The severe drop in the value of the Australian dollar has seen many Aussies change their travel habits, The Sydney Morning Herald reports. While there are still a large number of Australians intending to travel to countries such as the United States and the UK in 2016 (despite the low Australian dollar value), companies such as Flight Centre and AAT Kings have seen demanding increases in Domestic travel sales.

So, if you want to visit an exciting location that isn’t too far from home, why not spend some time in Port Stephens?

Just two hours north of Sydney, Port Stephens is an ideal weekend getaway location that everyone can enjoy. With plenty of things to do and sights to see, Port Stephens is not going to disappoint! Whether you’re wanting a weekend to relax, shop and eat, or spend time in the sun; hiking and snorkelling, Port Stephens has it all. Here are some ideas for you to fill your weekend with!

Put on your hiking boots and climb your way up the Tomaree Head Summit. The panoramic view of Port Stephens and the NSW North Coast makes this 45-minute uphill hike totally worth it! It’s hard to believe that such breathtaking views come free of charge.Make the most of the 161 metres above sea level view and pack a lunch and some binoculars (for whale watching).

Prepare for some sand action at the Stockton Sand Dunes. Tackle Australia’s largest sand dune system that covers an area of 4200 square hectares. The variety of ways to explore the sand dunes makes it an ideal location for all to enjoy. For thrill seekers, there are 4WD and Quad Bike Adventure Tours, or for those who’d prefer to explore at their own pace, you can purchase a beach vehicle permit or go on a camel tour.

Get wet whilst participating in an array of water sports. The list is endless when it comes to water sports at Port Stephens. There are plenty of beaches that are perfect for surfing, snorkelling, kayaking and jet skiing. Or if you’d prefer to get out on the water, there are plenty of whale and dolphin watching cruises to choose from.

Shop til you drop as you amble around all of the cute boutique stores that line the streets of Port Stephens. Clothes, cafes and trinket stores galore!

Grab a bite to eat and admire the view at the d’Albora Marinas. Enjoy a well-crafted meal on the town’s most popular waterfront.

Unleash your inner Australian history buff at Fighter World. Just a 20-minute drive out of Port Stephens is the Royal Australian Air Force Williamtown Base, which is home to a museum filled with Fighter Jet planes that have been used in combat. Take a seat at the café next to the museum and watch planes landing and taking off from the Newcastle airport and the Air Base.

Finish your day with a handcrafted beer at Murray’s Brewery. Enjoy some of the brewery’s unique beer or go on a free-guided tour of the vineyard. If you’re feeling brave, taste-test some of the more ‘out there’ flavoured beers, such as the Melon Rouge – a watermelon wheat beer.


Contact the writer at feedback@ibtimes.com.au, or let us know what you think below.