Last Updated on July 5, 2021 by Kyle Tully
Just a quick, 15 minute drive from Nelson Bay, the picturesque peninsula of Soldiers Point is surrounded by absolute water views and is most well known for having the best sunset location in Port Stephens (it wasn’t named Sunset Beach for no reason!) With stunning waterways and calm safe swimming beaches on offer, you’ll never want to leave this paradise.
The award-winning marina with state-of-the-art facilities and restaurants attracts yachts from around the globe and is a marina for the annual Sail Port Stephens regatta. There are jetties on either side of the point that offer great fishing and moorings, with easily accessible boat ramps for all types of craft.
Accommodation ranges from glamping tents at Thou Walla Sunset Retreat, an adventure holiday park designed just for the kids and if you’re looking for a couples weekend away, Bannisters Port Stephens is the perfect location with idyllic views over the bay and laidback luxury.
Dining options are a plenty; casual bistro meals, waterfront dining and world renowned chef Rick Stein’s Bannisters restaurant with freshly caught and beautifully prepared seafood.
On the Sand:
There are no patrolled beaches in Soldier’s Point, however the local beaches (Sunset Beach, Pearson Park, Marys Beach, Kangaroo Point Reserve and the other small pockets of beach along the foreshore) are all calm water beaches without waves.
There is plenty of street parking all along the foreshore and beaches.
There is also a boat ramp on the very tip of the peninsula, accessed via Mitchell Street.
In the Sea:
Average seawater temperatures for Soldier’s Point 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 good in Soldier’s Point, and a visit from the local dolphin population is very common!
On the Land:
You don’t need to be in the water to enjoy your time in Soldier’s Point. The reserves and parks offer lots of natural shade from the trees, incredibly calm waters and hard to beat views of the port. These are wonderful spots for picnics and enjoying the weather.
An enclosed, off-leash dog park can be located at Lancaster Park, on the corner of Cromarty Rd and Soldiers Point Rd. Tennis Court hire is also available right by the marina on Ridgeway Ave.
The marina offers dining options that come with stunning sunset views for dinner. Fine dining can be enjoyed from Rick Stein’s Bannisters and a more casual meal right next door at the Cheeky Dog. If you like your beer cold and your beer gardens warm then the Cheeky Dog is the spot for you.
