Family-Friendly Things to Do in Port Stephens

Port Stephens is a beautiful place for a family holiday because the days can be as easy or adventurous as you want them to be.

You can keep things simple with beach time, low-tide exploring, paddling and slow meals at Fifty Five, or head out for dolphin cruises, sand dunes, surf lessons and family-friendly beaches nearby.

Beach days at Sunrise Beach

Some of the best family days happen right out the front of the house.

The kids can explore the sand, watch soldier crabs at low tide, look for shells, paddle, swim and move between the beach and the house without needing a big plan.

At Fifty Five, beach gear, kayaks and SUPs are available for guest use, with safety information provided in the house guide.

Dolphin watching

A dolphin cruise is a classic Port Stephens family activity, and a lovely way for kids to experience the bay from the water.

You may also see dolphins from the deck at Fifty Five, which is always a little bit magic, no matter how many times it happens. For a closer experience, look into local operators such as Dolphin Swim Australia or Imagine Cruises.

Sand dunes at Birubi Beach

The Birubi Beach sand dunes are one of the most memorable family adventures in Port Stephens.

Depending on the age of your children, you might book a guided sandboarding experience, 4WD tour, camel ride or simply go to see the landscape. The dunes sit within the Worimi Conservation Lands, and local tours are available through operators such as Sand Dune Adventures.

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Surf lessons at One Mile Beach

For older children, teens or adventurous adults, a surf lesson at One Mile Beach can be a fun holiday memory.

Book with a local surf school such as Port Stephens Surf School, check conditions and make a morning or afternoon of it.

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Fingal Bay and Kiddies Corner

Fingal Bay is a lovely option for families, especially if you want a slightly different beach day.

Kiddies Corner is especially good for younger children, with a calmer and more sheltered feel.

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Easy food with kids

For family meals out, keep it simple. Pizza, Thai takeaway, marina cafes, casual seafood and relaxed dining will usually work better than anything too formal.

Try easy local options like Blue Moon Pizza, Sanook Thai, Sea Salt Cafe or The Deck.

Or stay in, cook something easy, let the kids wind down, and enjoy the fact that no one has to get back in the car.

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See inside The House

Before you book, take a closer look at the bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, living spaces and outdoor areas that make Fifty Five such an easy family base.