From tranquil bays and riverside villages to wildlife encounters, boating adventures and unforgettable sunsets, discover Tilligerry & Surrounds and experience the hidden gems of Port Stephens.
Discover Tilligerry & Surrounds
Escape to the quieter side of Port Stephens, where tranquil waterways, coastal villages, abundant wildlife and authentic local experiences await. Encompassing Tanilba Bay, Lemon Tree Passage, Karuah and the surrounding communities, the Tilligerry region is perfect for visitors seeking relaxation, nature and a genuine connection to the destination.
Nestled along the sparkling shores of Port Stephens, Tanilba Bay offers calm waterfronts, scenic foreshore walks and family-friendly parks that invite you to slow down and soak up the natural beauty. Spend your day kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or fishing, enjoy a picnic by the water, or simply watch the dolphins that regularly visit the bay.
Discover a quieter side of Port Stephens, where peaceful waterways, coastal villages, oyster farms and bushland create an easy-going escape away from the busier coastal centres. Tilligerry & Surrounds takes in Lemon Tree Passage, Tanilba Bay, Karuah and Medowie, each with its own character and reasons to stop and explore.
At the heart of the Tilligerry Peninsula, Lemon Tree Passage is a relaxed waterside village overlooking the calm waters of Tilligerry Creek. Stroll the foreshore and marina, enjoy a meal by the water, launch a kayak or boat, cast a line, or simply settle into the slower pace of village life.
Nature lovers can explore Tilligerry Habitat, a community-run reserve with walking trails through native bushland, wetlands and coastal forest. Keep an eye out for koalas, echidnas and abundant birdlife as you wander the boardwalks and pathways, making it a rewarding stop for families, walkers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Nearby Tanilba Bay combines sleepy coastal village charm with fascinating local history. Visit historic Tanilba House, a heritage-listed homestead dating back to the 1830s, explore its beautiful gardens and distinctive stone arched entrance, or discover the peaceful foreshores and bays around the peninsula.
Further north, Swan Bay is surrounded by waterways, wetlands and rural landscapes, offering a tranquil setting for boating, fishing, kayaking and birdwatching. Continue to Karuah, a riverside town renowned for its oyster-growing heritage and fresh local seafood. Time your visit for the annual Karuah Oyster & Timber Festival, celebrating two industries that have helped shape the town, or stop for fresh local oysters and views across the Karuah River.
In Medowie, discover local produce and family-friendly experiences, or tee off amongst the natural bushland at Pacific Dunes Golf Club, a championship golf course surrounded by native vegetation and wildlife. Medowie also provides an easy starting point for exploring the surrounding countryside, villages and waterways.
Whether you're searching for things to do in Lemon Tree Passage, Tanilba Bay, Karuah or Medowie, planning a scenic drive through Port Stephens or looking for somewhere to slow down for a few days, Tilligerry & Surrounds brings together waterfront villages, local seafood, golf, heritage, wildlife and outdoor adventure, with plenty of hidden corners to discover.
Peaceful and authentic side of Port Stephens
Whether you're enjoying fresh local seafood, discovering hidden waterfront villages, exploring pristine waterways or spotting koalas and dolphins in the wild, Tilligerry & Surrounds reveals a peaceful and authentic side of Port Stephens that many visitors never expect to find.
