The marine park was established in 2005, and has since developed into a stunning habitat full of diverse wildlife thanks to its rich variety of ecosystems. There are so many resident species to see within the salt marshes, estuaries, mangroves and ocean depths, from sea-birds to fish and marine mammals. The park is lucky enough to contain some endangered species like the Gould’s Petrel and Grey Nurse Shark and you can even spot migrating Humpback Whales from the shores.

This biodiversity is well managed, with certain zones being declared sanctuaries free from fishing, however eco-tourism is encouraged and well catered for providing guests are considerate to the environment. The park has plenty of activities on offer along its expanse of coastline – and not just for wildlife watching. There are plenty of sporting opportunities on offer, with snorkelling and swimming being understandably popular given the climate. Alternatively you can go kayaking, learn to surf at one of the many Surf Schools or – if you are really adventurous – go diving. The diving experience of the marine park is enhanced by the many wrecked ships that are available to explore in the area.

With so much on offer, this is a great place to visit and it is not a surprise that the area has become such a favoured eco-tourism destination and so many schools use it for excursions. The Port Stephens – Great Lakes Marine Park is a jewel along the coast that is a haven for people and animals alike, and a great reason to visit Port Stephens and the surrounding area.

The region of Port Stephens was first inhabited by the indigenous race referred to as Aborigines. The correct term for the native tribes in that region however would be Worimi. Port Stephens was first sighted by Captain Cook during the 18th century who also gave it its name but it wasn’t until the end of the century that the British began its early development in the region.

As many British convicts were sent to Sydney, Port Stephens developed a reputation for being a safe haven for escapee convicts and it was Captain W.R Broughton that came into contact with the first five escaped convicts from Sydney whom the Worimi adopted into their tribe. As the area developed, a garrison was built in 1820 to handle the situation of escaped convicts.

Trade in Port Stephens began in 1816 with the first shipments containing timber and wool and from there trade flourished with the purpose of producing quality wool and timber for Britain. The first school in Port Stephens opened in 1830 with a population of 500, 50 of whom were school children. Wine was first successfully produced in 1831 and to this current day, Port Stephen is known to produce quality wine.

Nowadays Port Stephen has developed into a strong tourist destination with a focus on aquatic activities. By the same token it should not be forgotten that Port Stephen is also steeped in history with some of the more modern history being it’s involvement in WWII. There are many historical sites to visit in Port Stephen so why not combine a bit of both?

Finding cheap flights to Port Stephens is relatively easy. The Newcastle Airport, located in the heart of the area, can be accessed by a number of local and foreign airlines.  Seasonal flights and packages are offered from various destinations. Whether traveling from Sydney, just two hours away, or from halfway around the world, Port Stephens is a destination that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.

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• Tanilba House boasts breathtaking views from one of the oldest historical homes in Australia.
• Dizzyland Event Park, a family oriented amusement park with rides and attractions including stage shows, picnic areas, snack stands, a giant slide and 18 hole putt putt course.
• The Australian Shark and Ray Centre, which showcases a hands on activity where you can feed the sharks or rays while standing in the water
• Anna Bay Skateboard Park, located at Robinson Reserve, is a concrete paved park equipped with everything near and dear to a skateboarderâ??s heart.

• Nelson Head Lighthouse Cottage, offers tales of shipwrecks and wartime activities, magnificent panorama while sipping tea in the Inner Light Tea rooms while soaking up information of this historic lighthouse.
• Fighter World, showcases Australian Fighter fleet and its history with interactive hands-on activities in its museum-like atmosphere.
• Hunter Region Botanical Gardens, a botanical themed garden filled with Australian flora and endangered plants, gentle walking trails, and an outdoor café serving lunch or tea amongst the beauty of the gardens. Special events include fun with nature events for children and music.
• Water activities, fishing, diving, whale watching, and surfing are all possibilities on the crystal clear waters in Port Stephens.
• Port Stephens beaches offer hosts of activities from horseback riding, to riding a quad, as well as sunning and surfing
• Hunter Wetlands Centre, boasts a wildlife centre, walking trails, canoeing, bird watching, childrenâ??s playground, barbeque and picnic area.