Waterfront Escapes & Spectacular Sunsets
Surrounded by the calm waters of Port Stephens, NSW, Soldiers Point is a relaxed waterfront village known for its beautiful beaches, boating, fishing and spectacular sunsets. Explore the award-winning Soldiers Point Marina, enjoy waterfront dining, or find a quiet spot along the foreshore to swim, paddle and watch the sun set over the water.
With waterfront resorts, holiday parks and family-friendly accommodation, Soldiers Point is a peaceful base for exploring Port Stephens while still being just a short drive from Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay.
Jutting from the southern shores of Port Stephens, Soldiers Point is a tranquil peninsula paradise. This coastal haven seamlessly blends safe, wave-free swimming beaches with premium waterside living, making it widely celebrated for offering the single best sunset views in the entire region.
For water enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, the area serves as a premier playground. It is anchored by the award-winning d'Albora Marina, which acts as a key venue for the annual Sail Port Stephens regatta. Aspiring and experienced sailors can also head to The Bay Sailing Centre on the waterfront, a premier sailing and dinghy club and accredited learning academy that hosts major national championships and features a scenic top-floor café. The peninsula is fully equipped to cater to any maritime adventure, offering excellent fishing jetties, vessel moorings, and easily accessible public boat ramps, while also providing idyllic spots for family picnics and scenic coastal walks.
The local dining scene is exceptionally vibrant, effortlessly spanning from casual family comfort to world-class culinary experiences. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed, budget-friendly bistro meal at the Soldiers Point Bowling Club, or head down to the marina to take in spectacular waterfront views at Restaurant 2317, The Deck, and Sea Salt Cafe. For a truly iconic dining experience, Rick Stein at Bannisters serves world-renowned, freshly caught seafood in an upscale coastal setting.
Accommodations in the area cater to every holiday style, ranging from nature-inspired retreats to luxury stays. Nature lovers can unwind in safari glamping tents at Thou Walla Sunset Retreat, while families can head to Ingenia Holidays Soldiers Point, a feature-packed adventure holiday park built for kids. For those seeking laidback luxury, Bannisters Port Stephens offers boutique accommodation paired with idyllic, panoramic bay views.
Rich in local history, the peninsula was originally known as Friendship Point by early European arrivals. It was later officially renamed "Soldiers Point" after a British Corporal's Guard was permanently stationed on the peninsula during the early days of colonial settlement.
Whether you are visiting for boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water, Soldiers Point has you covered.
TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO
- Take a stroll around Soldiers Point Marina and stop for coffee, lunch or dinner overlooking the water.
- Fishing & boating: Fish from local jetties, launch a boat or explore the sheltered waterways of Port Stephens.
- Sunset photography: The western side of Soldiers Point is an excellent location for sunset photos across the bay.
GETTING AROUND
Leave the car at home!
Local Bus – The local bus travels to Soldiers Point multiple times a day taking you to and from Boat Harbour, Birubi Point, Taylors Beach and Anna Bay, Nelson Bay and beyond. Please see timetable https://www.pscoaches.com.au/timetables/
Ride Share – Ride-share is available in Port Stephens – avoid looking for parking – check the app to see if there is a driver near you.
Local Taxi – Diggers Taxis ph: 4032 7999
www.diggerstaxis.com.au
Courtesy Bus
The Soldiers Point Bowling Club offers a free daily courtesy bus starting at 3:00 pm, with hourly, on-the-hour pickups and hourly drop-offs on the half-hour beginning at 3:30 pm. Service concludes at 8:30 pm Sunday through Wednesday, 10:30 pm on Thursdays, and 11:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, with bookings required by calling 4982 7173. For more information.
Book an airport transfer - mini bus or private tour – Lucky Dog Tours, Heavenly Tours, Nelson Bay Diggers Taxis, Port Stephens Coaches
LOCALS TIP
- Pack a picnic and head to Sunset Beach in the late afternoon – Soldiers Point is one of the best spots in Port Stephens to watch the sun set over the water.
- Bring a fishing rod, kayak or paddleboard if you enjoy getting out on the water. Always check local weather, tides and boating conditions
WALKING PATHS
Kangaroo Point Loop
Distance/Time: 2 km (1.2 miles) | 30 mins.
Vibe: Short and easy. This pleasant circuit circles the edge of the peninsula between Kangaroo Point Reserve and the main road. It is perfect for a quick nature dose where you can stop for a swim or a picnic.
Mariners Walk Heritage Trail
Distance/Time: 3.3km (roughly 2 miles) The trail rail runs along the Soldiers Point and Salamander Bay peninsula for 3.3 kilometres, with interpretive signs telling the maritime history of the region. The full walk takes about 40 minutes. The starting point is Johnny’s Well, located on Seaview Crescent (near the front of the Bannisters Port Stephens precinct).
Sunset Beach Walk
Sunset Beach is located on the western side of the Soldiers Point peninsula. It is a short, relaxing walk directly along the shoreline of Sunset Beach itself. It features a wooden jetty and a quiet enclave with a picnic area and public toilets.
BIKE PATHS
Soldiers Point to Wanda Wanda Headland - Approx 9km return **This ride is for more experienced riders due to time spent on roadways**
Child friendly bike rides
Wanda Wanda Headland (not paved, gravel road)
Sunset Beach (Grassed area)