Port Stephens Kangaroo Encounters - Nelson Bay (NSW)

Edith Culango Its little Beach with rock pools, an ideal place for children learning about the sea. Best time to visit early to mid-morning when the tide is just going out.

Libby Hackett Beautiful peaceful walk - well kept easy boardwalk through mangroves and peaceful parks. We spotted a sugar glider but no koalas this time. Was quiet even on a busy day. Easy access to marina and local shops / cafe afterwards. A great visit!

Rite White Fighter world has done a fantastic job on displaying  Australia’s aircraft history.  There were a large variety of aircraft on display along with ammunition, weapons, and jet  engines. I loved that it was family friendly and gave you the chance to sit in the cockpit, giving an appreciation of the jet fighter. The Friendly Guides were a great source of information. They were very passionate on what they were talking about and looking at. They certainly did make our visit enjoyable. The outdoor viewing platform overlooking the RAAF Base gave us the audio from the air traffic control while we could hear and see the planes taking off and landing.  The noise and speed of the aircraft were unreal There is also a cafe next to the hanger with outdoor seating, so you dont miss the action. Parking is plenty and free. Toilets facilities were clean. I would recommend visiting and spending a few hours wandering around looking and reading the history of these great giants of the sky.

Andrew R If you want desolation, eerie charm and a good walk from Fingal Beach, this is just for you! I ventured up here on an overcast, stormy morning and was rewarded by old heritage listed abandoned lighthouse keeper cottages, and of course, a lighthouse. It’s walkable in bare feet - there are no facilities here apart from a small shelter and information board. It’s well worth the trek. Steep climb in one part (plus beach approach) excludes access for wheelchairs and those with mobility difficulties. **BUT REMEMBER** access is by way of Fingal Spit, which is treacherous at high tide. It’s essential you do the walk approaching low tide, and be off before high tide. Do not try to swim across, the currents are strong. Unfortunately lives have been lost here.

Palatip Treesorn Good fishing spot

Griffin Probably the greatest tourist attraction Australia has to offer, would reccommend

Gerry Vassallo This is a Marine Sanctuary. Crystal water. You can feed bread to the fish and heaps of fish come for a nibble. Fishing is prohibited unless your one of the many dolphins in the bay.

Stephanie Rahhal Love this walk! The view at the top is stunning on a nice day. The track has been upgraded in parts (not sure when) with pavers which is so much better than how it was years ago (dirt which became mud). Highly recommend if you are fit and able to endure stairs and a steeper incline. Gets your heart rate up!

daveharasti Fly Point is probably the best shore based location to go snorkelling and scuba diving in NSW. Its a great place for families to visit as it offers a great opportunity for children, and grown ups, to undertake snorkeling in a location suitable for beginners. Its important to enter the water around high tide as this is when the water will be clearest.

Ankita Shrestha The Port Stephens Shell Museum is a treasure trove of natural beauty and the embodiment of sheer love for the marine world. Stepping into this museum is like entering an enchanted realm of the sea, where every shell tells a story, and every exhibit whispers secrets of the deep in a sweet and gentle manner. From the moment you cross the threshold, you are greeted by an astounding collection of shells, each meticulously curated and displayed with an evident passion for these oceanic wonders. The museums interior is an homage to the delicate and varied forms of natures artistry. The shells are presented in a way that conveys a deep sense of appreciation for the craftsmanship of the sea – from the dazzling spiral intricacies of the nautilus to the soft pastel hues of the conch shells. What truly sets the Port Stephens Shell Museum apart is the love that permeates every inch of the space. The staff members, themselves, exude an infectious enthusiasm for their collection, and theyre more than happy to share their knowledge and stories about the shells. Its as if each exhibit has a unique tale to tell, and they are the caretakers of these stories, weaving narratives of the sea into the hearts of visitors with each conversation. As you explore the museum, you cant help but be swept away by the sheer diversity of shells on display. The mollusks that crafted these intricate casings come in all shapes and sizes, offering a glimpse into the incredible variety of life beneath the waves. Its a symphony of colors, patterns, and textures, and the museum elegantly showcases this harmonious palette of the oceans bounty. The Port Stephens Shell Museum isnt just a collection of shells; its a celebration of the beauty and serenity of the sea. Its a place that reminds you of the gentle lull of the tides, the whisper of the breeze over the water, and the soothing embrace of the coastline. Its a testament to the magic of the natural world and the deep, enduring love that one can have for the marvels that dwell beneath the surface. For anyone who holds even the smallest piece of affection for the sea or a curious heart that beats with wonder, the Port Stephens Shell Museum is a place of enchantment, a sweet reverie, and a testament to the beauty of our oceans, celebrated in the most beautiful and loving way. Its a hidden gem along the coast that reminds us of the enchanting mysteries of the deep blue, in the most heartfelt and exquisite manner possible.