The Ultimate Guide to the 15 Best Beaches in Nelson Bay

From the calm, clear waters of a shallow bay perfect for families to the thrilling waves of popular surf beaches, there’s a perfect beach here for every type of traveller.

Port Stephens is home to an incredible 26 beaches, and Nelson Bay is the perfect base to explore them all. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or an adventurous trip with friends, our guide to the best beaches in Nelson Bay will help you discover your own slice of heaven. Get ready to explore the stunning coastline, from the iconic Shoal Bay Beach to the secluded sands of Wreck Beach.

Discover the Calm Waters of Port Stephens’ Bay Beaches
For those seeking tranquility, family-friendly swimming spots, and perfect conditions for stand-up paddleboarding, the bay beaches in and around Nelson Bay are unbeatable. These sheltered havens offer calm waters and picturesque scenery.

1. Shoal Bay Beach: The Jewel of Nelson Bay
No trip to Port Stephens is complete without a visit to Shoal Bay Beach. With its pristine white sand and breathtaking views of Tomaree Mountain, it’s easy to see why Shoal Bay is a favourite. The gentle, lapping waves make it an ideal family-friendly beach for swimming and paddling. You can hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the bay or simply relax on the golden sand. The area boasts excellent amenities, including picnic tables , cafes, and a well-equipped boat ramp. Strolling along the foreshore at sunset is a truly magical experience.

2. Little Beach: A Family Favourite
Nestled between Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay, Little Beach is a protected, north-facing haven perfect for families with young children. Its calm and clear waters are ideal for swimming, and the grassy area with picnic tables and a playground makes it a fantastic spot for a full day of fun. Little Beach also features a four-lane boat ramp, a café, and a restaurant, ensuring you have everything you need.

3. Dutchmans Beach (Dutchies): A Serene Escape
For a quieter, more secluded experience, head to Dutchmans Beach. This beautiful west-facing beach is a local secret, offering calm waters perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. Surrounded by lush parkland, it’s a wonderful spot for a picnic, with barbecue facilities and a playground available. The walk from Dutchies to Nelson Bay along the coastal path offers spectacular views.

4. Salamander Bay: Tranquility and Natural Beauty
Further west lies Salamander Bay, a long, peaceful stretch of sand with incredibly calm waters. It’s an excellent spot for swimming, fishing, and boating, with several boat ramps located along its shore. The beach is backed by a beautiful reserve, providing shade and a perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon.

5. Soldiers Point and Wanda Beach: Sunsets and Serenity
For the best sunset spot in Port Stephens , head to Soldiers Point. The aptly named Sunset Beach offers breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon. Nearby, Wanda Beach provides a long expanse of sand perfect for a leisurely walk. The waters at both Soldiers Point and Wanda Beach are typically calm, making them great for a peaceful swim. You’ll find a reliable boat ramp at Soldiers Point, which is a hub for boating enthusiasts.

6. Taylors Beach: A Quiet Boating Haven
For those who love boating, Taylors Beach is a must-visit. This quiet, residential beach has a fantastic boat ramp providing easy access to the pristine waters of Port Stephens. While it’s more of a functional beach for boaties, its calm waters still offer a pleasant spot for a dip away from the crowds.

Experience the Thrill of Port Stephens’ Surf Beaches
If you’re chasing waves, the surf beaches on the ocean-facing side of Port Stephens deliver in spades. From beginner-friendly breaks to waves for experienced surfers , the Pacific Ocean offers something for everyone.

7. One Mile Beach: A Surfer’s Paradise
One Mile Beach is one of the most popular surf beaches in Port Stephens, and for good reason. This stunning beach is patrolled during the summer months and offers excellent conditions for surfing, bodyboarding, and swimming. The southern end is more protected and suitable for families, while the northern end picks up more swell. A highlight is the incredible sand dune at the northern end, which is perfect for sandboarding. There is a surf club , kiosk, and car park for your convenience.

8. Birubi Beach and Stockton Sand Dunes: Adventure Awaits
Located in Anna Bay , Birubi Beach is the gateway to the magnificent Stockton Sand Dunes , the largest coastal sand dunes in the southern hemisphere. The beach itself is a popular surf spot and is patrolled daily. But the real adventure lies on the dunes. This is the only beach in Port Stephens where beach driving is permitted (with a permit). You can take a 4WD tour, go sandboarding, or enjoy one of the iconic camel rides at sunset. Birubi Beach is part of the Worimi Conservation Lands, a place of significant cultural heritage.

9. Fingal Bay Beach: A Picturesque Curve of Golden Sand
Fingal Bay offers a stunning, patrolled surf beach that is perfect for families and surfers alike. The gentle curve of the beach is sheltered by Fingal Head, creating relatively safe swimming conditions. At low tide , a sand bridge appears, connecting the beach to Fingal Island. While it’s tempting to walk across, be aware of the changing tides. The beach has a surf club, a great kids’ playground, and plenty of space to relax.

10. Box Beach: A Secluded Surfing Gem
Tucked away in the Tomaree National Park , Box Beach is a beautiful, unpatrolled beach known for its powerful waves. This spot is best suited for experienced surfers. The walk to the beach from the car park is short but rewarding, with spectacular views of the rugged coastline. It’s a great spot for fishing and photography, especially when the swell is up.

11. Zenith Beach: Dramatic Scenery
Nestled between Tomaree and Stephens Peak, Zenith Beach is arguably one of the most scenically spectacular beaches in Port Stephens. The views are simply breathtaking. While it’s a popular spot for sunbathing and beach fishing, the strong rips and currents make it hazardous for swimming. It’s a key point along the Tomaree Coastal Walk and a favourite for photographers.

The Secluded and Unique Beaches of Nelson Bay
For the explorers and adventurers, Nelson Bay and its surroundings hide some unique coastal treasures.

12. Wreck Beach: A Hidden Paradise
Accessible via a short but scenic walking track through the Tomaree National Park , Wreck Beach is a true hidden gem. This secluded cove offers pristine sand and crystal-clear water, making you feel a world away from everything. It’s unpatrolled, so swim with caution, but it’s the perfect beach for a romantic picnic or a quiet escape.

13. Samurai Beach: An Official Nudist Beach
For those who prefer to go au naturel, Samurai Beach is the area’s official nudist beach. Accessible only by 4WD, this beautiful and secluded surf beach offers a sense of freedom and privacy. Remember, you’ll need a Worimi Conservation Lands beach vehicle permit for access.

14. Boat Harbour Beach: Rockpools and Snorkelling
Boat Harbour Beach is a stunning, sheltered cove protected by rocky headlands, making it a fantastic spot for snorkelling. At low tide, the rock pools are teeming with marine life, and it’s not uncommon to spot Blue Gropers in the clear waters. The grassy picnic areas at Boat Harbour make it a lovely spot for a relaxed day by the sea.

15. One-Mile Beach and Zenith and Box Beaches: A Surfers Trio
While individually spectacular, the trio of One Mile Beach, Zenith, and Box beaches represents the best of the region’s surf culture. Exploring the walking tracks that connect these surf beaches is a fantastic way to experience the wild beauty of the Port Stephens coastline.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nelson Bay Beaches

Is it safe to swim at Port Stephens?
Yes, it is generally safe to swim at the Port Stephens beaches , especially the sheltered bay beaches like Shoal Bay and Little Beach. However, always be cautious. The surf beaches can have strong rips and currents. It’s always best to swim at patrolled beaches like Fingal Bay, One Mile Beach, and Birubi Beach, and always swim between the flags.

Where can you swim in Nelson Bay?
You can swim at most beaches in Nelson Bay. For calm, protected waters, Little Beach , Dutchmans Beach, and Shoal Bay Beach are the top choices. For surf swimming, stick to the patrolled areas at One Mile Beach and Fingal Bay.

Where is the best sunset spot in Port Stephens?
The most famous spot is Sunset Beach at Soldiers Point, but the sunset views from the Nelson Bay marina and along the Shoal Bay foreshore are also spectacular.

How many beaches does Port Stephens have?
Port Stephens is blessed with 26 stunning beaches, offering a huge variety of coastal experiences.

Where to park in Nelson Bay for free?
There are several free all-day and timed car parks in the Nelson Bay town centre and near the marina. You can also find free parking at most beaches, though the car park at popular spots like Shoal Bay and One Mile Beach can fill up quickly in summer.

Your Perfect Port Stephens Beach Holiday Awaits
With so many incredible beaches in Nelson Bay, your perfect coastal getaway is just a booking away. From the gentle waves of Shoal Bay to the adventurous sand dunes of Birubi Beach, Port Stephens offers a beach experience for everyone.

Ready to dive in? Book your stay with at Hotel Group and position yourself in the heart of this coastal paradise. Explore the best beaches Port Stephens has to offer and create memories that will last a lifetime.