Located on the southern side of Port Stephens, Fingal Bay is a relaxed coastal village known for its spectacular surf beach, family-friendly atmosphere, scenic coastal walks, and stunning views towards Fingal Island. While many visitors head straight to Nelson Bay or Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay offers a quieter slice of paradise that’s perfect for beach holidays, nature lovers, families, and outdoor adventurers.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best things to do in Fingal Bay, where to stay, local tips, safety advice, and how to make the most of your visit.

If you’re planning a broader Port Stephens holiday, start with our Port Stephens Ultimate Travel Guide by a Local.

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Where is Fingal Bay?

Fingal Bay sits approximately 5km south of Nelson Bay and around 2.5 hours north of Sydney. It forms part of the Tomaree Peninsula and is surrounded by national park, pristine coastline, and some of the region’s most beautiful beaches.

Travelling from Sydney? Read our detailed guide on How to Get to Port Stephens from Sydney.

Why Visit Fingal Bay?

Fingal Bay offers:

One of the longest beaches in Port Stephens
Excellent surfing and bodyboarding
Coastal walking trails
Whale watching opportunities
Family-friendly swimming areas
Great fishing spots
Easy cycling access to Shoal Bay
Less crowds than neighbouring beaches

Its combination of natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere makes it one of the best places to stay in Port Stephens.

Best Time to Visit Fingal Bay

Fingal Bay is a year-round destination, but each season offers something different.

Summer (December – February)

Warm beach weather
Peak holiday season
Great for swimming and snorkelling

Autumn (March – May)

Pleasant temperatures
Fewer crowds
Excellent fishing conditions

Winter (June – August)

Whale watching season
Coastal walks are particularly enjoyable
Quieter accommodation options

Spring (September – November)

Wildflowers in nearby national parks
Mild temperatures
Great conditions for outdoor activities

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For a month-by-month breakdown, see our guide to the Best Time to Visit Port Stephens.

Top Things to Do in Fingal Bay

Relax at Fingal Beach

View looking through the trees to Fingal Beach — Fingal Beach from Barry Park

The star attraction is undoubtedly Fingal Beach, a stunning stretch of golden sand extending for over 1.5km.

The beach is patrolled during peak periods and offers excellent swimming conditions when surf conditions are calm.

Popular activities include:

Swimming
Surfing
Beach fishing
Sunrise walks
Dolphin spotting

Always swim between the flags and learn How to Identify a Rip in Australia before entering the water.

Visit Barry Park Lookout and the Cairn

One of the area’s best-kept secrets is Barry Park Lookout, located at the southern end of Fingal Bay.

2 girls admiring the view over Fingal Bay towards Fingal Island on a clear summer day from Barry Lookout — View from Barry Lookout over Fingal Bay towards Fingal Island

The short walk rewards visitors with panoramic views across:

Fingal Bay Beach
Fingal Island
Point Stephens Lighthouse
Tomaree National Park coastline

Nearby you’ll find The Cairn, a popular local landmark offering another excellent photo opportunity.

This is one of the best sunrise spots in Port Stephens.

Walk Part of the Tomaree Coastal Track

View of the ocean crashing into the cliffs at Iris Moore Lookout on the Tomaree Coastal Walk — View from Iris Moore Lookout on the Tomaree Coastal Walk

The Tomaree Coastal Walk passes through spectacular coastal scenery around Fingal Bay.

Highlights include:

Rocky headlands
Ocean lookouts
Native wildlife
Seasonal whale sightings

Bring water and sturdy footwear, especially during warmer months.

Cycle to Shoal Bay

Shoal Bay and Port Stephens Eastern Harbour as viewed from Tomaree Headland — Shoal Bay

A popular local activity is cycling from Fingal Bay to Shoal Bay via the shared pathways and cycleways.

The route is approximately 6km one way and suitable for most fitness levels.

You’ll pass through:

Bushland reserves
Coastal suburbs
Scenic viewpoints

Once you arrive, Discover Shoal Bay with our travel guide.

Go Snorkelling

Fingal Bay offers several calm-water snorkelling opportunities during suitable conditions.

You may encounter:

Bream
Leatherjackets
Blue gropers
Rays
Small reef fish

Morning generally offers the best visibility.

Explore the Rock Pools

Rockpools at Barry Point looking towards Fingal Beach — Explore the Rockpools at low tide

At low tide, rocky sections near the headlands reveal fascinating marine life.

Look for:

Sea stars
Crabs
Shellfish
Small fish species

This activity is particularly popular with families and young children.

Fishing Around Fingal Bay

Fingal Bay is one of Port Stephens’ most popular fishing locations.

Common catches include:

Tailor
Bream
Whiting
Flathead
Australian salmon (seasonal)

Popular locations include:

Beach gutters
Rocky headlands
Nearby estuary areas

Boat Ramps Near Fingal Bay

2 Kayakers using the Fingal Beach boat access ramp to carry their kayak onto the sand on a perfect sunny day — Fingal Beach Boat Ramp

Boating is extremely popular throughout Port Stephens. You may drive on to Fingal Beach to launch small craft. Cars and trailers must not be parked on the beach.

For larger boats, launching options are located at

Nelson Bay Boat Ramp
Little Beach Boat Ramp
Soldiers Point facilities

Check our complete guide to Boat Ramps in Port Stephens before launching.

Whale Watching

Between May and November, migrating humpback whales can often be spotted from the coastline around Fingal Bay.

Barry Park and nearby headlands provide excellent land-based viewing locations. Binoculars are recommended.

For cruises and whale watching tips, read our guide to Whale Watching in Port Stephens.

Fingal Island and Fingal Spit Safety Warning

One of Fingal Bay’s most photographed features is Fingal Island, connected to the mainland by a narrow sand formation known as Fingal Spit.

While the spit may appear accessible at low tide, conditions can change rapidly.

Discover Fingal Island safely with Aquamarine Adventures Fingal Island Eco-Tour and Lighthouse Tour.

Important Safety Advice

Do not attempt to walk across Fingal Spit.

The spit is notoriously dangerous has been responsible for numerous rescues (I’ve personally rescued 3 people) and 21 drownings due to:

Rapid tidal changes
Strong currents
Large waves
Unexpected wash-overs

The safest way to enjoy the view is from the shoreline, Barry Park, or a boat.

Visitors should admire Fingal Island from a distance and follow local warning signs at all times.

Family-Friendly Things to Do in Fingal Bay

A family group of Eastern Grey Kangaroos keeping a watchful eye at dusk

Families love Fingal Bay because it offers:

Safe beach areas
Rock pool exploration
Coastal bike rides
Picnic facilities
Playground nearby
Wildlife spotting

Make the most of your holiday with these guides

Free Things to Do in Fingal Bay

Many of the area’s best experiences cost nothing:

Walk Fingal Beach
Visit Barry Park Lookout
Explore rock pools
Whale spotting
Coastal photography
Cycle to Shoal Bay
Beach fishing. Get your fishing licence before throwing a line. Kids are not required to have a fishing licence. Bait is available at the Metro Service Station.

For more ideas, read our guide to Free Things to Do in Port Stephens.

Nearby Attractions

Stockton Sand Dunes

A short drive away, the Stockton Bight Sand Dunes offer:

Sandboarding
Camel rides
Horse riding on the beach
4WD tours
Cultural experiences
Photography opportunities

Read our complete guide to the Stockton Sand Dunes.

Nelson Bay

Nelson Bay is the gateway to Port Stephens with D’Albora Marina at its heart.

Fish Feeding Station at D'Albora Marina, Port Stephens — Fish Feeding Station at the Marina

You’ll find:-

shopping,
restaurants serving delicious seafood,
the fisherman’s co-op for local fresh seafood,
entertainment
weekend markets
a playground for the kids to play on
and the meeting point for dolphin and whale watching cruises and sunset cruises.

Shoal Bay

Shoal Bay is known for its crystal-clear calm waters, white sandy beach and waterfront dining. Kids love to jump off the jetty – it’s really deep.

Discover Shoal Bay with our guide.

Best Beaches Near Fingal Bay

Pathway leading to Zenith Beach on Tomaree Coastal walk — Pathway leading to Zenith Beach

While Fingal Beach is exceptional, nearby options include:

Shoal Bay Beach
Zenith Beach
Box Beach
Samurai Beach
Dutchmans Beach

See our complete guide to the Best Beaches in Port Stephens.

Where to Eat Near Fingal Bay

While Fingal Bay has a handful of local cafes and takeaway options, many visitors head to nearby Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay for dining.

Local options include

Fingal Bay Sports Club – voted by locals as having one of the best chicken schnitzels in the Bay Area. It also has a dog-friendly outdoor eating area.

Saltwater Restaurant is one of the best seafood restaurants in Port Stephens. It is located above the surf lifesaving club and has sweeping views of the bay. It is a popular venue for wedding receptions.

If you are looking for excellent seafood, and Saltwater Restaurant is closed for a private function, our Best Seafood Restaurants in Port Stephens provides some excellent alternatives.

Longboat Cafe is located at the surf club and is the go-to location for your morning coffee with a view.

Fingal Bay Cafe and Take Away is located in the small shopping street and serves typical take away foods including burgers and fish and chips.

Porto Azzurro is the local Italian restaurant, recently under new management, I’ve heard good things from locals.

Whilst the options are limited, nearby Shoal Bay provides a wider selection.

Where to Stay in Fingal Bay

FIngal BEach looking towards Fingal Spit and Fingal Island on a stormy day — Fingal Beach

Fingal Bay Holiday Park

One of the most popular places to stay is the Fingal Bay Holiday Park. It’s located directly opposite the beach. Perfect for:

Self-catering holidays
Families
Road trippers
Travelling with dogs

Facilities include:-

Free amenities
Camp kitchen
Free BBQ
Playground
Resort style pool
Free WiFi. Please note that during school holidays and long weekends, the internet in Port Stephens becomes overloaded (it doesn’t matter where you stay or live) and reception may be slow or unreliable.

There is no cafe or restaurant on site. Food trucks may visit during holiday periods.

Dogs are permitted if you are staying in your own tent or caravan. Check with the park first as restrictions may apply in peak holiday periods.

Check availability to stay at Fingal Bay Holiday Park.

Seaside Holiday Apartments

Seaside Holiday Apartments provides air-conditioned self-contained apartments with private patios.

Perfect for:

Families
Longer stays
Self-catering holidays

Facilities include:-

2 swimming pools
Children’s playground
Free BBQ and picnic facilities
Free WiFi. Please note that during school holidays and long weekends, the internet in Port Stephens becomes overloaded (it doesn’t matter where you stay or live) and reception may be slow or unreliable.

Check availability to stay at Seaside Holiday Resort.

Holiday Homes

Popular among larger groups looking for:

Multiple bedrooms
Outdoor entertaining areas
Walking distance to the beach

Check out the available options with this interactive map.

Reviews and Recent Photos

Consider Your Holiday Style

The best holiday home isn’t necessarily the most expensive—it’s the one that suits your plans.

Beach lovers may prefer beachfront accommodation.
Families often benefit from larger homes with outdoor space.
Couples may enjoy apartments with ocean views.
Adventure seekers may prioritise access to walking trails, cycling routes and water activities.

Before booking:

Read recent guest reviews
Check for comments about cleanliness
Confirm amenities are current
Look at recent photos of the property and views

Local Tip

If you’re visiting during school holidays, Christmas, Easter or whale watching season, book well in advance. Fingal Bay accommodation is popular and the best-located properties can sell out months ahead.

Sample Fingal Bay Itineraries

Depending on how long you’re staying, consider these detailed guides:

Local Tips for Visiting Fingal Bay

Arrive early during summer holidays for parking.
Check surf conditions before swimming.
Carry water when walking coastal trails.
Visit Barry Park at sunrise.
Explore rock pools at low tide.
Never attempt to cross Fingal Spit.
Keep an eye out for dolphins year-round.
Winter is one of the best seasons for whale watching.

Planning a Trip to Fingal Bay?

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape or a longer Port Stephens holiday, Fingal Bay offers the perfect mix of stunning beaches, coastal walks, wildlife encounters and family-friendly adventures.

If you found this guide helpful, share it with your friends and family who are planning a trip to Port Stephens. It might just help them discover one of the region’s most beautiful coastal destinations.

If you’re planning to explore beyond Fingal Bay, don’t miss our Port Stephens Ultimate Travel Guide by a Local for even more beaches, attractions and local tips.

Happy exploring! 🌊🐬☀️