Nelson Bay is a charming coastal resort town situated within the greater Port Stephens region in New South Wales, Australia. It’s positioned just inside the mouth of Port Stephens, a large natural harbor. Here’s a summary of the key features and attractions of Nelson Bay and the surrounding area:

1. Location and Accessibility:

   • Nelson Bay is approximately 223 km north of Sydney via the Pacific Highway and 69 km from Newcastle by road.
   • The town is situated at an elevation of 18 meters above sea level.

2. Population:

   • Nelson Bay is home to approximately 5,000 residents, making it the largest town in the Port Stephens area.

3. Adventure Activities:

   • Port Stephens and its surroundings are known for being a prime adventure destination in New South Wales, offering a wide range of activities on both land and sea.

4. Whale Watching and Dolphin Adventures:

   • Nelson Bay serves as a launchpad for whale watching tours, sunset cruises, and swim-with-dolphin adventures.
   • The area is inhabited by more than 100 dolphins, providing ample opportunities for dolphin-watching cruises.

5. Recreation and Nature Exploration:

   • Nelson Bay offers a close-to-nature experience along with convenient amenities such as cafés, restaurants, and shopping centers.
   • The town features sheltered beaches, making it an ideal destination for families with young children.

6. Cycling and Scenic Views:

   • Visitors can explore the picturesque waterfront by cycling along the Bartlett cycleway, a 5 km route from Bagnalls Beach to Little Beach.
   • The route passes by the heritage-listed Nelson Head Lighthouse, offering a delightful café with stunning coastal views.
   • Gan Gan Hill lookout provides panoramic vistas of the Port Stephens inlet, Tomaree National Park, Fingal Bay, and the Stockton Bight Sand Dunes.

7. Natural Wonders:

   • Nearby attractions include the Tomaree National Park and Fingal Bay to the east, offering magnificent natural scenery.
   • The Worimi Conservation Lands boast the giant Stockton Bight Sand Dunes, a significant natural wonder and popular tourist attraction.

Nelson Bay and the greater Port Stephens area are a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, providing a diverse range of experiences amidst the beauty of the Australian coast.