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Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay walking track

Tomaree National Park

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Overview

This 5 km one-way walk from Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay in Tomaree National Park is ideal if you’re after an easy walk near beaches and cafes..

Where
Tomaree National Park in North Coast
Accessibility
No wheelchair access
Distance
5km one-way
Time suggested
1hr 30min - 2hrs 30min
Grade
Grade 3
What to
bring
Drinking water, hat, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, suitable clothing, snacks
Please note
  • The best spot to stop for a swim or snorkel is Fingal Bay Beach as it has lifeguards on patrol.
  • Many sections of the track are natural surface like rock platforms. 
  • Follow the wayfinding totems picturing the sea eagle to navigate your along the walk.

This short day walk from Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay is part of the longer Tomaree Coastal Walk experience, however this section is suitable for inexperienced walkers and families with kids.

You can start the 5 km walk from either Shoal Bay or Fingal Bay, then catch a bus or a taxi back to your starting point. If travelling in a group with 2 cars, you could arrange a car shuffle.

From Shoal Bay, park at Zenith Beach car park and follow the Tomaree Coastal Walk signage featuring the iconic totem of a white-bellied sea eagle. Begin your journey trekking south across the sandy shores of Zenith Beach while enjoying views of Tomaree Head Summit. Part of largest marine park in New South Wales, Zenith Beach is a great place to see birdlife and dolphins.

As you traverse around the back of Quarry Hill you might spot the resident echidnas on the hunt for ants. Listen out for wattlebirds and rare black glossy cockatoos in the bushland and forests here.  Although it's an open coastal walk you'll also enjoy the cool shade of smooth barked apple or angophora trees along the way.

If you happen to be walking in the cooler months, keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales between May and November.

As you approach Fingal Bay surf life saving club you’ll spot a café options for breakfast and lunch. Fingal Bay Beach is patrolled by lifeguards for most of the year a swim or a snorkel is the perfect way to end your hike.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Also see

  • Couple seated on the sand of Zenith Beach at sunrise, with a dramatic rocky headland in the background. Photo: John Spencer © DPE

    Zenith Beach

    Zenith Beach in Tomaree National Park is framed by rugged and rocky headlands at the base of Tomaree Head. It's a special place for conservation as it's part of the Port Stephens - Great Lakes Marine Park.

  • Wreck Beach walk, Tomaree National Park. Photo: John Spencer/OEH

    Wreck Beach walk

    The short walk to Wreck Beach offers a private alternative to the beaches of Port Stephens, with opportunities for picnicking and whale watching.

 

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A family walk a boardwalk section of Bouddi coastal walk, Bouddi National Park. Photo: John Spencer/OEH.

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