Nature in Port Stephens

Port Stephens is a nature lover’s dream. Discover giant sand dunes, kayak through sparkling blue bays and enjoy epic coastal views from Tomaree Head summit. There’s also incredible wildlife encounters to be had. Swim with bottlenose dolphins, spot migrating whales and camp among an active seabird colony on Broughton Island.

Nature walks & koala spotting

Soaring 161m above sea level, the magnificent Tomaree Head creates a striking scene. For jaw-dropping views over the bay and coast, take the 2.2km return Tomaree Head summit walk, located near Shoal Bay in Tomaree National Park. The summit is also a fantastic vantage point for whale watching between May and November. Nearby is Wreck Beach walk, which winds through an angophora forest to a little cove perfect for a picnic.

In and around the national park you can spot koalas munching on swamp mahogany, a species of eucalypt. You’ll find more koalas in the wild in the Tilligerry Habitat, a lovely nature reserve on the Tilligerry Peninsula. To get even closer to these charming marsupials, visit the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary to walk through a natural habitat, see the patients at the Koala Hospital or spend the night in a luxe glamping tent.

Explore giant sand dunes

The magnificent Stockton Bight Sand Dunes in the Worimi Conservation Lands are the largest moving coastal dunes in the southern hemisphere. You can explore the impressive area on a quad bike, 4WD, camel or horse riding tour, as well as learn about the area’s cultural significance from an Aboriginal guide.

Coastal escapades

Roll out your towel on one of the gorgeous beaches and marvel at the azure waters of the Port Stephens – Great Lakes Marine Park. You’ll likely see resident bottlenose dolphins and humpback whales during their annual migration. Take a cruise from Nelson Bay to get a closer look. Or grab a snorkel and explore the pretty underwater gardens in the Fly Point – Halifax Park Aquatic Reserve.