Located at the southern end of the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, Ingenia Holidays Middle Rock is an ideal location for a long weekend getaway. Just a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney or a short half-hour drive from Newcastle Airport, this beachside holiday park offers fun for all the family.
With all the attractions Port Stephens has to offer right on its doorstep, you’ll be spoilt for choice of things to do. We’ve picked our favourites from the many amazing experiences on offer.
Dolphin and whale watching cruises
Port Stephens is known for its resident population of bottlenose dolphins, so a dolphin-watching cruise is a must. Sightings are guaranteed so there’s no risk of disappointment, and everyone from tiny tots to dear old pops will love it. Cruises depart from the marina in Nelson Bay, just a 10-minute drive from Ingenia Holidays Middle Rock. If you’re visiting between May and November, you can also spot giant humpback whales during their annual migration.
Sand boarding on Stockton Beach
There are more than 25 different beaches tucked into bays and coves around Port Stephens, but none more dramatic than Stockton Beach, home to the largest sand dunes in the southern hemisphere. Reaching up to 50-metres high, they offer an adrenalin-fuelled adventure if you’re brave enough to try your hand at sand boarding. Don’t worry, a slightly tamer tobogganing option is also available if you want to zoom down the dunes. Tours operate from Anna Bay, just 10 minutes from the park.
Sampling local flavours
It might not be the Hunter Valley, but foodies can still enjoy a spot of wine tasting. Enjoy a meet the winemaker experience at Tynan Wines in Salamander Bay or, if you prefer a good beer, try Murray’s Craft Brewing Co on the Wonganella Estate Winery in Bobs Farm. It’s also just 10 minutes from the park, but they offer a courtesy bus service on weekends, the perfect excuse to stay for dinner and taste their delicious slow-cooked BBQ fare.
Soaking up your natural surrounds
Tomaree National Park offers a range of different walking paths for those who love to stay active on holiday. Our top pick is the Tomaree Summit Walk at 2.2km return Allow 1.5-2 hours as there are some steep sections, but you will be rewarded with panoramic coastal views. If you want your sights with a little less effort involved, a five-minute drive up to Gan Gan Lookout offers incredible views of Nelson Bay.
Flights of fancy
For something completely different, try Fighter World in Williamtown. Perfect for history buffs and budding pilots, it is edutainment at its best. View a great collection of fighter planes of all ages and even climb into the cockpit of a Mirage jet.
All this is just the tip of the iceberg. There’s also surfing, snorkelling, koala sanctuaries, quad biking, shark and ray centres, camel rides on the beach and so much more.
Book your Ingenia Holidays Middle Rock long weekend here.
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