Port Stephens is the most dramatically varied of NSW's coastal weekend destinations — towering sand dunes, one of Australia's largest resident dolphin pods, exceptional oysters harvested directly from the bay, and Rick Stein's restaurant making it a genuine foodie destination.
Stockton Bight Sand Dunes — What to Expect
The Stockton Bight sand dunes are the largest moving coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere — a vast, dramatic landscape that feels genuinely unexpected on the NSW coast. Sandboarding down the faces is exhilarating and available through several operators with equipment and transport included. Quad biking tours are also popular. The dunes are accessed from Anna Bay and the experience is completely unlike anything else within a day trip of Sydney.
Dolphin Watching at Port Stephens
Port Stephens has one of Australia's largest resident bottlenose dolphin pods — approximately 90 individuals who live permanently in the bay. Dolphin watching cruises from Nelson Bay wharf have a very high sighting rate. Sea kayaking puts you in the water with the dolphins at their level — the most intimate experience. Whale watching cruises operate May through November as humpbacks migrate along the coast.
Port Stephens Oysters
Port Stephens is one of Australia's finest oyster producing regions — the cold, clean waters of the bay produce oysters of exceptional quality. Several farms offer direct waterfront tastings where you can eat oysters just pulled from the water. The Port Stephens Oyster Trail is a self-drive route connecting multiple farms. An dozen oysters at a waterfront farm for A$20-25 is one of the great simple pleasures of regional NSW.
Where to Stay and Eat in Port Stephens
Stay in Shoal Bay rather than Nelson Bay if you want beach access — Shoal Bay is calmer, prettier and more sheltered. Bannisters Port Stephens has the best position in the region — clifftop luxury with Rick Stein's restaurant attached. Rick Stein is genuinely excellent — sustainable seafood with brilliant technique — but book well ahead as it's small. Murray's Craft Brewing in Bobs Farm is the best drinking option, with excellent food and beers brewed on site.