A lakeside view with a bench, paddleboards, and kayaks.

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22 Aug - 23 Aug
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23 Aug - 24 Aug
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28 Aug - 30 Aug
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Our top choices for Shoal Bay hotels

Hotel
Camping
Motel
Breakfast included
Pet-friendly
A swimming pool with a water fountain, surrounded by palm trees and lounge chairs.
A dining area with a long table set for a meal, wooden chairs, and a hanging light fixture.
A beachfront hotel with multiple buildings, a sandy beach, and clear water.
A modern hotel room with a grey sofa, a small round table, a TV, and a view of the ocean through large windows.

1. Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
Shoal Bay
Australia
andrea czarina
NZ$226
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
A swimming pool with clear blue water, surrounded by palm trees and a building with balconies.
A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a stainless steel dishwasher, a sink, and a microwave.
A balcony with a pool view, a table, and chairs.
A resort with multiple buildings, a central swimming pool, and surrounding greenery.

2. Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Salamander Bay
Australia
Jack
NZ$202
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
A modern living room with a grey sofa, a coffee table, and a TV mounted on the wall.
A modern living room with a sofa, ottoman, and coffee table, a dining area with chairs, a kitchen with appliances, and a balcony with a view of trees.
A modern lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and large windows offering views of the outdoors.
A multi-story hotel with balconies, a parking area, and a view of a forested hill.

3. The Landmark Resort Nelson Bay

The Landmark Resort Nelson Bay
Nelson Bay
Australia
Jo
NZ$253
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
The Landmark Resort Nelson Bay
A hotel with a sign indicating no vacancy, 24-hour check-in, heated pool, and internet kiosk.
A person standing on a bridge overlooking a beach and ocean.
A couple walking outside a restaurant with outdoor seating, wooden pergolas, and a sign that reads "The Little."
A sauna area with wooden benches and large copper barrels, white brick walls, and a straw ceiling.

4. Hotel Nelson

Hotel Nelson
Nelson Bay
Canada
Kevin
NZ$194
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Hotel Nelson
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by boats and a scenic view.
A dining area with a view of the marina, large windows, and hanging pendant lights.
A person sitting on a wooden deck with a table, holding a drink and a fruit, with boats in the background.
A bedroom with a large window overlooking a marina with boats and a rocky breakwater.

5. Anchorage Port Stephens

Anchorage Port Stephens
Corlette
Australia
Brian
NZ$376
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Anchorage Port Stephens
A spacious, well-lit living area with a modern design, featuring a large sofa, a coffee table, and several potted plants.
A modern gym with wooden flooring, exercise equipment, and large windows offering views of greenery and buildings.
A modern bar area with a long counter, multiple stools, and a bar tap.
A compact hotel room with a bed, bedside table, chair, and a television.

6. Little National Hotel Newcastle

Little National Hotel Newcastle
Newcastle City Centre
Australia
Daniel
NZ$201
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Little National Hotel Newcastle
A balcony with a table and chairs, overlooking a coastal cityscape with buildings and a body of water.
A residential area with a swimming pool, greenery, and buildings in the background.
A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a dining area with a glass table and chairs.
A modern living room with a flat-screen TV, a white coffee table, and a grey sofa.

7. Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites

Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites
Nelson Bay
Australia
sashi
NZ$238
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites
A hotel room with two beds, a nightstand with a lamp, a painting of a beach scene, and a wooden headboard.
A modern living room with a grey sofa, a white coffee table, and a TV on a wooden stand. A staircase leads to an upper floor.
A modern dining area with a white table, brown chairs, and a wooden bench. A large mirror is on the wall, and a staircase with carpeted steps is visible.
A swimming pool with a hot tub, lounge chairs, and palm trees.

8. Peninsula Nelson Bay Motel and Serviced Apartments

Peninsula Nelson Bay Motel and Serviced Apartments
Nelson Bay
Australia
Debra
NZ$134
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Peninsula Nelson Bay Motel and Serviced Apartments
A modern hotel room with a large balcony, a bed, a seating area, and a small table.
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a ceiling fan, a TV, and a view of the city through large windows.
A poolside area with a lounge chair and a towel.
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sitting area with a sofa and a coffee table, a kitchen area with a countertop and a sink, and a view of the outside through large windows.

9. Marina Resort - Adults Only

Marina Resort - Adults Only
Nelson Bay
Australia
Melissa
NZ$252
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Marina Resort - Adults Only
A hotel with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and a bar area.
A modern living room with a grey sofa, a wooden dining table, and a ceiling fan.
A modern hotel with a swimming pool, a reception area, and a parking lot.
A modern living room with a grey sofa, wooden coffee table, and a flat-screen TV. A dining area with a white table and chairs is visible.

10. Ingenia Holidays Middle Rock

Ingenia Holidays Middle Rock
One Mile
Australia
Muhammad
NZ$112
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sept
Ingenia Holidays Middle Rock
A balcony with a wicker chair, a round wooden table, and a potted plant.
A modern living room with a sofa, a round glass table, a potted plant, and a TV on the wall.
A modern poolside area with a glass balustrade, lounge chairs, and umbrellas.
A modern living room with a wooden reception desk, a grey armchair, and a small round table with a tray of items.

11. Bannisters Port Stephens

Bannisters Port Stephens
Soldiers Point
Australia
Barbara
NZ$341
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Bannisters Port Stephens
A pool area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, a covered seating area, and a building labeled "Bay Breeze Loft Apartments".
A coastal landscape with a beach, ocean, and a staircase leading down to the shore.
A coastal viewpoint with a paved walkway and metal railing overlooking the sea and green hills.
A coastal view with a white picket fence, a well-maintained lawn, and a building with an 'AMANTI' sign.

12. Nelson Bay Breeze Holiday Apartments

Nelson Bay Breeze Holiday Apartments
Nelson Bay
Australia
Sean
NZ$448
includes taxes & fees
12 Sept - 13 Sept
Nelson Bay Breeze Holiday Apartments
A coastal landscape with a beach, clear blue waters, and a hilly terrain.
A hotel room with a brick wall, a bed with white linens and red pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, and a large window with curtains.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a table, and a painting on the wall.
A hotel entrance with a reception desk, a 'Welcome' sign, and a 'Come in We're Open' sign.

13. Port Stephens Motel

Port Stephens Motel
Nelson Bay
Australia
daniel
NZ$147
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Port Stephens Motel
A modern kitchen with a grey sofa and a small round table, large windows with a view of trees, and a wooden deck outside.
A modern interior with a grey sofa, a small round table, and a view of an outdoor deck with chairs.
A modern building with a covered outdoor area, steps leading to a door, and a garden with plants.
A modern living room with a dining area, large windows, and a TV mounted on the wall.

14. Reflections Jimmys Beach - Holiday Park

Reflections Jimmys Beach - Holiday Park
Hawks Nest
Australia
Carlos
NZ$156
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Reflections Jimmys Beach - Holiday Park
A hotel with a covered outdoor area, a swimming pool, and potted plants.
A two-story house with a balcony, a car parked in front, and a well-lit entrance.
A two-story building with a covered front porch, a dining area visible through the open door, and a well-lit entrance.
A reception area with a glass door, potted plants, a sculpture, and a sign indicating a quiet zone.

15. Admiral Nelson Motor Inn

Admiral Nelson Motor Inn
Nelson Bay
Australia
Christine
NZ$155
includes taxes & fees
25 Aug - 26 Aug
Admiral Nelson Motor Inn
A pool with a waterfall feature surrounded by large rocks and a glass enclosure in the background.
A modern hotel room with a bed, a TV, a small table, and a balcony with chairs.
A modern building with a wooden exterior, a covered outdoor seating area, and a staircase leading to an entrance.

16. Ingenia Holidays Soldiers Point

Ingenia Holidays Soldiers Point
Soldiers Point
Australia
Miyeon
NZ$221
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Ingenia Holidays Soldiers Point
A balcony with a table, chairs, and a bed.
An aerial view of a coastal marina with boats docked, surrounded by residential buildings and natural landscapes.
A modern living room with a sofa, a small table, a ceiling fan, and a TV on the wall.
A modern hotel room with a bed, sofa, and armchair, a ceiling fan, and a large window with curtains.

17. Nelson Towers Motel & Apartments

Nelson Towers Motel & Apartments
Nelson Bay
Australia
Marilyn
NZ$200
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Nelson Towers Motel & Apartments
A beach with clear blue water, sandy shore, and rocky outcrops.
A room with tables set for a meal, large windows with a view of the ocean, and a blue carpet with a wave pattern.
A conference room with a large screen displaying "NOAH'S NEWCASTLE" and a view of the ocean through large windows.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the ocean through a sliding door.

18. NOAH'S On The Beach

NOAH'S On The Beach
Newcastle East
Australia
Marina
NZ$262
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
NOAH'S On The Beach
A modern living room with a sofa, coffee table, and chairs, a TV, and a balcony with a view.
A row of modern, modular cabins with wooden railings and a well-maintained garden area.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and a pergola.
A modern living room with a flat-screen TV, a round coffee table, a sofa, and a dining area with chairs.

19. Reflections Hawks Nest - Holiday Park

Reflections Hawks Nest - Holiday Park
Hawks Nest
Australia
David
NZ$157
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Reflections Hawks Nest - Holiday Park
An aerial view of a coastal area with a beach, clear waters, and a small island.
A swimming pool surrounded by a brick patio, with mulch and plants.
A hotel room with two beds, a wooden headboard, a painting of a beach, and a window with curtains.
A dining area with wooden tables and chairs, a menu stand, and a television screen on the wall.

20. Tea Gardens Motel

Tea Gardens Motel
Tea Gardens
Australia
David
NZ$161
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Tea Gardens Motel
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Stay near popular Shoal Bay attractions

Mount Tomaree

9.2/10 (138 reviews)
Ascend the Tomaree Head Summit Walk for sweeping views of Port Stephens coastline and historic WWII gun emplacements. The 2-hour trek rewards with whale sightings during migration season (May-November).
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Zenith Beach

8.8/10 (81 reviews)
Nestled between Tomaree Head and Stephens Peak, Zenith Beach captivates with pristine white sands and turquoise waters. Experience tranquil solitude on this unspoiled stretch within Tomaree National Park.
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Box Beach

9.0/10 (38 reviews)
Box Beach captivates with pristine white sands framed by dramatic rocky headlands in Tomaree National Park. Experienced surfers flock to its uncrowded breaks while nature lovers appreciate the untouched coastal beauty.
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Wreck Beach

8.6/10 (40 reviews)
This secluded cove offers pristine sands and ocean views, framed by coastal angophora forests. Take a barefoot stroll along the shoreline or watch for migrating whales from May to November.
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Learn more about Shoal Bay

Pristine white sand meets turquoise waters at Shoal Bay Beach, where snorkelling reveals colourful fish around the rocky headlands. Rent kayaks to explore the bay's hidden coves or hike nearby Tomaree Head Summit for panoramic views of Port Stephens.

See all hotels in Shoal Bay
A lakeside view with a bench, paddleboards, and kayaks.

Top Shoal Bay Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Shoal Bay

Peninsula Nelson Bay Motel and Serviced Apartments

Peninsula Nelson Bay Motel and Serviced Apartments

8/10 Good
"The hotel was clean and the room was a good size. Only small complaint is not having a side table on both sides of the bed."
Jennifer 1-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Peninsula Nelson Bay Motel and Serviced Apartments
Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites

Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites

10/10 Excellent
"Friendly staff"
sashi 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites
Port Stephens Motel

Port Stephens Motel

10/10 Excellent
"Clean room. with shops nearby"
Anita 1-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Port Stephens Motel
Marina Resort - Adults Only

Marina Resort - Adults Only

10/10 Excellent
"The resort is stunning now. We stayed here a few years ago when it was very tired, but it is unrecognisable after a full renovation. In fact I didn’t realise when I booked that it was the same place. The rooms are well laid out for a comfortable stay with plenty of room to put your bags and hang clothes. Our room on the first floor had a great view over the bay, and I think all the rooms face that way. A class act."
Pam 3-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Marina Resort - Adults Only
Anchorage Port Stephens

Anchorage Port Stephens

10/10 Excellent
"We booked the two bedroom loft room. Such bliss. It had everything you needed in the room. The views were breathtaking. Breakfast was above our expectations. Walking around the property was such a pleasure."
Jeannine 1-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Anchorage Port Stephens
Reflections Jimmys Beach - Holiday Park

Reflections Jimmys Beach - Holiday Park

10/10 Excellent
"I know it's winter, but it was very peaceful; the Tiny House was beautifully clean and smelled lovely and had everything needed for a comfortable stay; the surrounds were lovely, with lots of trees and wildlife (great that it's not permitted to feed them !) This was the loveliest and cleanest Holiday park I have stayed in, in 40-50 years ! Thank you, i'll be back !!! Kind regards, Maggie"
maggie 3-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
Reflections Jimmys Beach - Holiday Park
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Very welcoming from start and very comfortable room, thank you"
Jack 1-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
Bannisters Port Stephens

Bannisters Port Stephens

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent Weekend Accommodation"
Thomas 1-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Bannisters Port Stephens
Shoal Bay Holiday Park

Shoal Bay Holiday Park

10/10 Excellent
"Clean room , had all the basics perfect for weekend away and beatiful staff ."
Deon 2-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Shoal Bay Holiday Park

More cheap accommodation in Shoal Bay

Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach

Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach

426 Gan Gan Road One Mile NSW
NZ$110
21 Sept - 22 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach
Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary

Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary

562 Gan Gan Road One Mile NSW
NZ$309
14 Sept - 15 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9.4/10 Exceptional! (216 reviews)
Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
Nelson Palms Motel

Nelson Palms Motel

54 Shoal Bay Rd Nelson Bay NSW
Get rates
10/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
Nelson Palms Motel
Samurai Beach Bungalows

Samurai Beach Bungalows

2 Robert Connell Cl Anna Bay NSW
Get rates
8.6/10 Excellent! (36 reviews)
Samurai Beach Bungalows
Club Wyndham Port Stephens

Club Wyndham Port Stephens

5 Horizons Drive Salamander Bay NSW
Get rates
9.2/10 Wonderful! (15 reviews)
Club Wyndham Port Stephens
Bull 'n' Bush Hotel Motel

Bull 'n' Bush Hotel Motel

37 Ferodale Road Medowie NSW
Get rates
8.6/10 Excellent! (23 reviews)
Bull 'n' Bush Hotel Motel

Find out more about Shoal Bay

Top reasons to visit Shoal Bay

  • Stunning Beaches: Shoal Bay boasts pristine beaches with breathtaking coastal views, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy paddle boarding, scenic coastal walks, and a round of golf at the local course.
  • Charming Village: Explore the delightful Shoal Bay village with its unique shops and local charm.
  • Historic Lighthouse: Visit the nearby historic lighthouse for a glimpse into the area’s maritime history.
  • Variety of Accommodations: Choose from charming B&Bs to luxurious stays, catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Shoal Bay

Discover a range of inviting accommodation options in Shoal Bay, New South Wales, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking a charming bed & breakfast, a family-friendly holiday park, or luxurious stays like Wyndham Shoal Bay, you'll find the ideal spot for a memorable getaway. Embrace adventure, romance, or relaxation in this stunning coastal destination, with a variety of holiday rentals to suit your needs.

  • The Landmark Resort Nelson Bay: Nestled 3.2km from Shoal Bay, The Landmark Resort Nelson Bay is a 4-star hotel that offers a unique golf-themed vacation experience. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this resort caters to golf enthusiasts looking to indulge in their passion. Guests can enjoy a variety of golf experiences, with access to courses that are renowned in the region. The resort features modern amenities and comfortable rooms, ensuring a satisfying stay enhanced by the thrill of the game.
  • Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites: Located 3.2km from Shoal Bay, Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites holds a 4-star rating and boasts a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This accommodation is ideal for active travellers, offering a range of sports and recreational activities both onsite and nearby, including surfing, parasailing, and golf lessons. Each suite is equipped with modern entertainment options like DVD players and flat-screen TVs, making it a great choice for those seeking relaxation after a day of adventure. Guests can also enjoy stunning views and nearby attractions such as whale watching.
  • Hotel Nelson: Just 3.2km from Shoal Bay, Hotel Nelson is a highly-rated 4-star motel with a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This property is well-suited for adventure seekers and business travellers alike. With activities such as personal watercraft rides, sailing, and hiking available onsite or nearby, guests are encouraged to explore the great outdoors. The hotel combines comfort with convenience, ensuring that you have everything you need for both work and play during your stay.

Where to stay near Shoal Bay

Welcome to Shoal Bay, a stunning coastal suburb in New South Wales, perfect for a beach getaway. Here, you can unwind on pristine sand beaches while soaking in breathtaking coastal views. Explore the nearby Port Stephens for a family-friendly atmosphere, romantic sunsets, and recreational activities. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Shoal Bay offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every traveller's vibe.

  • Nelson Bay: Situated a mere 3.2km from Shoal Bay, Nelson Bay is a vibrant suburb known for its stunning outdoor experiences, beautiful beaches, and picturesque scenery. Visitors flock to this area for its myriad of activities, from enjoying a round of golf at local courses to indulging in retail therapy at the shopping centre. The local beach is perfect for families looking to relax by the water, while the surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views and opportunities for exploration. Peak tourist seasons in September and December to January ensure a lively atmosphere, making it an exciting place to visit.
  • Fingal Bay: Also located 3.2km from Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay is a charming suburb that attracts visitors with its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Renowned for its scenic beaches and family-friendly environment, this area is ideal for those who love the outdoors. Popular activities include hiking along scenic trails and visiting the local shopping centre for a taste of local culture. Fingal Bay's picturesque bay and beach are perfect for relaxation and water activities, with peak visitor numbers occurring in September and December to January, creating a welcoming and bustling atmosphere.
  • Corlette: Just 6.4km from Shoal Bay, Corlette is a delightful suburb that offers a blend of outdoor leisure and scenic beauty. Known for its inviting beaches and family-friendly environment, this suburb is a great spot for golf enthusiasts, with excellent courses nearby. The local shopping centre provides convenient access to amenities and unique finds. Peak visitor numbers in January and March to April create a lively vibe, while the tranquil bay and beaches invite relaxation and exploration, making Corlette a perfect addition to your vacation itinerary.

Things to do in Shoal Bay

Shopping

Shoal Bay offers charming local shops, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. Explore the Shoal Bay Village for boutique finds, or head to the nearby Nelson Bay for more extensive shopping options, including Wests Nelson Bay for a wider variety of gifts if you're up for a drive.

Recreation

In Shoal Bay, the Shoal Bay Wellness Centre offers rejuvenating treatments amidst tranquil surroundings. For recreational activities, enjoy kayaking in the bay's calm waters or explore the nearby Tomaree National Park, where scenic walking trails reveal breathtaking coastal views and local wildlife.

Adventure

In Shoal Bay, explore the stunning Tomaree National Park with hiking trails leading to breathtaking coastal views. Enjoy thrilling water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in the calm waters of the bay, or take a scenic boat tour to discover the local marine life.

Nightlife

In Shoal Bay, enjoy a lively evening at the Shoal Bay Country Club, where you can sip cocktails by the beach. For a more laid-back vibe, the local pub offers a relaxed setting, complete with live music and friendly locals to enhance your night out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shoal Bay

To save money on your trip to Shoal Bay, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May and July to August when accommodation prices drop. Opt for free activities like exploring Dutchmans Beach, Nelson Head Lighthouse, and Tomaree National Park. For transportation, use public buses or bicycles to keep costs down. Book your stay on a Wednesday for the best rates and consider using Expedia to find deals by combining accommodation with flights and activities for extra savings. Look for eco-friendly options to support sustainable travel while keeping your budget in check.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Shoal Bay are May and July to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Shoal Bay is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Shoal Bay is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will reveal sustainable and eco-friendly accommodation options that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Shoal Bay hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Shoal Bay

Shoal Bay, New South Wales, is an ideal destination for outdoor and beach lovers seeking scenic beauty and adventure. Popular attractions include the stunning Shoal Bay Beach, the charming Shoal Bay village, and the historic lighthouse nearby. With a focus on coastal charm and outdoor experiences, visitors will find plenty of activities to enjoy, making it a perfect getaway for those wanting to embrace the natural wonders of this beautiful region.

  • Mount Tomaree: Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventure at Mount Tomaree, located within Shoal Bay. The scenic trails lead you to the summit, where panoramic vistas of the coastline and nearby islands await. It's a fantastic spot for photography and immersing yourself in nature.
  • Dutchmans Beach: Just 3.2km from Shoal Bay, Dutchmans Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere with golden sands and gentle waves. It's an ideal location for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. The serene setting makes it a perfect escape.
  • Bennetts Beach Hawks Nest: Situated 6.4km away, Bennetts Beach Hawks Nest is renowned for its pristine sands and tranquil waters. This beach is great for a relaxing day, whether you're keen on swimming or simply soaking up the sun in a picturesque environment.

Best time to go to Shoal Bay

The best time to visit Shoal Bay is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January73.8°F (23.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March71.1°F (21.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August57.2°F (14.0°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December70.9°F (21.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shoal Bay

Flying into Shoal Bay, New South Wales, is convenient via Newcastle Airport (NTL-Williamtown), situated approximately 32.2km away. This airport hosts airlines including Qantas and Virgin Australia. Nearby accommodation options include the 4.5-star Rydges Newcastle, located 14.5km from the airport, and the Holiday Inn Express Newcastle, also rated 4.5 stars and 16.1km away. The Executive Inn, another excellent choice with a 4.5-star rating, is situated 17.7km from the airport. Transportation services from these hotels to Newcastle Airport make your travel seamless, ensuring a smooth start to your holiday in Shoal Bay.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Shoal Bay?
The best area to stay in Shoal Bay is along Shoal Bay Road, particularly near the main beach and village centre.This area is the heart of Shoal Bay, offering direct access to the clear waters of the bay and the popular Shoal Bay Beach. Along Shoal Bay Road, you'll find a selection of hotels, holiday apartments, and eateries, with the iconic Shoal Bay Country Club at its core. It's a convenient and pleasant spot for those who enjoy being close to the water and local amenities.For couples looking for a relaxing getaway, staying near the main beach provides easy access to leisurely strolls along the shore and dining with water views. Many accommodations in this stretch offer balconies overlooking the bay, great for enjoying a sunrise or sunset. You can easily walk to local cafes for breakfast or enjoy a drink at the Shoal Bay Country Club without needing a car.Families will also find this central area highly suitable due to its proximity to the beach, which is generally calm and well-suited for swimming and paddling. Some resorts here offer facilities like swimming pools and direct beach access, making it convenient for keeping everyone entertained.
What are the best hotels in Shoal Bay that travellers recommend?
For a highly recommended hotel in Shoal Bay, consider the Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay.This 4-star resort, with an 8.2 rating, is praised by guests for its spacious and clean rooms, as well as its helpful and lovely staff. The location is frequently described as great and amazing, being just 1.6 kilometres from Shoal Bay Beach and 1.2 kilometres from Mount Tomaree. It boasts excellent facilities including multiple pools, both indoor and outdoor, with sun loungers and a children's pool, making it a great option for leisure.
What are the best family hotels in Shoal Bay?
For a highly-rated family-friendly hotel in Shoal Bay, the Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay is an excellent choice.This 4-star resort, with an 8.2 rating, is much-loved by families. Guests frequently comment on the spacious and clean rooms, as well as the helpful staff. The resort offers multiple pools, including indoor and outdoor options, superb for children. Its location is also highly praised, being just 1.6 km from Shoal Bay Beach and 1.2 km from Mount Tomaree. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Shoal Bay
What are the best spa hotels in Shoal Bay?
For a relaxing spa hotel in Shoal Bay, the Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay is an excellent choice.This 4-star resort, with an 8.2 rating, offers a variety of spa treatments including manicures and pedicures, and boasts both indoor and outdoor pools, as well as a children's pool. Guests frequently mention the spacious and clean rooms, the great location, and the helpful staff. The resort is conveniently located near Shoal Bay Beach, Mount Tomaree, and Zenith Beach. See all spa hotels in Shoal Bay
What are the best hotels in Shoal Bay near West Nelson Bay?
For a family-friendly hotel in Shoal Bay, consider the Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay.The 4-star Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay, with an 8.2 rating, is a great option for families. It offers a variety of swimming pools, including indoor and outdoor options, as well as a children's pool, ensuring plenty of fun for all ages. Guests frequently praise the spacious and clean rooms, the helpful staff, and the excellent facilities. While not directly next to West Nelson Bay, it is conveniently located near Shoal Bay Beach, which is just 1.6 km away, and Tomaree National Park, 4.3 km away.
When is the best time to go to Shoal Bay?
The best time to go to Shoal Bay is during the shoulder seasons of autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.During these months, you'll experience warm, sunny days great for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities without the peak summer heat or the larger crowds that come with school holidays. The water is still warm enough for swimming, and conditions are often ideal for exploring the natural beauty of the area.Couples looking for a relaxing getaway will find these times particularly appealing. You can enjoy strolls along the extensive white sand beach, dine at waterfront restaurants, and take advantage of boat trips with more space and a calmer atmosphere. It's also a great time for hiking the trails up to Tomaree Headland for panoramic views without the intense summer sun.Families can also benefit from visiting during the shoulder seasons, especially if travelling with younger children who might find the summer heat and crowds overwhelming.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to 'My Trips' and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by 'Fully refundable property' for hotels in Shoal Bay.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Shoal Bay with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Shoal Bay hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Shoal Bay?
Prices for hotels in Shoal Bay often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$110 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.

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