Fun Things to Do in Nelson Bay | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Nelson Bay Travel Guide
Quick overview of Nelson Bay with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Nelson Bay! Located in the beautiful Port Stephens region of New South Wales, Nelson Bay is a charming coastal town that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural landscapes, this destination is a haven for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Nelson Bay is also renowned for its abundant marine life, making it a popular spot for diving and snorkeling. Additionally, the town boasts a vibrant dining scene, with a wide range of restaurants and cafes serving up delicious seafood and other culinary delights. Whether you're seeking a tranquil beach getaway or an action-packed adventure, Nelson Bay has something for everyone.
Nelson Bay Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Nelson Bay videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Nelson Bay in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
![[4k] Nelson Bay & Port Stephens NSW Australia | Best Things To Do on a Weekend Trip](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/OKUHZ0ZLj2U/hqdefault.jpg)
Plan Nelson Bay Trip
Prepare for your Nelson Bay trip now. Use our trusted partners for great rates and a hassle-free booking experience. Easily book your Hotels now without advance payment and cancel anytime.
Things To Do In Nelson Bay
Nelson Bay offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Located in the beautiful Port Stephens region, this coastal town is known for its stunning beaches, water sports, and marine life.
One of the main attractions in Nelson Bay is its beaches. Visitors can spend their days swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking on the golden sands of Shoal Bay Beach or Fingal Bay Beach. These beaches are also great for surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
For those who love water sports, Nelson Bay offers a range of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. The crystal-clear waters of the area are home to a diverse marine life, including dolphins, whales, and turtles. Visitors can take a boat tour or cruise to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures.
Nature enthusiasts will also enjoy exploring the Tomaree National Park. This park offers hiking trails that lead to the summit of Tomaree Head, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. The park is also home to a variety of native wildlife and bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching and photography.
For a more relaxing experience, visitors can visit the Nelson Bay Marina. This bustling marina is lined with restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops, offering a great place to dine and shop. Visitors can also take a boat charter from the marina to explore the nearby Broughton Island or Cabbage Tree Island.
Lastly, Nelson Bay is known for its annual events and festivals. The Whale Watching Season from May to November attracts many visitors who want to witness the majestic humpback whales migrating along the coast. The Nelson Bay Christmas Carols in December is another popular event that brings the community together for a night of music and festive cheer.
Tours And Activities In Nelson Bay
Check out these Experiences around the Nelson Bay region. Read real reviews and highlights.
Check out Top-Rated Tours and Activities in New South Wales (State region of Nelson Bay).
Best Time To Visit Nelson Bay
The best time to visit Nelson Bay is during the spring and autumn months, which are from September to November and from March to May. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). The summer months, from December to February, can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Winter, from June to August, is generally cool and rainy, with average temperatures around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). However, Nelson Bay is a popular tourist destination year-round due to its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and abundance of marine life.
Flight Calendar For Nelson Bay
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Nelson Bay.
Best Areas To Stay In Nelson Bay
Nelson Bay is a beautiful coastal town located in the Port Stephens region of New South Wales. It offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Nelson Bay:
1. Nelson Bay CBD: The central business district of Nelson Bay is a popular choice for accommodation due to its convenient location. It is close to the marina, where you can find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Staying in the CBD allows easy access to the town's attractions, such as the Nelson Bay Golf Club and the Nelson Bay Lighthouse.
2. Shoal Bay: Located just east of Nelson Bay CBD, Shoal Bay is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. This area offers a range of accommodation options, including beachfront resorts, holiday apartments, and cozy bed and breakfasts. Shoal Bay is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy the beach lifestyle.
3. Fingal Bay: Situated to the north of Nelson Bay, Fingal Bay is a quieter area known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. Accommodation options in Fingal Bay include beachfront cabins, holiday homes, and camping grounds. This area is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.
4. Corlette: Located south of Nelson Bay CBD, Corlette is a residential area that offers a tranquil setting for accommodation. It is known for its calm beaches and scenic walking trails. Accommodation options in Corlette range from luxury resorts to self-contained apartments. This area is perfect for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing stay.
5. Soldiers Point: Situated to the east of Nelson Bay, Soldiers Point is a picturesque area known for its stunning views and waterfront properties. Accommodation options in Soldiers Point include luxury resorts, holiday homes, and apartments. This area is ideal for those looking for a luxurious and scenic stay.
Overall, Nelson Bay offers a range of accommodation options in different areas, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you prefer a central location, beachfront property, or a peaceful retreat, Nelson Bay has something to offer for everyone.
Hotels Map Of Nelson Bay
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Nelson Bay.
Transportation To Nelson Bay
There are several transportation options to Nelson Bay.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Nelson Bay is Newcastle Airport, which is approximately a 30-minute drive away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Nelson Bay.
2. By Car: Nelson Bay is easily accessible by car. It is located approximately 2.5 hours north of Sydney. You can take the Pacific Highway (M1) and then follow the signs to Nelson Bay.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services from Sydney to Nelson Bay. You can take a bus from Sydney Central Station or Sydney International Airport to Nelson Bay. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic.
4. By Ferry: If you are already in the Port Stephens area, you can take a ferry from Tea Gardens or Shoal Bay to Nelson Bay. The ferry ride offers scenic views of the bay and is a popular option for tourists.
5. By Train: While there is no direct train service to Nelson Bay, you can take a train from Sydney to Newcastle and then transfer to a bus or taxi to reach Nelson Bay.
Once you are in Nelson Bay, there are local buses and taxis available for getting around the town and exploring the surrounding areas.
Nearby Destination From Nelson Bay
1. Port Stephens - A coastal paradise known for its stunning beaches and water activities.
2. Shoal Bay - A charming seaside village with a beautiful beach and vibrant dining scene.
3. Anna Bay - Home to the famous Stockton Sand Dunes, offering thrilling adventures like sandboarding and quad biking.
4. Fingal Bay - A tranquil beachside town perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
5. Soldiers Point - A picturesque waterfront community offering scenic views, boating opportunities, and fresh seafood.
6. Salamander Bay - A family-friendly destination featuring a large shopping center, wildlife park, and calm bay waters.
7. Corlette - A peaceful suburb known for its scenic walks, calm beaches, and stunning sunsets.
8. Hawks Nest - A popular holiday spot with pristine beaches, great fishing spots, and a laid-back atmosphere.
9. Tea Gardens - A riverside town offering river cruises, kayaking, and a chance to spot dolphins in the wild.
10. Raymond Terrace - A historic town with heritage buildings, parks, and a vibrant arts and culture scene.