Things to Do in Port Stephens with Kids in Winter
Most families think of Port Stephens as a summer destination. We certainly did. For years, we visited for the beaches, warm weather and long afternoons by the water.
This winter, we decided to experience Port Stephens differently. Instead of chasing the sun, we embraced crisp mornings, cosy glamping and unforgettable wildlife encounters. It turned out to be one of our favourite family holidays yet.
Wake Up Among the Gum Trees
Our winter escape began at the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, where we swapped a hotel room for first time glamping beneath the gum trees.
We weren't quite sure what to expect. The safari-style tents offered all the comforts of a hotel, while keeping us surrounded by nature. It turned out to be luxury camping at its best! We had proper beds, plenty of space and our own private bathroom. Even better, the bathroom was heated. On a chilly winter morning, that little detail made all the difference.
We woke to birdsong (5:30am) instead of traffic and enjoyed breakfast surrounded by nature. If glamping is always like this, you'll definitely see us doing it more often.
One of the biggest highlights was the complimentary 8am guided sanctuary tour, available exclusively to overnight guests. Exploring before the sanctuary opened gave us a rare opportunity to enjoy the peaceful surroundings while learning about the incredible conservation work taking place. Did you know koalas are now endangered?
Every visit helps support the rescue and rehabilitation of injured koalas. With koalas now listed as endangered across much of eastern Australia, knowing our stay contributed to their protection made the experience even more meaningful.
The elevated Skywalk offered fantastic views into the gum trees, where sleepy koalas rested high above us. The boys also loved hanging day and night watching the koalas sleep and poop! Yes, they poop while sleeping.
Even on holidays, Trent never skips his weekend run. The Nelson Bay Foreshore offered a peaceful waterfront route, with calm waters, marina views and fresh sea air setting the tone for the day.
A Taste of Port Stephens
Good food is always part of our family holidays.
Our glamping tent included a handy kitchenette, making it easy to prepare breakfast if you preferred a relaxed morning. If cooking isn't on your holiday agenda, Wild Light Café is just a short stroll away. We chose the café.
The breakfast was fresh, generous and exactly what we needed before another day exploring Port Stephens.
On Friday evening, we headed to Shoal Bay Country Club. The venue was buzzing with families, locals and holidaymakers enjoying the start of the weekend.
The boys didn't hesitate when ordering the ribs, while we settled in and enjoyed the lively atmosphere.
If you're looking for a something more special, Rick Stein at Bannisters is well worth considering. Fresh local seafood, stunning waterfront views and a surprisingly kid-friendly menu make it an enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Every family has its holiday traditions. Ours is finding the best local ice cream. There's never a bad time for ice cream. Even when temperatures dipped below 10 degrees, they weren't changing their minds.
This trip led us to the award-winning Scoop & Roll, tucked away in the back corner of Shoal Bay. The queue spoke for itself. One scoop quickly turned into happy smiles all around. Perfect way to finish the weekend getaway before heading home.
The Long Weekend Wasn't Over Yet
No trip home from Port Stephens feels complete without calling into the Australian Reptile Park.
This time, the baby dingoes quickly stole the show, while the new baby Komodo dragon fascinated the whole family. Of course, no visit would be complete without saying hello to the resident emus, who always seem happy to greet guests.
It's the perfect way to break up the drive back to Sydney while finishing the holiday a the reptile especially when you have animal loving children.
Winter completely changed the way we see Port Stephens. It's far more than a summer beach destination.
From glamping among endangered koalas to family-friendly dining and unforgettable wildlife encounters, we discovered a side of Port Stephens we'll happily return to again.
Planning Your Trip?
Stay: Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
Perfect for: Families, school holidays, wildlife lovers and weekend escapes
Don't miss:
- ⛺ Luxury glamping among the gum trees
- 🍽️ Wild Herring Café
- 🍖 Shoal Bay Country Club
- 🦞 Rick Stein at Bannisters (read our review)
- 🍦 Scoop & Roll
- 🏃 A walk or run along the Nelson Bay Foreshore
- 🦎 Australian Reptile Park
TWU Tip: Stay overnight at the Koala Sanctuary to enjoy the complimentary 8am guided tour before the sanctuary opens. It's one of the best ways to experience the koalas in a peaceful setting.
