
Wreck Beach walk

Park alerts
Tomaree National Park
1 current alert · Checked 15 Oct 2026, 1:05 am
- Elsewhere in the parkClosed areas
Lighthouse Keepers' Cottages Ruins site closed
The Lighthouse Keepers' Cottages Ruins site is closed to pedestrian access for public safety reasons. Please do not enter the site under any circumstances.
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact the local office.
About
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to soak up the serene marine splendour of Port Stephens, take this short walk to Wreck Beach - tucked away behind the houses at Shoal Bay and visible from the majestic lookout at Tomaree Head summit.
From Verona Road, follow the track uphill and onto the fire trail which eventually takes you onto Wreck Beach walk. Walking through this lush coastal angophora forest leads onto a small cove, with beautiful sand and open views of the ocean, which is perfect for seasonal whale watching.
Enjoy a walk barefoot along the beach as the water laps at your feet. When you’re finished, settle down in a relaxing picnic spot and enjoy the solitude of one Port Stephens’ best kept secrets.
If you feel like getting in the water then your best option is to drive five minutes over to Box Beach; a better swimming spot with great facilities.
The walk at a glance
Tomaree National Park · North Coast
The short walk to Wreck Beach offers a private alternative to the beaches of Port Stephens, with opportunities for picnicking and whale watching.
- Difficulty
- Grade 4 · Hard
- Distance
- 2km return
- Time
- 30min - 1hr
What to bring
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Drinking water
Plan your walk
Access, facilities and practical details.
Frequently asked questions
6 questionsNearby places
Reviews & Ratings
Revital Youthspan
It's a good walk and made easier with the new board walk that probably needs rails on it in some places. The beach itself is isolated and has quite a strong undertoe which can be challenging for novice swimmers so take care. The views to the islands make for good photos and a nice place to just relax
Ray Cook
Easy walk, along well maintained trail..with new elevated boardwalk, over the last steep section..very good..!
Michael Surname
Great spot for sun baking but should not use a creek for the walk ways.
Iqtidar Ahmed
New path only in second half, beach is quite dangerous at higher tide
Amelia Walton
Nice short walk to a beautiful beach. Parking can be tricky and the walk is a bit rough. People before clearly understand and have put a rope to help up the steep part. Time your visit for low tide to see the cave. High tide normally has some rougher waves.
Get in touch
Website
Visit websiteAnna Bay office
02 4984 8200npws.huntercoast@environment.nsw.gov.au4154 Nelson Bay Road, Anna Bay, NSW 2316
Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm
Where you'll be
Verona Road
Shoal Bay NSW 2315









