Port Stephens: A one-stop shop to immerse in the outdoor Aussie lifestyle

AUSTRALIA boasts glamorous cities, exclusive resorts, and elegant fine dining. But some of the best experiences of a holiday down under are those involving the outdoors. You don’t have to go to the outback though.

Four-wheeled fun

We think @chloejdavis is on to something when she says this is her favourite spot for a morning stroll along the beach! We have to agree! Thank you for tagging #PortStephens ❤️ #PSiloveyou

A photo posted by Port Stephens, New South Wales (@portstephens) on Jan 8, 2017 at 4:33am PST

Every other vehicle you see in these parts is of the four-wheeled variety. Take one cruising on the sands of Stockton Beach where 32km of white dunes provide ample opportunity for your own beach barbecue away from it all.

If your transport is less robust, take an organized tour, a camel ride, a quad bike, or even a sand board to appreciate the desert-like wilderness.

For a more local experience, take a bumpy drive through the bush to the stunning Samurai Beach, a nudist hangout and a fabulous spot for a bit of topless cycling or bottomless fishing.

Water wonderland

Beautiful view over the water looking to Fingal Lighthouse thanks to @travellingnita! Great shot! Thank you for tagging #PortStephens ❤️ #PSiloveyou

A photo posted by Port Stephens, New South Wales (@portstephens) on Jan 8, 2017 at 1:49pm PST

Port Stephens is blessed with 26 beaches which means a lot of crystal blue waters to wallow in. You’ll be surprised how often you have whole swathes of sand to yourself. There is excellent diving and snorkeling at Little Beach.

Birubi Point is good for catching a break and if you’re surfing at One Mile Beach, don’t miss the kiosk’s awesome burger. Nelsons Bay is the central hub for the region and boasts a delightful marina where many boat charters will take you out on the high seas to spot dolphins and humpback whales.

Learn sailing, kayaking, jets skiing or deep sea fishing here and you’ll probably spot a few for yourself.

Walk on the wild side

Halfway Down Halfway down the stairs is a stair where i sit. there isn't any other stair quite like it. i'm not at the bottom, i'm not at the top; so this is the stair where I always stop. Halfway up the stairs Isn't up And it isn't down. It isn't in the nursery, It isn't in town. And all sorts of funny thoughts Run round my head. It isn't really Anywhere! It's somewhere else Instead! A.A. Milne . . . . . #ig_sunrisesunset #sunset_ig #igsunset #sunsetlovers #sunset_captures #mysunset #sunrise_and_sunsets #thebest_sunset #sunset #sunrise_sunets_aroundworld #sunset #australia #earth_pics #water_shots #amazing_nature #special_shots #aqua_gallery #rsa_water #ig_bliss #ic_water #loves_oceania #canonaustralia #focusaustralia #canoncollective #innerlighttearooms

A photo posted by Jane Adamson (@jane_cara) on Nov 11, 2016 at 1:34am PST

Bushwalking (basically the act of perambulating anywhere without concrete) is a highlight of any trip to this region. Potter up to the Lighthouse where you can keep one eye on the ocean and the other on your excellent eggs Benedict at Inner Light Tea Rooms.

There are many trails in the area so pack a picnic and a swimming costume and you’ll easily feel like you’re in the wilderness in minutes. You’re sure to encounter a bit of local wildlife such as huge monitor lizards or koalas lazing in gum trees.

Hunt and gather

The best late lunch at #holbertsoysterfarm ??#portstephens #oysters #kingprawns

A photo posted by J A N N E K E (@janimonster) on Jul 4, 2016 at 11:55pm PDT

There are numerous touristy seafood restaurants at the marina in Nelson’s Bay but give those a miss and head to Holbert’s Oyster Farm where you can enjoy super fresh prawns and oysters with a chilled bottle of chardonnay at picnic tables overlooking the water.

If you’re not a fish fan then visit local markets for home grown macadamias, figs, olives, avocados and craft beers and chow down at a quintessential Aussie “sausage sizzle”. If it all gets a bit too outdoorsy, indulge in some waterside fine dining at Little Beach Boathouse.

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Source: travelwireasia.com