Nelson Bay, North Coast — New South Wales

Nelson Bay is a town located in the Hunter Region in New South Wales. It is part of the Port Stephens Local Government Area and is bounded in the east by the Tomaree National Park.

The town’s major industry is tourism, with majority of its business establishments catering to tourists who flock to Nelson Bay during holidays.

One good way to get acquainted with the town is to participate in the Nelson Bay Heritage Walk, which touches on several historic sites within and around the town. Stops include the original cemetery established by Chinese settlers in the area, Little Beach, and Nelson Head.

The Tomaree National Park is a major tourist attraction in the area. It offers ample opportunities for bushwalking and animal viewing, with scenic views along the way. Camping grounds are also available for those wishing to stay overnight or for a few days.

Within the town, one popular outdoor destination is the Halifax Park, which features a bicycle path that runs along the beach. The park is also ideal for picnics, frequented by families wishing to take advantage of its beautiful setting, while children have access to its playground facilities.

Another good family destination is the Little Nelson Beach where picnic facilities are also available. Children will also have a fun day at the playground while adults enjoy the views from the wharf. Visitors should also keep an eye out for some Aboriginal artifacts, attesting that the site was once inhabited by the Worimi Aborigines. There is also a flora reserve nearby, where native plants grow in profusion.

The marina is also a good place to take a stroll, with several restaurants and cafes offering variety of dishes and refreshing drinks.

Most visitors come to Nelson Bay to relax in its pristine beaches. Cruises are also available for those wishing for close encounters with dolphins that call the nearby waters home. Whales also pass the bay on their way to migration, making whale watching one of the most anticipated attractions in the area. Deep sea fishing is also possible with the availability of a number of chartered boats. Another good destination for boat trips is the Fly Point Halifax Park Aquatic Reserve, established in 1983. The reserve’s primary objective is the protection of marine organisms in the area, so fishing is strictly forbidden. Swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, however, are very much encouraged to enable one to fully appreciate the bounty underwater.

At Nelson Head, additional scenic views can be enjoyed. The area also has a lighthouse that was constructed in 1872 but is presently maintained by the National Trust. The lighthouse is a good vantage point for glimpses of dolphins and whales, frequent marine visitors to the waters of the area. Nearby is the cottage built in 1875. For refreshments, visitors can stop by the tea room, while a gift shop offers several mementos for sale.

A walk to the Gan Gan Lookout, accessed through Lily Hill Road, affords visitors spectacular views found nowhere else. Lucky ones may even get to enjoy Gymea lilies during the time of year they are in bloom.