The best Port Stephens accommodation picks

No matter your budget or headcount, there’s outstanding Port Stephens accommodation for every style of traveller.

You can afford to be picky about where to rest your head when you’re planning a stay in Port Stephens. The seaside city just 2.5 hours from Sydney has a plethora of places to entice visitors to pull off the asphalt and stay and play. Whether you camp among bushland, unwind in a beachfront Airbnb, get pampered in a luxury hotel, or find a pet-friendly stay to house your dog, the best Port Stephens accommodation offers serenity in beautiful surroundings.

Anna Bay

THE RETREAT PORT STEPHENS

Best for: families, bush setting, pet-friendly

Wake to beautiful birdsong in your bush hideaway beside the sand dunes, which is also home to echidnas, kangaroos, lorikeets, rosellas and resident possums. The Retreat Port Stephens has covered BBQs, a saltwater swimming pool, a kids’ playground, an indoor games room, and campfires as well as bus and boat parking. There is a range of different bedding configurations including cabins, bungalows, duplexes, The Lodge and The Ranch. Fido can also join you at this Port Stephens accommodation, so long as you’re staying in one of the designated fenced-off campsites.

TALM BEACH HOUSE

Best for: groups, luxury, beachfront

The name ‘Talm’ is an Afrikaans word that means ‘to linger’. Hipsters will love to do just that at this stunning hideaway that riffs on the Hamptons and overlooks the ocean. There’s a surf break right out front of this Port Stephens accommodation and rock pools to explore when you’re not kicking back in the stylishly curated space. It sleeps up to 10 guests and has indoor-outdoor areas, a wine cellar, a private courtyard, a gas fireplace and a coffee machine in the butler’s pantry.

SAMURAI BEACH BUNGALOWS

Best for: groups, budget, bush setting

Large families or groups of friends on a shoestring will find a lot to love at the Samurai Beach Bungalows , a Port Stephens YHA, as they can book out the entire property, which sleeps up to 32 people and has free wi-fi, BBQ facilities, a swimming pool and campfire. There are also private rooms available at the rustic Port Stephens accommodation, set amid lush rainforest. Bikes are available for hire, which are great for ducking down to the local clothing-optional beach, Samurai, and if you’re lucky, you might spot one of the resident koalas.

THOU WALLA SUNSET RETREAT

Best for: couples, glamping, boating

Enjoy a lazy dinner on the deck of your glamping tent at Thou Walla Sunset Retreat as the sky becomes a swirl of dusty pink. The environment surrounding Soldier’s Point is spectacular: get barefoot on the beach, fish off the nearby jetty, or escape to Point Restaurant. The Port Stephens accommodation is also perfectly placed for convenient adventures within the thick of Port Stephens.

One Mile

WANDERERS RETREAT

Best for: couples, bushland, privacy

The fairy tale treehouses at Wanderers Retreat are buried deep in the wilderness. There are also cosy self-contained eco-cottages, a Bush Spa Cottage with an outdoor hot tub and the luxurious Beach House with an outdoor tub of its own that seats six. Wake to the music of the birds amid the old-growth melaleucas, which is a habitat for koalas. The luxury Port Stephens accommodation is within walking distance of One Mile Beach and the Tomaree National Park – ideal for those in search of an itinerary with an abundance of nature experiences.

INGENIA HOLIDAYS ONE MILE BEACH

Ingenia Holiday Parks One Mile Beach — They offer an array of accommodation options, from luxury villas and homes to cabins.

Best for: Groups, camping, pet-friendly, budget-conscious

Craving proximity to the beach? Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach is situated within walking distance of the surf and offers a buffet of stays spanning campsites, basic villas and higher-end villas. Even better, there’s direct beach access within the grounds. The creature comforts come by the truckload, too—think a swimming pool, tennis court, a separate ball court, jumping pillow, indoor entertainment room, kids’ playground, BBQs, laundry, a dump point and more.

PORT STEPHENS KOALA SANCTUARY

Family stand on bungalow at Koala Sanctuary Port Stephens. — Sleep soundly surrounded by bushland and koalas at the Koala Sanctuary. (Image: Destination NSW)

Best for: families, nature, eco-friendly, glamping

You will be enveloped by nature during a stay at Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary , which is fringed by gum trees that draw in crowds keen on spotting koalas in the wild and learning about koala conservation. Set amid eight hectares of stunning bushland, fringed by Worimi Conservation Lands and a stretch of One Mile Beach, the Port Stephens accommodation includes 20 glamping-style safari tents, deluxe studio rooms and one-bedroom deluxe suites.

THE OASIS

Best for: Families, self-contained living, wildlife spotting

Home to just nine contemporary cabins, The Oasis offers extremely tranquil living quarters immersed in rich rainforest. Located just 600m from One Mile Beach, the self-contained Port Stephens accommodation features its own private billabong and waterfall, so the adventure starts from the moment you check in. Outdoor BBQ facilities and a large deck encourage social mingling, plus there’s a wellness zone fitted with a sauna, yoga room and plunge pool if utter Zen is on your holiday agenda

Nelson Bay

BANNISTERS PORT STEPHENS

Best for: couples, luxury, pet-friendly

Bannisters Port Stephens took the bones of an old hotel and totally transformed it, channelling a sun-bleached stripped-back nautical palette that befits the brand. And while trendy crowds have dominated this Port Stephens accommodation for some years now, its October 2024 acquisition by the Salter Brothers group (who also own various Crowne Plazas and the Blue Mountains’ iconic Hydro Majestic among other standout stays) is bound to dial up the luxe all over again.

Although it doesn’t have actual beachfrontage, Bannisters Port Stephens makes up for that with its water views and quick access to bush and bay. Rick Stein’s magic touch is evident on the menu at his namesake restaurant and there is a kind of village vibe around the infinity pool that makes it feel like a secret hang. If your pooch also enjoys the finer things in life, book one of the pet-friendly rooms and bring them along.

AMARNA RESORT

Best for: groups, luxury, beachfront

There are just 11 contemporary apartments located at the five-star Amarna Resort , where you can spot the resident dolphins of Dutchmans Beach from the comfort of your private balcony.

The position of this Port Stephens accommodation is as high-end as the designer-style retreat, designed to enjoy with your nearest and dearest. Book an in-room massage, take a plunge in the 25m heated pool and spa, and enjoy staring out at a huge slab of sea.

ILANGA NELSON BAY

Ilamga Nelson Bay — Experience luxury like no other at this three-bedroom accommodation.

Best for: Exclusivity, privacy, luxury, views, groups

Looking for a scene stealer? Ilanga Nelson Bay is the cream of the crop, a three-bedroom, three-bathroom penthouse offering staggering views across the water. It’s a stylish, white-washed dream inside while amenities including the building’s heated swimming pool, sauna and gym provide everything your clan needs to make this house a home. Additionally, you’re within walking distance (just 300m, in fact) to the centre of Nelson Bay. Grab one of the bedrooms with cushy beds angled directly towards the sea for the ultimate wake-up wonderment.

THE BEACH ABODE

Best for: Instagram fodder, families, groups, décor enthusiasts, privacy

One of the most outstanding Port Stephens Airbnbs on offer right now, The Beach Abode is a breathtaking build located opposite chilled-out Bagnalls Beach (and the beach’s popular park, so the kids are extra sorted). Housing up to 10 guests, the space is soothing from every angle as a creamy palette of white, caramel and greys creates a calming oasis. The amenities are completely overachieving too as a fully equipped kitchen, kids’ rumpus room with an indoor swing, three smart TVs, open plan living and dining and an outdoor shower mean you never need to leave.

MANTRA NELSON BAY

Best for: self-contained comfort, families, groups

The Mantra chain is a reliably comfortable stay and its Nelson Bay outpost follows suit in style. Offering 110 apartments located on central Tomaree St, the Port Stephens accommodation is clean and tidy while facilities include a 25m lagoon-style swimming pool, children’s splash zone, gym, outdoor BBQ area, underground parking and EV charging stations. The property was put up for sale at the end of 2024, so the well-trodden grounds are likely to improve even further in the coming years.

HOTEL NELSON

Best for: Budget-conscious, couples, accessibility

An affordable stay in the thick of the action, Hotel Nelson is a boutique apartment pick that ticks loads of boxes. You’re within a couple of minutes’ walk from the centre of town, the price tag is very reasonable, and then there’s the cool and contemporary styling to help you instantly drop those overcharged shoulders and lean into your holiday. If you’re a traveller with access needs, there’s also the Gardenview Accessible Twin room, which is fitted out with ample room, railings and capacity to sleep up to four guests. Arguably the ultimate headline is the fact that The Little Nel, one of the best Port Stephens restaurants, is located right on site. How convenient is that?

HALIFAX HOLIDAY PARK

Best for: families, caravan and camping, pet-friendly

There are plenty of things to do around this park, located amid the blue-water paradise of Halifax Holiday Park. Don’t forget to pack your bucket and spade, as the park is only minutes from Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay. With two beaches on your doorstep, Halifax makes for a great hideaway: peg out your tent on a powered site or Astro-turfed site, pull into a concrete slab with your motorhome or kick back on the deck of a beachside villa. You can also bring your dog along to join in the fun.

THE BAY

Best for: groups, luxury, pet-friendly

Any fantasies you had of a sea change can be met in the short term with a stay at The Bay. This new gathering spot in Port Stephens is designed to accommodate large groups of friends or extended families (and their furry friends too). The property is sandwiched between Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay and the ‘backyard’ is breathtaking. Inside, it’s all white walls, clean lines and earthy textures and it can sleep 13 comfortably.

Shoal Bay & Fingal Bay

SALT AT SHOAL BAY

Best for: groups, luxury, beachfront

Spend the morning exploring Stockton Beach Sand Dunes and learning about the area’s rich Indigenous heritage before returning to your digs at Salt at Shoal Bay. Life is sweet at this property, as the beachfront location means you can sidestep the crowds and plant your parasol on the sand whenever the mood strikes. Choose between Salt One, on the upper level, Salt Two at ground level and Salt Three, the cottage – all luxurious and supremely comfortable.

SHOAL BAY HOLIDAY PARK

Best for: families, pet-friendly, caravan and camping

This picturesque park is located opposite one of the most beautiful beaches on Australia’s East Coast. Located just minutes from the powder-soft sands of Shoal Bay, which is a family-friendly spot to swim, the park is located within close proximity to the heart of cosmopolitan Shoal Bay. Embrace your stripped-back existence in a tent or caravan or stay in an accessible safari tent or villa. Pets are also allowed.

SEASIDE HOLIDAY RESORT

Best for: Families, accessibility, groups, self-contained living

Located opposite the beach, Fingal’s Seaside Holiday Resort is a relaxed stay filled with around 60 self-contained apartments. Six of them are fitted out to comfortably welcome guests with wheelchair needs, while all span either two or three-bedroom configurations. You’ll stroll back and forth from holiday dips but do make sure you carve out plenty of time to take advantage of the swimming pool and BBQ facilities.

RAMADA RESORT BY WYNDHAM SHOAL BAY

Best for: groups, families, beachfront

Shoal Bay is a little piece of paradise on the NSW coast. And this Ramada Resort, which fully capitalises on the beachfront location, offers studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom condo-style self-contained suites that sleep between two and six guests. While a lot of young families come to unwind here, the accommodation also draws multi-generational groups and couples. The resort has a lap pool and resort-style pool with a wading section for little ones, and is close to beaches and Tomaree Headland.

FINGAL BAY HOLIDAY PARK

Best for: families, pet-friendly, caravan and camping

This popular holiday park has a huge resort pool, giant chessboard, children’s playground and camp kitchen making it an attractive spot for families who want to stay and play in Nelson’s Bay. Accommodation at the park includes powered tent sites, powered van sites, drive-through sites and motorhome sites. The park has cabins to suit a range of budgets, is pet-friendly and has recently upgraded its amenities block.

Salamander Bay & Corlette

OAKS PORT STEPHENS PACIFIC BLUE RESORT

Best for: families, groups, affordable

The Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort has one of the largest pools in Australia, which is one of many reasons it nails the brief for a fab and affordable family or group getaway. Hatch a plan to take advantage of the action stations: there’s a Japanese steam room, a heated spa, an onsite gymnasium and a tennis court. Book a budget-friendly family room or go all out with a swim-out two-bedroom suite.

THE ANCHORAGE

Best for: couples, luxury, water views

Wake up to a view of bobbing boats at this breezy resort, which offers absolute waterfront accommodation on the shores of Port Stephens. There is a mass of choice when it comes to rooms, but couples love the Captain’s Suite, which has fabulous views and a private terrace. Snaffle a sunset slot at the Wild Herring, one of the best places to eat and drink in Port Stephens, and dine in style overlooking the marina.

Karuah, Tea Gardens & Hawks Nest

BOATHOUSE RESORT TEA GARDENS

Best for: Families, groups, self-contained living, relaxation

Tea Gardens is a sleepy little town away from the much higher-gloss action of Port Stephens proper, so it’s the perfect chance to lean into some quality family time. Enter Boathouse Resort Tea Gardens , a popular stay offering contemporary fit-outs for families, as well as an action-packed central 25m swimming pool and river views. Choose from one-, two- or three-bedroom configurations with fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities and private balconies.

BIG4 KARUAH JETTY HOLIDAY PARK

Best for: Families, caravan and camping, pet-friendly, boating

The Big4 Karuah Jetty Holiday Park on the shores of the peaceful Karuah River features a private jetty perfect for passionate fishos in the family. The pet-friendly park also has a swimming pool, tennis court, jumping pillow, splash play area, a volleyball court and campfires to warm up around over winter. Make a beeline for a family bungalow or pitch your tent on a powered site.

GUMBEACHY, TEA GARDENS

Best for: Groups, pet-friendly, privacy

Dawn Beach, which runs along Nelson Bay, gives way to lazy walks around Myall Lake and the magical surrounds of Tea Garden at Gumbeachy , a pet-friendly laidback Airbnb. The Port Stephens accommodation says what it does on the tin: it’s about beach and bush, which means it works its magic for a break with everything at your fingertips. Sleeping up to six guests, it’s a deliciously quiet three-bedroom home that is also perfectly placed for adventures around Port Stephens.

Originally written by Carla Grossetti with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

No matter your budget or headcount, there’s outstanding Port Stephens accommodation for every style of traveller.

Anna Bay

THE RETREAT PORT STEPHENS

TALM BEACH HOUSE

SAMURAI BEACH BUNGALOWS

THOU WALLA SUNSET RETREAT

One Mile

WANDERERS RETREAT

INGENIA HOLIDAYS ONE MILE BEACH

PORT STEPHENS KOALA SANCTUARY

THE OASIS

Nelson Bay

BANNISTERS PORT STEPHENS

AMARNA RESORT

ILANGA NELSON BAY

THE BEACH ABODE

MANTRA NELSON BAY

HOTEL NELSON

HALIFAX HOLIDAY PARK

THE BAY

Shoal Bay & Fingal Bay

SALT AT SHOAL BAY

SHOAL BAY HOLIDAY PARK

SEASIDE HOLIDAY RESORT

RAMADA RESORT BY WYNDHAM SHOAL BAY

FINGAL BAY HOLIDAY PARK

Salamander Bay & Corlette

OAKS PORT STEPHENS PACIFIC BLUE RESORT

THE ANCHORAGE

Karuah, Tea Gardens & Hawks Nest

BOATHOUSE RESORT TEA GARDENS

BIG4 KARUAH JETTY HOLIDAY PARK

GUMBEACHY, TEA GARDENS

A luxe new resort is set to transform Port Stephens

A nature lover’s guide to the best Port Stephens camping

Escape to a luxury bayside retreat in Port Stephens

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Central Coast oyster experiences

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

Organic dining

Paddock-to-plate dining