About this tour
Head north from Newcastle for an 8–9 hour day trip combining coastal hiking, fresh seafood, and whale-watching in Port Stephens. Start with a one-hour summit walk through native bush (or take the flat coastal alternative), then tuck into oversized seafood platters at a harborside restaurant before boarding a three-hour cruise to spot migrating humpback whales, dolphins, and seals. Wind down at the Southern Hemisphere's largest mobile sand dunes as the sun drops. Door-to-door transport included.
Highlights
- One-hour guided ascent with panoramic summit views
- Flat coastal walk option available
- Generous seafood lunch overlooking the ocean
- Three-hour whale-watching cruise
- Spot humpbacks, dolphins, seals and seabirds
- Sunset viewing at massive coastal sand dunes
- Private vehicle with air conditioning throughout
What to expect
After pickup from your accommodation, you'll spend roughly 75 minutes driving to Port Stephens. The day kicks off with a guided walk into bushland—the summit track takes an hour and rewards moderate effort with sweeping views, though a flatter seaside alternative exists if you prefer. You'll have time to rest before lunch, which you'll arrange and pay for at a waterfront eatery (portions are substantial). The boat cruise departs mid-afternoon; expect three hours at sea watching for migrating whales during their seasonal passage, plus dolphins and marine wildlife. Finish at the towering sand dunes for golden-hour photographs before the return drive to Newcastle.
Good to know
Bring water and sun protection for the hike and boat. Lunch is at your own expense—budget accordingly. The total 8–9 hours includes 2.5 hours of driving. Whale sightings are seasonal (roughly May–November for humpbacks). Wear layers; ocean breezes can cool quickly.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original AU & NZ Travel summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.