A nature lover’s guide to the best Port Stephens camping

With 26 beaches and bays, a backdrop of ever-shifting sand dunes and large pockets of lush coastal forest, Port Stephens camping is simply extraordinary.

Port Stephens is a region where outdoor pursuits are part of your everyday itinerary. Taking long walks on sugar-white sand, swimming and snorkelling in translucent waters, four-wheel-driving or quad biking on gargantuan sand dunes…

What better place to recount stories of sun-drenched days than around a campfire, before being lulled to sleep by the sounds of the ocean? Covering everything from basic campsites to holiday parks that cater to your every need, our guide to Port Stephens camping will help you escape in no time.

1. Halifax Holiday Park

Conveniently wedged between two beautiful beaches in Port Stephens, and an easy 15-minute walk into the town of Nelson Bay, the location of Halifax Holiday Park can’t be beaten. It offers direct beach access to Little Beach and Shoal Bay Beach, both of which are calm and family-friendly swimming spots (so they’re perfect for stand-up paddle boarding, too). The Port Stephens camping spot is also a popular choice for boaties due to its deepwater boat ramp. As far as your actual digs go, there are powered tent and van sites, plus modern one- to four-bedroom villas, with fully equipped kitchens.

Price: $-$$$
Facilities: A boat ramp, BBQs, kiosk, kids’ playground, laundry facilities and direct beach access
Accessibility: Yes, there’s a three-bedroom ‘Accessible Living’ cabin with lowered benches, ramp access, extra-wide parking, a shower chair and more custom features.
Dog-friendly?: Yes, but you must register your pooch before setting up.
Address: 5 Beach Rd, Little Beach, Nelson Bay

2. Shoal Bay Holiday Park

A stroll from the powder-soft white sands of picturesque Shoal Bay Beach and a short walk into the village, this holiday park is a top spot for chilled-out Port Stephens camping. Families with younger kids will love the activities during school holidays; keeping active and entertained is easy with a games room, cycleway just behind the park and on-site tennis court. The park has powered tent and van sites, ensuite van sites, uber comfy safari tents and one-, two- and four-bedroom villas. Just down the road, the Tomaree Headland Summit Walk is a short but challenging hike that offers spectacular views. Top the beachside bliss off with a stop at the Shoal Bay Country Club for a casual feed.

Price: $-$$$
Facilities: BBQs, tennis court, laundry, camp kitchen, games room and direct beach access
Accessibility: Yes, there’s a two-bedroom accessible villa with a wheelchair ramp.
Dog-friendly?: Yes, but you must register your pooch before setting up.
Address: 71 Shoal Bay Rd, Shoal Bay

3. Big4 Ingenia Holidays Soldiers Point 

indoor pool of Ingenia Holidays — Vacationing families will surely love the indoor pool.

Big 4 Ingenia Holidays Soldiers Point is known for its kid-friendly fun thanks to the purpose-built bike track, an indoor kids’ water park, a jungle gym, an outdoor playground, a games room, a pedal kart hire, a giant chess board and more. The kids will no doubt flop into their beds at night, lulled to sleep by the sounds of the ocean, a hundred or so metres away. The Port Stephens camping hot spot features powered and ensuite caravan and campsites, a range of cabins, plus 1970s Airstreams that sleep four.

 Price: $-$$$
Facilities: BBQs, playgrounds, two swimming pools, water playground, bike and pedal kart hire, tennis courts, bowling alley and a kiosk
Accessibility: Yes, there’s a two-bedroom accessible cabin with a low-incline wheelchair ramp, bathroom with handrails, detachable shower head and accessible benchtops.
Dog-friendly?: Yes, but only at selected sites.
Address: 122 Soldiers Point Rd, Soldiers Point

4. Thou Walla Sunset Retreat

Located at the tip of Soldiers Point, Thou Walla Sunset Retreat is – as the name suggests – a spectacular location to enjoy a sky show as the sun dips behind the horizon. The park has access to two beaches, a nearby boat ramp and marina, tennis court, and is close to the Port Stephens Yacht Club and refined Point Restaurant. Accommodation types include caravan sites, one- and two-bedroom cabins, and glamping tents with amazing views of the sunsets.

Price: $-$$$
Facilities: Swimming pool, glamping tents, BBQs, camp kitchen and laundry
Accessibility: Yes, there are accessible bathroom facilities for campers.
Dog-friendly?: No
Address: 2 Ridgeway Ave, Soldiers Point

5. Gateway Lifestyle Birubi Beach

room at Gateway Lifestyle Birubi Beach — Rooms are made for comfortable rest after a full day of adventures.

Located near Birubi Beach, which extends from Port Stephens to Stockton, this holiday park is the perfect base for sand-based adventures. The patrolled beach has four-wheel-drive access to the Stockton Sand Dunes, is famous for camel rides, and is safe for swimming and surfing plus exploring the rock pools. The park itself has unpowered and powered tent and van sites, in addition to one- and two-bedroom cabins.

Price: $-$$$
Facilities: Mini golf, a heated pool, kids’ playground, beach access, camp kitchens, and ping pong
Accessibility: Yes, but there are no specialised areas for guests with access needs.
Dog-friendly?: Yes, across selected stays but all furry friends must be registered.
Address: 37 James Paterson St, Anna Bay

6. Big4 Bays Holiday Park

A little further away from the coast, Big4 Bays Holiday Park is yet another Port Stephens camping pick guaranteed to send the kids straight to heaven. It has a pool with a slide, plus plenty of activities for little ones, in addition to a wide choice of accommodation options. Choose from powered and unpowered sites, one- to three-bedroom cabins, and three ‘cosy’ caravans with coastal cool styling and contemporary finishes. The park is also close to Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters, a must-visit for ocean lovers, and Birubi Beach.

Price: $-$$$
Facilities: Swimming pool, playgrounds, pedal karts, giant jumping pillow, camp kitchen, BBQs, two amenities blocks and a laundry
Accessibility: Yes, there is an accessible amenities block for campers.
Dog-friendly?: Yes, across select cabins and sites, and there’s even a dog wash to keep them clean.
Address: 23 Port Stephens Drive, Anna Bay

7. Ganyamalbaa Camping Trial

On a remote beach in the Worimi Conservation Lands, the Ganyamalbaa Camping Trial is suitable for tents and single-axel camper trailers only. It’s the only place you’re allowed to camp within the conservation area and sites must be booked but do make the extra effort because the experience is one-of-a-kind. There are no facilities (i.e. not even toilets or water) so you’ll need to bring everything. The trade-off? Sleeping peacefully under a blanket of stars, with immediate access to the dunes, four-wheel-driving and quad biking.

Price: $
Facilities: Fire pits and that’s really about it — BYO water, a portable camp toilet and firewood.
Accessibility: No
Dog-friendly?: No
Address: Worimi Conservation Lands, Fern Bay

8. Fingal Bay Holiday Park

High shot overlooking Fingal Bay Holiday park and the beach. — Fingal Bay Holiday Park is made for families.

A family favourite for Port Stephens camping and caravanning, Fingal Bay Holiday Park is a large spot located directly opposite a patrolled beach, which is super convenient for surfers. It’s also excellent for whale watching between May and November when migration season strikes. The park has a swimming pool, tennis court, games room, playground and school holiday activities for kids. You can choose from powered tent and van sites, ensuite sites, and one- to three-bedroom cabins.

Price: $-$$$
Facilities: Swimming pool, tennis court, games room, children’s playground, BBQs, direct beach access, a camp kitchen, laundry and picnic areas
Accessibility: Yes, there’s a three-bedroom deluxe villa with lower benches, safety rails and a wheelchair ramp.
Dog-friendly?: Yes, but you must register your pooch before setting up.
Address: 52 Marine Drive, Fingal Bay

9. Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach

Beach lovers flock to Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach for the seemingly endless stretch of sand right on its doorstep. Kids are well catered to as various activities provide plenty of entertainment while the on-site pool, tennis court and basketball court provide after-beach fun for the whole family. There are powered and unpowered sites for camping and caravans, and everything from budget cabins to a luxury beach house sleeping eight.

Features: unpowered and powered sites, cabins, pool, playground, tennis, barbecues, pet-friendly, beach access, surf school, cafe

Price: $-$$$
Facilities: Swimming pool, tennis court, entertainment room, laundry, children’s playground, ball court, BBQs, glamping tents, a dump point, restaurant, bar and direct beach access.
Accessibility: Yes, with rails in some parts but there are no specialised areas for guests with access needs.
Dog-friendly?: Yes, across select cabins and camping sites.

Address: 426 Gan Gan Rd, One Mile

 10. Samurai Beach Bungalows

Nestled in Tomaree National Park, Samurai Beach Bungalows is a peaceful spot surrounded by ocean, dunes and headlands. The only catch? Clothing is optional. Yep, if you’re comfortable in your own skin (literally just your own skin) or don’t mind others who are, then you can spend your days here surfing, fishing and exploring the dunes. The Port Stephens camping spot is a YHA, so expect crowds of youngsters taking advantage of extensive facilities, free-flowing wi-fi and affordable price tags.

Price: $-$$
Facilities: Swimming pool, games room, BBQ, rentable bikes, reading room, a tour desk and pool table
Accessibility: Yes, but call reception in advance to discuss your unique accessible needs.
Dog-friendly?: No
Address: 2 Robert Connell Close, Anna Bay

11. Big 4 Karuah Jetty Holiday Park

Looking for some serious serenity? The Big4 Karuah Jetty Holiday Park right off Karuah River has its own private jetty to help you and your family live out your ultimate waterfront holiday dreams. Better still, many of the sites and cabins welcome dogs so the whole clan is invited. Choose from self-contained stays, such as a family bungalow, or powered sites with creature comforts located right nearby.

Price: $-$$$
Facilities: Swimming pool, camp kitchen, laundry, tennis court, giant jumping pillow, splash zone for kids, volleyball court and campfires.
Accessibility: Yes, but there are no specialised areas for guests with access needs.
Dog-friendly?: Yes, across select cabins and camping sites.
Address: 88 Holdom Rd, Karuah

Originally written by Megan Arkinstall with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

Sunshine, sea breezes and sand-speckled locals: the Sutherland Shire is perfect for an idyllic Sydney summer.

The Sutherland Shire is one of Sydney’s most dynamic regions. Home to an eclectic mix of top-notch eateries and drinking holes, a flourishing arts scene, and striking land and seascapes, it’s a haven for foodies, culture seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

It’s also an ever-evolving destination with a constant wave of new places to eat and drink, and under-the-radar pockets to explore – many of which are dog-friendly.

If you’re venturing to this gorgeous part of the world this summer, here’s your guide to what’s new and worth discovering.

Savour the summer dining scene

Fred’s After Hours on the sutherland shire — Pop into Fred’s After Hours.

The Shire’s buzzing dining scene is one of its biggest drawcards, and many of the region’s culinary highlights can be found in the sun-soaked beachside hub of Cronulla. A bunch of newcomers have recently set up shop, making the area ripe for culinary adventure.

Homer Rogue Taverna is exactly as its name suggests: a cheeky take on classic Greek food. Expect meze and mains bursting with bold flavours and a wine list packed with standout Greek drops.

Freds Providore – a Cronulla favourite for casual cafe fare and excellent coffee – is now open late from Thursday to Sunday. Come sundown, it morphs into Fred’s After Hours, serving a refined European-inspired menu, wines, cocktails and a laid-back yet polished vibe.

Bobbys is a slick destination right on Cronulla Beach, where you can grab a plate of freshly-caught seafood and a summery cocktail while cooling off in the sea breeze.

And if you’re after a bit of everything, the sprawling and multifaceted Parc Pavilion is a melting pot of dining experiences. It blends a cafe, bistro, bar, Italian restaurant and a host of regular events, all tied together in a cool coastal setting.

Got a Saturday morning to spare? The Shire Farmers Market in Sutherland is a must-do ritual, letting you (and your four-legged friend) browse fresh produce, flowers and gourmet treats against a backdrop of live music and local chatter.

Dive into ocean pools

ocean pool on the sutherland shire — The ocean pools beckon.

Given its prime coastal positioning, the Shire teems with crystal-clear ocean pools and enclosed bathing spots. Silver Beach Tidal Baths offers a netted
swimming experience in Botany Bay. Tucked beside a small sandy beach, the tidal baths at Gunnamatta Park are calm and shallow – making them an ideal setting for less confident swimmers.

Just a hop and a skip away is Shelly Park Ocean Pool, a magical rock pool carved in the ocean. It’s well-suited to young kids and offers sweeping views towards the open sea.

Experience local arts and culture

Hazelhurst Arts Centre in Gymea is elegantly positioned within a lush garden landscape, serving as the Sutherland Shire’s premier destination for arts and culture. This summer, experience the Art on Paper Award 2025 – a celebration of innovation and creativity through the versatile medium of paper.

Set within the leafy surrounds of Hazelhurst Arts Centre, Hazel Kitchen & Bar has curated the ultimate picnic experience. Think abundant cheese platters, artisan charcuterie boards, fresh OJ and a thoughtfully chosen wine list, all available to take away and enjoy in the art-filled gardens just beyond the restaurant. Best of all, four-legged friends are welcome to join the fun.

Next, venture south to the artsy village of Bundeena for the monthly Bundeena and Maianbar Art Trail . This self-guided journey through local artists’ studios offers a glimpse into their work and creative spaces.

Relish the dog-friendly atmosphere

a dog on Greenhills Dog Beach sutherland shire — Let the dog off-leash at Greenhills Dog Beach.

The Sutherland Shire is a bona fide playground for pups and their humans. Find a string of dog-friendly beaches popular with locals, visitors and pups alike. Silver Beach in Kurnell is a peaceful pocket, allowing dogs off-leash without restriction. While Horderns Beach in Bundeena and Greenhills Beach in Cronulla are equally serene and provide off-leash access (be sure to check times and seasonal restrictions before you go).

If you’re planning to make a weekend of it, book yourself and your pooch into Quest Cronulla . With stylish and spacious pet-friendly accommodation, thoughtful amenities, and a prime location just steps from Cronulla Esplanade and a variety of dog-friendly cafes, it’s the perfect spot to rest after a full day of exploring.

Get into nature

Sunrise at Curracurrong Falls and Eagle Rock in the Royal National Park, Sydney. — Find natural beauty in Royal National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor escapes: imagine rugged bushwalks, breezy beachside tracks, meandering cycling trails and lookouts galore. The best part? Many of them are perfectly suited to dogs.

Take your canine to Cronulla Esplanade – the Shire’s version of the famed Bondi to Coogee Walk. This eight-kilometre route takes you past the region’s most picturesque beaches, offering panoramic vistas and an electric energy. It heaves with locals every morning and weekend, getting their steps in with a coffee in one hand and a dog leash in the other.

If you’re travelling without furry friends, stop by the Royal National Park. You’ll be engulfed in ancient bushland, craggy cliffs, towering rock formations, diverse wildlife and twisting tracks. The Jibbon Loop Track is a highlight, with spectacular views over the sea. Alternatively, the Karloo Track forms a loop that winds through untamed bush, freshwater pools and waterfalls. Re-lace your walking shoes or grab a bike to follow The Bundeena Drive to Marley Walk past freshwater pools and creeks, on to scenic beach views of Little Marley Beach.

Hit up the beautiful beaches

aerial of cronulla beach and esplanade — Enjoy postcard-perfect beaches. (Image: Destination NSW)

The stretch along Cronulla bursts with postcard-perfect beaches, each offering a different flavour. With rolling waves, regular patrol and a steady stream of beachgoers, Cronulla Beach and North Cronulla Beach are buzzy and built for all kinds of swimmers. Elouera Beach is a quieter option, attracting early-morning surfers hoping to catch the perfect wave.

If you prefer a side of dramatic scenery, visit Wanda or Greenhills – in addition to ocean panoramas, both are backed by towering golden dunes and wild scrub. Looking for something more subdued? Shelly Beach Ocean Pool is a relaxed – yet no less captivating – retreat.

Start planning your Sutherland Shire summer at visitsutherlandshire.com.au.