Located just 3 hours north of Sydney, Nelson Bay is the hub of Port Stephens. It is known for its beautiful beaches and perfectly sheltered bays. An idyllic beach getaway, my partner and I, with our puppy, choose the small beach of Fingal Bay(just a few minutes from Nelson Bay) to celebrate our 6 year anniversary.

With its buzzing marina, just minutes away from the local set of shops, Nelson Bay has everything you can want in a mini getaway. Unwind from the chaos of the city with nature walks, local wineries and beachside cafes. Nelson Bay and its surrounds is perfect for couples, families and nature lovers.

Explore the endless coast, take a walk up Tomaree Mountain, go Dolphin watching or hit the famous Worimi sand dunes for some thrill seeking adrenaline.

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Things you should know about Nelson Bay

Getting There:

The easiest and quickest way to get to Nelson Bay is by car and is the perfect place to stop on your Australia road trip!  It’s around a 3-hour drive north from Sydney, 2 hours from Central Coast and just 1 hour from Newcastle. This is the option we choose as we were travelling with our little puppy Jada. It also is worth it to have the car whilst you are there to get around to all the little beaches!

Port Stephen organise private coaches. Alternatively, you could catch the train into Newcastle and get a bus into Nelson bay from there.

Where to stay in Nelson Bay

There are lots of Pet-Friendly options in the Port Stephens area. We choose a lovely newly renovated flat located on the main street in Fingal Bay. I love staying in AirBnbs, they have that homely aspect and is perfect when we bring Jada on our trips.

Sea Songs Pet-Friendly Accom is walking distance to the beach, dog leash free park, local shops and the lovely Long Boat Cafe.
The flat itself was great, with plenty of room, free wifi, kitchen and laundry facilities, a fenced area for Jay and a welcome hamper with a great selection of breaky foods and snacks!

Oasis at One Mile beach is a great pet-friendly alternative. Located just 1 km from One Mile Beach, this eco retreat is set on 5 acres of landscaped gardens and ponds, it features free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool and day spa services.

Editors Tip: If you love Nelson Bay, be sure to check out other amazing small towns in Australia.

Where to eat in Nelson Bay

In House Kitchen |  41 Donald Street, Nelson Bay 2315 | Instagram
A white stylish cafe set in the heart of Nelson Bay. On arrival, just by looking at the decor I could tell we were in for a treat. I got the spicy scrambled eggs which were very tasty. Their coffee is top notch as well!

Long Boat Cafe | 3 Marine Dr, Fingal Bay NSW 2315 | Instagram

Mavericks on the Bay | d’Albora Marina, Teramby Rd Nelson Bay 2315 | Instagram
Located right on the water’s edge at the Marina, Mavericks on the Bay is an award-winning dining and cocktail bar. Serving up incredible seafood dishes and cocktails.

Cellar Cafe | 12 Market St, Fingal Bay 2315
A bottle shop turned cafe, this cute little cafe is a great spot to get your morning coffee. We also ordered a vegetarian takeaway pizza as an afternoon snack which was delicious!

Mod Thai | 3/57 Shoal Bay Rd, Shoal Bay |

Seabreeze Hotel |  1 Stockton St, Nelson Bay 2315 | Instagram

Sushi Gogoro |  3 Stockton Street, Ground floor, Nelson Bay 2315

Almond Cappuccino at In-House Kitchen

Carrot and Leek Fritters at Long Beach Cafe

What do in Nelson Bay

Discover the Beaches

Port Stephens is famous for its 26 coastal bays and home to over 150 bottlenose dolphins making this the dolphin-watching capital of Australia. My top picks Zenith Beach, Fingal Bay, One Mile Beach and Birubi Beach.

Tomaree Head Walk

This was a highlight of our trip and something I would definitely recommend! The walk starts at Shoal Bay, with a 2.2km hike up to the Mt. Tomaree summit. It isn’t too difficult but there are some steep stairs towards the top. As you reach the peak you are rewarded with 360-degree panoramic coastal views, overlooking both Shoal Bay and surrounding beaches. Don’t forget to check out the historic gun emplacements, part of Fort Tomaree that was built in 1941 as part of Australia’s World War II east coast defence system.

Explore Nelson Bay Town

The main town has a beautiful marina that showcases amazing seafood restaurants. Walk into down for a shop at the little boutiques and brunch at one of the many cafes.

Dolphin/ Whale Watching Cruise

Imagine Cruises run regular whale-watching tours during the season from the Nelson Bay Marina. Alternatively, you might get lucky like we did and spot a school of Dolphins at Zenith Beach when we were on the Tomaree Head Hike.

Have a Picnic

Grab some wine and your favourite nibbles and set up camp at one of the stunning secluded bays.

Worimi Conservation Lands

10 minutes from the centre of Nelson Bay you will find the amazingWorimi Conservation Lands. The sand dunes stretch for more than 30km to the northern outskirts of Newcastle, covering an area of 4,200 hectares. Explore the ever-shifting golden dunes by 4WD, quad bike, or perhaps a camel ride into the ocean?

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