Se hva du kan gjøre og oppleve i Port Stephens

Port Stephens is known for its unspoilt beaches with perfect surf breaks or sheltered bays for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. Or try parasailing over the bay. Walk along the beach at Shoal Bay to Tomaree Headland for splendid panoramas. At sunset, kayak with dolphins at Nelson Bay and Soldiers Point. Fingal Bay Beach has its own island. Surfers will be thrilled by One Mile Beach, Birubi Beach, Zenith Beach, Box Beach, or Samurai Beach. Families will love One Mile Beach, Boat Harbour and Birubi Beach.

Dolphin Swim Australia remains the only permitted wild dolphin swim in NSW, licensed by the Marine Park Authority to operate in the Port Stephens Great Lakes Marine Park. Aboard an ocean-going catamaran, qualified dive masters take you through the most amazing experience of your life, frolicking with short-beaked common dolphins and oceanic bottlenose dolphins.

Tomaree National Park is a magnificent backdrop to the charming coastal towns of Port Stephens. It's the only place in NSW where you can see outcrops of the acid volcanic rock rhyodacite. The stunning rocky bush coastline is a delight for walkers – take the short Wreck Beach trail through angophora forest – and great for whale watching. Check out the historic gun emplacements of Fort Tomaree. And take your fishing rod – the fish bite well.

Port Stephens is a top spot to see humpbacks and southern right whales during their annual migration. From mid May to early September thousands of whales move north to their breeding grounds, and from mid September to mid October they migrate south - you may spot mothers playing with their newborn calves in the calmer waters. Watch them from Tomaree Head Summit - or get up close on a tour from Nelson Bay.

Ride on quad bikes from the bush to the beach, traversing magnificent sand dunes and learning about Aboriginal culture in the Worimi Conservation Lands. On a Sand Dune Adventures tour, riding a 400 cc bike, you’ll be in awe of the area’s natural beauty. Expert Aboriginal guides will lead you through the Southern Hemisphere’s largest moving coastal sand dunes, some rising more than 30 metres. You’ll learn about traditional Aboriginal foods and how to find fresh water.

Nelson Bay, on the southern shores of Ports Stephens, is a major holiday playground and the main town in the area. The abundance of nature parks, marine life, brilliant beaches and bays are what make Nelson Bay beautiful. You'll also enjoy the friendly community, buzzing events calendar, gourmet restaurants, beautiful boutiques and art galleries plus award-winning places to stay.

Gorgeous, tranquil and a great base for sports fishing and scuba diving, Shoal Bay is named after the numerous sand shoals scattered around the peninsula. Close to Nelson Bay, this is a beautifully sheltered waterway. A top drawcard to Shoal Bay is the biggest game fishing competition in the Southern Hemisphere, held each February. The is also excellent for bushwalking and bike riding.

Tea Gardens is a small town on the Myall River, just a short drive across the "whistling" bridge to neighbouring Hawks Nest. Surrounded by wetlands, the foundation for the town's valuable fishing industry, Tea Gardens is the southern gateway to the Great Lakes, with a reputation for good food and great events, including the Myall River Festival. Along the waterfront is a meandering art walk. There is plenty of good accommodation, outdoor cafés, moored boats to hire and fresh oysters to sample.

Sand Dune Adventures (SDA) offers clients an exclusive 'Cultural Quad Bike Riding' experience like no other; traversing the majestic and traditional landscape of the Worimi Sand Dunes / Port Stephens in NSW, recorded as the largest coastal moving sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere. Customers ride safely from bush to beach on a 400cc quad bike and take in the glorious views of the sweeping coastline (no experience necessary) with experienced Aboriginal guides. Customers receive hands-on introductions to authentic Aboriginal culture and history, visiting ancient campsites and learning about the local bush foods, medicines and the secrets of finding fresh water. SDA tours cater from beginners to the experience and offer the thrill of riding sand dunes that climb as high as 100 feet. So if it is adrenalin or just cruising; SDA offers the greatest adventure on one of Australia's greatest kept secrets, the Worimi Sand Dunes!

Take the invigorating short walk to the summit of Tomaree Head, 161 metres above the Port Stephens entrance. As you hike the track, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of idyllic Port Stephens and its coastline. From the top, you can even see as far as Cabbage Tree and Boondelbah islands – these nature reserves are the world’s only nesting sites for the endangered Gould's petrel. When you reach the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Yacaaba Head, Cabbage Tree, Boondelbah and Broughton Islands from the north platform. From the south platform, views of Zenith, Wreck and Box Beaches, Fingal Island and Point Stephens Lighthouse will be sure to impress. Be sure to check out the historic World War II gun emplacements. Take your binoculars as you might be lucky to see some dolphins. There’s a picnic table at the lookout, so if you have time, take a picnic lunch or some morning tea to enjoy as you take in the view. On the way back down, don’t forget to try Fort Tomaree walk.

Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters are leaders in marine educations, conservation and fun. This unique experience is unmatched by any other location in the country. Visitors interact with marine life during a guided shark encounter tour; joining them in their world, petting and feeding them all under the ever-watchful eyes of the experienced guides. Irukandji is a massive family, fish and staff alike, as they set out to reveal the true character of some of the worlds most beautiful, intelligent, elusive creatures, at the same time they educate visitors about Australia's delicate ocean ecosystems, ocean pollution and conservation. Located in the beautiful Port Stephens on the mid north coast: one of the best holiday destinations in Australia.

The highest lookout in Port Stephens offers spectacular views, especially at dusk. On a clear day you can see all the way down the peninsula to the Newcastle docks, and north-west over Hawks Nest to the gigantic headlands of Nelson Head and Nelson Bay. The drive up Lily Hill road to Gan Gan Lookout - through an abundance of Gymea lilies, which grow to five metres - is gorgeous.

The 98,000 hectare Great Lakes Marine Park extends from Stockton Beach to Forster - including Port Stephens, Karuah River, Myall River, Myall and Smiths Lake - and three nautical miles out to sea. On shore, the bushland has many indigenous cultural and spiritual sites. Offshore, deep submerged cliffs create a water heaven for divers. An official marine conservation area, the park is home to dolphins, turtles, fish, seabirds and seaweeds, along with threatened species such as grey nurse sharks and green turtles.

The award-winning Hunter Region Botanic Gardens feature more than 30 hectares of tranquil landscaped gardens displaying the beauty and diversity of Australian native flora. The gardens also feature are large expanse of natural bushland with several walking tracks. The walks provide an opportunity to see local plants and wildlife including birds, goannas, possums, wallabies and koalas.

Stockton Beach stretches 32 km and is a sweeping expanse of sand and sand dunes and Australia’s largest moving coastal sand mass. The gigantic dunes, behind Birubi Beach at Anna Bay, are a magnet for sand boarders, 4WD and quad bike enthusiasts. The beach is also great for swimming and learning to surf. Rich with marine life, fishing and diving is also popular at Stockton. After your adventures, enjoy a picnic and barbecue in the park next to the beach.

Little Beach Boathouse Restaurant and Bar brings together the very best of Port Stephens. Amazing water views, a friendly relaxed atmosphere and some of the most delicious, fresh seafood on the East coast of Australia. The absolute waterfront location offers a fresh, natural, coastal vibe and is the perfect place for a romantic dinner, a special celebration or just a leisurely long lunch. Of course, the menu has an emphasis on fresh local seafood however they don’t forget the meat lovers and vegetarians, and children are always welcome. Their amazing team pride themselves on quality, welcoming service and when you combine this with beautiful food, great wine and craft beer its easy to see why Little Beach Boathouse is the favourite of visitors and locals alike.

Inspired by their stunning coastline, Rick Stein at Bannisters is opening in Port Stephens. Located on Soldiers Point Peninsula its the perfect location for true lovers of freshly caught seafood and great wine. Fresh seafood simply prepared is the hallmark of a Rick Stein kitchen. Their dedicated team of chefs use nothing but the finest locally sourced ingredients from ocean to plate every day, and every aspect is crafted with the passion and excitement that defines Rick’s cooking style. The Bannisters experience is deeply connected to Rick and Sarah Stein’s natural affinity with the unique Australian coastline. They focus on putting the produce at the forefront to create simple dishes, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavour.

There's something special about buying your fish and chips down at the wharf. It's not just for the freshness of the produce, though that is without a doubt a major drawcard, but also for the local knowledge and stories you'll hear from the friendly staff. Whether it's a takeaway portion of fish and chips or a fresh fillet to barbecue later on, head down to Fishermen's Wharf Seafoods for the freshest catch of the day.

Holberts Oyster Supplies are Port Stephens' leading oyster growing and processing business. For over five generations the Holbert family have been growing and distributing their award winning oysters to local restaurants and seafood outlets around the Port Stephens area. During recent years, Holberts Oysters has expanded considerably to be one of, if not the biggest, processor of oysters in New South Wales. This expansion sees their product sent not only locally, but right throughout the state, interstate, and export markets. A key to their expansion was the opening of the new waterfront factory outlet, located on the shores of Cromarty Bay. The new premises have been designed with customer needs in mind. A large shop front with a vast array of freshly shucked oysters and other local seafood is available.

The Medowie plantation, established in 1980, grows five varieties of macadamia trees over five hectares. The plantation is family owned and run, from planting to harvesting to experimenting in the kitchen with new and tasty treats for visitors to take away. Try the chilli-flavoured nuts and macadamia brittle, plus macadamia ice cream as well as oils, beauty products and other great gifts.

The Community Arts Centre at Port Stephens is a hidden gem where you'll discover the skills of the region’s artisans and take home some beautiful gifts and mementos. The centre houses a number of galleries displaying large collections of arts and crafts - all for sale at reasonable prices. The Arts Centre have a delightful weekend café for light lunches and drinks.

Tailor Made Fish Farms is a unique aquaculture and hydroponics operation providing live barramundi to restaurants. Using award-winning and internationally recognised recirculation technology, Tailor Made Fish Farms can offer visitors a combined package of Production Tours that run daily at 11am and 2pm, with a delicious dining experience at the Cookabarra Restaurant and Function Centre.

The Anchorage is luxury boutique resort. This seaside escape with its nautical overtones is the ideal intimate hideaway. With the marina on one side and rugged bushland on the other, this tranquil spot ensures a peaceful break - whether you play a few rounds of golf or a game of tennis or relax with a book by the pool.

Stay in self-contained luxury at a Beach House or camp out in the park and cook up delicious meals in the camp kitchen. This is an award-winning holiday location for families, or a group of friends who want a casual vacation. Fingal Bay Holiday Park provides beach and bushwalking on the doorstep, and is only five minutes from the heart of Nelson Bay and a pebble's throw from Shoal Bay.

A multiple award-winning holiday park in the bush at the calm Shoal Bay and Little Beach. Halifax is a favourite for boating enthusiasts with a marina and deep water ramp nearby. The park offers a great mix of luxurious villas and budget-friendly accommodation options.

Mantra Aqua Resort offers contemporary, spacious, open plan apartments (two and three bedrooms). Large living areas flow out to balconies overlooking a glorious lagoon pool and landscaped gardens. Close to the marina and the bay, shopping and restaurants are within easy access along with a selection of sparkling beaches.

This is a backpacker’s Eden – with boutique cabins, dormitory rooms, camping or Kombi van sites. Melaleuca is architecturally designed using wood and glass to maximise light, space and harmony with nature. The main building has double kitchens with lounge area and Wi-Fi, a laundry and decks outside for sitting under the stars. This getaway in the trees is guaranteed to restore harmony to the soul.

This award-winning camp site is directly opposite what is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast of Australia - stunning Shoal Bay. Chrystal clear waters and fine white sand provide a flawless swimming spot. And a minute’s walk will take you to cafés, boutiques, restaurants and bars.

Nestled underneath the historic Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, the three lighthouse keepers' cottages offer restored, beautifully appointed, old world charm with modern conveniences. The cottages are located above the sleepy fishing village of Seal Rocks, within Myall Lakes National Park. All cottages offer interrupted ocean views, are self-contained and fully equipped for self catering.Each cottage has up to two or three bedrooms and generously accommodates up to six or eight guests.

This stylish and contemporary boutique hotel offers easy walking to the marina with its boats, bars and restaurants. Closer to home, there are great facilities for tennis and swimming or work out in the gym and then relax in the sauna. Rooms come complete with absolute comfort and balconies from which to enjoy the sparkling bay views.

From Newcastle Airport, in Williamtown, it's a half-hour drive to most of the beautiful beaches in the Port Stephens area. Airlines Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Regional Express (REX) and FlyPelican service the airport, allowing easy access on a daily basis. Port Stephens Coaches operate a public bus service from Newcastle Airport to Newcastle train station up to 11 times per day, as well as a service to the Nelson Bay area. For further information and timetables, phone: +61 2 4982 2940 or visit www.pscoaches.com.au.

CountryLink provides rail services in and out of Newcastle from many regions within New South Wales. The trip is leisurely, picturesque and great value - well worth the time. There are regular train services from Sydney to Newcastle.

Port Stephens is on the New South Wales coast 200 km north of Sydney. It's an easy route to drive, which takes about 2.5 hours along the M1 highway. At the end of the M1, turn right at the roundabout and follow the sign “Hexham and Pacific Highway”. Veer to the right and merge with the New England Highway then merge to the left at the sign “Taree and Pacific Highway” which takes you over the Hexham Bridge. Turn right onto Tomago Road, and turn left into Nelson Bay Road at the roundabout. Then follow the signs to your Port Stephens destination.

All major rental car companies are based at Newcastle Airport. Thrifty Car Hire – www.thrifty.com.au Budget Car Hire – www.budget.com.au Europcar – www.europcar.com.au Avis - www.avis.com.au Hertz - www.hertz.com.au Nelson Bay Hire Cars and Limousines: Phone: 02 4984 7766

CHEMMART PHARMACY • 18 Stockton St., Nelson Bay, NSW 2315 • Phone:+61 2 4984 2445 ANNA BAY PHARMACY • 129 Gan Gan Rd., Anna Bay, NSW 2316 • Phone: +61 2 4982 2490 LAKESIDE PHARMACY • Shop 13, 80 Benjamin Lee Drive, Raymond Terrace, NSW 2324 • Phone: +61 2 4987 5005 MEDOWIE PHARMACY • Shop 17, Medowie Shopping Village, Medowie, NSW 2318 • Phone: +61 2 4982 8564 NELSON BAY PHARMACY • Woolworths Shopping Centre, 1 Donald St, Nelson Bay NSW 2315 • Phone: +61 2 4981 1237 CAPITAL CHEMIST • Shop 4, 34 Sturgeon St, Raymond Terrace, NSW 2324 • Phone: +61 2 4987 3466 SALAMANDER BAY AMCAL CHEMIST • Shop 12, Salamander Bay Shopping Centre, Salamander Bay, NSW 2317 • Phone: +61 2 4982 7644 SHOAL BAY PHARMACY • 59 Shoal Bay Rd., Shoal Bay, NSW 2315 • Phone: +61 2 4981 1247 WANDA BEACH PHARMACY • Shop 2, 261 Soldiers Point Rd., Salamander Bay, NSW 2317 • Phone: +61 2 4984 7936

Taxis are available from Newcastle airport to Port Stephens, and within the region on call. NELSON BAY TAXIS 132 George Rd, Salamander Bay, Port Stephens, NSW 2317 Ph: +61 2 4984 6699 NEWCASTLE TAXIS 3/7 Chaucer St., Hamilton, Newcastle, NSW 2300 Phone: +61 13 33 00 www.newcastletaxis.com.au

Country code: (+61) Area Code: (02)

220-240V