Last Updated on July 5, 2021 by Kyle Tully
The sleepy residential suburb of Salamander Bay still packs a punch, with plenty of dining and entertainment options for the family.
More than just the main shopping complex for the region, you can also seek the Salamander Bay Hotel for a delicious meal, enjoy some ten pin bowling at Salamander Super Strike, have a swim at the Tomaree Aquatic Centre or some adventure at the Toboggan Hill Park (with mini golf, large maze and of course, the toboggan!)
Salamander Bay also hosts the Oaks Pacific Blue Resort with Australia’s largest swimming pool. It offers rooms where you can dive right in straight from your balcony and is perfect for the family.
Sunrise at the east facing beach reserves never disappoint, and are a great take off point for stand up paddleboarding. Picnic on the grass while taking in the port in all her glory.
On the Sand:
There are no patrolled beaches in Salamander Bay, however the local beaches (Wanda Wanda Headland, Bob Cairns Reserve, Joe Redman Reserve, George Reserve and the other sandy strips along foreshore drive) are all calm water beaches without waves.
There is a good amount of parking at the reserves and plenty of street parking all along the foreshore.
There are no boat ramps in Salamander Bay.
In the Sea:
Average seawater temperatures for Salamander Bay peak in the range of 22 to 25°C (72 to 77°F) in early February and are at their lowest mid August, in the range 17 to 20°C (63 to 68°F).
Water clarity is usually ok in Salamander Bay, however it can trap sea grasses and sediment during larger storms. The sea grasses and seaweed does invite a lot of friendly visits from stingrays, dolphins and turtles, which we love!
On the Land:
The entire shoreline of Salamander Bay is accessible by foot, starting at the wetlands in the east to the Wanda Wanda Headland and George Reserve on the opposite side of town.
BBQ facilities and picnic tables are available to the public within the reserves and you’ll find kid’s parks at George Reserve. Public toilets can be located at George Reserve.
Golfers can delight in a visit to the nationally recognised and awarded Horizons Golf Resort. Nestled amongst spectacular wetlands and surrounded by the white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters of Port Stephens you’ll find an 18 hole championship golf course and function centre.
Salamander Bay Shopping Complex can be found centrally at the corner of Salamander Way and Bagnall Beach Road. Within the complex you’ll find Woolworths, Coles and Aldi, as well as a Kmart, a chemist, fast food and dining options and other specialty boutiques. A bus is available to and from the centre.
You’ll also find Tomaree Aquatic Centre and Toboggan Hill Park nearby the shopping centre.
