Lighthouse Keepers' Cottages Ruins are closed
The ruins at Point Stephens Lighthouse and Fingal Island are closed to pedestrian access for public safety. Do not enter the site; penalties apply for ignoring the closure.
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Photo: Bernard Spragg. NZ · CC0North Coast · New South Wales
Port Stephens
A broad natural harbour where calm bays, surf beaches, headland walks and coastal wildlife create a surprisingly varied two-night escape.
From SydneyAbout 2 hr 30 min
Best lengthA full weekend
Budget$
Best forBeach · Swimming · Coastal walk
Current and upcoming travel alerts
Check before you leave.
Temporary access and safety advice, checked against the responsible authority.
Box Beach Road closes for Tomaree Coastal Walk works
Box Beach Road at Shoal Bay is scheduled to close from 21 to 24 September while trucks and heavy machinery work along the Tomaree Coastal Walk. The walk remains available with a signed detour; follow NPWS staff directions and check the official notice before travelling.
Track works may affect Kingsley Beach access
Track works are underway at Kingsley Beach in Tomaree National Park, with closures or detours possible. Follow signs and directions from staff and contractors when visiting.
Hazard-reduction burn is underway in Tomaree National Park
A hazard-reduction burn named Polyclinic HR is listed from 9:00 am on 4 September. Check NSW Rural Fire Service information, follow local directions and do not enter any closed area or area with fire.
Why go
It is a whole coastline, not a single resort town.
Base yourself around Nelson Bay or Shoal Bay, choose the Tomaree summit only if the group is ready for steep steps, and balance it with sheltered water, an easier lookout or a responsibly operated wildlife experience.
Do these first
Three reasons to make the trip.
Tomaree Head Summit Walk
A steep 2.2-kilometre return climb to 161 metres with broad bay and coast views; assess fitness and heat before starting.
1.5–2.5 hoursShoal Bay and Nelson Bay
Use the bay towns for swimming, paddling, food and a less strenuous harbour-side day.
Half dayTomaree Coastal Walk
The complete 27-kilometre route is designed for two or three days, but shorter signed sections work well within a weekend.
Half day to 3 daysA very good day
Your Port Stephens itinerary.
Match the walk to the group, check Tomaree alerts and leave space for wind, swell and wildlife to change the plan. The Lighthouse Keepers' Cottages Ruins remain closed.
Check the Tomaree alert
Review closures, heat, fire and weather before choosing the summit or a lower coastal section. Do not plan around the closed Lighthouse Keepers' Cottages Ruins.
Take the main walk early
Climb Tomaree Head only if the group is prepared for steep steps; otherwise choose Gan Gan or a shorter coastal route.
Slow down beside the bay
Have lunch around Shoal Bay or Nelson Bay and give the afternoon to sheltered water or the waterfront.
Follow the weather
Choose a patrolled beach, paddling session or another signed coastal walk based on current wind and water conditions.
Make it happen
Turn the idea into a weekend.
Compare bookable tours and activities for Port Stephens. Check times, inclusions, cancellation terms and suitability with the operator before booking.
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Before you go
The useful details.
Parking
Parking is available around Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay and signed Tomaree access points, but the summit area becomes busy. Arrive early and never park outside designated areas.
Accessibility
Access varies sharply. Gan Gan Hill lookout provides a shorter alternative to the steep summit; contact NPWS and individual operators before relying on a specific route or vessel.
Dogs
Pets are not permitted in Tomaree National Park other than certified assistance animals. Check council rules for beaches, reserves and accommodation outside the park.
Conditions
Sheltered bays and ocean beaches behave differently. Swim at patrolled beaches between the flags where available and check daily conditions before paddling or entering the water.
Last checked 2026-08-10
Conditions can change. Confirm access, closures, fire restrictions and local rules before travelling.
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