Port Stephens, departing Newcastle. Dolphins, hike, swim.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of nature, wildlife, and local culture during a day trip from Newcastle, this tour offers an engaging way to experience Port Stephens. For $158 per person, you’ll spend about eight hours exploring this stunning region with a small group (max 11), guided by knowledgeable hosts who know how to keep things interesting. The itinerary includes a scenic hike up Mount Tomaree, an exhilarating dolphin cruise, a relaxing beach swim, and a visit to a craft brewery—each element designed to give you a well-rounded taste of what the coast has to offer.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to see Port Stephens’ iconic marine life up close—dolphins are known for their playful antics here—and to take in spectacular panoramic views from the mountain. The mix of outdoor activity and delicious local seafood makes it a genuine highlight. Plus, the small-group setting ensures personalized attention and the chance to ask plenty of questions.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the hike up Mount Tomaree can be a bit challenging for some, especially if you’re not used to moderate outdoor activity. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can opt for a flatter walk or spend more time relaxing at the beach. This tour is best suited for active travelers, wildlife lovers, and those keen to experience authentic coastal scenery without the crowds.

Key Points

• Diverse activities blend outdoor adventure with wildlife encounters and culinary experiences.
• Small group size means more personalized guides and attention.
• The mountain hike offers spectacular coastal views, perfect for photography and nature lovers.
• Dolphin cruises provide memorable marine wildlife sightings, often with playful dolphins close at hand.
• Local seafood lunch and a visit to a craft brewery highlight the region’s culinary scene.
• The tour is 8 hours long, making it a full but manageable day trip from Newcastle.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day in Port Stephens: What to Expect

This tour strikes a wonderful balance between activity and relaxation, offering travelers a chance to see some of the best of Port Stephens without feeling rushed. Starting from Newcastle, the journey is comfortable, with air-conditioned transportation ensuring a cool ride through the regional scenery. The small group setting—limited to 11 participants—means you’ll get plenty of chances to engage with your guide, Nathan, who comes highly recommended for his informative and friendly approach.

The Mount Tomaree Hike

Your day kicks off with a guided scenic hike to Mount Tomaree’s summit. The total walk is about 2.2 kilometers, but the guide offers an alternative flat walk for those less inclined to climb. The ascent provides sweeping views over the bay, islands, and coastline—a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the natural beauty of this coastal gem. We loved the way our guide shared insights about the area’s geography and wildlife, making the climb both enjoyable and educational.

Dolphin Cruise: Playful Marine Residents

Following the hike, you’ll set sail on a 1.5-hour dolphin cruise. With over 160 dolphins living in these waters year-round, this part of the tour is often filled with delightful surprises. Expect to see these intelligent mammals leaping, splashing, and playing close to the boat—a truly magical sight. Reviewers speak highly of Nathan’s ability to spot and explain dolphin behavior clearly, making the experience both fun and educational. This is a prime opportunity to witness Port Stephens’ famous bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.

Beach Time & Swimming

After the cruise, you’ll have time to unwind at a pristine, calm beach with sparkling blue waters. This stretch of coastline is perfect for a quick swim or simply relaxing on the soft sand. The tour provides enough flexibility for you to soak up the sun, take some photos, or enjoy a leisurely walk. We found that this break offers a nice balance after the more active morning activities.

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Lunch: Fresh, Local Seafood

While lunch isn’t included in the price, the tour guides recommend a stop at a local favorite to sample freshly caught seafood—think fish & chips with a variety of fish options, squid, prawns, and calamari. Reviewers say the seafood is top-quality and a true taste of coastal Australia, though you’ll need to pay for your meal separately. This is an excellent chance to support local businesses and indulge in authentic regional flavors.

Afternoon at B Farm & Optional Activities

To cap off your day, the tour visits B Farm, a craft brewery with a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. If time permits, Nathan might show you the sand dunes nearby, where you can try sandboarding or even ride a camel, adding a fun, adventurous twist. According to reviews, Nathan’s enthusiasm and willingness to share local highlights make this part of the trip particularly enjoyable.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The true strength of this experience lies in its combination of wildlife, outdoor activity, and regional cuisine. The dolphin cruise is often regarded as a highlight, with travelers praising the guide’s ability to spot and explain marine behaviors, making the encounter lively and memorable. The mountain hike is appreciated for its panoramic views and the physical challenge it offers, giving a sense of accomplishment coupled with scenic beauty.

The small-group format fosters a more personal connection, ensuring you’re not just another face in a crowd. This is particularly valued by reviews that mention Nathan’s helpful, engaging commentary—adding depth to the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The Value of the Tour

At $158, the tour provides a comprehensive snapshot of Port Stephens, combining outdoor, wildlife, culinary, and cultural elements in one day. Although meals are extra, the value is evident in the diversity of experiences and the expert guidance that enhances your understanding of the region. The inclusion of pickup and drop-off from Newcastle makes it stress-free as well, eliminating the hassle of organizing transport.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits active travelers who appreciate a mix of physical activity and relaxing time at the beach. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the dolphin cruise, while those interested in coastal vistas will find the hike rewarding. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to learn about local culture and marine life in a small-group setting. Keep in mind, if you’re not comfortable with moderate hiking, you might prefer the flat walk option or a more leisurely day.

The Sum Up

This Port Stephens tour offers a well-rounded day that balances adventure and relaxation with plenty of opportunities to see wild dolphins, enjoy spectacular views, and taste local seafood. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach elevate the experience, making it both educational and fun. The small-group size ensures you feel involved and well-attended to, providing a more genuine connection with the region.

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines outdoor activity, wildlife encounters, and regional tastes, this tour hits all those marks. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a taste of authentic coastal Australia, with a bit of physical activity thrown in for good measure. With its excellent reviews and thoughtful itinerary, it’s a memorable way to experience the natural beauty and marine wonder of Port Stephens, just a short journey from Newcastle.

FAQ

What is the main focus of this tour?
The tour combines outdoor hiking, dolphin watching, beach swimming, and sampling local seafood, focusing on showcasing Port Stephens’ natural beauty and wildlife.

How long is the hike up Mount Tomaree?
The hike is about 2.2 km total, with an option for a flat walk if you prefer a less challenging route.

Can I see dolphins on every cruise?
While dolphins are very common in Port Stephens—over 160 call these waters home—sightings depend on weather and wildlife activity. Most trips include playful dolphin encounters.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring a sun hat, change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, sports shoes, and outdoor clothing to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own cost, typically from local providers offering fresh seafood like fish & chips and prawns.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 11 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 years are not recommended, likely due to the physical activity involved.

What’s the transportation like?
Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup and drop-off at specified Newcastle accommodations.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

Exploring Port Stephens through this tour reveals the best of coastal New South Wales—wildlife, scenic views, and regional flavors—delivered with knowledgeable guides and a friendly touch. It’s a day that educates, entertains, and relaxes, perfect for those wanting a genuine taste of Australia’s marine and mountain scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: