20 Free things to do in Port Stephens
If you think Port Stephens is all about dolphin cruises and resort stays, you can think again – some of the best experiences here don’t cost a cent. As a local who’s spent years exploring every beach, lookout and hidden trail, I’ve out together this list of 20 Free Things to do in Port Stephens to help you enjoy the region like we do. From sunrise walks along quiet bays to secret coastal viewpoints and wildlife encounters you won’t find in any brochure, these budget-friendly ideas will help you uncover the true beauty of our backyard. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or lucky enough to stay longer, here’s how to make the most of Port Stephens – without opening your wallet.
Watch the Sunrise at Zenith Beach
I’m told that the sunrise over Tomaree Headland at Zenith Beach is amazing. And this is the go-to spot for your Insta-worthy photo. However, I am not an early morning person and value my sleep, so you’ll have to take their word for it.
Spend the day at the beach
Did you know that Port Stephens has 26 beautiful beaches? Each one has its own character. Below are some, but not all, of the beaches that you can visit.
For a friendly family beach for small ones, head to the tranquil waters of Fingal Beach, Shoal Bay, Dutchman’s Beach or Boat Harbour.
For the adventurous, head to Birubi Beach which is the eastern end of the Stockton sand dunes where you can go sandboarding, ride camels, join 4WD tours, drive your own car on the beach, catch some waves or a fish or just relax. There is even a section that is dog friendly.
For surfing, your go to beaches are Birubi Beach or One Mile Beach, where there is a surf school.
Dog lovers can chase waves with their furry friends at Birubi Beach dog beach. Bagnalls Beach and Billys Beach at Mallabula offer off-leash sandy beaches and flat water.
For peace and tranquility, try Zenith Beach, Wreck Beach or Kingsley Beach. These beaches are not patrolled.
Finally, for the naturalists, Samarai Beach is a clothing optional beach.
For more detailed information, check out the Best Beaches in Port Stephens.
Climb Tomaree Headland
Tomaree Headland – everyone’s bucket list experience when visiting Port Stephens. You will need good walking shoes, water and your camera. It’s an excellent walk in winter and you don’t need to get up that early if you want to watch the sunrise from the top.
The walk is 2.2km return and generally takes 1 1/2 -2 hours. The track is steep but well constructed and has metal stairs and elevated metal walkways. It is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs.
There are strategically placed seats along the way. Take advantage of them.
The views from the top are incredible!
You can see all of Port Stephens waterway, up the coast to Yaccaba and Broughton Island, Cabbage Tree Island, Little and Big Islands. It’s also a great place to spot whales from dry land.
Looking down the coast you will see Zenith Beach and Fingal Headland and Port Stephens Lighthouse. Sometimes you can see dolphins surfing the waves at Zenith.
Did you know if you go to the Visitor’s Centre in Nelson Bay, you can get a certificate saying you have climbed Tomaree? Very cool for the kids.
Hike Tomaree Coastal Walk
Tomaree Coastal Walk is a 27km hike starting by climbing Tomaree Headland Summit, then follows the coast through bushland, along secluded beaches and cliff tops, and stunning lookouts. Stop at Birubi Point Aboriginal Place and learn about the Worimi people before ending at Birubi Beach. Of course, this will take a couple of days, but it is possible to break it down into sections. A popular choice is walk from Zenith Beach, then join the Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay walking track for a swim and lunch at a local cafe.
Jump off the jetty at Shoal Bay
In front of the Shoal Bay Country Club is the Shoal Bay Jetty where all the kids get their formal photos. It is awesome for jumping off into the deep clear water. It’s almost impossible to touch the bottom. It gets very busy in summer.
Feed the fish at Fly Point
Fly Point Aquatic Reserve is accessed from the carpark at Neil Caroll Park opposite the amphitheatre. At the carpark, look towards the water and you will see a path down to the water. Walk out into the water along the sandy path made by the SCUBA divers, to about knee deep. Now tear up your bread (you did remember the bread, didn’t you?) into small pieces. Drop some of the bread around you. It won’t take long – you will be surrounded by so many silver bream (fish) you won’t be able to count them! Feeling brave? Hold the bread in your fingers. The fish will eat right out of your hand.
Check out the views from Gan Gan Lookout
Gan Gan Lookout is a fully accessible lookout on the way into Nelson Bay. There are 2 lookouts, the first faces south and looks down the coast along Stockton Beach and the 32km longest moving sand dunes in the southern hemisphere. The second lookout has 270 degree views of the whole of Port Stephens, looking east to the twin headlands of Yacaaba and Tomaree which guard the entrance to the harbour.
To the west, you overlook Tilligerry Peninsular and in the distance you can see the Karuah River and Barrington Tops.
Whale watching at Boat Harbour
Port Stephens is in the middle of the humpback highway. Winter is the perfect time to see the gentle giants (May to November). Humpback whales are the most playful whale species. Look out for spouts, spyhops, pectoral slaps, body rolls and if you are lucky, breath-taking breaches where the 40 tonne mammals launch themselves skyward in a display of pure power and joy.
Of course, the best place to see them from land is at the Boat Harbour Whale Watch Lookout! You can also see them from Tomaree Headland or Barry Park, Fingal Headland.
Explore the Iris Moore Rockpools
One of my favourite things to do is clamber over the rocks and peer into the rockpools to find little crabs and fish, check out the shellfish and maybe even find an octopus – look but don’t touch. Just check out the seas before you venture out to explore.
Meander through the markets
Port Stephens has many markets to explore. Particularly during the Christmas School Holidays.
Here is a summary of the main markets.
Talk to the Pelicans
The pelicans love to hang out at the Little Beach boat ramp around the fish cleaning table. If they aren’t wandering around on the ground, they may be up on the light pole.
I love the Australian Pelican, they have so much personality and are, I think, the most beautiful pelican in the world. They love to pose for photos too!
Wander through the Port Stephens Community Art Gallery
With exhibitions changing every 6 weeks show-casing creations of local artists, there is always something new to see. Browse through the collection of paintings, pottery, photography and handiwork for a special and unique souvenir.
Discover Nelson Bay with a Scavenger Hunt
Whilst you’re at the Visitors Centre, pick up a copy of the Nelson Bay Scavenger Hunt. Explore the marina and main street of Nelson Bay, learning about the local indigenous people, the role of Nelson Bay during the war at the War Memorial, get some cool selfies at local art murals, check out the game fishing weigh station and play on the park. At the end of the hunt, return to the Visitor’s Centre to receive your certificate. Great for smaller children.
Feed the fish at the Marina
Whilst you’re on your Scavenger Hunt, or anytime at the marina, go to the fish feeding station and feed the fish. Bread is a great option. Look down into the water and count how many fish and fish species that you can see.
Explore the Nelson Bay Art Walk
The Nelson Bay Art Walk is a self-guided walking tour of Nelson Bay and 12 local public artworks and learn about the local artists who created them. You can explore The Art Walk the same time as the Scavenger Hunt. Pick up the guide from the Visitors Centre.
Spot a Koala at Tilligerry Habitat
Dedicated and knowledgable volunteers run the Tilligerry Habitat is located on the beautiful foreshore of Tanilba Bay. It is free and fully wheel chair accessible. Your furry friends are also welcome on a lead. At low tide, dogs are permitted to run off leash on the sand flats.
The 2km loop along the boardwalk and gravel paths meanders through scenic paperbark and swampy oak forest, scrub, wetland and coastal environments will take approximately 30 mins. But, if you sit quietly and enjoy the view, listen to the birds and the breeze rustling the leaves you will see so much more.
109 different species of birds have been sighted in the Habitat. Download the Bird spotters sheet. How many different birds can you find?
The boardwalk skims the waters edge so there are lots of places to swim in the shallow water.
Pro tip – avoid arriving between 2.30pm to 3.30pm as it is school pick up time and absolutely no parking.
Tanilba Bay Heritage Walk
Tanilba Bay is full of history including one of Australia’s oldest homesteads – Tanilba House. The 7km heritage trail starts at the Water Gate and can be explored on foot or by car, bike or scooter. The trail has 32 interactive sites with information boards on street signs and links to informative YouTube videos. The street names have a World War I influence with street names of Diggers Drive, Army Avenue and Navy Nook etc.
Find the secret champagne pool
This one is for low tide and flat seas as the champagne pool is located on a rock platform. The pool is very deep and you can’t reach the bottom even if you jump in. It’s called the Champagne Pool because as the waves break, little bubbles are formed – just like champagne. There is a little ledge to climb out, like if you were to climb out the side of a swimming pool with no steps or ladder. Not recommended for children.
To reach the Champagne Pool, go to the Boat Harbour Whale Watching lookout and keep walking down a rocky path to the rock platform below.
Watch the fighter jets
Newcastle Airport is also home to the Williamtown RAAF Base and the F35 fighter jets. They fly from 9am-5pm Monday to Thursday and 9am-4pm on Fridays. I find that they are most active around school pick up time, say between 2pm-4pm. At the end of the runway on Medowie Road, there is a carpark specifically for watching the planes. The F35 fighter jets are really really loud and it feels like they will land on your head when they come in to land. It’s free to watch. If you want more, head to Fighterworld where you can sit in the cockpit of old warplanes or try flying a jet in a simulator.
Watch the Sunset at Sunset Point
Have a sunset picnic at Sunset Park in Tanilba Bay. Enjoy the 180 degree views looking over western Port Stephens towards Oyster bay, Karuah and Snapper Island as the sun drops across the water. The park is a great fishing spot for flathead. Just make sure you take the Bushman’s!
What if it rains?
We all know that rain can somewhat dampen the spirits when on holiday, especially with kids. Here are 10 excellent things to do in Port Stephens with kids when it rains.
Whether you’re chasing coastal views, wildlife encounters, or simply a quiet moment by the water, Port Stephens is full of unforgettable experiences that don’t cost a thing. These 20 free activities are just a taste of what locals love most about living here – and what keeps visitors coming back year after year.
So pack your towel, lace up your walking shoes and get out there to explore. The best parts of Port Stephens are waiting and they are completely free.
