Local Beaches If you enjoy being near, or on, the water then Port Stephens is certainly the perfect place to holiday. Our region boasts 26 beautiful beaches, from the rolling sand dunes of Birubi Beach to the calm waters of Dutchies or Shoal Bay. You’ll find plenty of soft sand, sheltered bays and surf breaks. Whether your looking for a quiet spot to sit and watch the day go by, a remote beach off the beaten track, or some adrenaline filled water sports, the stunning Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park has something for everyone. For a spectacular panorama of the bay, beaches and beyond, the Tomaree Head summit walk at Shoal Bay is a must-do experience. Or take the Coast Line track and walk from Zenith to Box Beach with a stop at Wreck Beach along the way.Swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing and fishing are popular water sports in our region. There are surf schools, and you can also try sailing, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking or hire a bike from Shoal Bay or Nelson Bay and explore the picturesque coastline.For those who stay a while and keep their eyes peeled, you'll likely spot a small pod of our resident bottle nosed Dolphins, or if you're lucky a Sea Turtle or Penguin.