Here's what to do in Nelson Bay when you're visiting for the day
Nelson Bay is known for its postcard-perfect coastline and endless water activities, but when the weather cools and a swim isn’t top of the list, what else is there to do?
The answer? Plenty!
If boutique shopping and great food are your kind of adventure, prepare for a day packed with both – plus a few surprises along the way.
8.30am – Depart Newcastle for Nelson Bay
The day begins with a road trip north from Newcastle. Just over an hour’s drive lands travellers in Nelson Bay with d’Albora Marina serving as the ideal parking point and a launchpad for the day’s adventures.
8.45am – Coffee from Magnolia
First stop: coffee. Overlooking the marina, swing by Magnolia and grab a coffee to go before you set off on your Nelson Bay adventure.
9.30am – Brunch at The Little Nel
For brunch, few places rival The Little Nel. The menu features vibrant, flavour-forward dishes such as peach and mango crepes with kaya mascarpone and vanilla bean ice cream; shishito chilli scrambled eggs with sriracha coconut yoghurt and green papaya salad; and the roasted capsicum and sweet corn fritters with avocado and almond romesco.
11am – Street art stroll
After brunch, it’s time to explore by foot. Nelson Bay’s streets and laneways are peppered with colourful murals and public art. One standout is Newcastle-based artist, Jordan Lucky’s striking lorikeet mural on Magnus Street – a bold and unmissable feature of the streetscape.
11.30am – Boutique shopping
The town is dotted with an array of locally owned boutiques. Lu&Co offers women’s and kids’ fashion, Bella Rose Boutique caters for babywear, Charli Blue Collective brings together handmade goods and creative pieces from local makers, and The Lolly Bug is a sweet-tooth’s paradise.
12.30pm – Browse at The Home Interior
Head up to Donald Street where visitors can browse an extensive range of curated homewares. From artisan candles and furniture to statement lighting and mirrors – this space is a haven for design lovers.
1pm – Lunch at In House Kitchen
Located downstairs, In House Kitchen delivers a fresh and flavourful lunch menu. Dishes such as the pea fritters, maqui berry bowls, and fish tacos showcase seasonal, local produce, and offer a satisfying midday break.
2pm – Stop at Two Bobs Bakery
No visit to Nelson Bay is complete without a stop at Two Bobs Bakery. Run by Nikki and Rob, this beloved bakery draws crowds for its daily fresh-baked bread and handmade pastries. Picking up a loaf to take home is almost a non-negotiable.
2.15pm – Gelato and Marina walk
With a Nero’s gelato in hand, it’s time for a leisurely walk around the marina. The loop passes more public artworks and provides a relaxed transition to the final stop of the day.
2.30pm – Discover the Artisan Collective
Located within the d’Albora Marina precinct, Artisan Collective is a must-visit gallery space run by a group of volunteer artists. Established in 2016, the gallery showcases high-quality work from local creatives and offers a chance to purchase directly from the makers.
3pm – Return to Newcastle
With bags full of local finds and minds full of inspiration, it’s time to return to Newcastle – having discovered a whole new side to Nelson Bay, beyond the beach.
