Port Stephens

Hawks Nest is one of the main gateways to Myall Lakes National Park. A network of interconnected lakes and rivers that is one of the most popular houseboating destinations in the country. These lakes are also superbly equipped for recreational boating and fishing.

The tranquillity of this particular region and its proximity to many outstanding natural attractions has made it a favourite holiday destination for those wishing to escape city and suburban stress. Many holiday regulars return here year after year.

Things to See & Do

• Beaches
• National Parks
• Fishing

Considered the gateway to the northern arm of Port Stephens, Karuah is a small peaceful town on the banks of the Karuah River.

The river presents a range of recreational options with fishing and relaxing by a riverside park complete with wharf and tidal pool popular past times.

If you feel like some friendly competition, Karuah also has an excellent golf course and the RSL offers lawn bowls.

Things to See & Do

• Fishing
• Golf

Guarding the point nudged by Tilligerry Creek as it spills into Port Stephens, Lemon Tree Passage looks out across a narrow passage to Bulls Island.

The township offers a variety of gentle, coastal walking trails and a central boat ramp provides direct access to the port’s mainstream. Lemon Tree Passage, is one of the prime secluded spots on the southern shore of a waterway which is now firmly established among the finest aquatic playgrounds on Australia’s east coast.

The stretch of beach known as One Mile is located in the residential area of Forster and is extremely popular with surfers and families. Patrolled during the holidays and on weekends the beach is bordered by a large park with barbecue, picnic facilities and playground equipment.

The northern end is the access to Bennett’s Head lookout where 360 degree views of the area can be enjoyed. It also boasts Giant Sandhill, popular for sand sliding and boarding.

Anna Bay is located in picturesque Port Stephens, approximately 45 minutes drive north of Newcastle. Named after a boat that was alleged to have been ship wrecked there, Anna Bay today boasts bays and beaches with One Mile Beach a main attraction for surfers.

Things to See & Do

• Anna Bay
• Surf Schools,
• Whale and Dolphin Watching
• Tours
• Sand boarding
• 4WD
• Beaches

Fingal & Shoal Bay provides the perfect spot for a day at the beach, swimming, fishing, surfing, a picnic or a barbeque. The beaches are ideal for families and offers a shop, BBQ facilities, playground, showers, toilets and a cycle path.

At Fingal Bay you can also take a walk to Barry Park or cross the spit to see the lighthouse. Just make sure you check the tide times first.

Nelson Bay is equipped for all aquatic pursuits, whether you feel like taking a dolphin-watch cruise to marvel at the antics of these aquatic acrobats, hand feeding the blue gropers at the Fly Point-Halifax Park Aquatic Reserve or simply spending the day at Dutchies Beach, the perfect place for a family getaway. You’ll also enjoy the buzz of the boardwalk beside the world-renowned marina and its glorious foreshore.

Things to See & Do

• Beaches
• Family Fun
• National Parks