Best Things To Do in Port Stephens NSW
Animal encounters, sand dunes, cruises, beaches, amazing restaurants and family attractions near Nelson Bay.
Port Stephens is one of New South Wales’ best destinations for families, wildlife lovers, day trips, school holidays and weekend escapes from Sydney or Newcastle — famous for beaches, sand dunes, dolphin and whale watching, coastal walks, restaurants and family attractions.
To help visitors plan the best possible Port Stephens trip, we’ve gathered the local attractions, tours and businesses that pair perfectly with a visit to Port Stephens Animal Adventures. A great itinerary might include animal encounters, sand dune adventures, dolphin cruises, beaches, lookouts and local food across Nelson Bay, Anna Bay, Shoal Bay and the surrounding area.
Port Stephens Animal Adventures
Feed sharks and rays, meet reptiles, encounter crocodiles, enjoy beautiful birds and take part in hands-on animal experiences in a fully indoor, all-weather attraction — the most interactive animal experience in Port Stephens, for families, kids, groups and rainy days.
Book Your AdventureOther great attractions in Port Stephens
Sand Dune Safaris
Anna Bay · Stockton Sand DunesFamily-friendly sandboarding and dune adventures on the famous Stockton Sand Dunes at Anna Bay — a great outdoor experience to combine with Port Stephens Animal Adventures for a full day of animals, sand dunes and hands-on family fun.
Oakfield Ranch Camel Rides
Birubi Beach · Anna BayA unique way to experience Birubi Beach and the Stockton Sand Dunes. Their camel rides are a memorable add-on for families planning a Port Stephens day out with animals, beaches and dunes.
Moonshadow-TQC Cruises
Nelson BayOne of Port Stephens' best-known cruise operators — dolphin watching, whale watching, lunch cruises and scenic experiences on the waters around Nelson Bay. Pairs perfectly with a visit to Port Stephens Animal Adventures.
Shoal Bay SUP
Shoal BayPaddleboards, transparent kayaks, pedal boards and water bikes in one of Port Stephens' most beautiful sheltered locations — a relaxing outdoor water activity that pairs well with an indoor animal adventure.
Port Stephens Kayak & Stand Up Paddle
Shoal BayKayak and SUP hire plus guided paddling experiences from Shoal Bay — ideal for visitors wanting to enjoy the water before or after a hands-on animal encounter.
Fighter World
WilliamtownAn indoor aviation museum at Williamtown to explore aircraft displays, aviation history and RAAF heritage — a strong option for families, groups and school visitors near Port Stephens and Newcastle.
Cookabarra Restaurant & Fish Farm
Bobs FarmA local Bobs Farm dining stop for fresh food in a relaxed Port Stephens setting with an incredible tour — a great lunch stop before or after visiting Port Stephens Animal Adventures.
B Farm by Murray's
Bobs FarmA family-friendly Port Stephens estate with food, gardens, a brewery, distillery and winery cellar door — a relaxed stop for visitors planning a bigger Bobs Farm or Port Stephens day out.