prices and availability here
11. Go Karting in Nelson Bay
Go Karts Go boasts the largest and fastest 4-stroke outdoor go-kart track in Bobs Farm in Nelson Bay, providing an exciting experience for all ages. With specially designed karts for kids, twin-seater options, and an adrenaline-pumping track, it’s the ultimate family adventure in Port Stephens.
12. Visit the Koala Sanctuary
Spot one of Australia’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat at the world-class Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary. Learn about koala and the sanctuary’s conservation efforts while experiencing the Koala Hospital and enjoying a unique koala’s eye view on the 225m elevated Newcastle Airport SKYwalk.
Check prices and availability here
13. Savour Wine and Lunch at Wonganella Estate
Located close to Nelson Bay, Wonganella Estate is the perfect pit stop to enjoy some delicious Port Stephens wine. Enjoy panoramic views at their Sunset+Vine as you overlook the Wonganella Estate Vineyards and sample their award-winning Shiraz and Chardonnay.
After the wine tasting, we highly recommend dining here and trying their slow-cooked beef, and roaster cauliflower! We loved it!
Free Things To Do In Port Stephens
There are many free things to do at Port Stephens that help you soak up its charm without spending a dollar. Here are our personal favourites:
14. Catch a Sunrise at Zenith Beach
Zenith Beach, located near the base of Tomaree Head, is known for its stunning sunrise views, offering an ethereal start to your perfect day in Port Stephens. Early risers are rewarded with the sun slowly illuminating the rugged cliffs and clear turquoise waters.
This beach is often quieter than other beaches and in my opinion, a calm walk on Zenith Beach at sunrise or sunset is one of the best things to do in Port Stephens for couples.
15. Gan Gan Lookout in Port Stephens
Gan Gan Lookout, located on Lily Hill Road in Nelson Bay, is the highest and most accessible lookout in Port Stephens NSW. At the car park you can see the Pacific coast and famous sand dunes and just a short stroll you’ll see breathtaking views across the bay.
As the highest and easiest lookout in the area, it’s a must-visit spot for stunning vistas.
16. Go Snorkeling in Nelson Bay
The protected waters of Port Stephens feature vibrant sea life and marine sanctuaries where you can bring your snorkeling gear and experience the crystal clear waters of the region.
Prefer a guided snorkeling tour? Snorkel in the outer islands on this tour and get up close corals, wobbegongs, rays, sponges, and lots of fish!
Check prices and availability here
17. Visit Nelson Bay Lighthouse
Take a leisurely stroll to the rather unusual Nelson Head Lighthouse for picturesque views of the coastline. There is a small museum you can visit and right adjacent you’ll find Inner Light Tea Rooms, where we had some fresh scones and tea.
18. Go Whale Watching or Spot Them from Land
Port Stephens is one of the best places in Australia to go on a whale watching cruise. If you prefer not to be on the Nelson Bay whale watching cruise, you can spot these majestic creatures from land at high vantage points like Tomaree Head Summit, Yacaaba Headland Walking Track, Barry Park, and Fingal Bay.
Best Time for Whale Watching in Port Stephens:
June to August and September to October
If you want to see the whales from the land, bring your binoculars and visit the vantage spot early morning or closer to sunset/early evening.
Visiting Port Stephens: FAQs
Now that you feel confident about what to do in Port Stephens, let’s jump into some common questions.
How many days should I spend in Port Stephens?
While you can enjoy a fun weekend getaway from Sydney, we highly recommend visiting the Port Stephens area at least over a long weekend. A stay of 3-5 days is ideal to explore the highlights without feeling too rushed.
What are the best things to do in Port Stephens with kids?
Most of the activities and attractions in Port Stephens are family friendly, making it the perfect destination for holidays in NSW with kids. Here are the top 5 we recommend:
What are the top activities to do in Port Stephens for couples?
Here are the best activities and attractions in Port Stephens to experience as a couple:
Port Stephens Accommodation
You will find no shortage of options for your ideal accommodation in this region. Here’s a snappy summary of the best-rated hotels in Port Stephens, including The Retreat where we stayed last year.
- Luxury: Oaks Pacific Blue Resort features luxurious amenities, including multiple pools and spa services, various tiers of rooms, and an overall indulgent, relaxing experience.
- Midrange: Bannisters Port Stephens is located close to Nelson Bay and features an infinity pool with breathtaking Shoal Bay views, luxurious rooms, and the famous Rick Stein restaurant. With individually designed rooms, suites, and penthouses overlooking the bay, it offers the perfect coastal escape.
- Budget: The Retreat Port Stephens is a serene getaway surrounded by nature and giant sand dunes! You can choose between a wide range of apartments, holiday houses, and cottages based on your travel group. We loved our 2-night stay here!
The Wrap Up : Best Things to do in Port Stephens
Now that you know the best things to do in Port Stephens, we hope it’s obvious why it is such a popular getaway from Sydney. From exciting dolphin encounters and thrilling sand dune adventures to relaxing hikes and unforgettable wildlife experiences, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.
So choose your favourite things to do in Port Stephens and plan your itinerary now!
DM us on Instagram if you have any more questions!
Looking for a weekend getaway near Sydney? Check out our Glamping in Glenworth Valley Guide
