A tourist's guide to exploring Port Stephens NSW

Dive into the Blue: Exploring Water Activities

The aquatic environment of Port Stephens is a major draw for tourists, offering numerous opportunities to engage with the pristine waters and diverse marine life.

Encountering Dolphins: A Unique Connection

One of the prominent attractions in Port Stephens is the presence of bottlenose dolphins, which are described as incredibly social animals with a natural curiosity towards humans. This inherent curiosity leads them to approach boats, fostering unique interactions with people from around the globe who are drawn to Nelson Bay for the popular dolphin watching cruises. The website highlights several cruise options available on any given day, such as Saturday, March 15th, 2025.

These include:

The Dolphin Watch Express, a shorter one-hour cruise catering to those with limited time, and the Dolphin Discovery cruise, a 1.5-hour experience featuring a twist and twirl slide and a boom net for added fun

For a more serene experience, the Dolphin & Sailing cruise offers a 1.5-hour journey on the Imagine, with the potential for a return trip under sail

The Dolphin Watch & Eco Adventure cruise also provides a 1.5-hour exploration of the marine environment

For those seeking more active participation, the Splash n Slide cruise includes a half-hour stop for swimming and sliding.

The availability of these varied cruise lengths and features, suggests that tourists can select an option that best fits their schedules and preferences. Furthermore, the emphasis on the dolphins' natural inclination to interact with humans, indicates a responsible approach to wildlife tourism, portraying these encounters as a respectful and mutually enjoyable experience.

Cruise Name Duration Key Features

Dolphin Watch Express 1hr Dolphin watching (16max)

Dolphin Discovery 1.5hr Dolphin watching, twist & twirl slide, boom net

Dolphins & Sailing on Imagine, 1.5hr Dolphin watching, possibility of returning under sail

Dolphin Watch & Eco Adventure 1.5hr Dolphin watching, eco-focused exploration

Splash n Slide 2hr Dolphin watching, 1/2 hr stop for swimming and sliding

Port Stephens 3.5hr Island Snorkel Cruise 3.5hr Snorkeling around islands

Marine Discovery 3.5hr Snorkel gear and guide included

Swim with Wild Dolphins 4.5hr Swim with wild dolphins, champagne brunch, video of your swim

Broughton Island Summer Cruise 6.5hr Island exploration

Underwater Adventures: Snorkeling in Pristine Waters

Beyond dolphin encounters, Port Stephens offers excellent opportunities for underwater exploration through various snorkel cruises

The 3.5-hour Marine Discovery Cruise on Imagine provides a comprehensive experience with a qualified Dive Master/Snorkel Guide, included snorkel gear, and complimentary refreshments, the potential for sailing, a comfortable downstairs cabin, and onboard amenities like a licensed bar and hot shower, further enhance this offering.

For a more personalized experience, the Port Stephens 3.5-hour Snorkel Island Cruise on Envision operates with a smaller group on a fast catamaran, with the snorkel  destination chosen, based on the day's conditions.  A knowledgeable snorkel guide is present and while gear can be supplied, guests are also welcome to bring their own.

For a full-day adventure, the 6.5-hour Broughton Island cruise includes snorkeling in the clear waters surrounding the island. While guests need to bring their own snorkel equipment for this option, the cruise also offers spectacular scenery, a picnic lunch, and opportunities for guided walks and other activities

The availability of guided snorkel cruises with provided equipment makes this activity accessible to a wider range of tourists, even those who may not have their own gear or extensive snorkeling experience. The flexibility in choosing snorkel locations based on weather and sea conditions demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the best possible underwater experience for visitors.

Island Escapes: Discovering Coastal Gems

Several island cruises cater to tourists seeking to explore the coastal gems around Port Stephens

The Port Stephens 3.5-hour Island Snorkel Cruise (available in summer) focuses on taking guests to prime snorkeling locations, with the option to rent gear

The 3.5-hour Fingal Bay Eco Walk & Lighthouse tour offers a different kind of island experience, featuring guided walks along Fingal Island, the chance to climb the lighthouse, and potentially swim in a secluded lagoon

For a more extensive island exploration, the 6.5-hour Broughton Island Cruise (also in summer) and the Broughton Island 6.5-hour historical cruise provide opportunities for guided walks to wildlife breeding areas, secluded coves, and beaches. These cruises also include activities like snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the beach

Notably, the historical cruise incorporates a fully escorted historical walk, adding an educational element to the experience

During the journeys to and from Broughton Island, passengers have the chance to spot various marine wildlife, including dolphins, penguins, seals, turtles, and whales (depending on the season). The inclusion of picnic lunches on the Broughton Island cruises and the availability of onboard amenities, contribute to a convenient and enjoyable island adventure. The combination of snorkeling, nature walks, and historical insights within the island cruise offerings suggests a well-rounded experience that caters to diverse interests beyond just scenic boat rides.

Sunset and Evening Cruises: Relaxing on the Water

For a more relaxed experience on the water, Port Stephens offers both sunset and twilight cruises.

The 2.5-hour Sunset BBQ cruise provides a scenic sail within the bay, a set two-course meal (with vegetarian options), a fully licensed bar, and complimentary tea and coffee. Passengers may also have the opportunity to see dolphins and can choose to relax on the deck or even enjoy a boom net ride while dinner is prepared. Dining options include the downstairs cabin or the covered foredeck, where a BBQ meal featuring fresh, local produce is served. Dessert is served as the boat returns to the marina

Alternatively, the 2-hour Twilight cruise around the Bay offers a more casual experience where guests can bring their own food and drinks

The availability of both a catered sunset cruise and a BYO twilight cruise provides options for different preferences and budgets, allowing tourists to choose the evening water experience that best suits their needs.

Reeling in the Fun: Fishing Charters

Anglers can also find opportunities for enjoyable experiences with fishing charters available in Port Stephens

These charters operate using a custom 6mm plate aluminum center console fishing boat named "Cool Change," equipped with a modern Suzuki engine and a range of tackle and technology, to ensure a memorable fishing trip. The provision of a well-equipped and modern fishing boat indicates a commitment to offering a professional and enjoyable fishing experience for tourists.

A Journey to Tea Gardens: Ferry Adventures

A notable excursion available to tourists in Port Stephens is a ferry trip to the charming town of Tea Gardens, offering a delightful day out

The Historic Tea Gardens Ferry

The Original Tea Gardens Ferry has a rich history, operating since 1904 and having transported over a million people between Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens.  Originally serving as a vital link for supplies and a quicker route to Newcastle, the ferry now primarily caters to day-trippers and golfers.

The ferry operates year-round with departures from Nelson Bay at 8:00 am, 11:30 am and 3:30 pm, and return trips from Tea Gardens at 10:00 am, 2:30 pm and 5:15 pm. Return ticket prices are $40 for adults, $37 for seniors/concession holders, $25 for children (4-14), $5 for infants (0-3), and $25 for companion/carers, with group bookings (20+) available at $32 per person.

Passengers can also bring pushbikes for an additional $10. The ferry service currently utilizes two historic timber ferries, allowing passengers to enjoy scenic views of the bay and the Myall River, as well as observe bird and marine life

A QR code available on board provides access to information about the history of Tea Gardens, including a walking map, as well as links to information about dining options and galleries in Tea Gardens.

The long-standing history of the Tea Gardens Ferry adds a unique charm to the travel experience, connecting visitors with the region's past. The provision of a QR code with information about Tea Gardens demonstrates an effort to enhance the visitor experience beyond just the ferry journey itself, encouraging further exploration of the destination.

The Y Knot Catamaran Experience

An alternative ferry service to Tea Gardens is offered by the Y Knot Catamaran. This service provides a lunchtime express ferry that departs Nelson Bay at 11:00 am and returns at 3:00 pm, allowing for two hours to explore Tea Gardens

Additionally, the Y Knot Catamaran offers a "Chiseled & Charmed" private charter on Saturdays for up to 30 people, which includes male entertainment

Adventures on Land: Discovering Inland Attractions

Beyond the allure of the water, Port Stephens boasts a variety of land-based activities and attractions that cater to different interests.

Thrills and Spills: Exploring the Dunes

The expansive sand dunes of Port Stephens offer a unique landscape for adventure activities. Tourists can experience the thrill of quad biking across these dunes or opt for a beach and dune adventure that includes searching for pippies and sliding down the sandy slopes The presence of these extensive sand dunes distinguishes Port Stephens from typical coastal destinations, providing an opportunity for novel and exciting activities.

Wildlife Wonders: Encounters with Nature

For those interested in wildlife encounters, Port Stephens offers several options. Tinny's Butterfly House provides an opportunity to see and feed stingrays and baby rescue sharks, as well as interact with macaws, turtles, and farmyard animals. Visitors can also experience feeding stingrays and even snorkeling with sharks at Irukandji.

Further wildlife encounters are available at the Koala Sanctuary in Anna Bay and Oakvale Wildlife Park.

Additionally, the Tilligerry Habitat offers a chance to observe local flora and fauna

The diverse range of wildlife experiences, from marine life interactions to encounters with native Australian animals, caters to a broad spectrum of animal enthusiasts.

Family Fun and Entertainment: Beyond the Beach

Port Stephens provides a wide array of family-friendly activities beyond its stunning beaches.

These include indoor markets, the Splash Water Park, Escape Eco Adventures, beach camel rides, beach horse riding, Hellfire Paintball, scuba diving opportunities, Barry Park, go-carts, Fighter World (an aviation museum), ten-pin bowling, Toboggan Hill, Lolly Bug (likely a confectionery store or similar attraction), and the Barramundi Farm.

This extensive list indicates that Port Stephens is well-equipped for family holidays, offering numerous options to keep visitors of all ages entertained, regardless of their interests.

Exploring on Foot: Walks and Nature

The Port Stephens Visitors Guide includes a section on "Walks", suggesting that exploring the natural beauty of the region on foot is a significant aspect of the tourist experience. This highlights the opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the environment at their own pace and discover the scenic landscapes of Port Stephens.

Planning Your Visit: Essential Information

To assist tourists in planning their trip, www.loveps.au offers several resources with essential information

Navigating Port Stephens with the Visitor Guide and Map

The Port Stephens Visitors Guide serves as a valuable resource, offering quick links to information on emergency numbers, parking details, dining options, pubs and clubs, family entertainment and markets, wet weather activities, land and water activities, walks, places of interest, parking in Nelson Bay, finding cruise docks, and terms and conditions.

This comprehensive guide indicates a focus on providing tourists with the necessary information for a smooth and enjoyable visit. Additionally, a map of Nelson Bay is available

While the specific details of what the map shows are not provided in the available information, its presence suggests a tool to help tourists navigate the area.

Getting Around: Parking Information in Nelson Bay

Finding convenient parking is often a concern for tourists, and www.loveps.au provides information on parking options in Nelson Bay.

Free parking is available on Nash Lane and Magnus Street, recommended as a good spot for ferry access

Directions to this free parking from the Dolphin Watch booking agency are also provided

Paid parking is available outside the Dolphin and Whale Watch booking office, with hourly rates varying between weekdays and weekends/public holidays

The Park n Pay App allows for convenient mobile payment and top-ups.

Visitors also receive 15 minutes of free parking in this area

Furthermore, Woolworth's offers three hours of free underground parking.

Providing detailed parking information addresses a key logistical consideration for visitors, making it easier for them to plan their transportation and access various attractions.

Parking Location Type Details/Notes

Recommended for ferry 

Free parking - Nash Lane & Magnus Street (past Port Stephens Motel)

Outside Dolphin and Whale Watch booking office (40A Victoria Parade) - Paid 9-hour parking; Weekdays: $4.50/hour Weekends & Public Holidays: $5.50/hour. Park n Pay App available.

There is also 15 mins free in this carpark which allows ticket purchases to be made quickly at Dolphin and Whale Watch Booking Agency, without having to pay for parking.

Woolworth's Free 3 hours underground parking.

Important Considerations: Beach Driving Permits

For tourists interested in exploring the coastline by 4WD, the website mentions "4WD Beach permit information"

Worimi Conservation Lands is highlighted as a great place for 4x4 exploration, with a link provided for more information on beach driving in this area. While specific details on obtaining permits are not included in the provided snippets, the mention of this topic indicates that beach driving is a popular activity in the region, and tourists should be aware of any necessary permits or regulations.

Your Port Stephens Experience Awaits: A Coastal Paradise

In conclusion, based on the information available on www.loveps.au, Port Stephens presents itself as a diverse and appealing tourist destination. Visitors can expect a wide range of experiences, from exhilarating dolphin watching and snorkeling adventures to relaxing island cruises and engaging land-based activities such as exploring the unique sand dunes and encountering diverse wildlife. The availability of ferry services to Tea Gardens offers a charming day trip option, while essential visitor information like parking details and visitor guides helps ensure a smooth and well-planned stay. The blend of natural beauty, adventure and relaxation opportunities positions Port Stephens as a compelling destination for a variety of travelers seeking a memorable coastal escape. Potential tourists are encouraged to explore the provided links on www.loveps.au for more detailed information and to begin planning their visit to this captivating region.