Hunter Region, NSW
Port Stephens
Dolphin capital & the biggest sand dunes in the southern hemisphere
About this place
About 2.5 hours north of Sydney, Port Stephens is famous for two things that delight visitors of all ages: reliable wild dolphin encounters (over 140 bottlenose dolphins live in the bay year-round) and the Stockton Bight Sand Dunes — the largest moving sand dunes in the southern hemisphere, where you can sandboard down 30-metre slopes. Add snorkelling at Fly Point, fishing in Nelson Bay, and a slower pace than the Hunter wineries for a perfect family-friendly weekend.
Highlights
Dolphin-watching cruises
Stockton Bight sand dunes (sandboarding)
Snorkelling at Fly Point
Nelson Bay fishing village
Plan your trip
How many days do I need in Port Stephens?
2–3 days (weekend with dolphin cruise + dunes)
When is the best time to visit Port Stephens?
Sep–May for warm water; year-round for dolphins
How do I get to Port Stephens from Sydney?
Drive via M1 (2.5hrs). No direct train — coach from Newcastle or car only.
Best time to visit
Sep–May for warm water; year-round for dolphins
Suggested stay
2–3 days (weekend with dolphin cruise + dunes)
Getting there
Drive via M1 (2.5hrs). No direct train — coach from Newcastle or car only.
More places to explore
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