Just over an hour from Newcastle, Port Stephens is one of the easiest and most rewarding places to visit with kids in NSW. Known for its calm beaches, resident dolphins, towering sand dunes, and abundant wildlife, it works just as well for a day trip as it does for a family holiday.
Whether you’re heading up for the day to “The Bay”or staying for a week, here’s our guide to the best things to do in Port Stephens with kids.
Jump to: Beaches & Water | Parks & Playgrounds | Picnic Spots | Walks | Bike Rides | Scavenger Hunts | Attractions | Wildlife | History & Culture | Kid-Friendly Dining | Rainy Day Options | Plan Your Visit | FAQs
Beaches & Water in Port Stephens
Port Stephens has 26 beaches and bays to choose from, ranging from calm harbour beaches to ocean surf beaches. Here are some of our favourites.
Little Beach, Nelson Bay
One of the most family-friendly beaches in Port Stephens, Little Beach is a calm harbour beach just around from the tourist hub of Nelson Bay. The water is sheltered and shallow, making it ideal for young children. There’s a small playground right at the beach with swings, musical equipment, and a popular play house.
Shoal Bay Beach
A beautiful harbour beach with calm conditions, Shoal Bay is a great spot for families who want a relaxed swim. The beach near the start of the Tomaree Headland walk is particularly good, and Aussie Bob’s Fish and Ships is close by for a post-swim feed.
Boat Harbour Beach
A 200-metre east-facing beach where locals launch their boats, Boat Harbour has a beachside playground and toilet facilities right next to it. Faces east so catches morning sun well. Also a good spot for whale watching from the headland at the southern end during migration season.
Fingal Bay Beach
A beautiful ocean beach at the end of the Fingal Peninsula, Fingal Bay is popular with families for its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the Fingal Bay SLSC cafe and playground.
Henderson Park Tidal Pool, Lemon Tree Passage
The netted tidal pool at Henderson Park on Cook Parade is calm and protected, with a small sandy beach area inside the net — ideal for little ones to splash around and build sandcastles. Visit at high tide for the best swimming experience as the water can get shallow and seagrassy at low tide.
Tilligerry Aquatic Centre, Mallabula
A heated 25-metre lap pool and a dedicated shaded toddlers pool make this a great hot weather option on the Tilligerry Peninsula. Check the website before visiting as it closes for a couple of months during winter for maintenance. Right next door is a playground, skate park, and half basketball court. Admission charge.
Tomaree Aquatic Centre, Salamander Bay
A great wet weather or hot day option. The centre has a 50-metre heated outdoor pool, a shaded heated kids pool, a heated wading pool, and a large waterslide operating on weekends between 11am and 2pm. Kids must meet a height requirement to ride alone but smaller kids can ride with a parent. Admission charge. Read our review of Tomaree Aquatic Centre to find out more.
Parks & Playgrounds in Port Stephens
Port Stephens is one of the Hunter’s favourite family destinations and it’s not just because of the beautiful beaches. Across the region, you’ll find fantastic playgrounds where kids can climb, swing, explore and burn off energy between swims, walks and café stops. Whether you’re staying at Nelson Bay, exploring the dunes at Anna Bay or taking a day trip to Fingal Bay, we’ve put together a guide which rounds up the best playgrounds in Port Stephens for families.
Little Beach Playground, Nelson Bay
A small but well-equipped playground right at the beach with swings, musical equipment, and a play house. Perfectly placed for a post-swim play.
Boat Harbour Playground
A beachside playground with toilet facilities and a barbecue area, making it an easy base for a family picnic combined with a swim and some whale watching from the headland.
Fingal Bay Playground
Located near the Fingal Bay SLSC, with a cafe next door and beach access steps away. A good spot to combine a playground visit with a swim and a coffee.
Anna Bay Playground
A solid community playground in Anna Bay, well-placed if you’re visiting the sand dunes or Irukandji.
Salt Ash Pump Track & Playground, Salt Ash
A pump track for bikes, scooters, and skateboards right next to a fully fenced toddler playground at 1 Michael Drive, Salt Ash. A good first stop if you’re heading to the Lemon Tree Passage area.
Tanilba Park (Foreshore Park), Tanilba Bay
A large modern playground on Tanilba Avenue with a flying fox, roundabout, swings, and climbing structures. Outdoor exercise equipment for adults, undercover picnic tables, and shared paths leading east and west for scooting and walking.
Henderson Park Playground, Lemon Tree Passage
A well-shaded playground on Cook Parade suited to primary school-aged kids, with a baby swing, group swing, slides, and climbing equipment. Right next to the tidal pool, barbecues, and picnic tables.
Picnic Spots in Port Stephens
Boat Harbour
A barbecue area, playground, and toilet facilities right at the beach make Boat Harbour one of the most practical picnic spots in Port Stephens. The headland at the southern end is a bonus whale watching vantage point during migration season.
Little Beach, Nelson Bay
Grassed area and shaded spots near the beach and playground. Easy to combine with a swim in the calm harbour water.
Anna Bay to Little Kingsley Beach
At the end of the 4km walk from Anna Bay, Little Kingsley Beach is a beautiful and secluded spot for a picnic, swim, and snorkel. Pack food and make a morning of it.
Tilligerry Habitat, Lemon Tree Passage
The picnic area at Tilligerry Habitat sits within the reserve and is a peaceful spot surrounded by bush. Combine with the koala spotting loop trails.
Henderson Park, Lemon Tree Passage
Free public barbecues, covered picnic tables, and waterfront views make Henderson Park one of the better picnic spots in the Port Stephens area. Grab fish and chips from nearby John Dory’s Takeaway or a coffee from Lemon Tree’s Kitchen across the road. Fish cleaning stations are also on site if anyone’s been fishing off the wharf.
Caswell Reserve, Tanilba Bay
An undercover picnic area with barbecues, climbing structures, and toilet amenities, located just past the viewing platform at the end of the Tilligerry Habitat foreshore track. A natural refuelling stop mid-walk.
Walks in Port Stephens
Port Stephens has a great range of family walks, from short coastal trails and headland climbs to flat foreshore paths and bush tracks through koala habitat. Most are well-maintained, and easy to tailor to the age and energy level of your kids. Here’s some of our favourite family walks.
Tomaree Headland Walk, Shoal Bay
The summit walk at Tomaree Headland is 2.2km return and takes between 90 minutes and 2 hours. A steep climb to 161 metres via paved paths and metal steps, best suited to older kids with the stamina for the ascent. The reward is a 360-degree view over Port Stephens including Zenith, Wreck, and Box Beaches, Fingal Island, and Point Stephens Lighthouse. Also one of the best vantage points for whale watching during migration season.
Gan Gan Lookout
If you’re not up for a big walk, drive up to a view at Gan Gan Lookout for a panoramic view of Port Stephens and surrounds. At 160 metres, this is Port Stephen’s highest and most accessible lookout so it’s ideal for families. There are actually two vantage points, one south and one to the north. To reach the lookout, drive up to Lily Hill Road and follow the signs. Up at the top, stroller-friendly paths lead to viewing platforms and spectacular vistas.
Tomaree Coastal Walk
Tomaree Coastal Walk is a multi-day 27 km experience which runs from Tomaree Headland to Anna Bay, but you can do short walks as well.
If you’re looking for a fun short walk in Port Stephens, take the kids on a walk from Boat Harbour to Slot Canyon lookout. This short 1km walk is part of the National Parks Tomaree Coastal Walk. This walk is a great one for familes as it’s a short and scenic walk. It’s great for adventurous kids as they get to walk through the bush and then over a rocky headland.
If you want to do another short walk on the Tomaree Coastal Walk, do the 4km walk from Anna Bay to Little Kingsley Beach. This walk combines lots of different elements. Take time to check out the nearby Worimi Aboriginal Place and whale viewing platform – May to August is the best time for whale watching. Continue along under windswept banksias, passing the historic Birubi Point cemetery and then along expansive rock platforms and by little rock pools.
Mangrove Boardwalk, Lemon Tree Passage
A 5.4km return flat walk through Koala Reserve starting from Henderson Park. Mostly flat and well-maintained with one small section of steps. The area is vital koala habitat so keep your eyes on the treetops. Sugar gliders, birdlife, and crabs in the mangrove mud are also commonly spotted. Pack insect repellent — it can get mozzie-heavy near the mangroves.
Tanilba Bay Walk
A shared path heading west from Tanilba Park leads to Sunset Park, which has 180-degree water views and historic stone fireplaces and seating built by convicts in the 1830s. A short, easy family stroll with a genuine history story attached.
If your family likes to stay active, it’s worth knowing there are free weekly Parkruns nearby at Fingal Bay and Medowie, plus a range of fun runs across the wider region. See our full guide to family-friendly fun runs across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter for events to suit every age and ability.
Bike Rides in Port Stephens
With flat terrain, Port Stephens is a top spot to bring bikes and go for a ride. Whether you’re taking the family away for a well-needed long weekend or just planning a day trip, be sure to pack the bikes in the car because there are plenty of tracks and paths ready to explore! For more info, see our Best Bike Rides in Port Stephens for Families.
Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay Track
A hidden gem amongst the eucalypts, this 2.9km flat and easy bike track winds through beautiful gum trees connecting Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay. A terrific family morning ride with plenty of rewards along the way.
Shoal Bay to Nelson Bay Marina
A scenic, flat, and family-friendly 3.5km ride along the waterfront between Shoal Bay and Nelson Bay Marina. Pack swimmers for a splash along the way in warmer months.
Port Stephens Shared Cycleways
Port Stephens has approximately 50km of shared cycleways connecting Fingal Bay through to Salamander Bay and out to Raymond Terrace. Check the Port Stephens Council website for the full cycleway map.
Snorkelling in Port Stephens
Port Stephens sits within a protected marine sanctuary, making it one of the best snorkelling destinations in NSW for families. For our full regional snorkelling guide, see Best Snorkelling Spots for Kids in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Port Stephens.
Fly Point, Nelson Bay
A popular diving spot that doubles as an outstanding snorkelling location. Park along Victoria Parade in Nelson Bay and walk down the stairs opposite Neil Caroll Park. As part of a protected marine sanctuary, the fish and marine life here are unusually friendly and abundant. Look for sea sponges, kelp forests, wobbegong sharks, and if you’re lucky, a seahorse. Visit at high tide for the clearest water. Wear water shoes as the steps down and the entry point are rocky. Note that fishing and collecting any marine organisms including shells is prohibited in the sanctuary. Free.
Little Beach, Nelson Bay
The marine sanctuary at Fly Point extends along Little Beach all the way to Halifax Point, making this calm, shallow, and clear harbour beach another excellent snorkelling spot for families. Kids can enter easily from the sandy shore and build confidence in the water while spotting seagrass meadows, fish, rays, and occasionally turtles or seahorses. Marine life tends to congregate around the jetties. Best at high tide when the water is clearest and currents are minimal. Note that Little Beach is unpatrolled and car parking is metered. Free to snorkel.
Scavenger Hunts in Port Stephens
Nelson Bay Scavenger Hunt
Developed in partnership with Port Stephens Council, the Newy with Kids Nelson Bay Scavenger Hunt takes families on a self-guided walk through Nelson Bay, exploring the area to answer questions and crack a mystery phrase at the end. Along the way you’ll enjoy bay views, discover murals, and uncover some local history. Completely free to download and do at your own pace. Download the Nelson Bay Scavenger Hunt.
Attractions in Port Stephens
Oakvale Wildlife Park, Salt Ash
A family favourite in Port Stephens. Oakvale covers 21 acres and is home to native Australian animals (koalas, kangaroos, Tasmanian Devils), farm animals, and exotic animals including ring-tailed lemurs. Hands-on experiences include hand-milking a cow and bottle-feeding baby animals. A free tractor-trailer tour runs through the full park — great for younger kids who may not make the full walking loop. Admission cost. Read our review of Oakvale Wildlife Park.
Toboggan Hill Park, Nelson Bay
A full day activity venue with a 1km toboggan ride, giant maze, rock climbing, bumper cars, mini golf, hot ice skating, and jumping castles. A tractor train runs hourly and provides access to the giant maze — keep an eye out for resident goannas and wallabies along the way. Good for a range of ages from toddlers to adults and a solid option on hot or rainy days. Admission cost. Read our review of Toboggan Hill Park.
Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters, Anna Bay
A state-of-the-art facility with an outdoor lagoon and undercover tropical lagoon where visitors can feed and pat sharks and rays. The Shallows Encounter is included in the entry fee and lets you wade in, sit on rocks, and hand-feed the animals. Wetsuit hire is available for those who want to get fully in the water. Bring or wear shorts. Admission cost. wetsuit hire extra. Read our review of Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters.
Fighter World, Williamtown
An aviation heritage centre on Medowie Road at Williamtown with jet-engine aircraft, propeller-driven aircraft, and exhibits on the RAAF’s history. Some aircraft are displayed on the floor, others hang from the ceiling. A good outing for plane-loving kids, and you can combine with plane spotting at the end of the Medowie Road runway before or after. Admission cost. Read our review of Fighter World.
Plane Spotting, RAAF Base Williamtown
A free and surprisingly thrilling activity for kids who love aircraft. The public viewing area at the end of the Medowie Road runway gives you a close-up view of F-35A Joint Strike Fighters taking off, landing, and doing touch-and-go manoeuvres. Commercial aircraft and helicopters add to the action in between. Free. Read our guide to plane spotting at Williamtown.
Stockton Sand Dunes, Anna Bay
The largest moving coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere stretch 32km from Stockton to Anna Bay. Access is from Lavis Lane at Williamtown (southern end) or Gan Gan Road at Anna Bay (northern end). The dunes are Worimi Conservation Lands and a permit is required for driving. If you don’t have a 4WD, sandboarding tours, quad biking, horse riding, and camel riding are all available through local operators. Read more about exploring Stockton Sand Dunes.
Wildlife in Port Stephens
Tilligerry Habitat, Lemon Tree Passage
One of the best spots in the region to see koalas in the wild. Short, flat loop trails wind through a 9-hectare reserve on the Tilligerry Peninsula. Look up into the forks of tall eucalypts — and check below trees for scats as a clue that a koala is above. Activity sheets available to download. Wheelchair-accessible trail. Dogs on leads permitted. Free entry. At low tide, the waterfront boardwalk at Tilligerry Habitat is also a great spot to watch hundreds of soldier crabs take over the sand flats — a fascinating sight for kids. Read more about Tilligerry Habitat.
Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
A facility supporting the rehabilitation and preservation of koalas, run in partnership between Port Stephens Council and Port Stephens Koalas. Visitors can walk the 250-metre Story Walk telling the story of “Kasey”, a locally rescued koala, through life-size sculptures and signs. A purpose-built viewing window lets visitors observe veterinary staff caring for sick and injured koalas depending on treatment times. Cost: Low cost entry. Read our review of Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary.
Dolphin Watching, Nelson Bay
Port Stephens has over 140 resident bottlenose dolphins. You can spot them from shore at Tomaree Headland, Shoal Bay, and Nelson Bay Breakwater, or join a dolphin cruise from Nelson Bay Marina for a guaranteed close encounter. Free from land, paid cruise option available.
Whale Watching in Port Stephens
Every year from May to November, one of nature’s most spectacular events plays out right off the Newcastle and Hunter coast. An estimated 40,000 to 45,000 humpback whales travel past on their annual migration — heading north from Antarctica to the warmer waters of Queensland to give birth, then returning south with their calves later in the season.
Watching the whale migration from land is completely free, genuinely thrilling and one of the best things you can do with kids in winter. Best places to spot whales include Barry Park, Iris Moore Lookout and Boat Harbour. See our whale watching guide for all the details.
Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruises, Nelson Bay
Port Stephens is the dolphin capital of Australia, with over 140 resident bottlenose dolphins in the bay. Year-round dolphin cruises depart from Nelson Bay Marina with operators including Moonshadow Cruises and Imagine Cruises. From May to November, whale watching cruises run alongside the regular dolphin tours as humpback whales migrate along the coast. Peak whale sightings are generally June to October. Read our review of a whale watching cruise.
History & Culture in Port Stephens
Worimi Conservation Lands, Stockton Dunes
The Stockton Bight sand dunes are Aboriginal-owned Worimi Conservation Lands, jointly managed with National Parks. Hidden within the dunes are ancient Aboriginal middens and cultural heritage sites. Guided 4WD tours provide the best access and context for families. Read more about exploring Stockton Sand Dunes.
Birubi Point Cemetery, Anna Bay
Passed on the Anna Bay to Little Kingsley Beach walk, this historic cemetery sits among windswept banksias and is a reminder of the area’s early settlement history. Worth a brief stop on the walk.
Fighter World, Williamtown
Beyond the aircraft displays, Fighter World tells the story of Australian aviation history and the RAAF’s role in defending Australia. A good history stop for older kids with an interest in military history.
Tanilba House
Take a drive by Tanilba House. Built in 1831, is one of the oldest heritage-listed houses in Australia, renowned for its convict-built stone walls and stunning views over the Bay. Nowadays it is a wedding and corporate hire venue that also serves a Mother’s Day High Tea each May.
Tanilba Bay Walk
A shared path heading west from Tanilba Park leads to Sunset Park, which has 180-degree water views and historic stone fireplaces and seating built by convicts in the 1830s. A short, easy family stroll with a genuine history story attached.
Tilligerry Arts Group Gallery, Lemon Tree Passage
A community gallery at 13 Meredith Avenue featuring handmade pieces from local artists across Port Stephens and Newcastle. Open Tuesday to Friday 10am to 4pm, weekends and public holidays 11am to 3pm, closed Christmas Day. A good backup option if the weather turns or you need a break from the sun. Free entry.
Kid-Friendly Dining
Looking for a relaxed spot where the kids can play while you enjoy a meal? The Salamander Hotel is a great option for families visiting Port Stephens. Located in the heart of Salamander Bay, this family-friendly pub combines casual dining with a spacious outdoor playground, making it easy to settle in for lunch or dinner without worrying about keeping the kids entertained.
The playground is set up right near the outdoor seating area, so you can keep an eye on the kids while enjoying a meal. It’s especially handy for younger children who need space to move, climb and play between bites.
The bistro serves up all your favourite pub classics along with a variety of crowd-pleasing options, so there’s something to suit even the fussiest eaters. With plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a comfortable spot year-round.
If you’re planning a day exploring Port Stephens, Salamander Hotel is an easy stop for a family meal where everyone can relax.
Rainy Day Options in Port Stephens
Port Stephens is primarily an outdoor destination so options are more limited on a wet day. Toboggan Hill Park in Nelson Bay has plenty of indoor activities including hot ice skating, bumper cars, and jumping castles — a solid rainy day choice. Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters has an undercover tropical lagoon which works well in light rain. Tomaree Aquatic Centre is heated and undercover in parts. For a full indoor day, Fighter World at Williamtown is worth the visit.
Plan Your Visit
Port Stephens has a great calendar of family events throughout the year including the Luminous Festival, Port Stephens Food & Wine Festival, and seasonal whale watching events. See our events guide for what’s coming up.
If you’re visiting in spring, Jacaranda Avenue in nearby Raymond Terrace is considered the best place in the region to see jacarandas in bloom, the street was actually renamed for its trees. Our full guide to where to see jacarandas across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter has more local spots and family photo tips.
Use these guides to help plan your time in Port Stephens:
- Best Playgrounds in Port Stephens
- Best Bike Rides in Port Stephens for Families
- Nelson Bay Scavenger Hunt
- Best Beaches for Families
- Family Day Out in the Lemon Tree Passage Area
- Family-Friendly Dining around the Region
- Free & Low-Cost Things to Do in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Hunter
- School Holiday Activities in Newcastle & Lake Macquarie
- Best Camping & Holiday Parks Within 3 Hours of Newcastle
- Get Away to Jimmys Beach in Hawks Nest
- Family-Friendly Accommodation Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens & Hunter
- Learn About Local Marine Life at the Port Stephens Marine Creatures: Great and Small Exhibit
Frequently Asked Questions
Port Stephens is known for its beautiful beaches, resident dolphin population, and the Stockton Bight sand dunes — the largest moving coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s also one of the best spots in NSW for whale watching between May and November.
Yes. Port Stephens is one of the most family-friendly destinations in NSW, with calm beaches, playgrounds, wildlife parks, dolphin cruises, sand dunes, and a relaxed atmosphere. Most beaches and walks are free, and there are plenty of paid attractions for days when you want more structured activities.
Top free activities include Little Beach, Boat Harbour, plane spotting at Williamtown, the Tomaree Headland walk, the Boat Harbour to Slot Canyon walk, Tilligerry Habitat koala spotting, Gan Gan Lookout, the Nelson Bay Scavenger Hunt, and the Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay bike ride.
Humpback whales migrate past Port Stephens between May and November, with peak sightings generally from June to October. You can watch from land at Tomaree Headland, Boat Harbour, and Barry Park in Fingal Bay, or join a whale watching cruise from Nelson Bay Marina.
Nelson Bay is approximately 60km from Newcastle, around 55 to 60 minutes by car. It’s one of the most popular day trips from Newcastle for families.
Port Stephens is approximately 220km north of Sydney, around 2.5 hours by car via the M1. It’s a popular school holiday and long weekend destination for Sydney families.
Little Beach in Nelson Bay is the most sheltered and family-friendly option for young children, with calm harbour water and a playground right at the beach. Boat Harbour is another good option with similar conditions and barbecue facilities nearby.
Exploring More of the Hunter Region Port Stephens is hard to beat for a family getaway, but the Hunter region has plenty more up its sleeve. Check out our guides to Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland and Hunter Valley for more ideas worth adding to your list.