Port Stephens is often referred to as Australia’s blue water paradise because of its outstanding natural surroundings. Ideally situated on the east coast of New South Wales Australia, the region is only a couple of hours away north of Sydney, which makes it a favorite destination to local tourists. However, Port Stephens also has tons of surprises for international travelers starting with its more than 19 miles of white sandy beaches. One of this region’s best spots, which deserves your visit, is Anna Bay. Like other parts of Port Stephens, this beautiful village offers a pleasant warm weather and a beautiful natural environment.
The highlights of your visit to Anna Bay are no doubt its beaches. The One-Mile Beach is one of the village’s hidden sandy gems. This highly secluded beach is tucked away at the bush land area of Tomaree National Park. Just further east, is the wildlife abundant Samarai Beach. The Stockton Beach is another popular beach to the west of the village, which houses the biggest ship wreck in the country. Anna Bay also has an allocated spot for surfers called Birubi Point. This beach area is 32 kilometers north of Stockton Beach. Aside from surfing, you can also try beach and rock fishing at Birubi Point.
At Anna Bay’s beaches, you will never run out of options when it comes to aqua-oriented activities. You can hire a jet ski and ride the waves, go for a sunset cruise or scuba dive for the first time. On dry land, you can browse around the village’s several art galleries and interact with the locals in the weekly organized crafts markets. For golfing fanatics, David Graham Golf Course offers a 9-hole par 3 course, which has a lighting system that makes night golfing possible. This golf complex is also equipped with practice range, a shop and a 20-hole mini golf facility.
The village is also the access point to the Stockton Beach Sand Dunes. This area is covered with the moving coastal sand dunes, which stretch to over 20 miles and is the biggest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. This makes it a perfect spot of recreational activities such as sand boarding, quad biking and 4WD adventure tours. You don’t have to go the Sahara desert to experience camel riding. At Stockton Beach Sand Dunes, you can experience your first and most likely memorable camel ride.
Various tours are also offered at Anna Bay. One of the notable excursions is whale watching, which is usually conducted between late May through July. This is the perfect time to watch as thousands of migrating whales pass by the waters of the bay. If you’re not able to catch these magnificent creatures, you still have the chance to witness the local dolphins parading the bay. This population inhabits the area all year round.
Fishing enthusiasts will also be pleased to know that Anna Bay is teeming with various fish species, and fishing excursions are always available. After a day of outdoor fun, you can also head out to village’s shopping centre, which is populated by basic facilities and commercial establishments like a supermarket, restaurants, shops, ATM machines, medical clinics, specialty stores, hotels and other accommodation.
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