5 Days in Port Stephens: The Ultimate Itinerary for Beaches, Food and Fun
Picture five unforgettable days filled with turquoise water, soft white sand, fresh seafood straight from the ocean, and adventure around every corner. That’s exactly what awaits you in Port Stephens – a coastal paradise where relaxation meets adrenaline, and every sunrise feels like the start of something special.
Whether you’re here for the pristine beaches, the mouthwatering local food, or the thrill of exploring giant sand dunes and wildlife filled bays, Port Stephens delivers the perfect blend of beaches, food and fun. With so much to see and do, planning the perfect getaway can feel overwhelming -but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
This ultimate 5-day Port Stephens itinerary highlights the very best experiences, from iconic lookouts and dolphin cruises to hidden beaches and incredible dining spots. Get ready to make every moment count in one of Australia’s most breath-taking coastal escapes.
Where is Port Stephens?
Port Stephens is located 2 ½ hour drive north of Sydney or 1 hour drive from Newcastle and a 30 minute drive from Newcastle Airport.
How to get to Port Stephens
Flying
Newcastle Airport has direct flights from Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Canberra, Gold Coast and Melbourne and Perth. If you fly, make sure you book your taxi, Uber or airport transfer in advance.
Stop press! From March 29, 2026 you will be able to fly direct into Newcastle Airport from Singapore via Denpasar (Bali) with Jetstar.
Driving from Sydney
When driving from Sydney, head up the M1 to Newcastle and then follow the signs to Port Stephens. Keep an eye out for the dinosaur at Somersby on the motorway.
Driving from Coffs Harbour
When driving south from Coffs Harbour, follow the M1 south and turn left at Medowie Road, just after the truck weigh station. Follow Medowie Road until you reach Richardson Road where you turn left. If you come through in the late afternoon, you can see kangaroos at the Alexander Park Dressage Club just before you reach the BP. Turn left at the BP and follow Nelson Bay Road until you reach your destination.
Public Transport
Public transport is limited but it is possible to catch a train to Hamilton Station in Newcastle. From there, jump on the 130 bus (Fingal Bay). Trip Planner | transportnsw.info for timetable information.
When to visit
Anytime is a great time to visit Port Stephens.
Summer December to February is 18-28°C and perfect for water activities and enjoying the beaches. Water temperature is on average 22°C. Port Stephens is particularly busy due to the Christmas school holidays (Christmas until end of January). Booking accommodation well in advance is advised. Parking at beaches can be difficult particularly at Birubi and One Mile Beaches.
Autumn (March – May) sunny days are followed by cooler nights – making it ideal for outdoor activities such as fishing, sailing and dune adventures. Autumn temperatures fall between 12-24°C
Winter (June – August) It’s whale watching season! It is generally sunny with comfortable but cooler temperatures of 9-18°C.
Spring (September – November) offers sunny days followed by mild warmer evenings. September is the perfect time to enjoy cycling, walking and the National Parks with temperatures between 13-25°C.
CLICK HERE to check of the weather temperatures, rainfall, winds and tides
Where to stay in Port Stephens
Ramada Resort by Wyndham – Shoal Bay
Port Stephens Hotel by Ramada Resort Shoal Bay
Ramada Resort by Wyndham is centrally located above the restaurant strip overlooking stunning Shoal Bay. The resort features
- an outdoor pool which is sheltered from the wind,
- an indoor heated 25m lap pool,
- 3 spas,
- gymnasium,
- restaurants and bars
Oaks Pacific Blue Resort, Salamander Bay
Oaks Pacific Blue Resort, Salamander Bay is set amidst lush tropical gardens and boasts Australia’s largest swimming pool! Perfect for the kids. There is a range of room types, including studios and one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. Perfect for the family.
Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach
Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach has a beachfront location and access to the beautiful 1.6km One Mile Beach and Surf School. There is an array of accommodation options, from luxury villas to cabins for every budget and of course, caravanning and camping sites.
Shoal Bay Holiday Park
Shoal Bay Holiday Park | Port Stephens Accommodation | Beachside Holiday Parks
Located opposite Shoal Bay, Shoal Bay Holiday Park is a 2 minute walk from restaurants and bars. The park features include:
- BBQ and picnic facilities,
- camp kitchen
- kids club during school holidays
- and is pet friendly
Day 1 – Explore Shoal Bay
Sunrise at Zenith Beach
If you are into sunrises (personally I like my sleep) or looking for that insta photo, head to Zenith Beach for an unforgettable sunrise over Tomaree Headland.
Breakfast at Mermaids
Enjoy breakfast and coffee at Mermaids, overlooking stunning Shoal Bay. Make sure to fuel your body as numerous adventures await.
Climb Tomaree Headland
Hope you have your walking shoes on, water and your camera because we are headed up Tomaree Headland – everyone’s bucket list experience when visiting Port Stephens.
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.
Look 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 Beach.
Port Stephens is located in the middle of the humpback highway. From May to November you can see humpback and southern right whales from Tomaree. Look for their spouts, tail slaps or if you are lucky, a breaching whale.
On the way down, take a right at the bottom of the last set of metal stairs. This track will take you to the historic World War II gun emplacements.
Swim at Shoal Bay
Once you get to the bottom, it’s time for a swim. The north end of Shoal Bay is perfect for small children and non-swimmers as the beach gently drops away into the crystal clear waters. If you have snorkelling gear, swim along the rock wall. If you have bigger kids, join the locals to jump off the jetty. The water is deep here, almost impossible to reach the bottom so this is for competent swimmers.
Grab a bite to eat at the Diner
For lunch head to The Diner, located behind the main shops opposite the caravan park. The Diner is straight out of the ’60s. It’s like stepping onto the set of Happy Days. They even have a juke box. I recommend the loaded fries. Amazing!
Go Kayaking
Visit Shoal Bay SUP near the IGA, to hire a crystal clear kayak (you can see straight down into the water over which you are kayaking) and explore the clear waters of Shoal Bay. Alternatively, you may wish to have a go at Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Boarding. It’s harder than it looks. Bookings are recommended in high season.
Eat at the Game Fishing Club
After all that exercise, you will be starving. I recommend dinner at the Port Stephens Game Fishing Club. These guys know how to cook fish and the servings are huge. The calamari is huge – I mean it is a tower of calamari.
Watch the Sunset
Wander down to the beach to watch the sun sink over the hills, turning the sky from vibrant blue to burning orange, then pink through to purples. Watch as the stars start to twinkle in the sky.
Day 2 – Sand Dunes
Don’t plan this for Wednesday. The camels don’t work on hump day.
Unlimited Sandboarding
It’s time to go sandboarding! Meet the Sandboarding Safari guys at Birubi Beach. They will drive you out to the sand dunes where you have UNLIMITED sandboarding. That is, as long as you can keep climbing the sand dunes. Talk about value for money!
Oh, just a heads up, you will get sand everywhere, places where sand shouldn’t be and you will need a shower afterwards. Showers are available at Birubi Surf Club.
Lunch at Crest, Birubi
Enjoy a meal at Crest Birubi Beach, with excellent bistro meals and share plates in an open air terrace and beach views. It’s open from 8am – 3pm daily. It’s very popular and bookings are recommended on weekends and school holidays. If it is booked out, you can also get a bite to eat at the Surf Club Cafe.
Ride a Camel
You don’t need to go to Broome to ride camels on the beach. You can do it right here in Port Stephens!
Experience the thrill of the ships of the desert on an adventure daytime or sunset camel ride over the vast sand dunes of Port Stephens. Oakfield Ranch operates camel rides every day except for hump day (that’s Wednesday). Sunset Camel Rides (1 hour) must be pre-booked otherwise just wander down to Birubi Beach between 10am and 3.30pm for a 20 minute ride.
Swim at Birubi Beach
Complete your afternoon with a swim at Birubi Beach. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards from September to April. Remember always swim between the flags.
Eat at Anna Bay Tavern
I guarantee you have worked up an appetite. Head for Anna Bay Tavern which has a huge, shaded beer garden with children’s play area and big screen TV. The pub style food is fantastic, and the vibe chilled out and relaxed.
Day 3 -Take a Cruise
Whale watching
Remember how I mentioned that Port Stephens is in the middle of the humpback highway? It’s time to go for a cruise 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.
Port Stephens: 2.5 hour Whale Watching and Outer Island Cruise
Whale Watching – Nelson Bay, New South Wales | Moonshadow – TQC Cruises
Cruise on a 30m catamaran through the stunning scenery of Port Stephens and the outer islands. Along with whales, you also have the chance to see huge pods (100 to a pod) of oceanic dolphins, offshore sea birds and other species of whales including pilot, minke and brydes.
Look up above Cabbage Tree Island to see awesome white bellied sea eagles souring in the breeze. They are easily identified by their wings forming a U shape. With a wing-span of 2.2m and standing height of 90cm, these are impressive creatures are the second biggest bird of prey in Australia behind the wedge tailed eagle.
Dolphin Watching
If it’s not whale watching season, a cruise around the harbour to meet some of the local 140 dolphins.
Snorkelling Dolphin Cruise Nelson Bay Port Stephens
Embark on a 3 1/2 hr sailing adventure on Imagine, a 54ft sailing catarmaran. On this eco-tourism adventure, you will sail around Cabbage Tree and Fingal Islands where you can snorkel in protected cove. Your snorkel guide will introduce you to fish, sea urchins, soft corals and rays. Remember to keep an eye out dolphins at any time and for seals on Cabbage Tree Island. Back on board, you can relax in the dry bow net positioned close to the water or go for a ride in the boom net where you’ll get wet.
Dolphin Cruises – Nelson Bay, New South Wales | Moonshadow – TQC Cruises
Cruise around the eastern harbour for 1 1/2 hours on one of the biggest boats in the bay. Take in the sights of Tomaree and Yaccaba Headlands, Shoal Bay and the eastern harbour. Keep an eye out for our friendly dolphins.
Tips to avoid sea sickness.
- Look out to the horizon and look for whales and dolphins. This will help you brain, eyes and ears to figure out which way is up.
- Eat a good breakfast – not too fatty
- Stay hydrated – nothing worse than heading out to sea with a hangover!
- Take seasickness tablets before you leave. They take 15 minutes to start working. There are 2 types of Travacalm available from the chemist. (They are not sold in supermarkets. Grrrrr.) The original blue one, I find works best. There is also a ginger based one, but this doesn’t work so good in my opinion. The cruise operators should also have sea sickness tablets available on board.
- Stand outside with the breeze in your face. Front of the boat is the best spot anyway for spotting wildlife.
Lunch at Bub’s Famous Fish and Chips
Stop in at Bub’s Famous Fish and Chips at the marina for a bite to eat. Sit in the alfresco dining area overlooking the marina whilst you indulge in a seafood platter.
Explore Nelson Bay Township with a Scavenger Hunt
Drop into the Visitors Centre and 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.
Visit the Lollybug
It’s like being at the Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory!
It is easy to spend an hour here exploring the kaleidoscope of colours and flavours of different American and British lollies, different flavoured drinks, chilli sauces with a hotness rating of 9/10, HOT Doritos with a warning label.
Visit the Fish Co-op
Right next to Bub’s, is the local fish co-op. Just the place to purchase fresh local seafood such as prawns, lobsters and oysters for a seafood dinner picnic on the foreshore.
Eat Oysters or Prawns
There is nothing better than having a relaxing picnic of oysters or prawns overlooking the water, watching the boats come into the marina. If you are lucky, a seal, dolphins or even a pair of little penguins may come for a visit.
Zone Out Arcade and Ice Cream
Still got energy to burn – take the kids to D’Albora Marina to Zone Out Arcade.
Afterwards, treat yourself to an ice cream from the Ice Creamery opposite.
Day 4 – Get Active
OMG! So much amazing food. Today is the day to burn it all off with some really fun activities for everyone – not just the kids.
Learn to Surf at One Mile Beach
One Mile Beach has a nice gentle break for beginner surfers and a section closer to the headland for more advanced surfers. If you think surfing looks like fun, it is. It’s not just for the kids. Why not give it a go with Port Stephens Surf School. These guys are excellent and will get you surfing the waves on your first lesson.
Ride the Toboggan
Toboggan Hill Park has a toboggan run that goes from the very top of the hill, through the trees all the way to the bottom with lots of twists and turns. It’s better than the toboggan run at the Big Banana, Coffs Harbour.
Not only do they have the toboggan, there is
- a giant maze,
- putt putt golf,
- indoor rock climbing
- roller skating
- a train to get to the maze and toboggan
- and a pavillion with arcade style games
Pat a Stingray at Irukandji
Get up and personal with sharks and rays and other marine creatures at Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters. Why not have a Little Ray Cuddle where the rays come and sit on your lap! It’s totally safe as their barbs have been removed. Or maybe be more adventurous and snorkel with a Zebra Shark (+6 years). You’ll be talking about it for years!
Eat at Salamander Hotel
I’m sure the kids are going to say they want Macca’s for dinner, after all it’s just down the road but so is the Salamander Hotel which has the best burgers in town. They are huge! Try our family favourite, the Juicy Lucy. They also have a kid’s playground that is better than the one at Macca’s.
Day 5 – Fly Point and Little Beach
This is a great chill out day.
Feed the Fish at Fly Point
Fly Point Aquatic Park has some of the best snorkeling and SCUBA diving in NSW and is rated the best shore dive in NSW. You can learn to SCUBA. take a guided your or hire snorkeling gear from Let’s Go Adventures or Feet First Dive.
I love snorkeling here. There are heaps of fish – bream, flathead, parrotfish, I’ve even seen a wobbegong. Last time I was here, I swam out near the red marker and the dolphins came within 5m of me! I could even here them talking under the water.
Fly Point Aquatic Park is located at Neil Carroll Park. When you get to the park and parking bays, look to the right 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.
Remember to look up. I have seen a koala in the trees at the top of the access path!
Lunch at the Inner Light Tearooms
The Inner Light Tea Rooms are located at the at the top of a steep driveway to the Marine Rescue Radio towers accessed from the Little Beach Boat Ramp carpark – just above Halifax Holiday Park.
The views here are fantastic and the food is fabulous. It’s the perfect spot for breakfast, brunch or lunch. Make sure you book as it is a local favourite and gets booked out on weekends.
Explore the Nelson Head Lighthouse Museum
Nelson Head Lighthouse was established in 1872 with the first light shone through the octagonal lantern room in 1876. Whilst the lighthouse is no longer active, it still provides a vital role keeping mariners safe as the home to Port Stephens Marine Rescue.
For a small gold coin donation, you can walk through the original lightroom and lightkeeper’s cottage, learn about the history of the lighthouse through a collection of antiques and nautical memorabilia.
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!
Swim at Little Beach
Little Beach Reserve is one of my favourite places. So beautiful that we chose to get married right on its golden sands!
A large grassy picnic area leading down to the sandy beach and calm water. There is a netted swimming area with disabled access directly into the water. There are toilets, showers, picnic facilities and a playground and is a great spot for families.
Dine at the Little Beach Boathouse
If you are looking to spoil someone, then Little Beach Boathouse is the place to go. Overlooking Little Beach Reserve and Port Stephens, sit back and watch the sky change from brilliant blue to soft pastels as the sun says good night whilst enjoying a meal of modern Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and local produce. Explore Hunter Valley Wines or Australian craft beers including a selection from Port Stephens’ very own Murray Brewery beers.
Your 5-Day Port Stephens Adventure Awaits
Five days in Port Stephens is just enough time to fall completely in love with this coastal paradise-and to start planning your return. From turquoise bays and sweeping sand dunes to fresh seafood, sunset lookouts, and wildlife encounters, the region blends relaxation with adventure in a way few destinations can match. Whether you spent your mornings chasing dolphins, your afternoons discovering hidden beaches, or your evenings indulging in local flavours, Port Stephens has a way of slowing you down and filling your days with simple, sun-soaked joy.
If this itinerary helped you map out your perfect escape, let me know in the comments-or share your own favourite spots. And if you’re still deciding whether Port Stephens deserves a place on your travel bucket list, trust me: once you’re standing on those golden shores, you’ll understand why so many travellers keep coming back.
If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with your fellow travellers, friends or anyone planning a coastal getaway – it really helps support the blog and spread the love for this beautiful region.
Until your next adventure-happy exploring!
PS. Here are 10 Free Things to do in Port Stephens and Port Stephens Best Kept Secret – Tilligerry Peninsular
