SHOAL BAY
GET TO KNOW
THE AREA
Where time moves a little slower and the beaches are pristine, Shoal Bay is a little slice of paradise along the Port Stephens peninsula. It may be small, but the natural wonders set this seaside village apart. Bounded by a National Park, foreshore reserves, secluded beaches, and coastal walks that lead to spectacular views. Shoal Bay is a holiday-goers dream, and it's home year-round for the lucky few.
Lifestyle
Shoal Bay may be small, but that's just the way locals like it because here, it's all about the national park and beaches. From the heritage lighthouse at one end to Tomaree Head at the other, Shoal Bay is a buzzy holiday destination with a love for all things outdoors.
When the weather is warm, Shoal Bay's Village and Foreshore Reserve are bustling with urban escapists. People gather along the park for picnics and barbeques, cyclists and walkers meander along the paths, while others dive into the bay to swim, snorkel or paddleboard.
Read MoreLifestyle
Shoal Bay may be small, but that's just the way locals like it because here, it's all about the national park and beaches. From the heritage lighthouse at one end to Tomaree Head at the other, Shoal Bay is a buzzy holiday destination with a love for all things outdoors.
When the weather is warm, Shoal Bay's Village and Foreshore Reserve are bustling with urban escapists. People gather along the park for picnics and barbeques, cyclists and walkers meander along the paths, while others dive into the bay to swim, snorkel or paddleboard.
Across the road, Shoal Bay Village caters to everyday needs. It's also the location of Shoal Bay Country Club. This foodie destination alone has people from afar heading to the seaside village. Yet, when locals want more, they wander into neighbouring Nelson Bay for a wider selection of shops and eateries.
Then there is the coastline from Tomaree Head to Fingal Beach. The short but impressive Tomaree Head Summit Walk leads to spectacular views of the coastline and historical relics, while the trails that run through Tomaree National Park open out to lookouts and secluded ocean beaches – all have wildlife encounters, including koalas.
Although popular with holiday-makers, mid-week Shoal Bay is a quiet haven for those who love to live life at a slower pace. It’s easy access to all the conveniences of Nelson Bay and Newcastle City makes it all the more enticing.
Neighbours
Year-round, this quiet, seaside sanctuary has a small but well-connected community – many retirees with a growing number of families who find Shoal Bay's beachside lifestyle hard to resist. But when the weekends and holidays roll around, Shoal Bay's population swells with holiday-goers eager to take advantage of everything the beautiful region offers.
Neighbours
Year-round, this quiet, seaside sanctuary has a small but well-connected community – many retirees with a growing number of families who find Shoal Bay's beachside lifestyle hard to resist. But when the weekends and holidays roll around, Shoal Bay's population swells with holiday-goers eager to take advantage of everything the beautiful region offers.
Area features
BEAUTIFUL BEACHES
With a coastline that boasts a string of pristine beaches with white sand and ocean swells, Shoal Bay is one stunning destination. You're truly spoilt for choice, from the calm waters of Shoal Bay's main beach to the ocean-facing beaches bounded by bushland. Shoal Bay's main beach is a dreamy spot for paddle boarding, kite surfing and boating, while Zenith, Wreck and Box Beach will have you feeling worlds away from it all.
PARKLANDS
Running alongside Shoal Bay Road is the popular foreshore reserve. Set back off the beach, it's where groups gather for leisurely picnics and barbeques. Anzac Park between Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay is a bushland reserve that opens out onto the beach. At the other end of Shoal Bay, Tomaree National Park has bush trails that lead to secluded beaches.
WATER WONDERLAND
Deep dive into the waters of Shoal Bay and discover a wildlife sanctuary for dolphins, migrating whales and a colourful array of sea life. Whether it be from one of Shoal Bay's many beaches or the marina in neighbouring Nelson Bay, there is so much adventure to be had off-land.
COASTAL WALKS
Tucked away along the coastline of Port Stephens, the coastal walks surrounding Shoal Bay are one of its biggest drawcards. Tomaree Head Summit Walk may be steep, but you'll be well-rewarded with spectacular coastline views. For something a little more grounded, Wreck Beach Walk meanders through a coastal forest to a secluded cliffside beach.
