Port Stephens

Dolphin Watch on the M.V. Kingdom runs 2.5-hour cruises departing Nelson Bay with bottlenose dolphin sighting rates around 99%. Some cruises combine with whale spotting May–Nov.

The largest moving coastal dune system in the southern hemisphere, up to 30m high. Tours include 4WD transfer up + sandboard hire. The selfie from the top is the postcard shot.

A 15-minute walk from Nelson Bay marina — clear shallow water with weedy sea dragons, rays, and blue gropers. Bring your own snorkel gear (no on-site hire).

1. Dolphin-watching cruise in Nelson Bay

Over 140 bottlenose dolphins live in the bay year-round — cruises like Moonshadow and Imagine run 1.5–2 hour trips with sighting rates over 95%. Some include a boom net ride to cool off in summer. The 9am cruise is the calmest.

2. Sandboard the Stockton Bight dunes

The largest moving coastal sand dunes in the southern hemisphere — some slopes reach 30m high. Tours from Nelson Bay include a 4WD transfer and sandboard hire. The adrenaline rush from flying down a 30m dune on a board is unforgettable.

3. Snorkel at Fly Point Aquatic Reserve

A protected marine reserve a 15-minute walk from Nelson Bay marina — crystal-clear shallow water with weedy sea dragons, rays, blue gropers, and schools of bream. Bring your own gear (no hire on-site). Best at high tide on a calm day.

4. Walk the Tomaree Headland summit

A steep 30-minute climb to one of the best coastal viewpoints in NSW — 360-degree views of the bay, the dunes, and out to sea. The WWII gun emplacements at the top add a layer of history. Sunrise here is spectacular.

5. Fish off the Nelson Bay marina

The breakwall near the marina is a popular fishing spot — flathead, bream, and whiting are common. No licence required for saltwater fishing from the shore. The local tackle shop on Stockton Street sells bait and rods.

6. Kayak through the Myall Lakes

Just north of Port Stephens, the Myall Lakes National Park is a maze of clear waterways surrounded by paperbark forest. Paddle through the channel to the Bombah Point ferry and back. Hire from Bombah Point Eco Cottages or bring your own.

7. Visit the art galleries at Shoal Bay

A handful of small galleries and studios in this quiet beach town — glassblowing, pottery, and Aboriginal art. The Shoal Bay Country Club also has a great beachfront bistro for lunch.