Port Stephens, NSW Australia

Local Attractions

You will receive discount vouchers for local Port Stephens, NSW attractions and activities while staying at Colonial Ridge Retreat.

Port Stephens is one of the most picturesque and enticing aquatic regions of Australia with a large range of attractions and activities in close proximity to Colonial Ridge Retreat.

Port Stephens harbour is two and a half times the size of Sydney Harbour, and extends over 20 kilometres inland. The clear, unpolluted waters are fringed by white, sandy beaches, bays and natural bushland.

Freshly caught seafood, boutique wines and award-winning chefs ensure that eating out is a memorable experience.

Relax and unwind, or be as active as you wish - the choice is yours.

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Dolphin Watch Cruises: Enjoy a dolphin watch cruise. You are sure to see these beautiful creatures, as more than 100 bottlenose dolphins make their home in Port Stephens.

Whale Watching: Whale watching is popular from June to October each year. See whales during their annual migration - from a boat, or from high vantage points.

Boating & Sailing: Bring your own boat, or hire one. Enjoy Port Stephens' crystal clear, expansive waterways.

Swimming & Surfing: There are many swimming and surfing beaches to choose from, with sheltered swimming and surf beaches to suit all holidaymakers.

Fishing: Have you always wanted to go deep sea fishing, even game fishing? Port Stephens has some of the best fishing spots on the eastern seaboard.

Diving: A range of diving experiences are available in the area, including snorkelling, scuba diving, shore dives, day trips and feeding fish by hand.

Kayaking: For a unique experience, try sea kayaking. Enjoy the peaceful, crystal clear waters.

Parasailing: For the more adventurous, go parasailing - for the ultimate relaxing,
yet thrilling experience.

Jet Skiing: Hire a jet ski - a must for those thrill seekers amongst us! Experience the rush of riding a jet ski in the blue waters of Port Stephens.

Water Skiing: An excellent location for all water ski enthusiasts. Lessons are also available for beginners.

Golfing: Golf courses in the Port Stephens region include international standard courses in picturesque settings. The family can also enjoy putt putt mini golf and practice on a driving range.

Bush Walking: There are many scenic walks in the Port Stephens region. One magnificent walk is up the south face of the Tomaree headland. The views from the summit are breathtaking - great place for whale watching too!

Cycling: Bring your own, or hire a bicycle so you can enjoy the extensive network of cycle tracks around Port Stephens.

Horse Riding: Horse treks and horse riding through the bush or surf, catering for all riders, from beginners to experienced. What a wonderful way to enjoy the magnificent scenery.

Camel Rides: For something different, how about a camel ride?

Wineries: Port Stephens has three excellent wineries and they welcome you to taste their products and tour their facilities.

Sand Dune Adventures: 2,500 hectares of sand dunes to explore by 4WD tours or 4WD
tag-alongs or quad bikes. Discover Tin City (a makeshift fishing village), view WWII historical sites, movie sites, even a shipwreck. What a thrill to sandboard down the huge dunes.

Children & Families: There are play centres for children, ten pin bowling, toboggans,
go-karts to ride, farm animals to feed, and camel rides for the family.

Helicopter Rides: Enjoy the views from the air aboard a scenic helicopter flight.
Great photographic opportunities.

Shopping: There are many specialty shops and general stores in Port Stephens, the Salamander Bay Shopping Centre has over 80 stores.

Restaurants & Cafes: Gourmet meals and light snacks are well catered for – of course freshly cooked seafood is always on the menu.