Escape to a luxury bayside retreat in Port Stephens

Whether you’re seeking exploration, adventure, pampering or the perfect hideaway, it’s time to set sail to your very own utopia.

When the universe lands too much on your plate, even the normally joyful act of choosing a holiday destination can weigh you down. If only there was one place you needn’t think twice about. A year-round, protected paradise where worries are left at the door, service is intuitive and your every whim is swiftly and discreetly catered to. Well, get ready – whether you’re seeking exploration, adventure, pampering or the perfect hideaway, it’s time to set sail to your very own utopia. Secret passcode: The Anchorage Port Stephens .

The Anchorage, Port Stephens, Australia — The Anchorage Port Stephens is a year-round, protected paradise where worries are left at the door.

The quiet approach

Turning east off the highway just two hours’ drive from Sydney, time starts to wind backwards. For the next 45 minutes, streetscapes featuring ’80s-built homes with freshly mown lawns and concrete pelicans gradually melt away into laneways lined with rustic beach shacks, palm trees and lush parkland expanses. You catch a glimpse of talc white sand and pale turquoise ripples through a veil of scrub and wonder how on earth this stunning stretch of land has existed for so long known as Port Stephens, so close to home, without your knowledge – and you do a little happy dance in your seat because developers don’t appear to have received the memo either. Slowly edging towards the seaside village of Nelson Bay, at a fingertip of jutting land you exit, stage left, passing Corlette Point Park’s brilliant patch of green that fronts an incredibly pristine beach. Your gaze comes to rest on a sign that reads ‘Resort Guests Only’. You’ve arrived at a luxury haven by the sea.

Yacht sailing in the sea, The Anchorage, Port Stephens, Australia — You’ve arrived at a luxury haven by the sea.

Checking in to check out

A glass of sparkling wine is placed in your hand as you drift into the stunning Hamptons dressed lounge area for the check in experience, the perfect indicator of what lies ahead. Plump sofas and oversized cocoon chairs in beige, cream, caramel and indigo offer plenty of soft landings, poised to soak up the natural light which floods the hexagonal room from almost every angle. The decor, although straight from a page of a luxury home magazine, feels as comfortable as a pair of well-loved jeans and cable-knitted cashmere. Looking across the main resort pool towards the marina adjacent, a collective of yacht masts wave a gentle hello. Your host offers to book dinner for you, of course allowing ample time to settle in to your room and take a romantic stroll along the boardwalk which connects you to all points of the resort and marina. You’re guided to your awaiting chambers and before your host slips away, they present you with a small cache of handcrafted chocolates honouring your special occasion. Sweet.

Red wine being poured at The Anchorage Port Stephens, Australia — Indulge in a glass of wine as you get ready for what lies ahead.

Designer digs

You’ve lashed out on one of the split-level lofts because you truly deserve it. The entire whitewashed space, ethereal and streamlined, bears nautical hints, botanical artworks and mirrors that bring the blissful outdoors even closer. A small but inviting sitting room with a balcony connects to the upper deck via a slender light-house stairwell. First impressions evoke instant calm, but the full impact only emerges upon locating the master bedroom. A king-size bed sits central in an observatory, like a giant pearl resting in its shell. Climbing aboard, you marvel at the windswept coastline you’ll be waking to each morning. Slung across the foot of the bed, a fishing net-inspired throw hints toward you being the catch of the day, and who could argue? You spy a message with a bottle. It’s your favourite Alsatian riesling, that sensational drop you first sipped on your European honeymoon and couldn’t forget. The note reads “ Chill me. Tomorrow a surprise awaits". You dutifully follow instructions before sauntering, hand in hand, along the waterfront. The air is cooler than anticipated but a staff member appears with a knowing wink, handing you a light blanket to wrap around your shoulders.

Interiors, The Anchorage Port Stephens — The entire whitewashed space bring the blissful outdoors even closer.

Sophisticated tastes

Your table is waiting at The Wild Herring . Like most resort facilities, this restaurant is open only to guests. Although you know the resort is at capacity, you notice just a few other couples. Paying closer attention, they seem to know one another and the staff. It transpires that they are regular guests, and some have been making the pilgrimage for generations. Grown-up children who once built sandcastles on the shore now view the beautifully refurbished resort with fresh perspective, passing on the magic to new friends and lovers.

Oysters from the menu at The Anchorage, Port Stephens, Australia — The reimagined contemporary Australian menu features rock oysters from nearby waters.

Signature cocktails are sipped as a stream of sail boats return to their moorings. Hours pass without once looking at your phone, swept away with destination dining at its finest. The reimagined contemporary Australian menu features rock oysters from nearby waters, sublime scallops, line-caught local fish and expertly matched wines. You’ve finally found time to reconnect and now only have eyes for each other. Your waiter suggests a nightcap in the stylish Moby’s Bar , and you go because you’re not quite ready for this night to end. The sumptuous whiskey den is swathed in richly hued textures: moss green and eggshell blue velvet, tanned and chocolate leather, and tartan rugs which soften the expanse of dark wood parquetry flooring. Cut crystal-style light fittings mimic whiskey decanters, adding a warm glow to the room, and are enhanced by flickering lantern lights dancing a merry jig. The atmosphere hugs you tight and you order another dram.

Signature Cocktails at The Anchorage Port Stephens — Sip on one of their signature cocktails.

Barefoot discoveries

Through enormous bay windows filtered with sea mist you spy a moody grey winter’s sky from your bed, and take it as a sign for a lie in. Your breathing syncs with the music of waves, lapping and shushing against the break wall. This is the peace you were seeking. Leisurely grazing on crisp pastries with a much-appreciated coffee fix, you’re presented with a hint of the day’s activities and are reminded to grab that special bottle. A pre-planned sailing adventure to mark your anniversary has you stepping onto a yacht deck just as the sun starts to peek through the clouds. You spend the day mesmerised by the drifting sea spray, seagulls gliding overhead and pods of frolicking dolphins so close you reach out in hope of an introduction. In the distance a whale breaches and life feels somehow more complete.

Segulls at The Anchorage, Port Stephens, Australia — Spend your day mesmerised by the seagulls.

After pulling into a quiet cove, you saunter along the seemingly untouched beach barefoot, investigating rock pools and dusting off shells, looking for the perfect keepsake. While you snorkel in the crystal-clear bay a blanket is set on the sand, weighted down with a picnic basket of crisp crudites, a selection of charcuterie and your favourite cheese, and a crusty baguette. It’s time to dry off. The riesling’s uncorked and you toast each other’s cleverness in discovering this special haven.

Post-lunch, a languid nature hike brings the day almost to a close, and you return to The Anchorage as the sun sets and the temperature drops dramatically. A crackling fire beckons you to the lounge. A ‘welcome home’ glass of mulled wine arrives, its spicy aroma transporting you to anniversaries past, and you share a smile. Back in your room you snuggle up with a movie and order in a burger. The chef’s accompanying house-made pickled vegetables are so damn good you ask for the recipe. Simple things.

Walking barefoot at The Anchorage Port Stephens — Saunter along the seemingly untouched beach barefoot.

Ebb and flow

It’s your final full day and you find yourself humming Hotel California, refusing to believe you’ll ever leave. An early decision is made to explore further afield, so you rent two bikes from a nearby business and cycle along the coastal road, rewarding yourself with a wholesome breakfast at one of Nelson Bay’s laid-back cafes. After perusing a few elegant boutiques and homewares stores you top up with a mid-morning coffee to buoy your downhill ride. The breeze whips your hair away from your face and, squealing with delight, you remember the beach holidays of your childhood and less complicated, freer times. You land by the heated adults-only infinity pool, surrounded by immaculately groomed shrubbery for ultimate privacy, and read two pages of that book you’ve been yearning to dive into before falling asleep in the warmth of the sun. You awaken, shaded by an umbrella canopy you’re certain wasn’t there when you arrived. Complimentary seasonal fruit appears, followed by a range of bespoke popsicles. You could stay all afternoon but it’s time for a pampering salt scrub, full body massage and facial at in-house Spa Lucca. You float out some hours later to the strumming of live guitars timed for twilight cocktails on the deck. A small group enjoys a private mixology class and you make a mental note for next time, already knowing which friends you’ll have in tow. Tonight, you’re already committed; a specially themed chef’s table dinner has been arranged. Later in your room, a bath has been drawn, sprinkled with essential oils and freshly plucked petals. You linger, resisting sleep, but it’s futile – you’re already en route to the isle of dreams.

Spa treatments at Spa Lucca, the in-house spa at The Anchorage Port Stephens, Australia — It’s time for a pampering at the in-house Spa Lucca.

Same time next year

You wake to an expanse of blue and the scent of bacon wafting from The Galley Kitchen , a sprawling atrium-like space adjacent to the resort’s main pool. You relax a little longer, farewell new friends and stretch out the morning as long as you can. Navigation begins for a longer stay next winter, and perhaps a brief summer sojourn in between? You’re swayed to take one final meander around the area, soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Scrambling to a high point for a few more snapshots, you recall yesterday’s encounter with a deeply creviced fisherman. With a wry grin and a twinkle in his eye he maintained focus on the horizon as he carefully explained the technique of ‘catch and release’. Wise words for travellers. Abandon the helm and let The Anchorage steer your next escape.

Plan your visit at anchorageportstephens.com.au

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .