Tomaree National Park
A stunning coastal park in Port Stephens, offering volcanic headlands, pristine beaches, and epic hiking trails with breathtaking ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Tomaree National Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning coastal park in Port Stephens, offering volcanic headlands, pristine beaches, and epic hiking trails with breathtaking ocean views.
"This is such a beautiful place — it honestly feels like a dream. The sky and ocean are both so stunning in their own way."
🎯 Summit Views: Go Early!
Tomaree Head Summit walk gets crowded after 8 am. Arrive early for better photos and fewer people. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Coastal Walk Signage
The Tomaree Coastal Walk has inconsistent signage. Download offline maps and be prepared for navigation challenges. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tomaree Head Summit Walk
Shoal Bay
A rewarding 2.2km return hike with breathtaking 360° views of Port Stephens and offshore islands.
+1
Tomaree Coastal Walk
Shoal Bay to Anna Bay
A 27km epic trail showcasing secluded beaches, rock ledges, and diverse coastal landscapes.
+1
Fingal Bay Beach
Fingal Bay
Crystal clear, safe waters perfect for swimming and family fun, with nearby fish and chips.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds on Tomaree Head Summit
Navigating the Tomaree Coastal Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Summit Views: Go Early!
Tomaree Head Summit walk gets crowded after 8 am. Arrive early for better photos and fewer people. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Coastal Walk Signage
The Tomaree Coastal Walk has inconsistent signage. Download offline maps and be prepared for navigation challenges. :world_map:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Tracks can be slippery when wet. Wear good walking shoes, especially for the summit climb. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated & Fed
Bring plenty of water and snacks. Toilets and BBQ areas are available, but pack your own food. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Summit Views: Go Early!
Tomaree Head Summit walk gets crowded after 8 am. Arrive early for better photos and fewer people. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Coastal Walk Signage
The Tomaree Coastal Walk has inconsistent signage. Download offline maps and be prepared for navigation challenges. :world_map:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Tracks can be slippery when wet. Wear good walking shoes, especially for the summit climb. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated & Fed
Bring plenty of water and snacks. Toilets and BBQ areas are available, but pack your own food. :water_wave:
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking near the trailhead is limited (4P). Look for free street parking further away if needed. :car:
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
Keep an eye out for dolphins, especially from the lookout points or while enjoying a meal. :ocean:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking coastal scenery and the rewarding hikes, particularly the Tomaree Head Summit. The park offers a serene escape with stunning ocean views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. However, some find the signage on the longer coastal walk inconsistent, and parking can be challenging during peak times.
"This is such a beautiful place — it honestly feels like a dream. I’ve always loved the color blue, but here, I couldn’t decide which blue was more beautiful: the sky or the ocean. Both were so stunning in their own way. The sky looked soft and endless, while the ocean sparkled with deep, clear shades of blue. In the end, I thought — why choose? Together, they make the perfect view.
Everywhere you look, it feels calm and peaceful. The breeze is fresh, the sound of the waves is relaxing, and the whole place makes you want to just stop and enjoy the moment. Whether you're walking on the beach, watching the dolphins, or just sitting and looking at the view, it feels special. Port Stephens is definitely one of the most amazing places in NSW. It’s a perfect mix of beauty, nature, and peace — a place you won’t forget."
thasinul alavi
"Really nice national park with nice long hiking trail (Tomaree Coastal Walk).
Parking situation is quite tough as they only allow 4P near the trail head and paid 9P up $40; I had to drive around to find free parking on street. So it is better to visit the park early.
After 8am, the Tomaree Head summit walk was quite crowed with narrow walk way, so it took sometime to go up there when there was a queue.
There are many toilets with drinkable water and BBQ areas in the park.
When hiking on One Mile Beach in the afternoon, be aware of cars driving in the area, they drive quite fast to my liking.
Also, hikers will need to by pass Samurai nudist beach."
Thanh NGO
"What a magnificent view up at the summit!
Very well maintained tracks and a fit person can fairly reach the top in 20-25 mins. Tracks might be slippery if wet/rained.
You will be treated to 360 views of the surroundings. Beware of the wind up at the summit and make sure you lose items are secured. Also note there spiders around the path, but if you stick to the walking tracks you are safe.
There are toilets and beach access below but the toilets are very dirty and unclean."
Umapathysarma Prathaban
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tomaree National Park is about a 3.5-hour drive north of Sydney. You can take the M1 Motorway and then follow signs towards Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay.
While direct public transport to specific trailheads can be limited, buses do service the Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay areas, from where you might be able to walk or take a short taxi to the park entrances.
A car is the most convenient way to access different parts of Tomaree National Park. Once inside, walking is the primary way to explore the trails.
Yes, there is parking available near the Tomaree Head Summit walk trailhead, but it is limited (4P) and can fill up quickly. Paid parking is also available.
Yes, campervans can access the park, but be mindful of parking restrictions, especially near popular trailheads like Tomaree Head Summit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Tomaree National Park itself is generally free. However, some specific parking areas or facilities might have associated fees.
The Tomaree Head Summit walk is free to access. The main costs would be related to parking if you choose paid options.
Tomaree National Park is typically open 24 hours a day, but specific facilities like visitor centers or picnic areas may have set hours. Trail access is generally always available.
No, tickets are not required for the Tomaree Coastal Walk as it's a public trail. It's recommended to plan your hike and be prepared for the conditions.
While some areas may have accessible paths, the summit walk involves many steps and uneven terrain, making it challenging for those with mobility issues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Tomaree Head Summit walk is considered moderately difficult due to its steep incline and numerous steps. It's a 2.2km return trip that takes about an hour.
The full Tomaree Coastal Walk is 27 kilometers and can take a full day or be broken down into sections over multiple days.
Yes, there are toilets and drinkable water facilities available in the park, particularly near popular areas like the Tomaree Head Summit and picnic spots.
No, Tomaree National Park is not dog-friendly, as sections of the trails pass through national park areas where pets are prohibited.
You might spot dolphins from the lookouts, and various birdlife. During whale migration season (May-November), it's a great spot for whale watching.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within Tomaree National Park. However, nearby Shoal Bay and Nelson Bay offer numerous dining options.
Yes, there are BBQ areas and picnic spots available in the park, making it a great place for a scenic meal. Remember to bring your own food.
Shoal Bay and Nelson Bay have many cafes and restaurants. For a classic experience, try fish and chips in Fingal Bay.
While there aren't specific kiosks mentioned, it's always wise to check hygiene standards. The Little Beach Boathouse is recommended for dining with dolphin views.
Alcohol consumption rules can vary. It's best to check with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for specific regulations regarding alcohol in the park. Generally, responsible consumption is advised.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Tomaree Head offers incredible panoramic shots. The beaches along the Coastal Walk, like One Mile Beach, also provide stunning photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the best views. Sunrise and sunset can be spectacular.
While specific photography tours aren't widely advertised, the park's natural beauty makes it a photographer's paradise. Consider local tour operators for guided experiences.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant wildlife like whales.
Drone usage in national parks is often restricted. It's crucial to check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Toilets and parking are available at the base, making it more convenient. Fingal Bay Beach is a top pick for families due to its safe, clear waters perfect for swimming. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Look for free street parking if the main car parks are full to save on potential parking fees. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The diverse coastal landscapes along the Tomaree Coastal Walk offer endless opportunities for capturing dramatic seascapes, secluded beaches, and rugged rock formations. +1 Bring a wide-angle lens to do justice to the expansive vistas and a telephoto lens for potential wildlife shots, including whales during migration season. Be mindful of the wind at the summit and the potential for slippery conditions on the trails after rain. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Tomaree Head Summit Walk
+2 It's a popular spot, so arriving early is highly recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy the panoramic vistas more peacefully. The path is well-maintained, but can become slippery if wet, so sturdy footwear is essential. This walk offers a fantastic vantage point for spotting marine life. During whale migration season, it's a prime location for observing humpback whales as they journey along the coast.
Even on a blustery or wet day, the views remain stunning, showcasing the raw beauty of the coastline. Remember to secure any loose items, as the summit can be windy. While the views are magnificent, be aware that the toilets at the base can be quite dirty. Exploring the Tomaree Coastal Walk
+1 Hikers will traverse rock ledges, wander along secluded beaches, and pass through enchanting coastal bushland. It's a true immersion into the natural beauty of Port Stephens. This walk is not for the faint of heart and requires careful planning. A major point of feedback from visitors is the inconsistent and negligent signage along the route, making it difficult to follow, especially in sections where the track doesn't clearly connect.
While the full trek can be completed in a day, many choose to break it down into smaller sections over multiple days, enjoying the different segments of this spectacular trail. Beaches and Family Fun
Visitors often recommend enjoying fish and chips in Fingal Bay while watching for dolphins, adding a delightful culinary and wildlife-spotting element to a beach day.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit