Things to do in Nelson Bay

Tucked into the heart of Port Stephens, just a few hours from both Sydney and Newcastle, you’ll find a coastal treasure brimming with natural beauty and a relaxed seaside charm. Nelson Bay is the perfect place for a day trip or holiday, so whether you’re visiting for a romantic escape, a family getaway or a weekend of outdoor adventure, this picturesque town will send you on an unforgettable adventure.

Marine sanctuaries, white sandy beaches, whale watching, boutique shopping – it’s all here and more. So let’s take a look at some of the top things to do in Nelson Bay.

1. Spot dolphins and whales in the wild
Port Stephens is a favourite spot for dolphins, with pods of bottlenose dolphins living in the bay year-round. One of the most popular activities in Nelson Bay is jumping on a cruise to see them up close. There are several tour operators that do daily dolphin cruises, with some even giving you the chance for a wild dolphin swim experience – a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be in the water with these playful creatures.

In the cooler season, from late May to early November, whale watching becomes the star attraction. Migrating humpbacks pass right by the coast, and whether you’re on a cruise or watching from lookouts like Tomaree Head or Boat Harbour, the sight of a breaching whale is unforgettable.

2. Explore Tomaree National Park
If you want a taste of nature at its very best, Tomaree National Park is a real slice of paradise. A protected area that’s rich in natural bushland, coastline trails and panoramic viewpoints, here you can enjoy iconic hikes like the Tomaree Head Summit Walk, which is a short but steep trail leading to arguably the best coastal vista in the country. From the top, you can look out across Zenith Beach, Wreck Beach, Fingal Spit and even spot migrating whales during the right season.

For a more secluded experience, hike to Stephens Peak for a hidden gem. It’s a little-known trail that will give you some incredible views and plenty of solitude, with fewer visitors and an overabundance of native wildlife.

3. Relax on beautiful beaches
There’s no shortage of postcard-perfect beaches in the Nelson Bay area, with each one offering something a little different:

• Little Beach: Calm and protected, which means it’s great for young kids and families.
• Birubi Beach: A gateway to the sand dunes and excellent for surfing as well as horse riding.
• One Mile Beach: Patrolled and perfect for swimming, surfing, sandcastles and more.

Zenith and Wreck Beaches: More secluded, with dramatic bushland and excellent picnic spots.

4. Ride the sand dunes at Birubi Beach
The Worimi Conservation Lands, home to the Stockton Sand Dunes, stretch from Birubi Beach across 32 kilometres and contain the largest moving coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. The towering dunes produce a real desert-meets-ocean thrill and can be explored via 4WD, camel ride or a high-octane quad biking adventure.

Both families and thrill-seekers will love sandboarding down the slopes during a guided tour. It’s the perfect mix of fun and stunning scenery.

5. Visit the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
Set among bushland just off Salamander Way, the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary is a must-visit for families and nature lovers. Dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of koalas, it’s a peaceful retreat with elevated boardwalks, educational exhibits and – most important of all – the chance to see koalas in their natural environment.

6. Cruise the bay or ferry to Tea Gardens
Hop aboard a scenic cruise from d’Albora Marinas to see Nelson Bay from the water. You can choose from dolphin cruises, lunch cruises or a lovely ferry ride to Tea Gardens, where you can explore another quaint town on the opposite side of the bay.

A boat trip is the best way to appreciate the bay’s sheer scale and unending beauty – boasting sparkling blue waters and abundant marine life.

7. Dive or snorkel at Fly Point Marine Sanctuary
Nelson Bay has some of the best shoreline diving in NSW, with Fly Point being a major standout. It’s just between Nelson Bay Beach and Little Beach, so you can expect this protected marine sanctuary to be full of colour and life. Divers and snorkellers will spot seahorses, rays, wobbegongs, octopus and large schools of fish swimming through kelp forests.

Gear rental is available close by, or you can join a guided tour for expert insights. It’s perfect for both those who are new to diving as well as experienced underwater explorers.

8. Indulge in the local food scene
Food is part of the Nelson Bay lifestyle, and there’s no shortage of places to enjoy a great meal. Some of our top picks are:

• Little Beach Boathouse for fresh seafood with waterfront views.
• The Little Nel for modern brunch classics and artisanal coffee.
• B Farm by Murray’s for craft beer and gourmet burgers.
• Red Neds Gourmet Pie Bar for flavour-packed pastry delights.
• Holberts Oyster Farm in Salamander Bay for fresh, shuck-your-own oysters.

9. Go horse riding on the beach
For something to do that’s really memorable, why not go for a horse ride along Birubi Beach? There are plenty of local businesses that do guided beach rides suitable for beginners and experienced riders. Just picture it: trotting through the surf with the sun setting over the dunes – it’s one of those Nelson Bay experiences that feels completely magical.

10. Enjoy family fun at Toboggan Hill Park
Perfect for a day of active play, Toboggan Hill Park has a huge range of activities for families and kids – everything from tobogganing down winding metal tracks to mini-golf, tractor rides, laser tag and gemstone panning. It’s a one-stop shop for entertaining the kids while you enjoy the relaxed charm of Port Stephens.

11. Check out the Nelson Bay Marina and town centre
d’Albora Marinas is the social hub of Nelson Bay and therefore perfect for a stroll along the waterfront – gelato in hand, of course. Enjoy a few boutique stores and art galleries, or indulge at a local cafe or restaurant along the shoreline.

Don’t miss the Artisan Collective gallery, where you can shop for high-quality handmade pieces from local creatives. It’s a great place to find a souvenirs and support the local arts community.

12. Watch the sunset at Gan Gan Lookout
For truly panoramic views across Port Stephens, head to Gan Gan Lookout. It’s just a short drive from town and will offer up sweeping scenes of the bay, dunes and distant headlands, which are especially breathtaking as the skies shift from blue to amber at dusk. Bring a picnic or a camera and just soak in one of the best free vistas in the area.

13. Hit the greens at Nelson Bay Golf Club
Whether you’re a serious golfer or just heading here for the views, Nelson Bay Golf Club is a real treat. The 27-hole course carves through bushland and is frequented by kangaroos and other local fauna. The on-site bistro serves delicious meals too, so it’s a great lunch option even if you don’t tee off.

14. Browse the weekend markets
Every weekend, you’ll find a few different markets popping up around Nelson Bay, Salamander and Anna Bay. A great way to sample local produce, you can meet the makers and pick up handmade crafts, homewares and gourmet goodies. Spend a morning at the markets before heading off to explore more of the coastline.

Plan your Nelson Bay adventure
Just a few hours north of Sydney Harbour, Nelson Bay is a top NSW destination that has something for everyone – from the soft adventure of hiking and snorkelling to lazy days on the beach or indulging in freshly shucked oysters.

So pack your swimmers and a sense of adventure, then come see what Nelson Bay truly has to offer.