Port Stephens

Port Stephens, an easy two and a half hour drive north of Sydney, is known for its nature and abundance of aquatic and land activities on its uncrowded sandy beaches, sheltered bays and unspoilt national parks. The resident population of 140 bottlenose dolphins has earned Port Stephens the tag of Dolphin Capital of Australia. Plenty of dolphin cruises are available each day and it’s the premier spot along the NSW coast for whale watching from May to November. The town of Nelson Bay is at the eastern end of Port Stephens and offers restaurants and boutique shopping, as well as being the home of the Port Stephens fishing and dolphin watching fleet. Experience the excellent surf beaches in nearby Anna Bay, especially One Mile Beach which is a favourite for all those wanting that perfect wave. Nearby is the clothes optional Samurai Beach, a hidden oasis which can be found via a series of sandy paths that lead to the secluded beach. Explore the majestic and almost surreal sand dunes of Stockton Beach - the largest coastal sand dune system in Australia, a 32 kilometre stretch of sand with dunes that are at least 30 meters high. Discover this coastal desert wilderness by horse, camel, four-wheel drive, quad bike or simply by foot. Try sandboarding down the massive dune faces, it's an experience to remember. Uncover the remains of the Sygna Shipwreck that was wrecked off the coastline in 1974 and Tin City made up of several tin squatters’ huts that are located in the dunes, owned by weekend fisherman.