Things to Do in Port Stephens

The Largest Moving Sand Dunes in the Southern Hemisphere

Welcome to Port Stephens, the ultimate coastal escape located just a few hours from the bustling city of Sydney. With its pristine beaches, epic marine life, and adrenaline-pumping activities, you’ll find all kinds of incredible things to do in Port Stephens, making it the perfect destination for adventurers. 

 

Whether you want to catch waves, spot whales, or just soak up the sun, we’re sure to have the perfect experience for you. Check out our full range of Port Stephens tours and activities below and allow Backpacker Deals to help you plan an unforgettable adventure like no other! 
 

Top Tours & Activities in Port Stephens

All Activities in Port Stephens

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More Activities in Port Stephens

Looking for even more excitement on your visit to Port Stephens? From adrenaline junkies to nature lovers, we've got something for everyone. Check out our top Port Stephens activities below!


Our Team’s Top Picks for Port Stephens

If you’re looking for the ultimate Port Stephens travel guide, our expert team is more than happy to help. As a passionate group of travellers, we’re more than familiar with all the best things to do in Port Stephens. Check out our top picks for this action-packed destination below and book your next adventure with Backpacker Deals today!

Cruising and Sailing:

Exploring Port Stephens by water is a must, and cruising or sailing trips are the perfect way to take in the area's natural beauty. With its sheltered bays and expansive waterways, Port Stephens provides ideal conditions for boating enthusiasts. No matter what your preferred travel style may be, you’ll find several options to suit your style, from leisurely catamaran trips to thrilling wildlife cruises. 

Surfing Experiences:

Port Stephens is a real haven for surfers, with numerous beaches offering choice waves for all skill levels. This incredible destination boasts ideal surfing conditions and stunning scenery, making it the perfect place to spend the day riding the waves. Whether you're hopping on a board for the first time or honing your techniques, the surfing experiences in Port Stephens are second to none. 

Whale and Dolphin Watching:

The waters off Port Stephens are home to an abundance of marine life, making whale and dolphin watching a highlight of any visit. Humpback whales migrate along the coast from May to November, while bottlenose dolphins grace these waters year-round. There are plenty of whale and dolphin watching tours that allow you to observe these fascinating marine animals up close, promising awesome views and memorable encounters every time.

Family-Friendly Adventures:

Port Stephens is a fantastic destination for families, offering a variety of activities that cater to all ages. Whether you’re sandboarding down the dunes or interacting with the curious marine life at the Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters aquarium, Port Stephens guarantees fun for the whole family!

Top Bucket List Activities to Do in Port Stephens in 2024

1. Nelson Bay Whale Watching

Spot majestic humpback whales as they migrate along the coast and get up close and personal with these gentle giants on a thrilling whale-watching tour!

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2. Port Stephens Surfing Lesson

Catch some waves and learn to surf with the pros with a 1.5-hour lesson from the friendly instructors at Port Stephens Surf School.

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3. Splash and Slide Dolphin Cruise

Cruise around the headlands and eastern harbour of Port Stephens, spot playful dolphins, and enjoy interesting commentary, boom net rides, and gliding down the onboard waterslide!

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4. Port Stephens Day Trip from Sydney

Take a day trip from Sydney to Port Stephens and spend the day enjoying all the highlights, including sandboarding, 4-wheel driving, whale watching, and more.

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5. Broughton Island Cruise

Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, relax on secluded beaches, and enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch as you explore the hidden gem of Broughton Island.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Port Stephens?

Port Stephens promises the adventure of a lifetime no matter when you choose to visit, but the best time to go is during the warmer months in Spring and Summer. This is when you can enjoy the beach, water activities, and (if you visit early in the springtime) the whale-watching season!
 

Port Stephens is about a 2.5-hour drive north of Sydney. If you want to leave the car at home, you could also visit Port Stephens on a guided tour from Sydney and leave the driving to someone else! 
 

You’ll definitely want to spend the day visiting as many highlights as possible! To start, you’ll want to check out Anna Bay, the Stockton Sand Dunes, and the Worimi Conservation Lands. We’d also recommend hopping on a boat tour to encounter Port Stephens’ resident dolphins and whales. If you’re unsure whether you’ll have enough time, we’d suggest leaving the scheduling to the experts and booking one of the many day trips to Port Stephens so you don’t miss out!