Nelson Bay is situated in the Port Stephens region which is around two to three hours drive north of Sydney. The ecological balance in Nelsons Bay is perfect for dolphins so you are almost guaranteed to see, and even swim with them, if you take a cruise on one of the Nelson Bay based boats. ( The boats can be booked from Nelson Bay Marina).
In addition, migrating whales can be seen off Port Stephens usually during the Australian winter. Nelson Bay is probably the biggest town and holiday resort in Port Stephens and has a thriving marina where dolphin, pleasure and self drive cruises depart. A relatively new development on the marina is a precinct of restaurants and shops overlooking the bay. This includes a seafood restaurant and a 'Hogs Breath Cafe'.
There are some pleasant walking trails leading from Nelsonas Bay to Dutchmans Bay, Bagnalls Beach and eventually to Anchorage Marina, the location of the famous Peppers Hotel.
Nelson Bay Golf Course has a good reputation in this part of the world and it is a well maintained and enviably located near the Tomaree National Park. At times kangaroos have been known to watch golfers from the fairways! The newly built Landmark Hotel is bounded by the golf course.
There are some breathtaking bays and beaches in Port Stephens e.g. Shoal and Fingal Bay. Then there is the vast 20 mile long Stockton Beach. You can walk for hours just toying with the surf as you go and not even make an impression on it. It is one of the few beaches which allow 4WD's (there is plenty of space for everyone here) and Camel treks. This beach is truly a unique Australian experience.
Port Stephens is a popular tourist destination for Sydneysliders so it is well catered for with hotels and bed and breakfasts. Click here for full list of Port Stephens Accommodation.
Port Stephens is around an hours drive due east of The Hunter Valley and so is ideally located to explore the award winning wine region.




Approx. Driving Distances / TIME
2.5Hrs From Sydney (200Km)
11.5Hrs From Melbourne (1000Km)
10Hrs From Brisbane (830Km)
Max Average Temperature
Deg C/ Deg F
Winter(June-Aug):18 / 65
Spring(Sep-Nov):23 / 74
Summer(Dec-Feb):27 / 81
Autumn(Mar-May):24 / 76
Average Monthly Rainfall - mm
Winter(June-Aug): 96
Spring(Sep-Nov): 74
Summer(Dec-Feb): 93
Autumn(Mar-May): 117
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