After spending the day sight seeing along the coast of New South Wales and visitng these places Norah Head Lighthouse, Budgewoi Beach, Frazer Beach, Snapper Point, Catho Lookout and Nobbys Beach Reserve we arrived at our accomodation in Soldiers Point which is a 2 hour and 37 minutes drive up north from Sydney and it was right on the lake with private access to the lake to watch the sunset. Whenever we stop for the night at our accomodation we always find a place to watch the sunset, we love seeing sunsets in different travel locations across Australia.
Soldiers Point, New South Wales: A Coastal Paradise
Nestled on a peninsula in Port Stephens, Soldiers Point offers a serene coastal escape surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. This charming destination is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, spectacular sunsets, and opportunities for water-based activities, making it a haven for relaxation and adventure alike.
A Waterfront Retreat
Soldiers Point is bordered by calm waters on three sides, providing idyllic settings for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The calm bay is perfect for families with young children, offering safe swimming areas and sandy beaches to enjoy. Sunset Beach, true to its name, offers a stunning view as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
Unmissable Sunsets
Sunsets at Soldiers Point are legendary, drawing visitors to its western shoreline to witness nature’s dazzling display. The vantage points at Sunset Beach and the Soldiers Point Marina are particularly popular, offering unobstructed views of the lake and sky as they transform with the fading light.
Soldiers Point Marina
A highlight of the area is the award-winning Soldiers Point Marina, known for its world-class facilities and services. Visitors can enjoy waterfront dining, boutique shopping, or even a luxurious spa experience. The marina also serves as a gateway to explore the pristine waters of Port Stephens, with boat charters and tours readily available.
Bushwalks and Nature Trails
Beyond its aquatic attractions, Soldiers Point is home to several nature trails that showcase the area’s lush greenery and diverse wildlife. The Soldiers Point Trail offers a peaceful stroll with views of the bay, while nearby Tilligerry Habitat Reserve provides opportunities to spot koalas and other native species.
Where to Eat and Stay
Soldiers Point boasts a range of accommodation options, from cozy waterfront cabins to luxurious resorts. Dining options are equally diverse, with seafood restaurants offering the freshest local catch, as well as casual eateries for a laid-back meal by the water.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re seeking a quiet weekend getaway or an active outdoor adventure, Soldiers Point has something to offer everyone. Its blend of natural beauty, rich wildlife, and vibrant local culture ensures a memorable experience for all who visit. Don’t forget to bring your camera—the sunsets alone are worth the trip!
Make Soldiers Point your next coastal escape and discover the tranquility and charm of this Port Stephens gem.
Nearest Attractions to Soldiers Point, New South Wales
Port Stephens Marine Park
Explore this vast marine sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity, including dolphins, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs.
Tomaree National Park
A short drive from Soldiers Point, this park offers scenic bushwalks, native wildlife, and panoramic views from the summit of Tomaree Head.
Gan Gan Lookout
Enjoy breathtaking views of Port Stephens, with sweeping vistas of the bay, sand dunes, and surrounding forests.
Stockton Sand Dunes
Just a 30-minute drive away, these towering dunes offer sandboarding, camel rides, and 4WD adventures.
Nelson Bay
This bustling town nearby is perfect for dining, shopping, and dolphin-watching cruises.
Tilligerry Habitat Reserve
Located in nearby Tanilba Bay, this reserve is a sanctuary for koalas and offers tranquil walking trails through bushland and wetlands.
Fingal Bay Beach
Known for its pristine sands and turquoise waters, this beach is ideal for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing.
Bagnalls Beach Reserve
A dog-friendly beach with calm waters, perfect for families and pet owners looking to enjoy a peaceful seaside outing.
Anna Bay
Gateway to the Stockton Sand Dunes, this area is great for coastal walks and whale watching during migration season.
Soldiers Point Marina
Beyond its dining and shopping options, the marina offers boat tours and water sports, making it a hub for on-the-water activities.
These attractions showcase the natural beauty and variety of experiences that make Soldiers Point and its surroundings a must-visit destination.
Nearest Towns to Soldiers Point, New South Wales
Salamander Bay (6 km)
A nearby suburb offering shopping centers, cafes, and tranquil bay views.
Nelson Bay (10 km)
The main hub of Port Stephens, known for its marina, dining options, and dolphin-watching tours.
Anna Bay (14 km)
Gateway to the Stockton Sand Dunes, offering adventure activities and coastal charm.
Tanilba Bay (23 km)
A peaceful town known for the Tilligerry Habitat Reserve and its koala population.
Raymond Terrace (40 km)
A historical town at the confluence of the Hunter and Williams Rivers, with shops and heritage sites.
Tea Gardens (45 km)
A charming riverside town ideal for seafood lovers, with access to Myall Lakes National Park.
Hawks Nest (47 km)
Known for its beautiful beaches, including the serene Bennett’s Beach, perfect for relaxation.
Medowie (42 km)
A growing town with a friendly community atmosphere and easy access to nature reserves.
Heatherbrae (42 km)
A small town with convenient road links and a reputation for delicious pies.
Karuah (46 km)
A quiet riverside town, great for fishing and enjoying the laid-back vibe of the Karuah River.
These towns offer a mix of coastal charm, adventure, and local history, making them perfect additions to your visit to Soldiers Point.
Tours and Activities:
- Port Stephens: Dolphin Discovery Cruise
- Midweek Hot Air Balloon Flight at Hunter Valley
- Hunter Valley Wine Tour ex Hunter Valley – Lunch, Cheese, Chocolate, Distillery
- Discover Newcastle Coastal Charms and City Secrets
- Private Hunter Valley Wine Tour Departing from Newcastle
- Dolphin Watch + Sailing – Port Stephens
- Hunter Coastal Adventure Tour by Boat from Newcastle
- Port Stephens: Splash ‘n’ Slide Dolphin Cruise
- Hunter Valley Wine, Gin, Cheese & Chocolate Tour from Newcastle
- General Admission Fighter World Museum
- Cael’s Gate Wine Cheese and Charcuterie in Broke
- Family Pass: Fighter World Museum Admission Ticket
- Self Guided Newcastle Scavenger Hunt: Between River and Sea
- Port Stephens, Departing from Newcastle – Dolphins, hike & swim!
- Cael’s Gate Wine and Cheese Tasting in Broke
- Cael’s Gate Wine and Ploughman’s Lunch in Broke
- Newcastle to Newcastle Airport (NTL) – Departure Private Transfer
- Private Transfer from Newcastle Cruise Port to Sydney City Hotels
- Full Day Private Shore Tour in Sydney from Newcastle Cruise Port
- Private Transfer from Newcastle Port to Newcastle Airport (NTL)
- Private Transfer from Newcastle City Hotels to Newcastle Port
- Private Transfer from Newcastle Airport (NTL) to Newcastle Port
- Cael’s Gate Wine Tasting in Broke
- Private Transfer – Newcastle Cruise Port to Sydney Airport (SYD)
- Newcastle Airport (NTL) to Newcastle – Arrival Private Transfer
- Private Transfer from Newcastle Port to Newcastle city hotels
- Private tour: Port Stephens, departing Newcastle – Whales!
- Private Round-Trip Transfer to Pokolbin from Port Stephens
- Cael’s Gate Wine and Chocolate Tasting in Broke
- Newcastle Airport to Newcastle – Round-Trip Private Transfer
- Newcastle Guided Electric Bike Tour
Places To Get Food
- Julio’s
- Cheeky Dog
- Taylors Bistro
- Restaurant 2317 (formerly The Point Restaurant)
- The Deck Cafe Restaurant & Bar
- Salt Mine Fish & Chips
- Sunan Thai
- Rick Stein at Bannisters
- McDonald’s Salamander Bay
- The Galley Kitchen
- Henny Penny Foods
- L’il Buddha Asian Cuisine
- KFC Salamander Bay
- Soul Origin Salamander Bay Square
- Uncle Frank’s Cafe Pizzeria
- Domino’s Pizza Salamander Bay
- John Dory’s Takeaway Lemon Tree Passage (kippys)
- Sanook Thai Restaurant
- Tilli Thai by Sanook
- Subway® Restaurant
- Hog’s Breath Cafe Nelson Bay
- Salt ‘n’ Spice Bistro
- Greek at the Beach (Food Trailer)
- Taj Tandoori Indian Restaurant
- Village Grind Coffee Shop
- Birubi Bistro
- Bluewater Grill
- The Nelson Way Café, Restaurant & Bar
- Seabreeze Restaurant
- The Hawker Inn Asian Sea Food.
- The Iron Door Craft Street Food
- Laguna Blu Bar & Dining
- CAFE KIN
Accommodation
- Thou Walla Sunset Retreat
- Ingenia Holidays Soldiers Point
- Triview Unit 11 – Soldiers Point
- Twilight on Sunset Beach Soldiers Point
- Sunset Beach Luxury 24
- Bannisters Port Stephens
- Bangalee 15 41 Soldiers Point Road
- Peninsula Waters Unit 14 Soldiers Point Road 2
- Seaside Serenity Soldiers Point
- Gorgeous Harbourside
- Harbourside Unit 2 7 Soldiers Point Road
- 1 Costa Smerelda, 16 Soldiers Point Rd – filtered water views
- 4 @ Alta Mira – Soldiers Point
- Living The Dream
- Sunset Beach House 100mtrs to the Beach 3 Bedroom
- Brontilly at the point Beach front unit perfect for families with Free WiFi
- Driftwood
- The Point 13, 5-7 Mitchell St – stunning water views, complex pool and WiFi
- Waterfront Apartment – Soldiers Point
- Casuarinas 5 superb waterfront unit
- Pelican Sands 4 83
- Pelican Sands 2 fantastic waterfront unit with pool and air conditioning
- The Point, 5, 5-7 Mitchell Street large balcony with great water views
- Sunrise Escape, 3 39 Soldiers Point Road
- Yacaaba Views
- Peninsula Waters 3 Beautiful Air Conditioned Unit with Pool Lift and WI-FI
- Owl House
- Sunrise @ the Point – Lovely 2 bdr unit with Pool
- Bayview Cottage
- Ash Haven, 19 Ash St – views, pool, air con, boat parking, Wi-Fi
- Harbourside 13 fantastic waterfront unit
- Soldiers Point Absolute Waterfront The Peninsula
- Grandview Soldiers Point
- Whispering Waters Soldiers Point Rd 3 143
- Sunset at Soldiers
- Castaways Beachfront house
- Fore Dek 4
- The Moorings 15 stunning with water views and pool
- Triview Mitchell Street Unit 4 1 Soldiers Point
- Harbourside 4 ground floor on the waterfront
- Sunset Place 1 gorgeous townhouse so close to the water
- The Pelicans 2 ground floor unit on the waterfront
- Bangalee 3 Fantastic Waterfront Unit with Pool WI FI and Chromecast
- Lanimer Spectacular Waterfront
- Sunrise Waters 2-63 Soldiers Point Road, stunning waterfront property
- Sunset Beach House
- Stone’s Throw
- The Moorings 18 4 Cromarty Rd Waterfront, Pool, Wifi & AirCon
- 16 Grandview Cl – water views, air con and Wi-Fi
- 15 Oasis Close Soldiers Point
- Woodlands Water Front Soldiers Point- Ground Floor
- The Point 10
- Seaview Splendour 2 163 Soldiers Point Road
- Noemis Place 7 Cromarty Road water views and boat parking available in the driveway
- Sunset Jewel – 7a Cromarty Road, Soldiers Point – Ocean Views, Breathtaking Sunsets, Linen, AIR CON & Wi-Fi
- Iluka Stunning Air Conditioned house with WI FI and Water Views
- Sunset Mooring at Soldiers Point
- Sunset at The Moorings
The Definitive Packing Guide: Must-Have Essentials for Your Next Adventure
Click on this link to see my packing list
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Soldiers Point?
At Friendship Point, a small garrison of soldiers from the 57th Regiment was stationed to intercept escaped convicts traveling from Port Macquarie and Trial Bay Gaol at South West Rocks en route to Sydney. The garrison was eventually disbanded, and the area was renamed Soldiers Point.
Can you swim at Soldiers Point?
Renowned as the top sunset spot in Port Stephens, Soldiers Point boasts breathtaking waterways and tranquil, safe swimming beaches that make it hard to leave.
Why is it called Salamander Bay?
How did Salamander Bay get its name? The town takes its name from the nearby shallow bay, which was named after the Salamander, a Third Fleet convict ship and the first European vessel to enter Port Stephens in 1791.
Is Soldiers Beach patrolled?
Soldiers Beach is patrolled by professional Central Coast Council lifeguards on weekdays, while Surf Life Saving volunteers ensure safety on weekends and public holidays.
What is the best beach in Port Stephens for kids?
Shoal Bay Beach, Fingal Bay Beach, and One Mile Beach all offer nearby BBQ facilities. One Mile Beach is patrolled and features a refreshment kiosk. Boat Harbour is ideal for young children, while Birubi Beach, at the northern end of Stockton Beach, boasts 32 km of open space perfect for kite flying and outdoor games.
Where is the best sunset spot in Port Stephens?
Soldiers Point, situated in the northern part of the peninsula, is a prime spot for watching stunning sunsets. It’s also home to one of the Bannisters hotels and the renowned Rick Stein restaurant.
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