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Our top choices for Shoal Bay hotels

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay
4.0 star property
Shoal Bay
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (2103)
"Great area"
Australia
Steve J
$164 nightly
The price is $181
Jan 26 - Jan 27, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay

Bannisters Port Stephens

Bannisters Port Stephens
4.0 star property
Soldiers Point
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (322)
"A beautiful hotel, lovely staff and the food options were super too."
United Kingdom
Helen
$201 nightly
The price is $221
Jan 27 - Jan 28, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Bannisters Port Stephens

Anchorage Port Stephens

Anchorage Port Stephens
4.0 star property
Corlette
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1000)
"Wonderful trip to The Anchorage. Room, facilities, dinner, breakfast. Everything was amazing!! "
Australia
Simone
$247 nightly
The price is $271
Jan 26 - Jan 27, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Anchorage Port Stephens

Karuah Motor Inn

Karuah Motor Inn
3.0 star property
Karuah
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (457)
"Comfortable, clean room and reasonably priced. "
Australia
Steve
$103 nightly
The price is $113
Jan 5 - Jan 6, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Karuah Motor Inn

BIG4 Karuah Jetty Holiday Park

BIG4 Karuah Jetty Holiday Park
3.5 star property
Karuah
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (160)
"Always a pleasure to return to Karuha Big 4."
Australia
Karren
$165 nightly
The price is $165
Jan 27 - Jan 28, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
BIG4 Karuah Jetty Holiday Park

Tea Gardens Hotel

Tea Gardens Hotel
3.0 star property
Tea Gardens
7.8 out of 10, Good, (210)
"Such a great stay - stunning location, comfortable, clean, stylish and friendly. Would highly recommend!"
Australia
Samantha
$102 nightly
The price is $113
Jan 12 - Jan 13, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Tea Gardens Hotel

Hotel Nelson

Hotel Nelson
4.0 star property
Nelson Bay
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1000)
"The room was clean and spacious and the location is great, very close to the harbor."
United States
Alexander
$172 nightly
The price is $172
Jan 27 - Jan 28, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Nelson

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort
4.5 star property
Salamander Bay
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2533)
"Clean room, friendly staff, the pool was great and the resort had good amenities."
Australia
Elizabeth
$259 nightly
The price is $259
Jan 27 - Jan 28, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort

Lemon Tree Passage Motel

Lemon Tree Passage Motel
3.0 star property
Lemon Tree Passage
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (232)
"Communication with Jason was excellent. Easiest check in and out. 2 min walk from our room to the bowling club. Comfortable bed and pillows. Great place to stay"
Australia
Atalee
$183 nightly
The price is $183
Jan 4 - Jan 5, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Lemon Tree Passage Motel

Tea Gardens Motel

Tea Gardens Motel
3.5 star property
Tea Gardens
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (405)
"We found the motel clean and the staff very friendly."
Australia
Geoffrey
$106 nightly
The price is $118
Jan 18 - Jan 19, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Tea Gardens Motel

Peninsula Nelson Bay Motel and Serviced Apartments

Peninsula Nelson Bay Motel and Serviced Apartments
4.0 star property
Nelson Bay
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1001)
"Lovely place every thing was fine I would stay there again "
Australia
Carmen
$102 nightly
The price is $113
Jan 12 - Jan 13, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Peninsula Nelson Bay Motel and Serviced Apartments

Karuah Riverside Motel

Karuah Riverside Motel
3.5 star property
Karuah
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (329)
"We stay there every year and have always been satified"
Australia
Maureen
$96 nightly
The price is $107
Jan 11 - Jan 12, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Karuah Riverside Motel

Seabreeze Hotel

Seabreeze Hotel
3.0 star property
Nelson Bay
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (409)
"Stopped in at the Seabreeze Nelson Bay for a night - great pub dinner, watched the footy on the screen, and had a great sleep in the spacious rooms upstairs… Staff are super nice and friendly.. Would book again for sure…!"
Australia
Libby
$162 nightly
The price is $180
Jan 19 - Jan 20, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Seabreeze Hotel

Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach

Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach
2.5 star property
One Mile
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (476)
"Perfect location"
Australia
Lisa
$175 nightly
The price is $175
Jan 26 - Jan 27, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach

Club Wyndham Port Stephens

Club Wyndham Port Stephens
2.0 star property
Salamander Bay
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (15)
"Plenty of shopping and very picturesque"
Australia
Gary
$249 nightly
The price is $274
Jan 8 - Jan 9, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Club Wyndham Port Stephens

Karuah Gardens Motel

Karuah Gardens Motel
3.0 star property
Karuah
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (107)
"Very quiet spacious room comfortable bed and lovely hot shower. Well placed off the road for a good stopover travelling north or south on the Pacific highway "
Australia
Anne
$96 nightly
The price is $107
Jan 11 - Jan 12, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Karuah Gardens Motel

Corlette Palms Motor Inn

Corlette Palms Motor Inn
3.0 star property
Corlette
7.2 out of 10, Good, (393)
"Nice headland and park walk nearby"
Australia
Tim
$88 nightly
The price is $97
Jan 27 - Jan 28, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Corlette Palms Motor Inn

Mantra Nelson Bay

Mantra Nelson Bay
4.0 star property
Nelson Bay
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1561)
"Stay was very pleasant. "
Australia
Abhishek
$244 nightly
The price is $268
Jan 26 - Jan 27, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Mantra Nelson Bay

Reflections Hawks Nest - Holiday Park

Reflections Hawks Nest - Holiday Park
3.0 star property
Hawks Nest
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (45)
"Very friendly staff"
Australia
james
$254 nightly
The price is $254
Jan 8 - Jan 9, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Reflections Hawks Nest - Holiday Park

Marina Resort

Marina Resort
4.0 star property
Nelson Bay
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1000)
"Recently renovated and reopened, lovely stay"
Australia
lisa
$205 nightly
The price is $226
Jan 27 - Jan 28, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Marina Resort
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Stay near popular Shoal Bay attractions

Learn more about Shoal Bay

Pristine white sand meets turquoise waters at Shoal Bay Beach, where snorkeling reveals colorful 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.

Shoal Bay

Top Shoal Bay Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in Shoal Bay

Hotels in Shoal Bay with star-rating

Find out more about Shoal Bay

Top reasons to visit Shoal Bay

  • Stunning Beaches: Shoal Bay boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like golfing, scenic walks, and exploring nearby reserves, ideal for nature lovers.
  • Charming Atmosphere: The friendly local vibe and peaceful surroundings make it perfect for relaxation.
  • Historic Lighthouse: Visit the iconic lighthouse for breathtaking views and a touch of history.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming bed & breakfasts to beachfront motels, catering to all travelers.

Find great hotels near Shoal Bay

Discover the perfect accommodation in Shoal Bay, New South Wales, where a variety of lodging options await you, from charming bed & breakfasts to convenient motels. Whether you're seeking a family getaway, a romantic escape, or an adventurous vacation, you'll find hotels equipped with essential amenities like pools and beach access. Experience the beauty of Port Stephens while enjoying a comfortable stay in this stunning coastal destination.

  • The Landmark Resort Nelson Bay: Experience family-friendly fun at The Landmark Resort Nelson Bay, a 4-star hotel located a short distance from Shoal Bay. This resort embraces a golf-themed vacation, perfect for avid golfers and families alike. Guests can enjoy golfing experiences on-site, while children can partake in amenities such as an Arcade Game Room and highchairs. The spacious accommodations and welcoming atmosphere make this a prime choice for those seeking both recreation and relaxation during their stay.
  • Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites: Oaks Nelson Bay Lure Suites offers a blend of adventure and leisure, making it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts. Situated just two miles from Shoal Bay, this 4-star property features an array of sports and recreational activities, including parasailing, surfing, and golf lessons nearby. With modern entertainment options like flat-screen TVs and DVD players in the rooms, guests can unwind after a day of excitement. The nearby city center and whale-watching opportunities add to the allure of this vibrant accommodation.
  • Hotel Nelson: Tailored for business travelers and adventure lovers, Hotel Nelson is a 4-star motel located conveniently close to Shoal Bay. This property features comprehensive business amenities, including a conference center and meeting rooms, making it suitable for corporate visits. For those looking for adventure, guests can enjoy on-site personal watercraft rentals, kayaking, and more. With a focus on both productivity and recreation, Hotel Nelson ensures a balanced experience for every guest.

Where to stay near Shoal Bay

Discover the charm of Shoal Bay, New South Wales, where stunning beaches and breathtaking scenery await. This suburb is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking relaxation and outdoor adventures. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you explore the beautiful coastline, indulge in beach views, and experience the friendly local vibe. Nearby attractions offer a mix of romantic and recreational opportunities, making Shoal Bay the ideal getaway for anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.

  • Nelson Bay: Located a mere 2 miles from Shoal Bay, Nelson Bay is a vibrant suburb known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. Visitors flock here for a mix of relaxation and adventure, especially during peak seasons in September and December to January. Enjoy a day on the beach, take in the picturesque scenery, or tee off at one of the local golf courses. The bustling shopping center offers a variety of dining and retail options, making it a perfect spot for both leisure and entertainment.
  • Fingal Bay: A charming suburb just 2 miles away from Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its beautiful beaches and scenic hiking trails. The area attracts visitors mainly during the same peak months as Nelson Bay, offering a blend of natural beauty and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a day in the sun or explore the local wildlife, Fingal Bay provides ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Don’t miss the chance to check out the community vibe and local events that occur throughout the year.
  • One Mile: Situated 5 miles from Shoal Bay, One Mile is a delightful suburb that offers a family-oriented atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Visitors are drawn to One Mile for its outdoor activities, including golf and shopping. The area tends to have steady visitor numbers, with peaks in September and December to January. Families will appreciate the local parks and safe beach areas, making it an ideal destination for a memorable day out. With plenty of amenities nearby, One Mile is perfect for those seeking a mix of relaxation and family fun.

Things to do near Shoal Bay

Shoal Bay, New South Wales, offers a perfect outdoor getaway with stunning ocean views and peaceful beaches. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golfing at local courses, exploring shopping centers, and taking fantastic scenic walks. It's an ideal destination for family vacations, combining relaxation with opportunities for adventure in a picturesque coastal setting.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Salamander Bay Square, located 4 miles from Shoal Bay, featuring a variety of shops, entertainment, and family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, you can explore larger shopping centers in nearby Port Stephens for even more choices.

Recreation

At the Nelson Bay Golf Club, you can enjoy a scenic round of golf surrounded by natural beauty, perfect for both relaxation and recreation. For a tranquil escape, Pelican Park and Myall Park offer serene settings to unwind, with beautiful landscapes ideal for leisurely strolls and rejuvenating moments in nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of tobogganing at Toboggan Hill Park, located 4 miles from Shoal Bay, perfect for family fun and adventure. For breathtaking views, hike the Tomaree Head trail, only 1 mile away, offering stunning scenery and outdoor excitement. For a longer adventure, explore the Bathers Way Trailhead, 29 miles from town.

Nightlife

For a fun night out, visit Salamander Super Strike, an arcade adventure zone just 4 miles from Shoal Bay. If you're in the mood for culture, catch a show at the Newcastle Civic Theater, located 27 miles away, offering a romantic and entertaining atmosphere for all ages.

*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 for lower accommodation rates. Opt for free activities like Dutchmans Beach and Tomaree National Park, and use public transport such as buses or bicycles to get around. Booking your hotel and flights together through Expedia can yield additional savings, especially if you join their One Key membership for exclusive discounts. Remember, staying on a Wednesday is cheaper than Saturday, so plan accordingly for the best deals.

  • 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 lets you customize your travel preferences by setting your budget and choosing your desired location, among other options. You can sort your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the ability to narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Shoal Bay hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near Shoal Bay

Shoal Bay, New South Wales, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, offering stunning scenery and adventure. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful Shoal Bay Beach, explore the nearby reserves, and visit the historic lighthouse. This charming destination caters to those seeking relaxation and excitement, making it an ideal spot for a memorable vacation filled with sun, sand, and nature.

  • Dutchmans Beach: Experience the stunning coastal scenery and relax on the soft sands of Dutchmans Beach, located just 2 miles from Shoal Bay. This serene spot offers a perfect beach vibe for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a picnic with family and friends.
  • d'Albora Marinas Nelson Bay: Dive into adventure at d'Albora Marinas, also 2 miles away. This vibrant marina boasts outdoor activities, including boating and fishing, while providing a lively atmosphere perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.
  • Nelson Head Lighthouse: Immerse yourself in the rich history at Nelson Head Lighthouse, located just 1 mile from Shoal Bay. This iconic landmark offers cultural insights and breathtaking views of the coastline, making it a must-visit for history buffs.

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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

When planning your visit to Shoal Bay, New South Wales, the primary airport to consider is Newcastle Airport (NTL-Williamtown), situated approximately 20 miles away. Nearby hotel options include the Holiday Inn Express Newcastle by IHG, Rydges Newcastle, and Crystalbrook Kingsley, all rated at 4.5 stars and within 10 miles of the airport. These hotels offer convenient access to transport services, making it easy to reach Shoal Bay. Whether you prefer a short drive or shuttle service, you'll find options to ensure a smooth transition from the airport to your accommodation and onward to the stunning beaches and attractions of 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, which runs parallel to the beach and offers direct access to its calm waters and sand.

This main thoroughfare is where you'll find the majority of accommodations, from apartments with water views to resorts. It's the central point for dining and activities, with several restaurants and cafes clustered around the area leading to the Shoal Bay Country Club and the jetty. The road also provides easy access to the walking paths that lead to Tomaree Head Summit. This location is ideal for families looking for convenience and direct beach access.

For couples seeking a more secluded and quiet experience, the eastern end of Shoal Bay, closer to Tomaree National Park, offers a more intimate setting. Accommodations here are often surrounded by natural bushland, providing a peaceful retreat while still being a short walk or drive from the main Shoal Bay Road amenities.
What are the best hotels in Shoal Bay that travelers recommend?
For highly recommended hotels 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 frequently praised by guests. Its rooms are described as spacious and clean, while the location is consistently rated as great and amazing. Travelers also highlight the helpful and lovely staff, and the excellent and good facilities, which include multiple pools, an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, and a children's pool. The resort is conveniently located near Shoal Bay Beach, Tomaree National Park, and Mount Tomaree.
What are the best family hotels in Shoal Bay?
For a fantastic family stay in Shoal Bay, consider the Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay.

This 4-star resort, with an 8.2 rating, is highly praised by families for its exceptional facilities. Guests frequently highlight the spacious and clean rooms, as well as the excellent amenities, which include multiple pools, both indoor and outdoor, and dedicated children's pools with sun loungers. The resort is conveniently located near Shoal Bay Beach, just a mile away, and offers easy access to Tomaree National Park and Mount Tomaree for outdoor adventures. The helpful and lovely staff also contribute to a memorable family experience.
What are the best spa hotels in Shoal Bay?
For a highly-rated spa hotel in Shoal Bay, consider the Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay.

This 4-star resort, with a strong 8.2 rating, offers an extensive spa experience, including manicures and pedicures. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, including an outdoor pool with sun loungers, an indoor pool, and a children's pool. The property has undertaken recent renovations to its pool facilities. Its location is frequently praised as amazing, and it's conveniently situated near Shoal Bay Beach, Mount Tomaree, and Zenith Beach. The spacious and clean rooms, along with helpful and lovely staff, contribute to an excellent guest experience.
When is the best time to go to Shoal Bay?
The best time to visit Shoal Bay for pleasant weather and fewer crowds is during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May).

During spring, the weather is mild and sunny, great for outdoor activities like hiking and swimming. The water is warming up, and the natural scenery, particularly the wildflowers, is at its most appealing. This period is ideal for couples looking for a relaxed getaway without the peak season bustle.

Autumn also offers comfortable temperatures and appealing conditions for exploring Shoal Bay. The ocean remains warm enough for water sports, and the surrounding bushland is lush.
Where can I find the best nightlife in Shoal Bay?
Shoal Bay offers a relaxed nightlife experience, primarily centered around its waterfront locations.

The area directly facing Shoal Bay Beach has several venues that transform from restaurants into bars in the evening. You'll find establishments offering cocktails, wine, and beer, many with outdoor seating that provides views of the bay. These spots often feature live, acoustic music on weekends and during peak season.

Further along the main road, you'll find a few pubs that cater to a more casual crowd. These typically offer standard pub fare, a selection of beers on tap, and can be a good option for a laid-back evening.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 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 Shoal Bay hotel booking with Expedia?
With Expedia, you earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible Shoal Bay hotel bookings for every dollar you spend – just join our One Key™ travel rewards program to get started. It's free to join, and you'll unlock our lowest Member Prices as soon as you're signed in. On top of this, you could also save significantly by bundling your hotel and flights together on Expedia.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.
How much is the nightly rate at a Shoal Bay hotel?
Prices for hotels in Shoal Bay often vary, but you can find a great deal from $97 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 the cheapest rate.

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