10 things to do with kids
We have compiled a short list of things to do with the kids (in no particular order) when visiting Anna Bay in Port Stephens. The obvious choices are of course the perfect beaches but some of these things will keep the little ones entertained for those days when you’ve had too much sun or when the sun doesn’t want to come out.
irukandji Shark and Ray Centre
The newly opened Irukandji Shark and Ray Centre centre is located at the roundabout as you enter Anna Bay. The centre features a wide variety of sharks, rays, and other sea creatures making it is a unique and fascinating place to visit for both parents and the kids.
Visitors can learn about the various species with the opportunity to get up close and personal with the marine life, including the chance to touch and feed sharks and rays.
Pack your swimmers and experience the thrill of swimming with sharks and rays!
For more information and tickets https://sharkencounters.com.au
2. Catch the Ferry
The Nelson Bay to Tea Gardens ferry is a popular and convenient way to travel between the towns of Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens. This ferry service operates regularly throughout the day and is a great way to explore the beautiful region.
One of the standout features of the Nelson Bay to Tea Gardens ferry is its stunning views. The ferry route takes and hour each way with commentary and breathtaking views of beautiful Port Stephens. Crossing the bay is a must for visitors. The ferry will take you through the Port Stephens Marine Park, where you can spot dolphins and up the Myall River to Tea Gardens.
Once in Tea Gardens you can hire a kayak, visit the local art gallery, browse boutique shops, and enjoy lunch at one of the many options along the waterfront.
For ferry timetables and ticket information: https://teagardensferry.com.au/timetable-fares/
3. OakVale wildlife park
A 17 minute drive outside of Anna Bay is Oakville Wildlife Park, a must-see destination for animal lovers of all ages. This park is home to a wide variety of native Australian animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and more.
One of the standout features of Oakville Wildlife Park is its focus on education and conservation. The staff at the park are dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preserving Australia's native wildlife and their habitats. Visitors to the park can learn about the various species that call the park home through the daily animal talks and feeding sessions. Bottle feeding the baby animals is highlight with both the little ones and the adults.
In addition the park offers a variety of animal encounters, including the chance to feed and interact with meerkats, aligators, lemurs, and of course Australia’s iconic animals the koala and echidna.
Overall, Oakville Wildlife Park is a perfect place for a family outing and will keep the little ones engaged all day.
For tickets and more information: https://oakvalewildlife.com.au/visit
4. Nelson bay marina
Nelson Bay d’Albora Marina, is a beautiful and family-friendly destination that offers a wide range of activities for kids to enjoy or simply watch the boats come and go. Here are just a few of the kid-friendly things to do:
Go on a boat tour: Nelson Bay Marina is home to a variety of boat tour companies that offer a range of exciting and educational experiences for kids. From dolphin-watching tours to fishing expeditions, there's something for every age and interest.
Play at the playground: The marina features a well-equipped playground with plenty of equipment for kids to play on, including swings, slides, and climbing structures. In summer, it also has a water park.
Go for a swim: The marina is located right on the water, making it a great place to swim and splash around on a hot summer day.
Have a picnic: There are several grassy areas located throughout the marina that are perfect for spreading out a blanket and having a picnic lunch.
Get something to eat: hot chips, ice cream, pizza, the marina has something to keep the little ones happy.
Daily fish feeding at 10am
For more information:
5. Anna bay Skate park
The newly built Anna Bay Skate Park is a state-of-the-art facility located in Robinson Reserve Anna Bay. This skate park is a great place for skaters of all abilities to practice their skills and have some fun.
Featuring a variety of ramps, rails, and other obstacles, the park is well designed and spacious allowing for the little ones to get amongst the action while not being in the way of the more experienced skaters. There is a large grassed area adjacent to the park making it a great spot to set up with the family for a picnic while the kids play.
For more information: https://www.annabay.net/thingstodo/robinsonreserve
6. Toboggan Hill Park
Looking for fun and kid-friendly activities in Salamander Bay? Look no further than Toboggan Hill Park set amongst the natural bush land. This popular family destination is a great place for kids of all ages to have some fun and get active.
One of the standout features of the Toboggan Hill is its popular toboggan run. Equipped with your own brakes, kids (and parents) will enjoy controlling the speed of the decent for the thrill seekers. There are also plenty of other activities for kids to enjoy at the Toboggan Hill, from indoor rock climbing, mini golf to roller skating and games.
For more information: http://www.tobogganhillpark.com
7.Anna Bay Rock pools
Iris moore reserve is a treasure trove of marine life and sea shells. On low tide the sand is exposed making unique little beaches hidden among the rocky coast line.
The main rock pool, complete with diving block, is located in the middle of the bay. From colorful fish and crabs to octopuses and sea urchins, there's always something new and interesting to discover.
A small walking track winds through the vegetation the length of the coastline with plans currently under construction for the “20km Tomaree coastal walk” at the northern end of the bay, which will eventually link to Tomaree Headland.
For more information: https://www.annabay.net/things to do/irismoorerockpools
8. Kiddies corner in Fingal Bay
Located at the southern end of Fingal Bay beach, known to the locals as “kiddies corner” you’ll find calm crystal clear waters and beautiful white sand. As the name suggests this part of the beach is the perfect place for the kids to play, and explore.Pack a snorkel or book a surf lesson with Port Stephens Surf School.
A short walk to the main street you will find some lunch options with a cafe, convenience store and of course the summer esstential of fish and chips.
For more information: https://www.annabay.net/thingstodo/fingalcellarcafe
Photo credit: @changingtides__
9. Nelson Bay Cinema
Nelson Bay Cinema is located in the CBD and is a popular destination for movie lovers. This well-equipped cinema complex is a great place to catch all the latest blockbuster hits and independent films.
Perfect for those rainy days or an escape from the sun. For screening times: https://nelsonbay.majesticcinemas.com.au/page/home
10. Shoal Bay foreshore
A short 15 min drive from Anna Bay, Shoal Bay is a beautiful coastal town boasting the iconic Tomaree Headlands. Shoal Bay offers something for everyone. Here are just a few of the things you can do with your little ones along Shoal Bay's foreshore:
Play at the playground: Shoal Bay's foreshore features a fantastic playground with plenty of equipment for kids to play on, including swings, slides, and climbing structures.
Go for a swim: Shoal Bay's beach is perfect for swimming and splashing around, and there's a wharf for the big kids to jump off, paddle board and kayak hire, or sit and watch the dolphins swim by.
Have a picnic: Spread out a blanket on the grass and enjoy a picnic lunch with your kids while taking in the stunning views of the bay.
Go for a bike ride: Rent a bike or bring your own and take a leisurely ride along the foreshore, stopping to explore the park and playground along the way.
Play some beach games: From frisbee to sandcastle building, there are plenty of fun beach games that kids can enjoy along Shoal Bay's foreshore.
For more information: https://www.annabay.net/thingstodo/awalkinshoalbay
