Koalas, History & the Tilligerry Foreshore
Set along the shores of Tilligerry Creek, Tanilba Bay reveals a quieter and wonderfully unique side of Port Stephens, NSW. Follow the Tilligerry Habitat boardwalks through native bushland and wetlands, keeping watch for wild koalas and native birdlife, or explore the peaceful foreshore and sandy bays.
Discover the fascinating story behind Tanilba House and the town’s distinctive stone gateways, before settling in to enjoy life by the water. Rich in wildlife, local history and natural beauty, Tanilba Bay is a rewarding discovery on the Tilligerry Peninsula.
Tanilba Bay is a beautiful coastal town tucked away on the Tilligerry Peninsula in Port Stephens, New South Wales. Known as the "place of wildflowers" in the local Indigenous language, this hidden gem offers a relaxing, laid-back escape for travellers who love quiet beaches, stunning water views, and rich Australian history.
If you love nature, you will find plenty of outdoor fun here. You can take a peaceful stroll along the Tanilba Bay Boardwalk, a two-kilometre waterfront trail that winds past scenic inlets and shade trees. Right next to the trail is the Tilligerry Habitat, a wonderful nature reserve where you can spot koalas snoozing in the eucalyptus trees. The calm, protected waters of the bay are also perfect for swimming, fishing, kayak paddling, and waterskiing.
History buffs will enjoy stepping back in time to explore the town's unique heritage. You can pass through the massive stone Centenary Gates built in 1931, or marvel at Tanilba House, a magnificent sandstone homestead built by convicts back in 1831. You can even follow the Heritage and History Trail to scan QR codes on street corners and see old pictures of the town. After a busy day of exploring, you can relax at a foreshore park for a family barbecue while watching the sun set over the water.
LOCALS TIP
- Koala Spotting – Wander through Tilligerry Habitat and ask the volunteers if any koalas have been spotted.
- Follow the Tanilba Bay Boardwalk from Caswell Reserve towards the sailing club – keep an eye out for koalas and sea eagles
TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Tanilba Bay Heritage and History Trail: A 3.5 km one-way foreshore path that highlights the area's rich 1830s convict history. It links iconic local spots like the stone fireplaces at Sunset Park, the historic Tanilba House, and the famous stone Centenary Gates. Note that some natural terrain on this route may not be suitable for bicycles or wheels.
The trail uses sound and QR codes:
- GPS-Activated Audio: Once you download the app and track, the stories automatically play through your headphones exactly when you step into specific locations—no phone service or internet connection is required while walking.
- Immersive Reenactments: Narrators act out the story of Henry F. Halloran, the visionary property developer who shaped Tanilba Bay using "Garden City" design principles.
- Visual Backups: The path features physical street signs, plaques, and QR codes at 32 key locations. Scanning them leads to a dedicated website filled with historical images and short YouTube videos.
Trail Details
- Starting Point: The trail begins at the impressive stone Land Gate, located on the Avenue of the Allies, Tanilba Bay.
- Distance & Form: A relatively short 1.2 to 1.5-kilometre route. It is flat and highly accessible, meaning you can walk it, ride a bike, or even drive along the route.
- Cost: Totally free to access through your smartphone.
GETTING AROUND
Local Bus – Key boarding areas include stops along Clemenceau Crescent (at Lloyd George Crescent) and President Poincare Parade.
Route 137: Runs between Lemon Tree Passage and Raymond Terrace, passing through Medowie.
Route 138: Connects Lemon Tree Passage to the Newcastle Interchange via the airport.
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 - Tilligerry RSL Sports Club offers a free local pick-up and drop-off around Tanilba Bay and the surrounding Tilligerry Peninsula area. Contact Number: (02) 4982 3889
Book an airport transfer - mini bus or private tour – Lucky Dog, Heavenly Tours, Port Stephens Airport Transfers, Diggers taxis
WALKING PATHS
Tilligerry Habitat and Mallabula Beach Loop: A beautiful 1.9 km loop that takes you through native bushland right on the edge of the bay. It features well-maintained dirt tracks and an elevated wooden boardwalk. Start at the end of Fairlands Road, where there is a small playground and car park. This is a prime spot for spotting koalas, lizards, and seabirds.
Tanilba Park / Foreshore Park: Located on Tanilba Avenue, this park features a modern playground, outdoor exercise gear, and shared paths heading east and west, making it ideal for family strolls or scooter rides along the waterfront.
Tanilba Bay Heritage and History Trail – see info under top things to see and do section
BIKE PATHS
If you are riding a bike, scooter, or pushing a pram, you need wider, paved paths. These routes are completely friendly for wheels:
- Koala Park to Lemon Tree Passage: An easy, flat, out-and-back trail spanning 7.2 km return. The path starts at Brittania Drive and runs safely off the main road along Lemon Tree Passage Road. It takes you straight to the Lemon Tree Passage Boat Ramp, where you can find public toilets, BBQ facilities, and local cafes.
- Tanilba Park / Foreshore Park Shared Paths: Located right on Tanilba Avenue. Paved shared paths run both east and west along the waterfront directly from the park. It is highly recommended for families, young kids on scooters, or casual bicycle riders. Heading west takes you right to the historic Sunset Park.
