Neighbourhood Watch: Top Things To Do In Nelson Bay

If you’re after coastal serenity with a touch of nautical charm for your next getaway, Nelson Bay in the heart of Port Stephens won’t disappoint.  

Nelson Bay is a charming and vibrant hub to explore the pristine harbour of Port Stephens, stunning bays and beaches, and an abundance of dining and retail options.  

Whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend or longer, here’s a roundup of some of the best things to do in Nelson Bay.  

Ships Ahoy at Sail Port Stephens 

If there ever was a perfect time to visit Nelson Bay, Sail Port Stephens might just be it. The annual must-see yachting regatta is a must-do event on the national sailing calendar and one of the most popular things to do in Nelson Bay. 

The family-friendly event is headquartered at d’Albora Marinas Nelson Bay and attracts 1,000 plus competitors who partake in sailing for all classes of boats, plus a busy social and entertainment program. That’s right - it’s not all about sailing! Once the sails are down and the boats are moored, there’s a vibrant social scene for all to enjoy on land, featuring music, food and fun for all.

While away the day with food, shopping and art 

If you enjoy shopping, food and art, you’ll have no trouble packing your itinerary with things to do in Nelson Bay. There’s plenty on offer, and your first stop should be d’Albora Marinas where you’ll find an array of waterfront dining options. Enjoy a meal alongside the azure harbour waters before popping into the boutique shops for a touch of retail therapy. Here you’ll find fashion, beachwear and souvenirs.  

If you’re keen to shop till you drop, one of the best things to do in Nelson Bay is The Marina Market. Located along the Nelson Bay foreshore, the Marina Market is jam-packed with all things handmade, local and eco-friendly. Mingle with the friendly makers, celebrate their unique designs, and enjoy a bite to eat from the food trucks. 

Round out your day of things to do in Nelson Bay with the Nelson Bay Artwalk. Begin your adventure from the Visitor Information Centre (VIC) at 60 Victoria Parade where you can pick up a map and view the first mural, or download the map if visiting outside VIC opening hours. The Artwalk takes you past twelve vibrant and colourful murals created by talented local Port Stephens artists. 

Stay in the heart of paradise 

One thing is guaranteed when you stay local in Nelson Bay – you'll be waking up and stepping outside straight into paradise. And with so many things to do in Nelson Bay, staying local means you’ll have more time to fit it all in! 

Stay in the heart of the action at Hotel Nelson, located just two minutes' walk from Nelson Bay’s finest restaurants, shopping and attractions. Not only is the beautifully styled boutique accommodation in the perfect location, but it also features an onsite pool and cafe The Little Nel – topping many local's lists of favourite things to do in Nelson Bay. 

Just up the road you’ll find Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites, perfect for the entire family. The self-contained accommodation features one and two-bedroom apartments that are spacious and modern with full kitchen facilities. Make the most of your stay by enjoying the solar-heated lap pool, kid’s wading pool, barbecue area and lush landscaped gardens.  

Indulge in the local food scene 

You’ll need to refuel while savouring the sights of Nelson Bay, and there are plenty of options to keep hungry bellies satisfied. Of all the things to do in Nelson Bay, enjoying the many food and drink venues is a highlight. 

Start your day the right way at The Little Nel, a favourite haunt for locals and visitors alike. You’re bound to find something you love on the cafe’s seasonal menu featuring local and interstate produce. And let’s not forget about the coffee beans from Pablo and Rusty will keep coffee aficionados energised.  

For food with a view, look no further than the Little Beach Boathouse. Perched above the calm bay of Little Beach, the restaurant features modern Australian cuisine cooked using fresh local produce. It’s the perfect spot for a lunch or dinner date, especially for seafood lovers. While there, be sure to head below deck for a sunset tipple with a view. 

If you’re looking to mingle with the locals, pull up a stool at the Nelson Bay Bowling Club.One of the locals' favourite things to do in Nelson Bay, the bowling and recreation club is the perfect venue to experience sport, leisure and entertainment.  

And if you need a pit stop after hitting the shops, stop by KIN Cafe in the heart of Nelson Bay’s shopping strip. The cafe has a wide range of breakfast and lunch options and is the perfect place to unwind. Sit back and relax with a glass of wine in the private sunny courtyard or sink into the antique sofas for a cosy cuppa. 

Soak up the scenery from the water 

If you’re looking to add a little adventure to your visit, one of the most unique things to do in Nelson Bay is a trip on the historic Tea Gardens Ferry. Servicing the local community for over 30 years, the original Tea Gardens Ferry operates a daily return ferry service between Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens.  

Sit back and enjoy the panoramic views of Port Stephens and the Myall River, accompanied by commentary from the knowledgeable crew who will fill you in on all the things to do in Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens. You might even spot some local wildlife including dolphins, turtles and dingoes! 

After disembarking at Tea Gardens, wander up to the Tea Gardens Hotel to enjoy some local Oysters in the sunny beer garden, or grab an ice cream with waterside views before hopping back on the ferry for the trip home. 

A hop, skip and jump to Shoal Bay 

A trip to Port Stephens wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Shoal Bay, just a short drive from Nelson Bay.  

With a heritage lighthouse at one end and Tomaree Head at the other, there’s no wonder Shoal Bay tops the list of things to do in Nelson Bay. Once you spy the aquamarine waters and sheltered white sandy beach, you’ll understand why. 

The calm waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Out of the water, a hike up Tomaree Head will get the heart racing while providing stunning panoramas of Port Stephens. If you really want to tick off a bucket list of all the things to do in Nelson Bay, the 27-kilometre Tomaree Coastal Walk is a must! 

To round out your day, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants and takeaway fish and chip shops to enjoy. Take advantage of the picnic tables in the beachside reserve, or pop into the Shoal Bay Country Club for a drink with a view.  

Summary

With an abundance of sights and activities to enjoy, it’s clear that Nelson Bay in the heart of Port Stephens is the perfect base for a day trip, mid-year stay or extended holiday.  

There’s so much on offer in this idyllic waterfront paradise, that we can almost guarantee you’ll be planning your next visit before you’ve even left. And with no shortage of things to do in Nelson Bay, staying local in this scenic waterfront neighbourhood is always a good idea!