Discover the other side of Port Stephens, with farm stalls, country cafes and hidden gems
Looking for scenic drives in Port Stephens beyond the beaches? Take a road trip into the Port Stephens hinterland, where macadamia farms, charming country villages, roadside produce stalls and historic pubs offer a different way to experience this beautiful part of New South Wales.
Port Stephens is famous for its sparkling beaches, turquoise bays and unforgettable coastal adventures. But venture inland and you’ll discover another side of the region, filled with rolling farmland, quiet country roads, heritage buildings and local food worth travelling for.
A Port Stephens hinterland self-drive is the perfect way to slow down and explore beyond the coast. Start your morning with breakfast at a family-run macadamia farm, browse quaint roadside stalls selling seasonal produce, wander through historic villages and finish with a relaxed country pub lunch or a coffee beside the river.
Along the way, you might spot a koala in native bushland, discover a tiny café tucked beside a country store or find a local treat you’ll want to take home.
Whether you’re planning a day trip from Nelson Bay, looking for things to do in Port Stephens beyond the beaches or simply craving a leisurely country drive, this hinterland itinerary is full of memorable stops.
Start with Breakfast at Medowie Macadamias
Kick off your Port Stephens scenic drive at Medowie Macadamias, a family-run farm where good coffee, hearty breakfasts and views across the macadamia plantation set the tone for the day.
Established in 1980, the plantation offers visitors a glimpse into the journey from tree to table. Settle in for breakfast or lunch, enjoy a coffee beneath the trees and browse the farm shop for locally made treats.
The shelves are packed with macadamia goodies, from chocolate-coated nuts to flavoured varieties, macadamia oil, spreads, honey and fudge. Group farm tours can also be arranged for visitors interested in learning more about how the nuts are grown and processed.
It's an ideal first stop for food lovers and anyone who enjoys discovering local producers while travelling.
Don't miss: The farm-made macadamia ice cream and a few bags of flavoured nuts to take home.
Address: 672 Medowie Road, Medowie.
Plan ahead: Check the Medowie Macadamias website for current opening hours and menu details. The café generally opens Tuesday to Saturday, subject to changes and public holidays.
Look for Fresh Flowers and Produce at the Little Tin Shed
One of the pleasures of a country drive is finding something unexpected along the way. Keep an eye out for the Little Tin Shed on Medowie Road, a roadside stop known for homegrown produce and fresh sunflowers when available.
It's a simple but lovely addition to a hinterland road trip. Pick up a bunch of flowers, look for seasonal produce and enjoy the charm of a small local stall that offers a glimpse into the region's rural lifestyle.
Roadside produce stops are often seasonal, so what's available can change throughout the year. That's part of the appeal: you never quite know what little treasure you'll find.
Don't miss: Fresh sunflowers and seasonal produce when they're available.
Local tip: Bring a reusable shopping bag and allow a little extra time for spontaneous roadside stops. Always park safely and follow any signage around the stall.
Spot Koalas at Tilligerry Habitat
For a nature-filled break, head to Tilligerry Habitat, a peaceful reserve where walking trails wind through native bushland, paperbark forests and wetland environments.
This is one of the best nature stops to add to a Port Stephens hinterland itinerary, particularly if you're hoping to spot native wildlife. Keep your eyes on the eucalyptus branches for koalas resting in the trees, and listen for birds calling through the canopy.
The reserve is also a rewarding place to learn about the local environment and appreciate the habitats that support the region's wildlife. Walking paths offer a gentle way to stretch your legs between drives, making this a good option for families and visitors who enjoy getting outdoors.
Remember that koalas are wild animals, so sightings are never guaranteed. Keep a respectful distance, stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Don't miss: A quiet walk through the bushland and a search for koalas in the treetops.
Address: 2E King Albert Avenue, Tanilba Bay.
Local tip: This is an optional detour from the main inland route. If you're planning to include it, allow extra driving time and check access information before setting out.
Enjoy a Country Pub Lunch in Hinton or Raymond Terrace
No country road trip feels complete without a proper pub lunch. As you travel through the Hunter River hinterland, you'll find historic towns and country pubs that offer a welcome excuse to stop, refuel and enjoy the slower pace.
Consider visiting the Victoria Hotel in Hinton for a relaxed country pub experience, or continue towards Raymond Terrace and the Junction Inn Hotel, where you can enjoy a meal near the river.
If you'd prefer something more casual, pick up fish and chips in Raymond Terrace and head to Riverside Park for a picnic overlooking the water. Alternatively, look for a café serving locally inspired dishes and freshly brewed coffee.
This part of the journey is less about rushing between attractions and more about enjoying the character of the region, from traditional pub verandahs to peaceful riverside views.
Don't miss: A leisurely lunch, a cold drink or a riverside picnic before continuing your drive.
Local tip: Check current kitchen hours before visiting, particularly on weekdays and public holidays.
Explore Historic Raymond Terrace
Raymond Terrace is a worthwhile stop for travellers interested in the history and heritage of the Port Stephens region. Set near the Hunter and Williams rivers, this country town has long been connected to the surrounding agricultural landscape and river trade.
Take a leisurely walk through King Street and the surrounding streets to admire historic buildings, traditional shopfronts and decorative verandahs. You'll also find local shops and cafés, making it easy to combine a little sightseeing with a coffee break.
For a different perspective, head towards the river and enjoy the open views across the water. If you're visiting in spring, keep an eye out for seasonal jacaranda blooms around town.
Raymond Terrace offers a pleasant contrast to the busy coastal villages, giving you a chance to explore local history and experience the everyday rhythm of a regional town.
Don't miss: A heritage stroll through the town centre followed by a relaxing break beside the river.
Local tip: Allow time to browse the local shops rather than treating Raymond Terrace as just a quick stop on the drive.
Discover Woodville Store and Its Old-World Charm
If you're looking for quaint country stops near Port Stephens, Woodville is a highlight worth adding to your itinerary.
This charming village sits beside the Paterson River and is surrounded by rural scenery, historic properties and quiet country roads. Its best-known landmark is Woodville Store, a historic general store that has operated since 1844 and has occupied its present location since 1863.
Step inside to browse pantry staples, whole foods, locally sourced goods and other carefully selected products. It's the kind of place where a quick stop can turn into a leisurely browse, especially if you're searching for a regional souvenir or something delicious to take back to your accommodation.
Nearby, a small cubby-house-style café at 227 Clarence Town Road offers another reason to linger. Stop for a coffee, enjoy the rural surroundings and take a moment to appreciate the slower pace of village life.
Don't miss: The historic general store, locally sourced products and the nearby café.
Address: Woodville Store, 229 Clarence Town Road, Woodville.
Local tip: Check opening hours before visiting, and leave room in your itinerary for a relaxed coffee stop.
Take the Scenic Route Through Seaham, Balickera and Hinton
Some of the best moments on a Port Stephens scenic drive happen between the main attractions. The country roads connecting Medowie, Balickera, Seaham, Woodville and Hinton offer a glimpse of the region's rural character, with open paddocks, grazing farmland, old farmhouses and quiet village streets.
Rather than rushing directly to your next destination, take the time to enjoy the changing landscape. Look out for heritage churches, country gardens, timber fences and seasonal roadside stalls selling flowers or fresh produce.
Hinton is particularly appealing for its historic village atmosphere and surrounding farmland, while Seaham and Balickera offer a quieter look at the countryside beyond the coast.
Keep in mind that roadside stalls and small local businesses don't always operate every day. If there's a particular market or farm-gate experience you want to visit, check ahead to avoid disappointment.
Don't miss: The country scenery and the unexpected little stops that make a self-drive memorable.
Local tip: Use designated parking areas and never stop on narrow roads or unsafe shoulders to take photographs.
Finish with Local Food and Drinks at Bobs Farm
As you make your way back towards the coast, consider finishing your hinterland adventure around Bobs Farm, an area known for its rural setting and local food experiences.
LAND at Murray's offers a relaxed place to round off the day, with dining and local beverage experiences in a countryside setting. It's an appealing final stop for travellers who want to linger over a meal, sample regional flavours or simply enjoy a slower afternoon before returning to Nelson Bay.
For food lovers, the wider Bobs Farm and Anna Bay area is also worth exploring for local produce. Depending on what's open, you may find seasonal tomatoes, avocados and other regional products, along with specialist food businesses and farm-based experiences.
If you'd rather head straight back to the coast, make time for a final stop at Anna Bay or Birubi Beach to enjoy the ocean views before the day ends.
Don't miss: A relaxed meal and a final taste of local produce.
Local tip: Check opening hours, dining availability and booking requirements before you go.
Discover a Different Side of Port Stephens
A scenic drive through the Port Stephens hinterland reveals a side of the region that many beach-loving visitors miss. Beyond the coastline, you'll find family-run farms, quaint roadside stalls, historic villages, country pubs and peaceful landscapes that invite you to slow down.
Start with breakfast at Medowie Macadamias, browse for fresh flowers along the road, look for koalas at Tilligerry Habitat and spend time exploring the heritage charm of Woodville and Raymond Terrace.
Whether you're planning a relaxed day trip from Nelson Bay, searching for local produce or looking for things to do in Port Stephens beyond the beach, this hinterland drive offers plenty of reasons to take the scenic route.
Pack a cooler bag, leave room for a few unexpected discoveries and enjoy the journey. Sometimes, the best part of a Port Stephens holiday is exploring the places just beyond the coast.