Getting To Know Port Stephens Like a Local

When you live in arguably one of the most beautiful regions in Australia, embracing the outdoors is easy! Covering nearly 1,000 square kilometres of idyllic beaches and scenic beauty, Port Stephens is located just under a three-hour drive from Sydney.

 

“It is no wonder more retirees are choosing a sea change and downsizing to the popular region of Port Stephens where it offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Hometown Australia have four communities within the region that have an array of amenities, provide a sense of belonging, and secure living for those who are looking to downsize,” said Maxine Blackburne, Community Administration and Sales at Hometown Australia.

 

Maxine, who is a true local having lived in Port Stephens for 30 years, holds a plethora of knowledge of the best places to visit within the region. “Port Stephens really is the gem of the mid-north coast! Residents enjoy the surrounding beauty of the bushland and bays. The area really is stunningly beautiful,” said Maxine.

 

Discovering pristine beaches and white sands

Hometown Australia’s communities are perfectly positioned amongst the many bays and inlets, with residents enjoying the relaxed coastal feeling all year round. The region is home to 26 beaches, treating residents to their choice of soft white sands and crystal blue waters. “With many beaches and bays, residents certainly are spoilt for choice. You could choose a different beach each day. Residents often enjoy taking their dogs for a beach walk, grabbing a coffee, or meetings friends for brunch at one of the local cafes,” said Maxine.

 

Port Stephens is home to the magnificent Birubi Beach and Anna Bay. “Residents can grab a coffee from the local café and enjoy a beach walk to take in the crystal blue waters and feel the white sand beneath their feet,” said Maxine. If you are up for some adventure, you have your pick of beaches to choose from to swim, snorkel and explore. “Fisherman’s Bay and Boat Harbour are excellent snorkeling spots that have a rocky reef that draws a lot of marine life, you might even see a sea turtle if you’re lucky!” said Maxine.

Meeting the locals – whale watching and dolphin spotting

The communities are closely located to Nelson Bay, best known for its offering of close to nature experiences. “Nelson Bay is known for its wonderful dolphin cruises and whale watching with residents being treated to views of migrating humpback whales throughout the year. You are sure to spot a dolphin or two with nearly 100 dolphins calling the pristine blue waters home,” said Maxine.

 

Whilst visiting Nelson Bay, it is worth popping down to Nelson Bay Marina to browse the shops, enjoy the music, markets, and of course the ice-cream!

A day well spent, is a day spent fishing

If you’re a fishing enthusiast visiting Soldiers Point is a great place to cast a line. “Port Stephens plays host to one of the largest fishing competitions called the New South Wales Interclub Game Fishing Tournament. It is a great couple of days, and you can feel a real sense of what the community is like here in Port Stephens whilst watching all the boats sail past,” said Maxine.

Exploring the great outdoors

If you’re feeling adventurous the region has many national parks, walking tracks, and look-out vantage points to discover. “Feeling fit? You can hike to the top of Tomaree Mountain which is 161 metres above the Port Stephens entrance and take in the stunning 360-degree views,” said Maxine.

 

Take in the panoramic views at the top of the summit to see Yacaaba Head, Cabbage Tree, Boondelbah, and on a good day Broughton Island. “If you prefer more of a leisurely walk, you can enjoy a picnic on the Shoal Bay Foreshore and take in the views of the two headlands that sit at the opening of the Port Stephens waterway,” said Maxine.

The perfect place to visit with the grandkids

“If the grandkids are visiting, Birubi Beach and Anna Bay are a great place to take them for a camel ride, treat them to the sites of the spectacular Stockton Bight Sand Dunes for sand boarding, or book them in for a ‘learn to surf’ class,” said Maxine.

Hometown Australia Lifestyle Communities in Port Stephens

Port Stephens is home to four Hometown Australia Lifestyle Communities each designed to elevate the over 55s living experience. “Meet like-minded people, stay socially and physically active, and enjoy the financial benefits of Land Lease Living in one of Australia’s most sought after locations,” said Maxine.

Sunrise Lifestyle Community

Set right on the doorstep of the magnificent Birubi Beach and Anna Bay is the premier resort style Sunrise Lifestyle Community. Enjoy an active lifestyle with premium amenities and join in on the social activities in the clubhouse. Start your day with a dip in the pool, enjoy a friendly game of lawn bowls or pickleball with friends, or explore the natural wonders.

Homestead Lifestyle Community

Get ready to enjoy the best of nature on your doorstep at the Homestead Lifestyle Community. Located in Salamander Bay the community is perfect for those seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Residents can enjoy the pace of their day, their way by taking a stroll through the beautiful gardens, relaxing with a good book in the library, learn a new skill by joining an activity in the clubhouse, or stay social by meeting up with friends for a BBQ in one of the outdoor areas. The village shops are in a perfect location to grab a treat from the bakery after your beach walk!

Sea Winds Lifestyle Community

Located on the glorious Tomaree Peninsula you will find the Sea Winds Lifestyle Community, ideally placed, and surrounded by lush green gardens and towering palm trees. Residents can have their pick of relaxing next to one of the two swimming pools or having a friendly hit of tennis with your neighbours.

Sandy Shores Lifestyle Community

Create a relaxed lifestyle at the Sandy Shores Lifestyle Community located in Salamander Bay. With a wide selection of activities, you will always find something to do! Stay active with laps in the pool, enjoy hosting a BBQ in one of the outdoor areas, or if you’re feeling adventurous enjoy a round of golf, a spot of fishing with friends or a day trip with others.