Port Stephens, located in New South Wales, is a nature lover's paradise known for its 26 stunning beaches, majestic bay, and a variety of national parks. Some of the notable parks in the region include Tomaree National Park, which stretches over the southern tip of Port Stephens and is home to a diverse range of plants, trees, and a large koala colony. Goulburn River National Park, located further east towards the Hunter Valley, features vast sandstone ranges and numerous Aboriginal cave art sites. Barrington Tops National Park offers a rugged landscape with elevations reaching nearly 1600 meters above sea level, with walking trails through lower subtropical rainforest and Antarctic beech forest. Myall Lakes National Park, accessible by car or boat, features water activities at Bombah Point and beautiful beaches around Seal Rocks to the north.
In addition to exploring these parks, visitors to Port Stephens can enjoy various activities such as scuba diving with grey nurse sharks, swimming with wild dolphins, and snorkeling in gentle bays. Beach hopping, picnicking, and hiking are also popular pursuits in the region.