Getting to Port Stephens and Nelson Bay from Sydney
Port Stephens and Nelson Bay are located approximately two hours’ drive from Sydney, making them an easy destination for a coastal getaway. The journey is straightforward, with the Pacific Highway providing convenient access from Sydney. As you approach Newcastle, follow the signs towards Nelson Bay after passing the Newcastle City exit.
Nelson Bay is approximately 50 kilometres from Newcastle, with the drive taking around 45 minutes. Along the way, you’ll begin to notice the landscape changing from urban surroundings to a more rural and coastal setting.
From the Nobby’s Beach area of Newcastle, you can already catch glimpses of the region’s impressive coastal landscapes and sand dunes. Continuing towards Port Stephens, the route offers a pleasant mix of countryside and developing landscapes. The area between Newcastle and Nelson Bay is undergoing considerable transformation, with new development appearing alongside established private farms, rural properties and vineyards.
The changing scenery makes the drive part of the experience, offering an interesting glimpse of the region’s transition from the outskirts of Newcastle to the picturesque coastal communities of Port Stephens and Nelson Bay.
The winding road to Nelson Bay takes you through Port Stephens, Port Anna, Salamander Bay and Soldiers Point, with plenty of accommodation options along the way. From budget-friendly backpacker hostels to serviced apartments and holiday homes, there is something to suit different types of travellers.
The area is particularly popular with weekend travellers from Sydney, and many properties are holiday homes used by families looking for a coastal getaway.
Some of the best accommodation options in Nelson Bay—including holiday homes, serviced apartments and motels—are within walking distance of Nelson Bay Marina (d’Albora Marinas). The marina is also a convenient base for exploring the area, as many tour operators depart from or stop near the waterfront.
If you are planning a dolphin-watching or whale-watching cruise, the marina area is especially convenient, as many operators depart from the nearby docks. Travellers arriving in Nelson Bay by bus may also find it easier to stay close to the marina and town centre, particularly if they plan to join boat tours or explore the waterfront on foot.
During the warmer months, the marina and surrounding waterfront become popular for swimming, kayaking and other water-based activities, making this a lively area to stay while exploring Nelson Bay and the wider Port Stephens region.
Family-Friendly Accommodation in Nelson Bay
When travelling with family, I chose Mantra Aqua Apartments in Nelson Bay, which proved to be a convenient base for exploring the area. The property is located about a five-minute walk from the Nelson Bay waterfront, making it easy to enjoy the marina, shops and restaurants without needing to drive.
The apartments are well suited to families, with two-bedroom apartments available from around $180, depending on the season and booking date. Guests also have access to facilities including a heated pool and spa, making it a relaxing option after a day of exploring Port Stephens.
The main shopping area nearby has a good selection of cafes, restaurants and everyday conveniences. There is also a Woolworths supermarket in the shopping centre, which is particularly useful if you are staying for several days and prefer to prepare some meals yourself.
For travellers looking for more affordable options, you can also compare budget hostel accommodation and rates through Hostelworld.
Nelson Bay offers plenty of activities for families throughout the year. The Marina area has a number of chartered tour operators who conduct Whale Watching Tours, Fishing Tours, Lunch Cruises and Customized tours based on your group size and interest.
Nelson Bay Marina has the main notice board advertising a number of activities for the visitors. Private charters can be organized for large groups to enjoy customized tours of these interesting parts of NSW.
Toboggan Hill Park at Nelson Bay
Toboggan Hill Park is a popular family attraction in Nelson Bay, offering a variety of indoor and outdoor activities for children and adults. The park features toboggan rides, Gyro Extreme, mini golf and indoor roller skating, making it a fun option when travelling with kids.
Family passes and individual ride tickets are available, with prices varying depending on the number of people and activities selected. At the time of writing, a family pass for four was around $108, while individual rides started at approximately $5. It is worth checking the latest prices before visiting, as ticket options and costs can change.
If you are spending a weekend in Nelson Bay with the family, Toboggan Hill Park is an entertaining addition to your itinerary, particularly if you are looking for activities beyond the beaches and waterfront.
The Gan Gan Lookout
Located on Lily Hill Road, Gan Gan Lookout sits at one of the highest points in the Nelson Bay area and offers impressive panoramic views across Nelson Bay and Port Stephens.
On a clear day, you can enjoy views extending towards Hawks Nest and Tomaree National Park. The lookout is easily accessible from the nearby car park, making it a convenient stop for visitors who want to enjoy the scenery without undertaking a long walk.
Ferry Services Around Port Stephens
Ferry services provide another enjoyable way to experience the waterways around Port Stephens, with connections between Nelson Bay, Tea Gardens and surrounding coastal areas.
A ferry trip offers a different perspective of the region, with opportunities to enjoy scenic views along the coastline and waterways. Tea Gardens, located on the Myall River, is also worth exploring if your itinerary allows time for a stop.
Cruise and ferry schedules vary depending on the season and service, so it is advisable to check the latest timetable and ticket prices before travelling. Sunset cruises are particularly appealing for visitors looking to combine sightseeing with an evening on the water.
Sand Dunes at Port Stephens, NSW
The spectacular sand dunes of Port Stephens are among the region’s most distinctive natural attractions. Stretching along the coastline, the dunes provide a dramatic backdrop for a range of outdoor adventures, including sandboarding and dune safaris, as well as camel and horse rides offered by local operators.
The area can become particularly busy on weekends and during school holidays, so arriving early can help you avoid some of the crowds.
If you are planning an adventure among the dunes, tours and activities can be booked online in advance. Check the available experiences, schedules and current prices before your visit.
A camel ride costs around $20, while a sand dune safari is approximately $20, with sandboard hire available for around $15. If you are planning to explore the dunes, dress casually and wear comfortable clothing, as climbing up and down the soft sand can be surprisingly tiring!
Despite the effort, the experience is great fun for families and children. Sliding down the dunes on a sandboard and enjoying a camel ride makes for an exciting Port Stephens adventure and a memorable addition to your holiday.
Another fascinating experience is the shark and ray encounter at Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters. The facility allows visitors to get up close to a variety of marine creatures in large pools. Guests can put on waders and enter the water for a hands-on encounter with sharks, stingrays and other fascinating marine life.
It is not only an exciting experience but also a great educational opportunity for children and adults, offering visitors the chance to learn more about these remarkable creatures while seeing them up close.
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