Tomaree Mountain, High Country Travel Guide

4.9 (1185)

Hike to the summit for breathtaking 360° views of Port Stephens, WWII history, and whale watching opportunities. A must-see destination!

Hike to the summit of Tomaree Mountain for panoramic views of Port Stephens, Australia. This moderately challenging walk offers stunning coastal scenery and a glimpse into the area's WWII history.

A brief summary to Tomaree Mountain

Shoal Bay, New South Wales, 2315, AU
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tomaree Mountain.

Start your hike early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Wear sturdy shoes as some sections of the trail are steep and uneven.
Bring water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the climb.
Pack binoculars for whale watching between May and October.

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Explore Tomaree Mountain on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tomaree Mountain, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

To reach the Tomaree Mountain Summit Walk trailhead by car, head towards Shoal Bay. From the center of Shoal Bay, take Shoal Bay Road and follow it to the entrance of Tomaree National Park. Parking is available at the lower and upper Zenith Beach car parks, or along Shoal Bay Road. Parking is free, but arrive early as the area is busy on weekends and during summer.
Public Transport

For visitors using public transport, take a bus from Nelson Bay to Shoal Bay. Port Stephens Coaches operate regular services. Route 130 stops at many locations along the Tomaree Coastal Walk, including Shoal Bay. From the bus stop in Shoal Bay, walk approximately 1 km to the entrance of Tomaree National Park and the Tomaree Head Summit Walk trailhead. A single bus fare from Nelson Bay to Shoal Bay is around $2.50 - $4.00.
Walking

From Shoal Bay, follow Shoal Bay Road towards Tomaree National Park. The walk to the Tomaree Head Summit Walk trailhead is approximately 1 km from the center of Shoal Bay. Once inside the park, follow the signs for the Tomaree Head Summit Walk. The trail is well-marked and takes about 30-40 minutes to reach the summit.

Discover more about Tomaree Mountain

Tomaree Mountain, located in Tomaree National Park near Shoal Bay, offers a rewarding hike to its summit, 161 meters above the entrance to Port Stephens. The 2.2km return track provides unparalleled 360-degree views of the coastline, including Zenith Beach, Shoal Bay, and the distant islands of Cabbage Tree and Boondelbah.The walk is considered moderately challenging, with a mix of paved paths, stairs, and some steep sections. The trail winds through beautiful forests, offering glimpses of Shoal Bay along the way. The summit boasts several lookout points, providing spectacular views of the surrounding coastal region. Between May and October, keep an eye out for whales migrating along the east coast of Australia.Tomaree Head also holds historical significance as part of Australia's coastal defense system during World War II. Fort Tomaree, near the base of the mountain, features remnants of gun emplacements used to defend the east coast. Visitors can explore these historical sites and learn about the area's military past.Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking breathtaking views, the Tomaree Mountain Summit Walk is a must-do experience in Port Stephens.