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Fort Tomaree walk

Tomaree National Park

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Overview

Fort Tomaree walk is an easy walk that runs just below Tomaree Head Summit walk and takes you to the World War II gun emplacements, used in the defence of east coast Australia during World War II.

Where
Tomaree National Park in North Coast
Distance
2.5km return
Time suggested
1hr 30min - 2hrs
Grade
Grade 3
Please note

  • There are some steep sections and the pavement can become slippery when wet, so use caution when walking.
  • Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch or whalewatch
  • Zenith Beach is a sanctuary zone, meaning no collecting or fishing is permitted.

This easy walk on a paved track around the lower slopes of Tomaree Head brings you face-to-face with local military heritage – World War II gun emplacements, built in 1941 to defend the east coast of Australia. Learn about Fort Tomaree from interpretive signs, or take a guided discovery tour for even more detail.

A further track takes you up elevated walkways on Tomaree Head Summit walk, which offers breathtaking lookout views over Port Stephens and nature reserves like Cabbage Tree Island. Humpbacks migrate past here in winter and spring, so you’ll want to bring your camera for whale watching.

Finish your visit by relaxing on the lovely sands of beautiful Zenith Beach, near where the walk begins. Or make your way to the nearby picnic area; an idyllic spot to unwind underneath the shade of angophora trees.

Take a virtual tour of Fort Tomaree walk captured with Google Street View Trekker.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Also see

  • Coastal view from Tomaree Head summit walk. Photo: John Spencer © OEH

    Tomaree Head Summit walk

    Tomaree Head Summit walk offers a short but challenging hike and picturesque ocean views across Port Stephens and beyond. Enjoy a well-earned lunch at the summit on the bench by the lookout.

  • Visitors at the World War II gun emplacement at Fort Tomaree. Photo: J Spencer/OEH

    World War II gun emplacements

    Discover the military history of Port Stephens on a guided tour of the historic gun emplacements at Tomaree Head in Tomaree National Park on the north coast of NSW.

 

Gould's petrel immersive story

See the amazing journey of the Gould’s petrel come to life with our augmented reality immersive story. Enjoy this mobile experience at Tomaree National Park, or without leaving home.

A Gould's petrel chick, Cabbage Tree Island. Photo: John Spencer © DPIE

 

Download our app

The free NSW National Parks app lets you download maps and explore parks, things to do and places to stay—all without mobile reception.

Hand holding a phone with NSW National Parks app on screen. Photo: Branden Bodman/DPIE

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