Top Attractions in Nelson Bay

Nelson Bay Essentials

Nelson Bay is the primary hub of Port Stephens, characterized by its extensive marina and the 160-meter-high Gan Gan Hill lookout. The region features the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park, with Fly Point offering protected waters for snorkeling and diving. Historic sites include the 19th-century Nelson Head Inner Light, while the coastline is dotted with calm swimming spots like Little Beach and Dutchmans Beach. For recreation, the area provides access to whale-watching departures and the 1-kilometer toboggan track at Toboggan Hill Maze.

Nelson Bay Essentials — Map

A

Gan Gan Hill lookout

This 160-meter-high vantage point provides 360-degree views of Port Stephens, the Tomaree Peninsula, and the Stockton Bight sand dunes.

wood26 / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Inner Light

Nelson Head Light, also known as Nelson Head Inner Light, is an inactive, unusual lighthouse on Nelson Head, a headland northeast of the…

C

Nelson bay

The central harbor and township of Port Stephens, functioning as the main departure point for regional dolphin and whale watching cruises.

D

Little Beach

A sheltered beach with calm waters, a public jetty, boat ramp, and picnic facilities located between Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay.

E

Sandy Beach

Known locally as "Dutchies," this north-facing beach offers calm swimming waters and a grassy reserve connected to the Nelson Bay foreshore cycleway.

F

Toboggan Hill Maze

Recreational park featuring a 1-kilometer stainless steel toboggan track, a hedge maze, mini-golf, and indoor rock climbing.

G

Fly Point

A protected aquatic reserve and popular shore-diving site within the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park, featuring sponge gardens and diverse marine life.

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Nelson Bay Essentials Beaches and Diving