Begin your trip at one of four Sydney departure points = Central, Chatswood, Pymble or Hornsby. As the coach heads north, the scenery transitions from leafy suburbs to bushland, waterways and coastal landscapes. You will change buses at the Port Stephens Coaches Depot in Anna Bay before arriving in Nelson Bay.
Nelson Bay is ideal for a car-free stay. Hotels, apartments, cafés, beaches and tour departures are all within walking distance. Check into your accommodation and enjoy an easy dinner at one of the many local restaurants.
Moonshadow TQC Cruises takes you through the sheltered waters of Nelson Bay, home to a thriving population of bottlenose dolphins. Expect relaxed viewing, coastal scenery and plenty of photo opportunities.
Enjoy a casual lunch at one of Nelson Bay’s cafés or waterfront eateries.
Take Bus 130 from Donald Street and let the driver know you are heading to the sand dunes. Get off at Ocean Avenue before Pacific Avenue, then enjoy an easy walk to the dune car park. Port Stephens 4WD Tours will take you deep into the dunes for unlimited sandboarding on the largest moving coastal dunes in the southern hemisphere. Finish the day with dinner in town.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before boarding the return coach from Nelson Bay. Relax as the coastline and bushland scenery lead you back into Sydney.
If you are looking for an easy coastal getaway without the stress of driving, Port Stephens is the perfect choice. With its calm bays, sweeping beaches, wildlife, dining and relaxed holiday atmosphere, it is one of the most enjoyable short breaks from Sydney and you can reach it entirely by coach.
