Fort Tomaree
Iconic summit walk with WWII fort, offering stunning 360° views of Port Stephens and a glimpse into Australia's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Fort Tomaree
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic summit walk with WWII fort, offering stunning 360° views of Port Stephens and a glimpse into Australia's past.
"This view is so worth the hike up!"
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The summit walk is steep in parts. Comfortable footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Bring water & sunscreen
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tomaree Head Summit
Tomaree Headland
Panoramic 360-degree views of Port Stephens, perfect for sunrise or sunset. A rewarding hike!
Fort Tomaree Historic Site
Base of Tomaree Headland
Explore WWII gun emplacements, barracks, and tunnels. A fascinating historical exploration.
Tomaree Coastal Walk
Connecting Tomaree Head to Anna Bay
A new 27km track offering diverse coastal scenery and exploration of Worimi Country.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Summit for Epic Views
Explore WWII History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The summit walk is steep in parts. Comfortable footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. +1
💧 Bring water & sunscreen
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during warmer months. +1
🚗 Car is recommended
Public transport is limited; a rental car is best for exploring Port Stephens.
📸 Capture the views
The summit offers incredible photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The summit walk is steep in parts. Comfortable footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. +1
💧 Bring water & sunscreen
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during warmer months. +1
🚗 Car is recommended
Public transport is limited; a rental car is best for exploring Port Stephens.
📸 Capture the views
The summit offers incredible photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset. +1
🕰️ Allow ample time
Factor in time for the hike, exploring the fort, and enjoying the scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views from the Tomaree Head Summit Walk, calling it a must-do for its rewarding scenery. The historical significance of Fort Tomaree also garners praise, offering a fascinating glimpse into WWII coastal defenses. Some find the walk challenging but ultimately worth the effort.
"A beautiful walk down to the beach."
Cathryn Alessi
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Alex
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Anit Habe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Tomaree is located on Tomaree Headland in Port Stephens, NSW. The easiest way to get there is by car, as public transport options are limited. Parking is available near the base of the headland.
Yes, a rental car is highly recommended for exploring Port Stephens, including Fort Tomaree and surrounding areas, as public transport is not extensive.
While it's a scenic area, walking directly to Fort Tomaree from Nelson Bay might be a significant distance. Driving or taking a taxi/rideshare is more practical.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services to Tomaree Head. It's best to drive and park at the designated areas.
From Newcastle, it's about an hour's drive north to Port Stephens. Follow the signs for Nelson Bay and then Tomaree Head.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Fort Tomaree and the Tomaree Head Summit Walk is generally free. There are no admission fees for exploring the historic site and the walking trails.
Fort Tomaree is an outdoor historical site and walking trail, so it's accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times.
No, the Tomaree Head Summit Walk is free to access. It's a public walking track offering stunning views. +1
Yes, you can visit the outdoor areas of Fort Tomaree and the walking trails at any time. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
The Tomaree Coastal Walk is a public track and does not require booking for general access. However, for guided tours or specific sections, checking with local tourism operators might be necessary.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Tomaree Head Summit Walk is a 2.2km round trip and typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit. +1
At Fort Tomaree, you can explore historic WWII gun emplacements, barracks, artillery turntables, and connecting tunnels, offering a glimpse into coastal defense history. 
The walk is moderately challenging due to its steep sections. It's well-maintained with stairs and paved paths, but requires a reasonable level of fitness.
The summit offers 360-degree views, making it ideal for photos. The historic gun emplacements at Fort Tomaree also provide unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, there are public toilets located near the base of the Tomaree Headland, close to the start of the summit walk and Fort Tomaree.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset offer the best light for photography at Tomaree Head. The historic structures also look great in the soft light. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views from the summit. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting marine life or distant islands.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with the relevant authorities or national park guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
Yes, you can photograph the exterior and accessible parts of the gun emplacements. Some interior areas may be restricted for safety.
The summit lookout, the historic WWII gun emplacements, and the coastal path leading to Anna Bay are all highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring Fort Tomaree offers an engaging historical element for kids. The old gun emplacements and tunnels can spark their imagination, turning a history lesson into an adventure. It’s a chance for them to learn about Australia's past in a tangible way. Remember to supervise children closely, especially around historical structures.
🚶♀️ Active Adventurers
Combine your hike with exploring the historical aspects of Fort Tomaree. The rugged terrain and historical significance make it an ideal destination for those seeking both physical activity and a dose of history. The varied viewpoints along the trails also offer excellent opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
🏛️ History Buffs
+1While the summit walk is popular for its views, don't overlook the historical narrative embedded within the landscape. The fort provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past, offering a different perspective on the area beyond its natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tomaree Head Summit Walk Experience
Be prepared for the elements; the summit is exposed, so sun protection and plenty of water are essential, especially during warmer months. The effort is well worth it, offering a fantastic vantage point for photography and a true sense of accomplishment. The walk provides a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the area, making it a must-do activity for anyone visiting Port Stephens.
For those looking for a longer adventure, the Tomaree Coastal Walk extends this experience. This 27km track connects the summit walk to Anna Bay, offering a more immersive journey through diverse coastal landscapes and highlighting the natural and cultural significance of Worimi Country.
Uncovering Fort Tomaree's WWII Legacy
+1Walking through the fort offers a tangible connection to Australia's wartime efforts. The well-preserved structures provide a fascinating insight into the defensive strategies employed during the era. It’s a stark contrast to the natural beauty surrounding it, offering a dual experience of nature and history. Many visitors are surprised to discover this significant historical site, often finding it less crowded than the summit walk itself.
Exploring Fort Tomaree is a poignant reminder of the past and adds a layer of depth to any visit to the headland. It’s a chance to learn about local history and appreciate the strategic importance of this location. The site is accessible and offers a unique perspective on the area's heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit