New South Wales - Birubi Desert / Port Stephens

Birubi Desert / Port Stephens 2020

The highlight of this adventure was watching the sunset over the sand and seeing the tiny shells sparkle. We were also blown away by the many spectacular beaches from Hawks Nest to Newcastle.

There is so much to see and do around this part of New South Wales. I lived in NSW for 26 years and can’t believe I waited so long to visit! Book your flight or road trip to Newcastle, we hired a car which was very handy for exploring and day trips.

There is an abundance of fish and chip shops and a lovely assortment of cafes and restaurants. The perfect little family getaway.

ACCOMMODATION

There are plenty of options for accommodation.

The Mantra Aqua at Nelsons Bay is great budget accommodation, we found it a little dated, but it had everything a family needs and a beautiful swimming pool and spa. https://www.mantra.com.au/new-south-wales/north-coast/nelson-bay/accommodation/resorts/mantra-aqua/

If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious The Bay Haus in Nelsons Bay is a rattan lovers dream, styled to absolute perfection. https://www.bayhaus.com.au/

I also drove past http://www.saltatshoalbay.com.au/ in Shoal Bay and my head turned, it looked stunning!

THINGS TO DO

Port Stephens Dolphin Watching Cruise

Birubi Desert Sand Dunes (Anna Bay) at sunset is spectacular.

Hidden Paradise Guided Walks - Tomaree Coastal Adventures

Hike up Mount Tomaree

Visit all the local beaches and bays: Hawks Nest, Tea Gardens, Oyster Cove, Port Stephens, Nelsons Bay, Shoal Bay, Zenith Beach (stunning), Fingal Beach out to Shark Island, One Mile Beach, ect.

Day trip to Newcastle

Toboggan Hill Park - the kids LOVED this!

Oakvale Wildlife Park

Spirited Play Cafe was great for a rainy day

*** TIP The desert is known as Stockton Sand Dunes, google maps will direct you to private property that has no access. So be sure to pop Birubi Desert (Anna Bay) in google maps.