Melissa’s guidebook
Food scene
Nestled amongst the turquoise waters, white sandy shores and majestic headlands of Port Stephens, Shoal Bay Country Club is a venue like no other. Discover an eclectic oasis offering refreshing cocktails, delicious meals and vibrant live entertainment amidst an atmosphere of historic charm. The Country Club is an iconic gathering place for all ages and occasions. With a range of Port Stephens’ best dining, entertainment and accommodation experiences on offer, Shoal Bay Country Club is a destination in itself. A visit to The Country Club is the ultimate East Coast experience, loved by locals and visitors alike for its incredible beachfront location, vibrant atmosphere and historical charisma
95 locals recommend
Shoal Bay Country Club
35-45 Shoal Bay RdNestled amongst the turquoise waters, white sandy shores and majestic headlands of Port Stephens, Shoal Bay Country Club is a venue like no other. Discover an eclectic oasis offering refreshing cocktails, delicious meals and vibrant live entertainment amidst an atmosphere of historic charm. The Country Club is an iconic gathering place for all ages and occasions. With a range of Port Stephens’ best dining, entertainment and accommodation experiences on offer, Shoal Bay Country Club is a destination in itself. A visit to The Country Club is the ultimate East Coast experience, loved by locals and visitors alike for its incredible beachfront location, vibrant atmosphere and historical charisma
Located at the old Little Beach Marina in Nelson Bay and situated right on the water overlooking Little Beach, Nelson Bay with spectacular views.
Little Beach Boathouse offers everything you could need to dine out in Port Stephens. They have a beachside setting. The food is cooked with local produce. The menu is fresh modern Australian cuisine. It has beachy furnishings and interiors. They also sell local products to take home.
With an emphasis on fresh local produce and seafood. Explore Hunter Valley wines and Australian craft beer including a variety of Port Stephens very own Murrays Brewery Beers.
Little Beach Boathouse is a must destination when visiting Port Stephens. Reservations are essential.
Or try the the below deck cafe for lunch or sunset drinks. bookings not required for the cafe
110 locals recommend
Little Beach Boathouse
4 Victoria ParadeLocated at the old Little Beach Marina in Nelson Bay and situated right on the water overlooking Little Beach, Nelson Bay with spectacular views.
Little Beach Boathouse offers everything you could need to dine out in Port Stephens. They have a beachside setting. The food is cooked with local produce. The menu is fresh modern Australian cuisine. It has beachy furnishings and interiors. They also sell local products to take home.
With an emphasis on fresh local produce and seafood. Explore Hunter Valley wines and Australian craft beer including a variety of Port Stephens very own Murrays Brewery Beers.
Little Beach Boathouse is a must destination when visiting Port Stephens. Reservations are essential.
Or try the the below deck cafe for lunch or sunset drinks. bookings not required for the cafe
Bringing the traditional architecture and relaxing atmosphere of the Greek islands to Shoal Bay.
Greek cuisine is simple, uncomplicated, and best shared with family and friends. The menu encourages a social experience with large share dishes and delicious Greek inspired cocktails.
If you love to travel, explore and escape, Atmos is for you. Bookings are essential
19 locals recommend
Atmos
35-45 Shoal Bay RoadBringing the traditional architecture and relaxing atmosphere of the Greek islands to Shoal Bay.
Greek cuisine is simple, uncomplicated, and best shared with family and friends. The menu encourages a social experience with large share dishes and delicious Greek inspired cocktails.
If you love to travel, explore and escape, Atmos is for you. Bookings are essential
Based in the heart of Nelson Bay, underneath Hotel Nelson, the cafe is a favourite of locals, drawn in by the excellent coffee (by Pablo & Rusty) and extensive breakfast and lunch menus that rely on seasonal produce. While the usual brekkie suspects are ever-present — smashed avo, toasted muesli and bacon and egg roll — the menu, designed by Mathew Key and Dan James, features some experimental dishes. The results across both are, visually and in flavour, damn impressive. Take, for example, the sambal chilli scrambled eggs, served with coconut yoghurt, green papaya and crushed cashews. Or the Medowie garlic mushrooms with whipped feta, chimichurri and Morpeth red kale. Whatever lands on your table will be fresh, colourful and leave you ready to take on a day of sightseeing (or relaxing).
70 locals recommend
The Little Nel
7 Government RdBased in the heart of Nelson Bay, underneath Hotel Nelson, the cafe is a favourite of locals, drawn in by the excellent coffee (by Pablo & Rusty) and extensive breakfast and lunch menus that rely on seasonal produce. While the usual brekkie suspects are ever-present — smashed avo, toasted muesli and bacon and egg roll — the menu, designed by Mathew Key and Dan James, features some experimental dishes. The results across both are, visually and in flavour, damn impressive. Take, for example, the sambal chilli scrambled eggs, served with coconut yoghurt, green papaya and crushed cashews. Or the Medowie garlic mushrooms with whipped feta, chimichurri and Morpeth red kale. Whatever lands on your table will be fresh, colourful and leave you ready to take on a day of sightseeing (or relaxing).
The Rick Stein at Bannisters restaurant was brought to Port Stephens to take advantage of the incredible seafood that is sourced from the area daily.
The menu can change daily based on what is caught by the local fishermen. From Kingfish, Flathead, John Dory, Sand Whiting, Oysters, Lobster and Tuna, every piece of fresh produce serves as inspiration for new recipes and dishes to be presented to guests.
Rick’s chefs keep dishes simple by choosing ingredients that naturally emphasise fresh seafood produce. Executed to perfection each dish delivers bursts of flavour that can be further complemented with the perfect wine pairing from our sommeliers recommendations.
Fresh seafood…simply cooked.
21 locals recommend
Rick Stein at Bannisters
147 Soldiers Point RdThe Rick Stein at Bannisters restaurant was brought to Port Stephens to take advantage of the incredible seafood that is sourced from the area daily.
The menu can change daily based on what is caught by the local fishermen. From Kingfish, Flathead, John Dory, Sand Whiting, Oysters, Lobster and Tuna, every piece of fresh produce serves as inspiration for new recipes and dishes to be presented to guests.
Rick’s chefs keep dishes simple by choosing ingredients that naturally emphasise fresh seafood produce. Executed to perfection each dish delivers bursts of flavour that can be further complemented with the perfect wine pairing from our sommeliers recommendations.
Fresh seafood…simply cooked.
Neighbourhoods
Take the invigorating short walk to the summit of Tomaree Head, 161 metres above the Port Stephens entrance. As you hike the 2.2km return 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.
7 locals recommend
Tomaree Head Track
Take the invigorating short walk to the summit of Tomaree Head, 161 metres above the Port Stephens entrance. As you hike the 2.2km return 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.
Experience the stunning beauty of the Blue Water Paradise by Stand Up Paddleboarding with Shoal Bay SUP.
Whether you are trying paddleboarding for the first time or are an experienced SUPer, Shoal Bay SUP will ensure you and your family enjoy the ultimate paddleboard experience.
Discounts available for sessions booked online.
12 locals recommend
Shoal Bay SUP
3 Shoal Bay RoadExperience the stunning beauty of the Blue Water Paradise by Stand Up Paddleboarding with Shoal Bay SUP.
Whether you are trying paddleboarding for the first time or are an experienced SUPer, Shoal Bay SUP will ensure you and your family enjoy the ultimate paddleboard experience.
Discounts available for sessions booked online.
The 27 hole championship golf course is on the skirt of the Tomaree National Park; in a natural setting with native trees and flora, is home to an abundance of wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and native birds. Ranked in the top 50 courses in Australia for rounds costing under $50 mid week, offers great value and an enjoyable experience to golfers of all levels. Located in the heart of Nelson Bay just walking distance from the CBD, it is the ideal destination for your next short break, family holiday, corporate golf day, social golf group destination, wedding or conference.
The Club has been purpose built to accommodate everyone... not just golfers! It includes a well-ventilated function centre with its own dedicated bar and entrance, main bar, sports bar, indoor/outdoor gaming facilities, cafe/lounge area, Bluewater Grill Restaurant, children's room all with stunning 180 degree views of the course and headlands. The Pro-Shop is fully stocked with well-known brands of merchandise, golfing equipment and more. Maurie and Warren Moses are our friendly Professionals who run golfing clinics, private lessons, golf days and trade days. They will assist you with booking your next round, joining competitions or social group requirements.
Bluewater Grill Restaurant has the children's room in view and has a stunning outlook straight over the junction of all of our holes and out to the headlands. Seating up to 120 people, Will and Tanya do an amazing job with their Modern Australian cuisine. Open all day from 10am - book your table today
35 locals recommend
Nelson Bay Golf Club
57 Dowling StThe 27 hole championship golf course is on the skirt of the Tomaree National Park; in a natural setting with native trees and flora, is home to an abundance of wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and native birds. Ranked in the top 50 courses in Australia for rounds costing under $50 mid week, offers great value and an enjoyable experience to golfers of all levels. Located in the heart of Nelson Bay just walking distance from the CBD, it is the ideal destination for your next short break, family holiday, corporate golf day, social golf group destination, wedding or conference.
The Club has been purpose built to accommodate everyone... not just golfers! It includes a well-ventilated function centre with its own dedicated bar and entrance, main bar, sports bar, indoor/outdoor gaming facilities, cafe/lounge area, Bluewater Grill Restaurant, children's room all with stunning 180 degree views of the course and headlands. The Pro-Shop is fully stocked with well-known brands of merchandise, golfing equipment and more. Maurie and Warren Moses are our friendly Professionals who run golfing clinics, private lessons, golf days and trade days. They will assist you with booking your next round, joining competitions or social group requirements.
Bluewater Grill Restaurant has the children's room in view and has a stunning outlook straight over the junction of all of our holes and out to the headlands. Seating up to 120 people, Will and Tanya do an amazing job with their Modern Australian cuisine. Open all day from 10am - book your table today
Nelson Bay Cinema
23 Stockton StFun activities
Here at Go Karts Go Nelson Bay we have the biggest 4-stroke outdoor go kart track and the fastest 4-stroke karts in the whole of Nelson Bay area.
Our Go Karts are the latest specification RIMO Go karts from Europe and we also have specially designed Junior Go Karts as well as twin seaters. This allows us to cater from as young as 5 years of age (depending on size – must be a large 5 year old) right up to 99 years of age !
14 locals recommend
Go Karts Go Nelson Bay
778 Marsh RdHere at Go Karts Go Nelson Bay we have the biggest 4-stroke outdoor go kart track and the fastest 4-stroke karts in the whole of Nelson Bay area.
Our Go Karts are the latest specification RIMO Go karts from Europe and we also have specially designed Junior Go Karts as well as twin seaters. This allows us to cater from as young as 5 years of age (depending on size – must be a large 5 year old) right up to 99 years of age !
Port Stephens Golf Course • Driving Range • Batting Cages • Putt Putt • Laser Clay Pigeon Shooting • Laser Tag • Soccer Golf • Frisbee Golf
Great affordable family fun where all ages can join in the action
We cater for large groups or private functions with BBQ facilities and picnic areas
ATM and equipment hire are available
No bookings or memberships are required and we are open everyday from 8am and close 6:00pm except Xmas
16 locals recommend
David Grahams Golf Complex
4321 Nelson Bay RdPort Stephens Golf Course • Driving Range • Batting Cages • Putt Putt • Laser Clay Pigeon Shooting • Laser Tag • Soccer Golf • Frisbee Golf
Great affordable family fun where all ages can join in the action
We cater for large groups or private functions with BBQ facilities and picnic areas
ATM and equipment hire are available
No bookings or memberships are required and we are open everyday from 8am and close 6:00pm except Xmas
Shoal Bay Bike Hire
63 Shoal Bay RdSand Dunes Anna Bay
Sightseeing
Dolphin and whale watching cruises . Check out there website for cruise details
61 locals recommend
Moonshadow-TQC Cruises Boarding
Dolphin and whale watching cruises . Check out there website for cruise details
Relaxation
With a seasonal menu aimed at complementing our bodies changing needs, Spa Bannisters is a must visit for those looking for the ultimate relaxation during their stay.
There is a range of new treatments to experience for even the most seasoned spa-goer.
Offering massage and facial treatments, manicures and pedicures using organic Australian products, our guests will enjoy the ultimate relaxation with our luxurious spa experience.
26 locals recommend
Bannisters Port Stephens
147 Soldiers Point RdWith a seasonal menu aimed at complementing our bodies changing needs, Spa Bannisters is a must visit for those looking for the ultimate relaxation during their stay.
There is a range of new treatments to experience for even the most seasoned spa-goer.
Offering massage and facial treatments, manicures and pedicures using organic Australian products, our guests will enjoy the ultimate relaxation with our luxurious spa experience.
Spa Lucca at The Anchorage Hotel & Spa, sits proudly amongst the worlds finest spa list. And it's fitting.
The ideal destination spa for those who seek a spa retreat, or a decadent day spa for those closer to home. Either way you're welcome at Spa Lucca. A private seaside sanctuary with 2 lavish single, and 2 double treatment rooms, an indulgent whirlpool and steam room, and complete with it's own private relaxation lounge.
We use only purely Australian eco-luxe products from Sodashi, Mukti and La Gaia which are sustainably made, ethically produced, and use no harmful chemicals.
Open daily from 9am at The Anchorage Port Stephens. Appointments essential.
10 locals recommend
The Anchorage Port Stephens Hotel & Spa
26 Corlette Point RdSpa Lucca at The Anchorage Hotel & Spa, sits proudly amongst the worlds finest spa list. And it's fitting.
The ideal destination spa for those who seek a spa retreat, or a decadent day spa for those closer to home. Either way you're welcome at Spa Lucca. A private seaside sanctuary with 2 lavish single, and 2 double treatment rooms, an indulgent whirlpool and steam room, and complete with it's own private relaxation lounge.
We use only purely Australian eco-luxe products from Sodashi, Mukti and La Gaia which are sustainably made, ethically produced, and use no harmful chemicals.
Open daily from 9am at The Anchorage Port Stephens. Appointments essential.
Beaches
Little Beach Reserve
Beach RoadZenith Beach Tomaree
1B Shoal Bay RdBirubi Beach
73 James Paterson St
Fingal Bay