Outdoor Activities Nelson Bay

Outdoor Activities in Nelson Bay

Discover the pristine beauty of Nelson Bay, a coastal gem on the Port Stephens coastline in New South Wales, Australia. This vibrant town offers an array of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

  1. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Nelson Bay’s crystal-clear waters are teeming with marine life. Explore the colorful coral reefs, swim alongside a variety of fish species, and even encounter playful dolphins and majestic sea turtles. Some popular dive sites include Fly Point, Boondelbah, and the SS Yongala Wreck.

  1. Whale Watching

From May to November, humpback whales migrate through Nelson Bay on their journey from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef. Book a whale watching tour for an unforgettable experience as you witness these magnificent creatures up close.

  1. Cruising and Dolphin Watching

Explore the picturesque waters of Port Stephens on a scenic cruise or dolphin watching tour. Keep your eyes peeled for bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, and even the rare Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

  1. Fishing

Anglers will be delighted by the abundance of fish in Nelson Bay. Try your luck at beach fishing along the foreshore or book a fishing charter for deep sea fishing adventures. Some popular catches include flathead, bream, and mulloway.

  1. Hiking and Bushwalking

For land lovers, there are numerous hiking trails to explore in the surrounding national parks. The Tomaree Head Summit Walk offers stunning views of the coastline, while the Yuelarbah Track takes you through beautiful coastal heathland and eucalyptus forests.

  1. Surfing and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Experience the thrill of surfing or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at one of Nelson Bay’s surf beaches, such as One Mile Beach or Box Beach. Lessons are available for beginners, so no need to worry if you’re a novice!

  1. Sandboarding

Feel the adrenaline rush as you slide down massive sand dunes at Stockton Sand Dunes, just a short drive from Nelson Bay. Rent a sandboard or sand sled and enjoy this unique experience on Australia’s largest coastal sand dune system.

  1. Kayaking

Paddle through the tranquil waters of Shoal Bay Island Marine Park, where you can spot sea turtles, rays, and an abundance of fish species. Kayak tours are available for those who want a guided experience.

Embrace the great outdoors in Nelson Bay and create unforgettable memories while connecting with nature!