Port Stephens' most iconic seaside venue continues to be a go-to for all occasions
When you think of the Bay – Port Stephens, that is – a few things instantly come to mind: hiking up Tomaree Head, lazing on white sandy beaches, cruising with dolphins, tackling the iconic dunes, and of course, Shoal Bay Country Club (SBCC).
Since the 1930's SBCC has been that place locals and travellers have gravitated towards, keen to pull up a chair after a hard days work, or sundrenched day at the beach. Now, 90 years on the SBCC is still that place, and much more.
Evolving into something much bigger, the SBCC's most recent iteration has cemented its reputation as a go-to destination for everyone, and all occasions.
Walking up the much photographed staircase to the Patio for lunch, the new renos are instantly obvious. Not only is there a refreshed new feel, but there's a whole lot more space.
The extended area now fits an extra 40 seats, much needed when the summer season kicks in, creating a whole lot more room, and more importantly, making sure the most is made of those stunning coastal views.
Little tip: You can’t book a table in the Patio, but if you arrive right when the doors open at 11:30am, make a beeline for that corner spot – it’s the best seat in the house. With uninterrupted views across Shoal Bay, life really doesn’t get much better.
Along with the interior renos the menu has also been given an update and features a mix of fresh local seafood, seasonal produce, and a few SBCC classics that the team can't take off the menu.
If you’re keen to fully embrace the seafood theme, as we were, it’s hard to go past the platters. For groups of up to four, the Deluxe Seafood Platter is the pick; for two, opt for the Chilled Seafood Platter. Both make an impressive statement, featuring Balmain bugs, Australian prawns, kingfish ceviche, marinated mussels, and of course, the freshest Port Stephens oysters.
Downstairs, the Courtyard now has a fully retractable roof and massive 6.5-metre screen, making it the kind of space that works year-round – from hot summer nights to those crisp winter days.
The Courtyard is also where you'll catch some of the biggest names in Australian music, with the SBCC having a regular live music lineup.
The Cane Lounge and Beach Bar have also opened up with new bi-fold doors, letting in more natural light and connecting the whole venue in a bright and breezy way.
The refresh isn’t just about the spaces though. The club has introduced a new brand identity that captures exactly what Shoal Bay Country Club has always been about – timeless, vibrant, and relaxed.
It’s the kind of place where you can drop in for a casual beer after a surf or host a long family lunch, watch live music, or gather your gang for a special occasion.
With its beachfront setting, variety of dining options, and spaces designed to bring people together, Shoal Bay Country Club continues to be the place to meet – and a must-visit for anyone passing through Port Stephens.
