The Locals

Why go: The social heart of Shoal Bay: sunset spritz, live tunes and the view that keeps you longer than planned.

Highlights: Golden hour, live music, classic-meets-modern menus.

Good to know: Easy walk from the foreshore.

Why go: Mediterranean flavours with linen-shirt energy: polished, relaxed, memorable.

Highlights: Seafood focus, thoughtful cocktails, date-night favourite.

Good to know: Best at golden hour.

Why stay: Beachfront stays from family-friendly to balcony-with-a-view. Wake to water and wander everywhere.

Highlights: Pool, spa, close to everything.

Good to know: Options for couples and families.

Why go: Paddle glassy water with a chance of dolphins and a guarantee of calm.

Highlights: Hire, lessons, guided sessions.

Good to know: Morning is magic.

Why go: Coffee from a familiar face and breakfast where the view does the talking.

Highlights: Takeaway or sit-down, family-friendly.

Good to know: Post-swim essential.

Why go: Papers, postcards, sunscreen and local banter. The classic corner you’ll visit more than once.

Highlights: Gifts, stationery, essentials.

Good to know: Handy for beach day top-ups.

Why go: Gelato that turns a stroll into a ritual.

Highlights: Seasonal flavours, family favourite.

Good to know: Best enjoyed on the foreshore.

Why Go: Beachside coffee, fresh breakfast and relaxed coastal bites just steps from Shoal Bay Beach. An easy stop for morning fuel or a laid back lunch after a swim.

Highlights: Coffee, smoothies, fresh breakfast options, casual café dining and takeaway for the beach.

Good to Know: Perfect for a quick coffee, post beach brunch or relaxed catch up by the water.

Why Go: A family owned coastal clothing label inspired by adventure, nature and the laid back pace of Port Stephens. Designed locally for those who live life outdoors.

Highlights: Premium apparel, surf and lifestyle wear, locally inspired designs.

Good to Know: Perfect for picking up a new tee, hoodie or beach day staple while exploring Shoal Bay.

Why Go: Effortless fashion for women who want to feel stylish without overthinking it. Covet Couture curates flattering, easy to wear pieces perfect for beach days, brunch and everyday coastal life.

Highlights: Women’s fashion, relaxed dresses, everyday wardrobe staples and stylish swimwear.

Good to Know: Perfect for updating your holiday wardrobe or finding something effortless to wear from beach to dinner.

Why Go: A tranquil wellness escape designed to help you slow down, relax and recharge. Sirene Spa offers luxurious treatments inspired by the calming rhythm of the coast.

Highlights: Massage therapy, facials, body treatments and holistic wellness experiences.

Good to Know: Ideal for a post beach unwind, special occasion pampering or a peaceful reset during your Shoal Bay stay.

Why Go: A local favourite for quick, satisfying eats after a beach day. Mediterranean Kings Kebabs serves up fresh kebabs, burgers and classic takeaway favourites.

Highlights: Kebabs, burgers, fish and chips, takeaway meals.

Good to Know: Perfect for a casual bite, late lunch or an easy takeaway to enjoy by the beach.

Why Go: A relaxed local salon where you can refresh your look while enjoying the easy pace of Shoal Bay. Zen by the Bay offers professional hair services for the whole family.

Highlights: Men’s, women’s and children’s haircuts, styling, eyebrow waxing and tinting.

Good to Know: Perfect for a quick tidy up, holiday haircut or fresh style before a night out.

Why Go: A fresh unique waterfront spot for modern Australian dining, where long lunches roll into sunset drinks overlooking the bay.

Highlights: Modern Australian menu, seafood, share plates, cocktails and waterfront dining.

Good to Know: Ideal for a laid back lunch, sunset drinks or a relaxed dinner after a day exploring Shoal Bay.

Who They Are: A passionate local community group dedicated to protecting and celebrating the natural beauty and history of Tomaree Headland and surrounds. 

Highlights: Local conservation efforts, community events and preservation of one of Port Stephens’ most iconic landmarks.

Good to Know: A great way to learn more about the history of Tomaree and support the locals helping keep it accessible and protected.

Who They Are: A locally run tour business offering relaxed, all inclusive experiences that showcase the best of Port Stephens, from iconic sights to hidden local gems.

Highlights: Guided tours, local experiences, sightseeing, food and wine options, all inclusive packages.

Good to Know: Ideal for visitors wanting to explore more of the region without the stress of planning every detail.

Why Go: Sunset views over glistening water and authentic Italian flavours crafted from local produce. It is a waterfront setting designed for sharing moments with your favourite people as the waves gently lap the shore.

Highlights: Waterfront Italian dining, pizza parties, fresh local ingredients and private event hosting for special occasions.

Good to Know: An unforgettable space for birthdays, anniversaries or romantic dinners where experienced staff cater to your every need.

Why Stay: A light filled coastal retreat where summer days revolve around the swimming pool and evenings are spent gathering by the fire pit. It is a welcoming space for your whole family, including pets, just a short walk from the sands of Shoal Bay, Box and Wreck Beaches.

Highlights: Private swimming pool, fully enclosed yard, outdoor entertaining decks with BBQ and TV, fire pit and spacious accommodation for 12 guests.

Good to Know: Perfect for large groups, featuring a dedicated rumpus room for kids and ample onsite parking for a boat or jet ski.

Why Stay: Award winning coastal escapes where native bushland meets the convenience of a first class resort. Enjoy the best of both worlds with direct access to patrolled surf beaches and the calm, aquamarine waters of Shoal Bay and Little Beach.

Highlights: Resort style pools, communal fire pits, deep water boat ramps and a range of accommodation from pet friendly campsites to luxury three bedroom villas.

Good to Know: Thoughtfully designed for everyone with accessible facilities and free beach wheelchair hire available. These parks serve as an ideal base just minutes from the boutiques and dining of Nelson Bay.