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Holiday houses in Nelson Bay

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Quick stats about holiday rentals in Nelson Bay

  • Total holiday rentals

    Explore 750 holiday rentals in Nelson Bay

  • Nightly prices starting at

    Nelson Bay holiday rentals start at $42 AUD per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 24,580 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly holiday rentals

    640 properties offer extra space and kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly accommodation

    Find 100 rentals that welcome pets

  • Holiday rentals with a pool

    180 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    90 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    630 of Nelson Bay holiday rentals include Wi-Fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Kitchen, Wifi and Pool across Nelson Bay rentals

  • 4.6 Average rating

    Nelson Bay stays receive an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 from guests

Top-rated holiday rentals in Nelson Bay

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Top Guest favourite
The living area features a comfortable sofa adorned with decorative cushions. A round coffee table sits atop a natural fiber area rug, while a tall plant adds a touch of greenery. Large glass doors invite natural light and provide views of the outdoor courtyard.
Apartment in Nelson Bay

Lautus Nelson Bay

Lautus - luxury in Latin. The perfect description of this beautiful space by the bay at stunning Nelson Bay. Centrally located within the Mantra Aqua Resort, Lautus offers a well appointed large courtyard for you to enjoy on a summers night. Guests are able to enjoy all that the Mantra has to offer with guest access to the communal bbq area with resort style solar heated pool. The town offers many cafes and restaurants all within a short stroll of the apartment. I hope to see you soon. Melissa

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A modern bathroom features a freestanding white bathtub positioned next to a large window, framing a view of lush greenery outside. A small wooden stand holds towels and plants, complementing the serene environment.
Guest suite in Nelson Bay

Romantic Oasis - Marina, Beaches, Coastal Walk

Relax in your own romantic oasis with a queen bedroom, private bathroom with freestanding bath and shower, a separate study/ studio with work area, and a kitchenette and laundry. Lounge in comfort in the spacious living room opening onto a large sunny deck overlooking the luscious native garden. Everything is provided for your comfort, including a light continental breakfast, coffee, tea and snacks, fluffy robes top quality bedding, sheets and towels. Beach chairs, umbrella and towels provided.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 146 reviews
Guest favourite
An outdoor entertainment area features comfortable seating and a modern layout, with views overlooking the bay. Large sliding doors provide seamless access to the interior space. Lush greenery and palm trees are visible in the surroundings, enhancing the tranquil setting.
Apartment in Nelson Bay

1 Blue Bay View Spectacular Views of the bay

Breathtaking views. No steps to get into the unit and no steps inside .. A few minutes’ walk to the beach, close proximity to CBD, shopping centre, marina and restaurants. Newly renovated by award winning quality builder and specialist interior designer. All Airbnb fees included in price. Immaculately clean and designed to take in the breathtakingly beautiful panoramic views of Nelson Bay. Blue Bay Views 1 (downstairs) and Blue Bay Views 2 (upstairs) are two private, separate Airbnb Units.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 313 reviews
Guest favourite
An expansive terrace embraces views of Salamander Bay and Boondabah Island. A sleek outdoor dining table is set against a backdrop of the tranquil water, dotted with boats. The sky is adorned with fluffy white clouds, enhancing the serene coastal atmosphere.
Guest suite in Corlette

Top floor guest suite

Enjoying sweeping views over Salamander Bay and out to Boondabah Island, this upstairs king bed guest suite is 300m from the beach. This suite is all brand new (2023 construction) and has open plan lounge and dining area, ensuite, walk-in robe and expansive terrace. Kitchen facilities include sink, coffee machine, kettle, toaster, fridge and microwave. Street parking is available out front. Centrally located 5 mins drive to Salamander Bay Shopping Centre and 5 mins to Nelson Bay Marina.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews
Guest favourite
A spacious lounge area is furnished with a comfortable sectional sofa and a television. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a balcony, providing sweeping views of the bay and coastline. Natural light fills the room, complemented by soft drapes and a round mirror on the wall.
Apartment in Nelson Bay

Shoal Bay Shores, modern beachfront unit + Wifi

Getaway from it all at this stunning 2 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom top floor apartment just steps from the crystal clear waters of Shoal Bay Beach. Enjoy the spectacular, uninterrupted views across the bay from the lounge room or balcony of this well-equipped property. The location couldn’t be better. With direct access to Shoal Bay beach, a 5 minute walk to Little Beach or a 12 minute walk to the shops, cafes and restaurants of Shoal Bay town, everything you need is at your fingertips.

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviews
Guest favourite
A comfortable living area is showcased with a large sectional sofa covered in soft cushions. Greenery is displayed on floating shelves, and a black mirror adds depth to the space. A coffee table is set in the center, enhancing the inviting environment.
Apartment in Nelson Bay

BEACH GETAWAY! Wifi, aircon, 12pm check in, CBD

200 metres from Nelson Bay for boutique shopping, cafes, restaurants, the marina and Nelson Bay beach. A great location where you can park the car and walk to everything. The unit has a balcony leading to open plan living and dining, smart tv and Netflix, kitchen with a cooktop, microwave, oven, fridge and dishwasher. 2 bedrooms, 1 queen bed, 2 single beds. 1 bathroom with shower, separate toilet. Internal laundry with washer+dryer. Parking for 2 cars. Linen and towels provided.

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 440 reviews
Guest favourite
A spacious balcony offers a relaxing outdoor area overlooking lush greenery and the bay. A glass table is surrounded by several chairs, with a cozy seating arrangement in the corner, creating an inviting space for enjoying fresh air and scenic views.
Apartment in Nelson Bay

5 min walk from the Marina

You won’t need a car when you stay at Sea Turtle, Sunset Towers Nelson Bay. Walk to the beach, award winning restaurants, cafes, bars, boutique shops and d’Albora Marina (approx. 400m from the unit), where dolphin watching cruises and the ferry departs and whale watching adventures (between mid-May and mid-November each year). Nelson Bay Golf Club is only 600m away. Please note that this listing is not appropriate for people with mobility challenges. Steep access and stairs.

4.86 out of 5 average rating, 202 reviews
Guest favourite
An outdoor seating area features modern grey couches, positioned under a shaded canopy. A wooden coffee table sits at the center, with coastal views of Fingal Bay and the beach in the background, showcasing a blend of sea and lush greenery.
Holiday home in Fingal Bay

Just a stroll across the road to Fingal beach!!

This unique place has a style of its own. Modern beach industrial, styled with love. Perfect for couples, families and friends offering one of the best amenities in Fingal Bay. Not only relaxing and peaceful but perfect for a few days away ...and then you will want to rebook for longer! This property is unique for its modern style, relaxed atmosphere and privileged views. Just try and buy -it won't let you down. Please note, the listing is the bottom level of the house only.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 253 reviews
Top Guest favourite
Lush greenery fringes the edge of a spacious yard, overlooking calm waters. A sailboat is visible in the distance, while the sun illuminates the scene against a backdrop of clear blue skies and gentle hills. The property features a glass railing enhancing the view.
Apartment in Nelson Bay

Poplars Apt - Stunning Views, Aircon, Wifi, Pool

This is a NON SMOKING Property! Underground Clearance 1.8m. Fresh linen and towels provided. Beds made for your arrival. Portable cot and high chair available. Unlimited free wifi. Smart TV to access your own streaming accounts. Enjoy magnificent water views from your private balcony in our delightful 2 bedroom unit. Short walk to Nelson Bay township, D’Albora Marina, restaurants, supermarket, shops and clubs. Note: Pool is closed during winter months.

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 534 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A balcony view overlooking Shoal Bay features blue water and distant hills. The scene includes boats on the water and a jetty in the foreground. Palm trees are visible along the shoreline, while cars line the road, adding to the lively atmosphere of the area.
Condo in Shoal Bay

"The View" Waterfront Apartment Shoal Bay

Early check in if available (otherwise 4pm), and 1pm late checkout. 15% discount for weekly bookings. "The View" Waterfront Apartment is a privately owned unit within the Ramada complex. Metres from cafes, restaurants, late night weekend entertainment & the beach. Sleeps 4 (1 King bed, 1 Double sofa bed) All linen provided. Reserved undercover parking, spa bath, kitchen & laundry, Cappuccino machine, Aircon, Free WiFi, Free Netflix, Non-Smoking.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 506 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A serene bedroom features a spacious bed adorned with soft linens and decorative pillows. Natural light filters through the window shutters, illuminating the wooden flooring. A bedside table holds a lamp and a small vase with flowers, enhancing the room's fresh and welcoming feel.
Cottage in Shoal Bay

Swimmers Rest, classic beach house, dog friendly

Swimmers Rest is a retro, colourful beach house harking back to childhood holidays by the sea, but with modern comfortable amenities. The house has two indoor living areas, three outdoor zones, high ceilings, lots of light & has been thoughtfully & sustainably decorated. It has easy access to stunning beaches and great bushwalks. Small dogs welcome, but check with us first. The emphasis at Swimmers’ Rest is to slow down, kick back and enjoy!

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A large window frames a scenic view of the ocean, with rolling waves and distant hills visible. A wooden table sits in the foreground, providing a spot to enjoy the surroundings. Green foliage and grass enhance the natural setting outside.
Apartment in Nelson Bay

Breathtaking views | Private retreat

This apartment is only 600m to Nelson Bay marina, shops, bars, cafes & restaurants. It has magnificent beach views and only a 2 min walk to Fly Point Beach. Living area flows to an undercover tiled terrace, then onto a grassed area. This is a perfect getaway, well equipped and beautifully presented. Linen, bath and beach towels provided and bed made. Portable cot available. Pet friendly. Weber Q bbq available.

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 339 reviews

Popular amenities for Nelson Bay holiday rentals

KitchenWifiPoolFree parking on premisesAir conditioning

Stay near Nelson Bay's top sights

Nelson Bay

26 locals recommend

Little Beach Reserve

33 locals recommend

Little Beach Boathouse

166 locals recommend

One Mile

37 locals recommend

Inner Light Tearooms

103 locals recommend

D'Albora Marinas

93 locals recommend

Other great holiday rentals in Nelson Bay

Top Guest favourite
Townhouse in Corlette

Scandi - Stay in style + 200m to the beach

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 28 reviews
Guest favourite
Home in Shoal Bay

Drift Shoal Bay

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 15 reviews
Top Guest favourite
Guest suite in Nelson Bay

Chic Studio with Courtyard Garden

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 64 reviews
Guest favourite
A spacious outdoor patio features a large wooden dining table surrounded by woven chairs. Two hanging chairs are suspended nearby. A shimmering pool can be seen in the background, set amidst greenery and a scenic hillside, under a soft sunset glow.
Home in Nelson Bay

Spacious coastal retreat with pool

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 76 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A bright and airy living area features a comfortable sectional sofa and a round coffee table with snacks. Large windows invite natural light and provide views of the ocean and green reserve. A smart TV is mounted on the wall, enhancing the modern aesthetic.
Guesthouse in Nelson Bay

Ocean view + walk to beach, town & cafés - 2BR

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 43 reviews
Top Guest favourite
Home in Corlette

Whispering Sands Waters Edge- Corlette

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 83 reviews
Guest favourite
An open-plan living area features a spacious white sofa arranged around a circular coffee table. A large window allows natural light to fill the space, complemented by a ceiling fan above. The kitchen area showcases modern appliances and a wooden dining table.
Home in Nelson Bay

Castaway @ Nelson Bay

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 99 reviews
Top Guest favourite
Apartment in Nelson Bay

Best view in Nelson Bay - The Quarterdeck 3

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 80 reviews

When is the best time to visit Nelson Bay?

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the best places to stay in Nelson Bay?

    Stay near the marina area for easy access to cafes, waterfront activities, and local shops, or choose tranquil neighborhoods around Little Beach for relaxed mornings by the sea. Areas close to Shoal Bay are frequently suggested for scenic water views and proximity to sandy beaches.

  • What are the best things to do in Nelson Bay with kids?

    Explore interactive marine exhibits, enjoy dolphin-watching cruises, or paddle along calm bay waters by kayak. Family-friendly beaches around Nelson Bay also invite sandcastle building, swimming, and relaxed picnics.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Nelson Bay?

    Nelson Bay has boat tours for dolphin and whale watching, paths through Tomaree National Park, and waterfront dining with fresh local seafood. Snorkeling at Fly Point and browsing artisan shops near the marina are often recommended.

  • How is the weather in Nelson Bay?

    Nelson Bay has warm summers around 65-85°F (18-29°C) and mild winters near 44-67°F (7-19°C). Rainfall is spread throughout the year, so a light rain jacket may be useful even in the warmer months.

  • When is the best time to visit Nelson Bay?

    Late spring and early autumn are frequently suggested for mild weather and fewer crowds, with temperatures ranging from 58-79°F (15-26°C). Summer draws visitors for water activities, while winter is quieter but still pleasant for hiking and coastal walks.

  • What are the best places to visit in Nelson Bay?

    Explore Tomaree Head summit for panoramic views, wander the shops and cafes near the marina, or spend a relaxed afternoon at Little Beach. The local markets around town are also popular for crafts and food.

  • What are some hiking trails in Nelson Bay?

    Tomaree Head Summit Walk is often recommended for sweeping coastline views, while Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay offers gentle trails along the sea. The bush tracks through Tomaree National Park feature native plants and frequent bird sightings.

  • What are some family activities we can do in Nelson Bay?

    Families enjoy dolphin watching cruises, snorkeling at Fly Point, and picnics at family-friendly beaches around the bay. Kids often like adventure playgrounds and local wildlife experiences in the parklands.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas from Nelson Bay?

    Explore neighboring villages known for artisan markets, visit local vineyards for tasting experiences, or hike in nearby nature reserves filled with native wildlife. Sandy beaches and lookout points around the Port Stephens region are also frequently suggested.

  • Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Nelson Bay?

    Many stays in Nelson Bay welcome pets, particularly in areas close to walking paths and coastal parks. Checking for pet-friendly features when booking ensures a comfortable visit for travelers with animals.

  • What are some local tips for visiting Nelson Bay?

    Pack layers as coastal weather can shift quickly, and bring binoculars for spotting dolphins or migrating whales. Consider exploring early in the morning for quieter beaches, or join a guided tour to learn about local marine life and history.

  • What is Nelson Bay known for?

    Nelson Bay is known for its dolphin and whale watching, scenic bays and headlands, and a relaxed coastal vibe. The area has accessible beaches, bushwalking trails, and thriving local seafood.

  • What are the best hidden gems to explore in Nelson Bay?

    Explore the rock pools along lesser-known stretches of coastline, stroll through tranquil tracks in Tomaree National Park, or visit Fly Point for snorkeling with diverse marine life. Locally run cafes tucked away from the main strip are also favorite finds.

  • What are the best foods to try in Nelson Bay?

    Seafood is often featured, with locally caught oysters, prawns, and fish a highlight. Many travelers enjoy relaxed waterfront dining, as well as baked treats from nearby cafes and sweet seasonal fruit from local markets.

  • What should I bring for a trip to Nelson Bay?

    Bring layers for changing coastal weather, a hat and sunscreen for time outdoors, comfortable walking shoes, and swimwear for water activities. A light rain jacket and reusable water bottle are also practical.

  • What is the nightlife in Nelson Bay like?

    Nelson Bay has casual bars, live music venues, and waterfront eateries where travelers mingle over shared dishes. Expect relaxed evenings, frequent acoustic sessions, and outdoor terraces for enjoying mild weather.

  • What are the most popular events or festivals in Nelson Bay?

    Annual food and wine festivals are frequently suggested during warmer months, while local markets bring in artisan stalls on weekends. Seasonal events often celebrate marine life, including whale migration and community coastal cleanups.

  • Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Nelson Bay?

    Nelson Bay has a range of family-friendly rentals, including homes with kitchens and open living spaces near beaches or parks. Filtering for amenities like high chairs, cot availability, and enclosed yards can help ensure a relaxed stay with children.

All about Nelson Bay

The largest town in the Port Stephens area, an hour’s drive north of Newcastle, buzzy Nelson Bay is a great place to base yourself to explore the delights of this spectacular coastal region surrounding a large natural harbour. From dolphin watching and sunset cruises that depart from Nelson Bay’s d’Albora Marina to working your way around the town’s cafes and restaurants, there’s no lack of fun things to do here.

On the northern edge of town, Fly Point boasts great snorkelling and scuba diving directly offshore. A five-minute drive east of Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay has a protected beach beloved by families. Further east, Tomaree National Park has walking trails and views. Zenith Beach is the first of three stunning beaches carved out of the coastline south of Tomaree Head, with the giant, shifting sand dunes of Stockton Beach to the south offering more opportunities for outdoor adventure within easy reach of Nelson Bay.

What are the top things to do in Nelson Bay?

Dolphins

More than 100 dolphins live in the pristine blue waters of the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park, with dolphin-watching cruises departing year-round from the d’Albora Marina.

Tomaree Head

Part of Tomaree National Park, Tomaree Head (4.5 kilometres east of Nelson Bay) rises 162 metres above the sea, with its forested peak boasting some of the most superb views of the New South Wales coastline. Enjoy them on the 2.2-kilometre-return Tomaree Head Summit Walk. Also on the headland, the 2.5-kilometre-return Fort Tomaree Walk takes you to the World War II gun emplacements, used in the defence of Australia’s east coast during World War II. Keep your eyes peeled for koalas in the trees en route.

Stockton Beach

Stretching from the southern fringe of Port Stephens down to Newcastle in the south, Stockton Beach’s sand dunes are the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Part of the Worimi Conservation Lands, this incredible natural landscape is culturally significant to the Worimi people, which you can learn more about on an Aboriginal-guided quad biking tour. Four-wheel driving, sandboarding, and fishing adventures are also popular at Stockton.

Destinations to explore