Need a quick getaway? Head to Port Stephens!
Only a 45min/1hr drive from Newcastle lies the quiet shores of Port Stephens and it’s constantly growing foodie scene. With beautiful walking trails, stunning accommodation, endless cafes and restaurants to choose from and retail spots to check out; Port Stephens may just be the perfect day trip to get away from home.
Eat & Drink
First things first, find out where you can you drop in for a good feed, classic cocktail or morning coffees.
Saltwater Fingal Bay
Located on the shores of Fingal Bay this relaxed waterside restaurant offers a modern Australian cuisine that comes with an Asian twist.
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Incredible seafood simply prepared in the Rick Stein at Bannisters kitchen. The menu is created with the finest locally sourced ingredients from ocean to plate every day. Perfect for a romantic date night.
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Every trip to Nelson Bay should include a quick detour into Murray's to have a taste and collect some locally brewed beer.
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Tucked beneath Bannisters, The Cheeky Dog boasts a beer garden, bistro and sports bar with the simple Mediterranean inspired menu.
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The name, Little Nel, is somewhat deceiving, as this cafe isn’t little on anything– it’s got a big delicious menu, full of big healthy options, big flavours, big bold Suspension coffee and a big sunny outdoor resort-style deck.
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The ultra-stylish cafe, restaurant & bar overlooks the stunning waters of Shoal Bay. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast in Mermaids Café, a sun-kissed long lunch and cocktails on the patio, or a day out with the family; Shoal Bay Country Club has something for everyone.
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With a seafood restaurant upstairs and casual waterfront bar downstairs, Little Beach Boathouse is the perfect spot for a long lunch, relaxing dinner or an evening of cocktails and oysters whilst watching the sun go down.
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Shop
Looking for a little retail therapy? Port Stephens has a few pockets of spots in the heart of Nelson Bay you need to check out!
Pick up some quality Australian art and design pieces from local couple, Kim & Claire at Burbridge and Burke. With their own furniture, indoor and outdoor pieces for the home as well as jewellery and wearables.
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Coastal furniture and homewares store with a huge passion for plants is right at the core of this Nelson Bay space; Bay Living & Garden.
When two become one! This space is both a homewares store and café; the café offers all day breakfast and lunch, most things are made in house from their tomato jam on the crispy bacon and smashed egg roll to their hummus which comes with the green herb falafels. The retail space stocks a huge range of furniture, and homewares for you to take a little bit of The Bay with you!
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Two Bobs Bakery
Hand-shaped and delicious as possible, this is the place to go for your freshly baked sourdough.
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Explore
Enjoy the best of what Port Stephens has with plenty of walking trails to explore and aquatic life to admire.
Located at the end of Shoal Bay Road, near the Zenith Beach car park, you will find the gateway to Tomaree Head Summit walk. A spectacular walking trail ideal for those wanting to sweat it out just a little and experience Port Stephens from above.
Imagine Cruises
Jump aboard one of Imagines’ fleet and take in Port Stephens from the water as you spots dolphins and whales!
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Oakvale Wildlife Park
Loved by kids both young and old, Oakvale Farm and Fauna World has something to keep the whole family entertained.
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Spirited Play Cafe
When the weather's wet, head to Spirited Play Cafe. The indoor play centre has an awesome jungle themed playground that will keep the kids busy for hours. The comfortable lounge space, allergy friendly dining and air conditioning will keep the adults happy too!
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Sculpture Walk at Soldiers Point Marina
Dotted throughout the marina, is an expanding collection of outdoor sculptures created by a broad selection of Australian artists. From Mike Van Dam’s Bubble and Squeak Dolphin chain creation to Sydney artist, Louis Pratt’s 3D bronze statue, The Voyeur, to the marina’s newest piece, Gillie and Marc’s We Ride Together in Love, featuring Rabbitwoman and Dogman riding a bright red Vespa and drinking coffee.
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Stay
For those looking at extended their stay past a one-day trip, there are plenty of beautiful accommodation options across Port Stephens. From family friendly Airbnb’s to romantic getaways; there’s something for everyone.
Located directly across from the beach, Kingsley Beach House greets you with its luxurious Hamptons style exterior as you arrive.
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This is luxury! The Anchorage is a veritable oasis; a calm, serene retreat away from the stresses of daily life – a perfect place for a short escape.
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A two-storey, three-bedroom accommodation offering in Nelson Bay that brings a whole new vibe of coastal luxe to Port Stephens, created by local interior master stylist; Tim Neve.
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Salt at Shoal Bay is that luxurious, yet family friendly holiday home, that you've been needing in your life. The unique waterfront property opened in early 2018 and has proven to be quite the popular choice for those in need of a luxe coastal retreat.
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Looking for more things to do in Port Stephens? Click here.