If you’re looking for great lookouts, amazing beaches and a relaxing weekend, Port Stephens is the answer. Below are our recommendations on what to do if you’re planning a weekend getaway.

Port Stephens long weekend itinerary

Friday: Arrive Friday evening and check in to your hotel

Saturday: Take a drive to Seal Rocks, Blueys Beach & Forster

Sunday: Explore Salamander Bay, Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Tomaree Head

Seal Rocks

About 1.5 hours north of Nelson Bay you will find Seal Rocks. I know, it sounds like such a long drive, but trust me – it’s worth it!!

This place was absolutely stunning! Just put Seal Rocks into google maps, otherwise, you can search for North Coast Holiday Parks Seal Rocks as the beach is opposite the park!

There is a rocky mountain just out which you can go explore on or jump off the rocks into the ocean. It is a great spot to spend a few hours catching some rays.

Blueys Beach

Another 20 minutes north of Seal Rocks you will find Blueys Beach. It is a massive stretch of beach, plenty of space to relax, play some beach cricket or have a swim.

Forster

Forster is a gorgeous coastal town. There isn’t a whole lot happening here, but if you are there when there are markets, it is worth a quick stop in!

Soldiers Point

If you want to see some Pelicans, this is the spot! There are heaps of fisherman here and the pelicans hang around to get the scraps.

Nelson Bay

Nelson Bay is where you will find the marina. Plenty of boats, an information centre if you’re looking for things to do!

Shoal Bay

Shoal Bay is really quite beautiful. There is quite a lot of beach and cafés if you decide to grab a bite to eat.

Tomaree Head

This is an absolute must see and do in Port Stephens. The views are breathtaking.

The walk has a few stairs to get up, but not super difficult. There are spots you can stop along the way to catch your breath if you need to!

You overlook Shoal Bay and Zenith Beach and there are plenty of spots to stop along the way for some photos.

Barry Park Walk

This is a gorgeous walk! You can do part of it or the whole thing, depending on how much time you have.

Salamander Bay

We stayed at Salamander Bay and spent a bit of time exploring. There really isn’t a lot here to see, but if you’re out this way you may as well!

Where to stay

We stayed at the Ibis Styles Salamander Shores. The hotel itself was fine but had a sort of model feel to it and was a bit dated. However, the bed was comfortable which was the main thing. We booked here simply because we are Platinum Accor members.

Where to eat

We actually ate at the Ibis Styles restaurant both nights. Honestly, the food was fantastic! It was quite a pubby atmosphere but the food was good value. However, breakfast wasn’t amazing so I’d recommend eating out somewhere!

Do you have travel insurance?

Before travelling, make sure you get a travel insurance policy – you never know when you might need it! Click here for information on travel insurance, what company we recommend and a link to get an instant quote.

Alternative accommodation

If you’re looking for alternative accommodation to either save some money or share with friends or family, click here for information on Air B&B ($50 discount on your first booking), hotel price comparison websites etc.

Here are a few more snaps from our weekend in Port Stephens.

“The life you have led doesn’t need to be the only life you have.” – Anna Quindlen