Local Attractions and Highlights

Dolphin watching, where up to 30 mammals leave the port, swim around Yacaaba and frolic in the surf, catching waves beside humans. Port Stephens is well known for it’s resident population of over 150 bottlenose dolphins. Between late May and July, over 6,000 Humpback Whales migrate north to the tropics and return between September and November. The whales pass very close to shore and are easily accessible by a number of whale watching cruises.

Rod fishing is a popular activity here, on the beach and further along towards Yacaaba Head or in the opposite direction towards Winda Woppa.   

Jimmy's Beach is used as a home base for Kayaking and Kite Boarding Clubs attracting hundreds per year. Jimmy's Beach protected location also attracts jet- skiers and sail-surfers. 

A favorite walking track takes you to the top of the volcanic Yacaaba (219m) - north head of Port Stephens - for a view of the entire coastline, port, islands and lakes. As you can see by the photo (top pic), Yacaaba overlooks an exquisite piece of paradise. For a better view, carry your binoculars with you, especially when the whales are migrating.

Three of the ten offshore islands are the largest along the NSW coast. Rain forested Cabbage Tree Island, prohibited to humans, is the only breeding site in the world for the rare seabird Gould's Petrel. Several islands make up the nearby Broughton Group. The largest of the islands has walking tracks and dazzling white beaches. The Looking Glass Isle has two tunnels through it's centre, making it a world-class dive site. Pictured right Is Broughton Island.