by Janelle (
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I like to participate in life rather than be a spectator. Music, dancing, theatre, travelling, food, cycling and walking are some of my passions. Writing is an enjoyable pastime that allows me to share my experiences.
Walk to the top of the headland (image JW)
Head on up to the top of
Tomaree Head, where your exertions will be rewarded with spectacular 360 views. The entrance to the 2.2km return walk is at the far end of Shoal Bay, where there are a couple of parking areas and toilet facilities nearby. The nearest shops for food and drink are at Shoal Bay and make sure you bring water.
Well maintained & sign posted (image JW)
The summit is 161 metres above sea level and is reached by a steep 1km trek upwards on paved pathways and metal walkways with many stairs. It is graded 5 for difficulty but can be accomplished within 90 minutes as long as you take care, especially as the path can be slippery when wet. The walking track is well signposted and maintained by NPWS as it is part of
Tomaree National Park.
Looking down on Zenith Beach (image JW)
Along the way, you get great views of Zenith Beach, which is part of Port Stephens Marine Park and a sanctuary zone where no fishing or collecting is permitted. From the north viewing platform on the summit, you look towards Hawks Nest, Myall Lakes, Yacaaba Head and Broughton Island.
Metal walkways (image JW)
You will certainly hear and may see a few different species of birds as well as reptiles like blue tongue lizards and snakes. In spring, colourful wildflowers are in bloom and from May to October, you can see the annual migration of whales go by.
The natural environment (image JW)
On the way down take a short diversion to inspect the gun emplacements of
Fort Tomaree and learn about the military history of the area.
WW2 Gun emplacements (image JW)
The entrance to Port Stephens and Yacaaba Head (image JW)
