Last Updated on July 5, 2021 by Kyle Tully
One Mile is an unmissable surfer’s paradise and the perfect spot for your next mini-break. Located along the iconic Port Stephens coastline, this stretch of untouched and unspoilt white sand lures people from all over the globe (well, pre-covid it did!) with it’s rugged good looks, turquoise waters and clean, crisp waves.
It is also a popular beach with families, particularly at low tide, as it has shallow areas to play and safe areas to swim. The beach feels very earthy and secluded as behind the beach all you can see are the natural curves of sand dunes and national park – not a building in sight. It is a beach that you can totally escape to – even for the locals!
There are multiple caravan parks and campgrounds in the area, as well as glamping pods in the newly established Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary. Onie – as it is affectionately named by locals – certainly is a haven for nature lovers.
For those with a 4WD, a visit to Samurai Beach is a must – transport yourself to an oasis that feels a world away from the noise and stress of everyday life. Pristine sand and picture perfect waves. Clothing optional.
On the Sand:
One Mile Beach is patrolled on the southern end of the beach, from Spring through Autumn. Swimming between the flags is vital, as the beach is popular with surfers, paddle boarders and other watercraft.
One Mile Beach is accessed via Hannah Parade, with ample parking, including some shaded areas. There is a short and easy walk over the sand dunes to access the beach. The path is visible behind the toilet and shower block.
Samurai Beach is 4WD access only and is a nudist beach, though many holiday makers and surfers enjoy the beautiful Samurai dressed!
There are no boat ramps in One Mile.
In the Sea:
Average seawater temperatures for One Mile peak in the range of 21 to 23°C (69 to 73°F) in early February and are at their lowest mid August, in the range 16 to 18°C (61 to 64°F).
Water clarity is usually great at One Mile.
On the Land:
One Mile is mostly residentially owned farmland or acherages, and there aren’t a lot of parks or public spaces other than the beaches. There are, however, beautiful walking and mountain bike trails starting from the Big Rocky Trail closer to Nelson Bay.
The Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary offers an up close and personal experience with local koalas. Port Stephens Council in partnership with Port Stephens Koalas has created a Koala Sanctuary to ensure first-class care to sick, injured and orphaned koalas and will offer visitors a unique opportunity to see koalas in their natural habitat. It will also support their long-term rehabilitation and preservation.
Set in 8 hectares of stunning bushland and nestled on the edge of the magnificent One Mile Beach and Worimi Conservation Lands sand dunes, Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary offers the best of both worlds. They’re close enough to experience the abundance of sights and activities Port Stephens has to offer, yet secluded enough to enjoy the native bird and animal life which have made their homes in the surrounding wetlands.
Visitors to the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary will enjoy a completely natural setting – unique experiences with koalas in an idyllic bushland setting. All excursions start off with a tailored educational tour from one of their experienced, local guides on care, rehabilitation and what is needed for koalas to survive in the wild.
You can stay overnight in a ‘glamping style tent’ within the sanctuary grounds. Deluxe 4 Star Glamping tents offer you the perfect place to rejuvenate while enjoying a unique nocturnal experience. Wake up with the koalas in their spectacular natural bushland setting and enjoy everything that the Koala Sanctuary has to offer.
If glamping is not for you, there is a range of other accommodation — from Deluxe Studio Rooms to One Bedroom Deluxe Suites. These offer a more conventional stay, so you can experience the koalas’ natural setting while taking in the stunning views of our beautiful bushland environments.
Public toilets can be located in the car park of One Mile Beach. Some basic necessities can be purchased from the kiosk in One Mile, but most groceries need to be organised before arriving in One Mile from Anna Bay IGA.
