Salamander Bay short term accommodation is central to all Surf and Bay Beaches in Port Stephens – Nelson Bay is just a 7km drive to the east, and is the main town of the Port Stephens region. The calm beaches of the bay are perfect for families to relax, while the coastal beaches as great for surfing and body boarding. Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay are home to some of the best beaches in the Port Stephens area. There are over 20 beaches including sheltered bays and open ocean beaches which gives you plenty of option for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, surfing and walking. If you enjoy diving and snorkelling, the tiny promontory of Fly Point is an aquatic reserve. Also Broughton Island where you’ll find what local divers call “The Looking Glass”. A split that runs through the middle of the island and is alive with marine life. There are lot of places for snorkelling and diving for all experience levels. So you don’t need to worry about missing out.

Sand Dunes – In Nelson Bay you’ll also find the country’s largest coastal dune system. It stretches for more than 30 km to the northern reaches of Newcastle and to the Nelson Head Heritage Lighthouse.

Shoal Bay and Anna Bay – Another 2 km to the east, you’ll find Shoal Bay which is an excellent bush walking area. We recommend the walking tracks in Tomaree National Park, which is a 20 km strip between Shoal Bay and Anna Bay. Shoal bay is a great place to head out for a meal and the base for fishing trips and cruises around Port Stephens. Your Salamander Bay holiday rental is only a 15 minute drive (11 km) to Shoal Bay and an 8 minute drive (7.7 km) to Anna Bay.

Whale Watching and Dolphins – An absolute must-do while you’re staying at Condo 105 is to head out on a whale watching cruise. If you are staying during the season, Port Stephens region is on the annual migration track. You can see whales heading north in June and July. Then south again in September to November. The area is also home to large pods of dolphins that you can see from dolphin watch cruises. Or even while paddling around on a kayak in the bay. Another must do is swimming with the dolphins. There is only one wild dolphin swim permitted in NSW, and it is in the Port Stephens/Great Lakes Marine Park. The organisers will take you offshore on a 50-ft ocean catamaran. Where you will get the chance to swim with Short Beaked Common Dolphins and Oceanic Bottle Nosed Dolphins. This is an amazing experience not to be missed. Salamander Bay short stay rental is only a 10 minute drive (7 km) to Nelson Bay d’Albora Marina which is base for your whale and dolphin watching adventures.

Salamander Bay holiday condo is a great base for Adrenaline Junkies – If you love spending your holidays getting the adrenalin running, then a holiday at Condo 105 @ Horizons Golf Resort is for you. In the area you’ll find go karting, bike hire, horse riding and helicopter joy flights. As well as a shark and ray centre. Hit up the sand dunes with some sand boarding. Or spend the day on a quad or join a 4WD Safari Tour. If you are visiting us over a weekend, make sure you book yourself in for a camel ride on the beach. You can book in for an hour long sunset ride, which is a great way to finish off the day. After your camel ride, head back to Horizons Resort and sit back with a glass of wine watching the animals come out at dusk.

Tomaree National Park – If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on soil, then you can often see both dolphins and whales from Tomaree National Park Headland. Tomaree National Park is the backdrop to the towns and villages of Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Boat Harbour and Anna Bay. It offers coastal bush land, forests and over 20 km of rocky coastline and white sandy beaches. Keep your eyes open for outcrops of the acid volcanic rock, Rhyodacite. It’s a great place for a picnic or a walk. In safe conditions you can walk out to Fingal Island and the lighthouse.

The Port Stephens Visitor Centre is a great place to visit. So you can find out more about the attractions in the area.

Free Activities, Beaches, Family Fun, Wildlife, Adventure & Day Trips

Staying at Condo 105 @ Horizons Golf Resort in Salamander Bay puts you in a fantastic position to explore Port Stephens, Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Anna Bay, Fingal Bay and the wider Tomaree region.

And there is much more to Port Stephens than simply relaxing on the beach.

You can climb a mountain for spectacular coastal views, cruise the bay looking for dolphins, walk across enormous sand dunes, snorkel among marine life, meet Australian wildlife, explore beautiful beaches or simply enjoy fish and chips overlooking the water.

We’ve put together 30 things to do within about an hour’s drive of Salamander Bay, with plenty of free activities as well as paid experiences.

Free Things to Do Around Salamander Bay & Port Stephens

1. Relax at Salamander Bay Beach

Start close to home. Salamander Bay offers a more sheltered beach experience than some of Port Stephens’ surf beaches. It’s a great place for swimming, paddling, beach walks, picnics and letting the kids enjoy themselves.

Sometimes the best holiday activity costs absolutely nothing.

2. Explore Nelson Bay Foreshore & Marina

Wander along the waterfront, watch the boats coming and going, browse the marina and grab a coffee or ice cream.

d’Albora Marina Nelson Bay is also the departure point for many of the region’s dolphin, whale and sailing cruises.

3. Walk the Corlette to Nelson Bay Foreshore

Enjoy a relaxed coastal walk with views across the bay. The route takes you through parks, beaches and waterfront areas and is a great way to experience Port Stephens without spending anything.

4. Climb Tomaree Head Summit

One of the must-do free activities in Port Stephens. The Tomaree Head Summit Walk takes you through Tomaree National Park to spectacular views across Shoal Bay, Port Stephens and the surrounding coastline.

Take water, wear sensible shoes and allow enough time to enjoy the views at the top.

Tomaree National Park is one of the region’s standout natural attractions. Port Stephens Tourism also recommends the summit as one of the area’s signature experiences.

5. Visit Gan Gan Hill Lookout

Want spectacular views without doing the Tomaree Summit?

Head to Gan Gan Lookout.

From here you can see across Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Port Stephens and the surrounding landscape.

Gan Gan Lookout

It’s particularly beautiful around sunrise or sunset.

6. Discover Shoal Bay Beach

Take a short drive to Shoal Bay and enjoy one of Port Stephens’ best-known beaches.

Swim, walk the sand, have a picnic or wander around the village for coffee and lunch.

7. Explore Fingal Bay

Fingal Bay is another beautiful Port Stephens beach worth adding to your holiday itinerary.

Enjoy the beach, walk along the shoreline and explore the surrounding national park.

It’s also a good starting point for exploring more of the Tomaree coastline.

8. Walk the Tomaree Coastal Track

For keen walkers, the Tomaree Coastal Walk provides a fantastic way to experience beaches, headlands, bushland and ocean views.

The current Port Stephens adventure guide describes it as a spectacular multi-beach trail through Tomaree National Park, with opportunities to spot whales from the clifftops during migration season.

9. Visit Bagnalls Beach

Take a stroll along Bagnalls Beach at Corlette.

It’s a lovely spot for a quieter beach walk, particularly for guests who want to get away from some of the busier tourist areas.

Bagnall Beach

10. Watch the Sunset at Boat Harbour

Head towards Boat Harbour and find a good vantage point as the sun starts dropping over the water.

The coastline around Boat Harbour is particularly spectacular and offers some wonderful photo opportunities.

Boat Harbour Whale Watch Lookout.

Family Activities & Attractions

11. Visit Oakvale Wildlife Park

One of the best family attractions around Port Stephens.

Meet kangaroos, koalas, farm animals and a range of other wildlife. There are also animal encounters, keeper talks, feeding experiences, playgrounds and family-friendly facilities.

Oakvale is currently featured prominently by Port Stephens Tourism as part of its wildlife itinerary.

12. Ride the Toboggan at Toboggan Hill Park

Get competitive with the family at Toboggan Hill Park.

The park features a long toboggan run along with other activities, making it a popular choice for families and groups.

13. Get Up Close to Sharks & Rays

At Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters, visitors can get surprisingly close to sharks and rays in an interactive environment.

Port Stephens Tourism includes Irukandji among its key wildlife experiences, with opportunities to enter the water with rays and experience marine life from a different perspective.

14. Visit the Port Stephens Shell Museum

Discover an impressive collection of shells and marine curiosities at Port Stephens Shell Museum in Corlette.

It’s a relatively inexpensive attraction and a handy option when the weather isn’t playing ball.

15. Try Ten-Pin Bowling

For a rainy-day activity or some evening family fun, head to Salamander Super Strike.

It’s conveniently located in Salamander Bay, so you don’t need to drive across the region.

16. Visit Tomaree Aquatic Centre

Looking for somewhere for the kids to burn off some energy?

Tomaree Aquatic Centre in Salamander Bay provides another option when you want a break from the beach.

17. Take a Dolphin-Watching Cruise

Port Stephens is famous for its bottlenose dolphins.

Around 130 dolphins are estimated to call the bay home, and dolphin cruises give visitors the opportunity to see them riding the bow waves and playing around the boats.

Some operators to investigate include:

• Imagine Cruises
• YKnot Cruises
• AquaMarine Adventures – Port Stephens

18. Swim With Wild Dolphins

For something much more adventurous, book a wild dolphin swim.

This isn’t simply watching dolphins from a boat. You’ll have the opportunity to enter the water and experience these remarkable animals in their natural environment.

Dolphin Swim Australia

Port Stephens Tourism describes swimming with wild dolphins as one of the region’s genuine bucket-list experiences.

19. Go Whale Watching

From May to November, humpback whales migrate along the NSW coast.

Join a whale-watching cruise from Nelson Bay and keep your eyes open for breaches, tail slaps and travelling whales.

Whale watching is one of Port Stephens’ major seasonal attractions.

20. Snorkel at Fly Point

Grab your snorkel and explore the underwater world around Fly Point in Nelson Bay.

The area is known for its marine life, coral gardens and underwater biodiversity. Port Stephens Tourism describes Fly Point as one of the region’s standout snorkelling and diving locations.

21. Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard

Get onto the water under your own steam.

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are great ways to explore the calmer waters around Port Stephens while getting a little exercise along the way.

22. Learn to Surf

Want to give surfing a go?

Port Stephens has several surf beaches where beginners can take lessons and learn basic surf skills and beach safety.

One Mile Beach, Birubi Beach and other coastal breaks provide options depending on conditions.

Sand Dunes, Wildlife & Outdoor Adventures

23. Explore the Stockton Sand Dunes

Head to Anna Bay and discover the enormous Stockton Bight sand dunes in the Worimi Conservation Lands.

The dunes create one of the most unusual landscapes in NSW, with huge shifting sands running alongside the coast.

Worimi National Park

Port Stephens Tourism describes the Stockton Bight dunes as the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere.

24. Go Sandboarding

Ready for some fun?

Climb the dunes and race back down on a sandboard.

It’s simple, energetic and surprisingly addictive.

For families and groups, it’s one of the most memorable activities around Anna Bay.

25. Ride a Quad Bike on the Dunes

For a bigger adrenaline hit, book a guided quad-bike adventure through the Stockton dunes.

You’ll experience the enormous sand landscape from a completely different perspective.

Port Stephens Tourism lists quad biking among the region’s signature adventure activities.

26. Take a 4WD Sand Dune Adventure

Let an experienced local guide take you deep into the dunes.

4WD tours can include spectacular dune scenery, sandboarding and visits to parts of the Worimi Conservation Lands that are difficult to reach in a normal vehicle.

27. Ride a Camel Along Birubi Beach

Fancy something completely different?

Take a camel ride across the sand dunes and along Birubi Beach.

It’s one of those distinctly Port Stephens experiences that makes for some great holiday photos.

Port Stephens Tourism specifically promotes camel and horse rides through the dunes and along the beach.

28. Go Horse Riding Along the Beach

Prefer four legs with a little more speed?

Horse-riding experiences are available around the dunes and coastline, including beach rides.

Imagine cantering along the shoreline with the ocean beside you.

 Golf, Nature & Local Experiences

29. Play Golf at Horizons Golf Resort 

And here’s one you don’t even need to drive to!

Condo 105 is located at Horizons Golf Resort, making it particularly convenient for golfers.

Enjoy a round surrounded by bushland and keep your eyes open for kangaroos and other wildlife.

Port Stephens Tourism highlights the region’s golf courses for their scenic settings and abundant native wildlife.

30. Explore Tilligerry Habitat & Lemon Tree Passage

Drive across to Lemon Tree Passage and discover Tilligerry Habitat, a natural bushland reserve where visitors can explore walking trails and look for native wildlife.

It’s particularly well known as a place where visitors may spot koalas in their natural habitat. Port Stephens Tourism includes Tilligerry Habitat in its recommended nature experiences.

Afterwards, head into Lemon Tree Passage for a relaxed waterfront lunch or coffee.

Why Stay at Condo 105 @ Horizons Golf Resort?

One of the best things about staying at Condo 105 in Salamander Bay is the sheer variety of experiences within easy reach.

You don’t have to spend your entire holiday doing the same thing.

You can mix it up.

• Day 1: Beach + Nelson Bay + sunset
• Day 2: Dolphin cruise + lunch + waterfront walk
• Day 3: Tomaree Head Summit + Shoal Bay
• Day 4: Anna Bay + Stockton Sand Dunes + sandboarding
• Day 5: Oakvale Wildlife Park + relaxing afternoon
• Day 6: Golf + BBQ + chill out

Or keep it simple.

Beach. Coffee. Walk. Swim. Explore. Eat. Relax.

That’s the beauty of Port Stephens.

There are activities for families, couples, golfers, nature lovers, beach lovers, adventure seekers and anyone who simply wants to slow down for a few days.

And after a day exploring, come back to Condo 105 @ Horizons Golf Resort, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and relax.

Your Port Stephens Base

Condo 105 @ Horizons Golf Resort – Salamander Bay NSW

A comfortable 2-bedroom apartment sleeping up to 8 guests, making it a practical base for families and groups exploring Salamander Bay, Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay, Anna Bay and the wider Port Stephens region.

Stay. Explore. Swim. Discover. Relax.

That’s Port Stephens.

• Internet – WiFi – Netflix – Stan and Apple TV
• Air-conditioned for heating and cooling
• Kitchenette and dining area
• Bathroom with large shower
• TV & DVD player in the living area along with library of DVDs and CDs
• Main bedroom with King bed
• Second bedroom with two holiday bunks (two single beds up top and two double beds below
• Living area contains a double sofa lounge and there is room for two single foam mattresses
• Outdoor entertaining area
• Tariff includes linen. This includes bed sheets, pillow cases, towels, washers, doonas, blankets and pillows for all beds

• Where is Condo 105 @ Horizons Golf Resort located?

Condo 105 is located within Horizons Golf Resort in Salamander Bay, Port Stephens, NSW, making it a convenient base for exploring the beaches, national parks, restaurants, and attractions of the Port Stephens region. Horizons Golf Resort itself is an 18-hole championship golf course in Salamander Bay.

• How many guests can Condo 105 @ Horizons accommodate?

Condo 105 @ Horizons can accommodate up to 8 guests, making it suitable for couples, families, and groups. Please let us know your preferred sleeping arrangement before arrival so we can prepare the appropriate beds.

• Is Condo 105 a good place to stay in Salamander Bay? 

Yes. Condo 105 is a convenient Salamander Bay holiday accommodation option for guests wanting a comfortable base close to beaches, golf, dining, shopping, and the many attractions of Port Stephens.

• Does Condo 105 have a golf course view? 

Yes. Guests can enjoy views across the Horizons Golf Resort grounds and golf course from the property, creating a relaxing setting during their stay. 

• Is Condo 105 close to Beaches?

Yes. Condo 105 is only a short 10-minute drive from Salamander Bay and the surrounding Port Stephens beaches (both bay and surf beaches), making it easy to combine a relaxing golf-resort stay with beach days and coastal adventures.

• What attractions are near Condo 105 in Port Stephens?

Popular attractions include Tomaree National Park, Tomaree Head Summit Walk, Nelson Bay Marina, dolphin-watching cruises, beaches, local markets, and Port Stephens‘ waterfront dining.

• Is the property suitable for work trips or business stays?

Yes. Condo 105 @ Horizons is suitable for work trips and business stays, with Wi-Fi and a comfortable, practical setting for both short and extended stays. 

• Can we add extra guests later?

Yes. You can add extra guests to your booking, subject to the cottage’s maximum occupancy. Please contact us as soon as possible if your group size changes so we can arrange the appropriate bedding. Any guests above 4 have additional charges.

• Is Condo 105 @ Horizons family-friendly?

Yes. Condo 105 @ Horizons can accommodate up to 8 guests across 2 bedrooms and is well suited to families and groups. Family-friendly amenities include a baby crib, children’s dinnerware, and an outdoor play area. Not fenced and open to golf courses and gardens.

• How do I access Condo 105 @ Horizons?

Condo 105 @ Horizons offers 24/7 self check-in via a digital touch screen on the door, allowing you to arrive at a time that suits your travel plans. Your access code is sent by email 5 days before check-in and by SMS 2 days before check-in.

• When will I receive my check-in instructions?

Arrival and check-in instructions are typically provided before your scheduled arrival. If you haven’t received them close to check-in, please get in touch so we can help you.

• Can I check in early?

Early check-in may be available depending on availability and cleaning schedules. Please ask in advance and we’ll confirm whether an earlier arrival can be arranged.

• What is the best way to avoid issues before arrival?

For a smooth arrival, we recommend completing the check-in form before arrival and confirming your guest numbers, arrival time, preferred bedding arrangement, and any special requests before check-in.

• Is Condo 105 @ Horizons accessible?

No. Steps and sloping footpaths. So not suitable re: accessibility. Ground-floor condo with a half-step into an apartment.

• Is there free parking at Condo 105? 

Free on-site parking is available. Move into Parking Bay 105 as soon as the car currently occupying it leaves. The onsite parking area can accommodate one vehicle, but there is additional free car parking across the road inside the resort.

• Is Condo 105 @ Horizons pet-friendly?

No. Condo 105 is not pet friendly, in accordance with the property’s accommodation requirements and Horizons Golf Resort rules. 

• Does Condo 105 @ Horizons have Wi-Fi?

Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available, making it convenient for streaming, browsing, working remotely, and staying connected.

• Does the property have heating and air conditioning?

Yes. The property has a Fujitsu reverse-cycle split-system air conditioner in the living area, which provides cooling and heating throughout the condominium.

• What essentials are provided?

Condo 105 provides essential amenities, including bed linen and bathroom essentials. Guests can also access a local guide with helpful tips on places to visit, activities, local experiences, and things to do in Salamander Bay.

• Does Condo 105 @ Horizons have laundry facilities?

Yes. Guests have access to a coin-operated laundry shared with 5 condos. Facility with a washing machine, dryer, and drying rack. This makes the property particularly convenient for families, longer stays, and guests travelling for work.

• Does Condo 105 @ Horizons have a kitchen?

Yes. The property includes a kitchenette with facilities for preparing meals and snacks, making it convenient for families and longer stays.

• Are basic cooking supplies provided?

Basic cooking supplies may be available, including essentials such as salt, pepper, and cooking oil. As availability can vary, we recommend guests bring their own or purchase these items locally to ensure you have everything you need for your stay.

• Are there kangaroos or wildlife nearby? 

Yes. Guests may spot kangaroos and other local wildlife, particularly birds, around the nearby golf course and natural surroundings. Wildlife sightings can vary, but the peaceful setting at Condo 105 @ Horizons offers a great opportunity to enjoy the local environment. 

• Can we book golf, and are there extra golf fees?

Yes, golf can be booked during your stay at Condo 105 @ Horizons. Golf is subject to additional fees, which are paid separately from the accommodation and may vary depending on the course and booking. We recommend checking availability and current golf rates before booking. 

• Is there an outdoor area to enjoy?

Yes. Condo 105 @ Horizons features a patio with an outdoor dining area and BBQ, perfect for enjoying meals and relaxing while taking in the peaceful golf course surroundings. 

• Is there a BBQ at Condo 105 @ Horizons?

Yes, the BBQ facility is available for guests to enjoy, providing a private space to relax, dine outdoors, and spend time with family.

• Is Condo 105 @ Horizons suitable for longer stays?

Yes. The property can be a convenient option for guests planning an extended stay, including families and guests travelling for work. The available kitchen and coin-operated laundry facilities can be particularly useful for longer visits. If you’re considering an extended stay, contact us to discuss availability and your requirements.

• Can I get an invoice or receipt for my stay?

Yes. If you require an invoice or receipt, we provide a guest portal where you can view your reservation details and download your invoices and receipts.

• Who should I contact if I have a question before arrival?

Please message us through your booking conversation. We encourage guests to contact us before arrival with questions about bedding, access, guest numbers, check-in, facilities, special requests, or booking changes.

• Why should I stay at Condo 105 @ Horizons Golf Resort?

Condo 105 combines the convenience of Salamander Bay accommodation with the relaxed atmosphere of a golf resort. It is a strong choice for guests looking for accommodation for up to 8 people, easy access to Port Stephens beaches and attractions, golf nearby, and a comfortable base for exploring the region.