For a holiday getaway not too far north from Sydney, Port Stephens on the New South Wales North Coast is a popular destination.
It's about two and a half to three hours by road from Sydney, it's by the sea, and the bush isn't far off. So there are the water recreation and sports activities as well as inland treks, if desired.
Many settle for just the sea, and the sightseeing and dolphin watch cruises, and the walks by the sea.
Port Stephens and Nelson Bay
Port Stephens is often used interchangeably with Nelson Bay which is the major town in the port region, although Port Stephens does include not only Nelson Bay but also such towns as Corlette, Soldiers Point, Salamander Bay, Shoal Bay and Anna Bay and the coastal villages of Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest across the water north of Nelson Bay. A relatively large koala colony is found at Lemon Tree Passage on the south side.
Getting there
If going by car, take the Pacific Highway and then the Newcastle Freeway from Sydney, bypass the city of Newcastle if you wish, rejoin the Pacific Highway just west of Newcastle, watch for the turnoff to Nelson Bay, and simply follow the signs.
- Nelson Bay is 223 kilometres north of Sydney and 69 kilometres north of Newcastle.
At Nelson Bay, turn right into Victoria Parade, the main street along the beachfront. A short distance away is the visitors centre where you can get information on the area's attractions, activities, and places of accommodation. You may not find free kerbside parking. Have coins ready for parking metres in the carpark areas by the marina.
Accommodation
You will find hotels, motels, resorts, bed and breakfast accommodation, serviced apartments, and caravan parks in Port Stephens. During holiday seasons, particularly during school holidays, it is advisable to book accommodation in advance.
Accommodation overlooking the water is available, but you do pay for the location.
Should you have a car?
Having a car (owned, borrowed or rented) is advisable. If you're in town at Nelson Bay you can, of course, simply walk to the visitors centre or the marina and book tours from there. There's also a beachside track you can take for short or long walks.
Cruises
There are dolphin watch cruises (and whale watch cruises during the whale migration season) as well as sightseeing cruises taking in Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest. There are also cruises to the Myall River, the Myall Lakes and the offshore islands.
Deep-sea and big-game fishing cruises are available, also private charters and dive charters. If wishing to go diving, lessons and equipemtn are available.
Boats for hire
Houseboats, catamarans, runabouts and power boats can be hired as well as the appropriate equipment for parasailing, jet-skiing and waterskiing.
Where to eat
At Nelson Bay, try the D'Albora Marina (behind the visitors centre) where various restaurants and coffee shops are located. If you're looking for something more, get a restaurant guide from the visitors centre for eating places all around Port Stephens.
Going sightseeing
Find what interest you at the visitors centre.
