Port Stephens: Whales, Waves & Hidden Gems
Port Stephens: Whales, Waves & Hidden Waterways
Port Stephens is well known for good reason. It’s part of the “Humpback Highway,” has 26 beautiful beaches, and is famous for dolphins. But there’s much more to discover here than just these highlights.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you come here often and want a new Sunday drive, this guide covers all of Port Stephens, from the well-known coast to the peaceful countryside.
Getting Here: Easier Than You Think
Port Stephens sits in the middle of the NSW Coast and is easy to reach by car, plane, or bus.
- 🚗 Drive:
- From Sydney: It’s just a 2.5-hour drive north on the M1, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway.
- From Newcastle: We’re close by—only a 30 to 45 minute drive from the Newcastle CBD to the centre of the bay.
- 🚌 Coach:
- If you’d rather not drive, Port Stephens Coaches offers a “Sydney Express” from Central Station that takes you straight to Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, and Fingal Bay.
- ✈️ Fly:
- Newcastle Airport (NTL) at Williamtown. After you land, you can reach your accommodation in Nelson Bay in less than 25 minutes.
The Classics: Whales & Waves
Let’s begin with the main attractions. If you enjoy the water, this is the place for you.
🐳 The Whales (May to November): Each season, more than 40,000 Humpback whales travel along our coast.
- On the water: Take a cruise from Nelson Bay to get a close view.
- On land: You don’t need a boat to see the whales. Hike up Tomaree Head Summit or grab a coffee and head to Boat Harbour Headland to watch them from the shore.
🏖️ The Beaches: With 26 beaches to choose from, there’s something for every mood.
- For families: Try Little Beach or Shoal Bay Beach. Both have calm water, no waves, and are great for paddleboarding.
- For surfing: Fingal Bay and Birubi Beach are great spots. They get good waves and are patrolled during the season.
- For adventure: Visit the Stockton Sand Dunes in the Worimi Conservation Lands, accessible from Anna Bay or Williamtown. These are the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere.
Beyond the Beach: The Hidden Gems
After you’ve enjoyed the beach, explore inland to find river history and country charm that many visitors overlook.
1. Raymond Terrace & The River: At the meeting point of the Williams and Hunter Rivers, Raymond Terrace is a historic town that’s great for a relaxed visit.
- History: Stroll along King Street to see buildings from the 1800s.
- Dining: Have lunch at The Junction Inn, a local favourite that’s been serving meals by the river since the 1836.
- Nature: Close by, the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful escape, run by volunteers and far from the busy crowds.
2. Medowie: Tall Trees & Tasty Treats Often the gateway to the bay, Medowie is a semi-rural sanctuary known for its towering gum trees and growing food scene.
- The Dam: Grahamstown Dam is a stunning spot for a sunset picnic or a walk along the foreshore. It provides a massive expanse of water that is peaceful and perfect for families.
- The vibe: Relaxed, enjoy leisurely strolls along the foreshore, kayaking in the bay, and waterfront cafes or restaurants.
- Local Produce: You can’t visit without stopping at Medowie Macadamias. Grab a coffee, wander the plantation, and pick up some famous local nuts.
- Dining: Check out The Greenhouse for a meal overlooking the golf course, or visit the historic Bull ‘n’ Bush Hotel for a classic pub feed.
3. The Tilligerry Peninsula: This quiet area sits between the ocean and the estuary and is a great spot for eco-tourism.
- Koalas: Take a walk through the Tilligerry Habitat in Tanilba Bay. It’s one of the top places in NSW to see wild koalas resting in the gum trees.
- The vibe: Relaxed, enjoy leisurely strolls along the foreshore, kayaking in the bay, and waterfront cafes or restaurants.
4. The Hinterland: Trade the sea breeze for the fresh smell of eucalyptus trees.
- Hinton: This spot is perfect for photographers, with the historic Victoria Hotel (established 1840) and the well-known vertical-lift bridge.
- Woodville: Visit the Woodville Store, one of Australia’s oldest general stores, for a coffee and a bit of nostalgia.
So, what will you choose this weekend? Maybe a whale cruise and a swim at Shoal Bay, or a historic pub lunch by the river in Raymond Terrace? In Port Stephens, you can do it all.
