Welcome to Port Stephens
Incredible by Nature
What makes Port Stephens special
Port Stephens is the very best of mother nature and human nature together. It's sparkling waterways and quiet coves. Bushwalking trails and coastal cycling routes. Dolphins at sunrise and whales on the horizon. It's kayaking and sailing, a round of golf, a slow lunch at a waterfront café, or dinner somewhere with a view worth remembering.
For such a small dot on the map, mother nature has been generous here. Our bay is twice the size of Sydney Harbour, and just as beautiful. We have 26 pristine beaches, the largest sand dunes in the southern hemisphere, and a front-row seat to some of the largest creatures on Earth as they pass by on the Humpback Highway.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, may you find yourself immersed in the wonder of this place - where nature inspires, culture endures, and every moment feels truly incredible by nature.
It's also quad-biking across dunes, horse riding through the shallows where the Pacific meets the coast, and the simple joy of sliding down a sand dune just because you can. Add fresh local produce, boutique wineries and breweries, relaxed shopping, and a luxury spa or two, and you'll start to see why people don't just visit Port Stephens, they fall in love with it.
What sets Port Stephens apart isn't just the scenery, it's also the people. Friendly, down-to-earth, and proud of the place they call home, locals share their stories with warmth and authenticity, never fanfare. Here, extraordinary is simply part of everyday life.
Whether you're chasing spectacular sunsets, wide-open beaches, or a genuine welcome, Port Stephens has a way of getting under your skin. Come and see for yourself - it's incredible by nature!
How can I get to Port Stephens from Sydney?
For more travel information visit our Travel Information Page.
- Hire a car, its a 2 1/2 hour easy drive.
- Fly from Newcastle Airport.
- Port Stephens Coaches run a daily service to/from Sydney.
- Take a local bus to Newcastle Interchange then on to Hamilton Railway Station and a train to Sydney.
Where can I hire a car from?
From Newcastle Airport at Williamtown or from Bay Scoot & Wheels 0410 334 501
We have limited time, what can we do in 2 hours?
A dolphin watch cruise; drive out to the sand dunes and ride the camels or take a sandboarding tour; walk up Tomaree Head Summit; visit the Inner Light Tea Rooms & Maritime Museum; stand up paddle boarding or snorkeling; a walk in the Tomaree National Park or Native Flora Gardens; walk or cycle along the foreshore; visit the Port Stephens Community Arts Centre; enjoy a meal at one of the cafes or restaurants; or simply grab an ice cream and wander the local boutique stores.
Check out all the activities and adventures here.
I want to drive on the sand dunes, how do I do this?
All vehicles entering the Worimi Conservation Lands must be registered and display a valid beach permit. There are two types of permits available 1. Beach Vehicle Permits 2. Recreational Vehicle Area Permits including quads & motorbikes.
Permit Costs and where to purchase refer to the Worimi Conservation Lands website CLICK HERE.
The Worimi Conservation Lands are located in the Port Stephens area, north of Newcastle. Vehicle access is available for 4WDs.
There are two entrances to the WCL:
- via Lavis Lane at Williamtown
- via Gan Gan Road at Anna Bay
Your Free Port Stephens Travel Guide
Port Stephens is part of the Country of the Worimi Aboriginal Nation, a place where ancient stories are etched into the landscape and where visitors are invited to walk gently upon the land. The Worimi People welcome you to experience the spirit of this remarkable region, its incredible natural beauty, deep cultural significance, and living connection to Country.
Here, nature and culture intertwine in ways both powerful and serene. Discover a coastline where golden dunes shift with the ocean breeze, where dolphins dance through turquoise waters, and where every sunrise paints a new masterpiece across the sky. Venture further to encounter sacred places, tranquil bushland trails, and a community that embodies the warmth and generosity of coastal life.
In Port Stephens, the extraordinary is every day from the thrill of adventure to the quiet joy of connection. Feel the sand between your toes, listen to the song of the whales, and breathe in the salty air that carries both history and renewal. Download your free Port Stephens travel guide and start planning your incredible getaway.