Nelson Bay, located in the heart of Port Stephens on Australia’s eastern coast, is a stunning holiday destination. Its pristine beaches, rich marine life, and array of family-friendly activities make it an ideal spot for a Christmas vacation. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing seaside retreat, exciting outdoor adventures, or holiday festivities to get into the Christmas spirit, Nelson Bay offers it all. In this guide, we’ll help you plan the perfect family Christmas vacation in Nelson Bay, from accommodation and activities to festive dining and more.
1. Choosing the Best Time to Visit
While Christmas is always a magical time to visit Nelson Bay, it’s important to consider a few factors when planning your trip. Australia’s summer is in full swing during December, which means you can expect warm weather and sunny days. However, the Christmas holidays are also one of the busiest times of the year for travel, as both locals and international visitors flock to the area.
To make the most of your time in Nelson Bay, consider arriving a few days before Christmas or extending your stay until after New Year’s to avoid peak crowds. Booking your accommodation and activities well in advance is also crucial since many places fill up quickly during the holiday season.
2. Finding the Perfect Family-Friendly Accommodation
Nelson Bay offers a range of accommodation options suitable for families, from luxury resorts to charming holiday homes. Here are a few of the best types of accommodations to consider:
- Holiday Apartments: These are perfect for families who want a home-away-from-home experience. Apartments usually come equipped with full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and spacious living areas, giving your family plenty of room to relax. Nelson Bay has a wide selection of holiday apartments close to the beach, restaurants, and shops.
- Beachfront Cottages: Nelson Bay and the surrounding areas are dotted with picturesque beachfront cottages and holiday homes. These are perfect for families looking for a bit more privacy and the charm of staying right on the water. They offer a peaceful retreat while still being close to all the action.
3. Family-Friendly Activities in Nelson Bay
There’s no shortage of activities for families in Nelson Bay, making it easy to keep everyone entertained during your Christmas vacation. Here are some thing to do in Nelson Bay:
- Dolphin and Whale Watching: Nelson Bay is famous for its marine life, and one of the most popular activities for families is dolphin and whale watching. Several operators offer boat tours where you can see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Dolphins can be spotted year-round, while whale-watching tours run from May to November.
- Beaches and Swimming: Nelson Bay is home to some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. Little Beach is particularly family-friendly with its calm waters and nearby playground. Shoal Bay Beach, with its long stretch of golden sand, is also a great spot for a family beach day.
- Tomaree National Park: For families that love the outdoors, Tomaree National Park offers hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking views. The Tomaree Head Summit walk is a must-do, providing panoramic views of Port Stephens and the coastline. It’s a moderately challenging hike but can be done with older children, and the views at the top make it well worth the effort.
- Sandboarding at Stockton Sand Dunes: Just a short drive from Nelson Bay, the Stockton Sand Dunes are a fun and unique activity for the whole family. The dunes are the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, and sandboarding down them is an exciting adventure. Many tour operators provide sandboarding packages that include equipment and transport to the dunes.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The calm waters around Nelson Bay make it ideal for water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Several rental shops along the waterfront offer equipment for hire, and you can explore the stunning coastline at your own pace.
- Nelson Bay Marina: Take a stroll along the marina where you’ll find a range of cafes, shops, and the chance to book boat tours. Kids will love watching the boats and spotting fish in the clear waters. The marina also has a playground for little ones to enjoy while parents relax nearby.
4. Christmas Festivities and Events
Christmas in Nelson Bay is full of festive cheer, with various events and activities to help your family get into the holiday spirit.
- Carols by Candlelight: This is a beloved Australian tradition, and Nelson Bay hosts its own Carols by Candlelight event, usually held in mid-December. Families gather to sing Christmas carols under the stars, often accompanied by live music and a visit from Santa Claus.
- Christmas Markets: Throughout December, local Christmas markets pop up around Nelson Bay, offering unique gifts, festive decorations, and local crafts. These markets are a great place to pick up last-minute Christmas presents or enjoy some holiday treats with the family.
- Christmas Lights Displays: Some streets and homes in Nelson Bay are famous for their impressive Christmas light displays. Taking a drive or walk through these neighborhoods in the evenings is a fun way to see the community’s festive spirit on full display.
5. Where to Eat During Your Christmas Vacation
Nelson Bay offers a wide variety of dining options that cater to families, with many restaurants offering special Christmas menus. Here are some great places to eat during your stay:
- The Little Nel Café: Known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and friendly atmosphere, The Little Nel is a fantastic spot for a family breakfast or lunch. During the Christmas season, the café often offers festive specials that incorporate seasonal flavors.
- The Galley Kitchen: Located at Anchorage Port Stephens, The Galley Kitchen offers a luxurious dining experience with stunning waterfront views. For Christmas Day, the restaurant usually offers a special holiday menu featuring seafood, roast meats, and decadent desserts. Be sure to book in advance as it fills up quickly during the holidays.
- Café on the Bay: If you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly dining option with views of the marina, Café on the Bay is a great choice. Their menu features a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, burgers, and salads, making it a versatile option for families with diverse tastes.
- Nelson Bay Bowling and Recreation Club: For a more casual dining experience, head to the Nelson Bay Bowling Club. It offers affordable meals and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families. Plus, the club has a kids’ menu and a play area to keep the little ones entertained.
- Picnics and BBQs: With so many beautiful outdoor spaces in Nelson Bay, consider having a Christmas picnic or BBQ. Several parks and beaches have BBQ facilities, and you can pick up fresh seafood, meats, and other picnic supplies from local markets or grocery stores. Imagine enjoying a Christmas lunch on the beach with your family—what better way to celebrate?
6. Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas Vacation
To ensure your Christmas vacation in Nelson Bay goes smoothly, here are a few additional tips:
- Book Early: Since Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year, it’s essential to book your accommodation, tours, and restaurants well in advance. Many popular spots fill up quickly, so secure your reservations as soon as possible.
- Pack Sun Protection: With Australia’s hot summer sun, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your family from the heat. Also, consider bringing beach umbrellas or tents for shade during your beach outings.
- Plan for Holiday Closures: Some shops and restaurants may close on Christmas Day, so plan your meals and shopping accordingly. If you’re planning to cook your own Christmas meal, make sure to buy groceries before the holiday to avoid any last-minute rushes.
- Stay Flexible: While it’s great to plan activities, leave some room in your itinerary for relaxation or spontaneous adventures. Nelson Bay has so much to offer, and you may discover new experiences that weren’t on your original list.
By following these tips and embracing the relaxed, festive atmosphere of Nelson Bay, you’re sure to create lasting memories with your family. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring nature, or enjoying the local Christmas festivities, your family Christmas vacation in Nelson Bay will be one to remember.