If this is Winter, bring it on. We’ve been continuously blessed with stunning days and beautiful ocean temps. Enjoy the beautiful weather here in Newcastle at Port Stephens with some of our suggestions for what to do in June.
Whale Watching
We have been blessed to have already spotted a number of whales off the coast of Newcastle as they venture North into warmer waters. They are close to the coast and seem to be quite playful in the water, putting on a show for all to see.
Whilst you can easily spot them from the shore in Newcastle, you can fully immerse yourself and get up close with many Whale Watching cruises to choose from out of Port Stephens.
Although you could spend all of your time wild life spotting at the moment, there is lots more happening to get involved in. See our top event picks for the month below.
Last Chance Cafe is an eclectic band who bring together styles from the 40’s, 50’s & 60’s, and a mix of alternate blues, smooth soul and New York lounge vibes.
Garrick Ohlsson owns the piano like few others, playing it with authority, humility, a sense of discovery and deep commitment. His program will traverse favourites from Debussy, Chopin and Liszt, as well as a new commission from Australian composer Thomas Misson.
Also hosted by Homegrown Markets, its Newcastle’s turn for the best of small local suppliers, in the heart of Newcastle CBD. Accessible from the light rail.
Saturday 10 June, 10am – 2pm
Corner of Watt St & Scott St, Newcastle
Hosted by Rydges Resort, the Festival will bring together the best of Hunter Valley’s local produce, superb wine and boutique beer coupled with great entertainment. Be apart of this event to celebrate all of the indulging gourmet delights this region has to offer.
Family friendly day with lots do for the kids – jumping castle, train rides, face painting and lots more.
Saturday 24 June, 11am
Rydges Resort, Hunter Valley
Directly opposite Shoal Bay, treat yourself with your closest gal pals (but yes, the boys are invited too!), and indulge in tea, coffee, cakes and slices, and maybe a glass of champagne or two.
Saturday 24 June, 2pm
Zenith Cafe, Shoal Bay
There is something to choose from in Newcastle or Port Stephens to fill the soul of every culture lover. We would love to have you stay with us when you visit. Call or email to book today!
In our humble opinion, the best place for water activities are Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay.
Just across the road from our Follo stays at No. 7 Shoalhaven, There is ample space for kids to run a muck and equal space to relax and feel unhurried by the day.
Coming to the bay for some family fun is a Follo favourite, and thankfully the community here are on the same ‘wave’ length with lots of things to do in and around shoal bay for couples and families.
An easy rental of some paddle or pedal boards as a morning or afternoon treat. Ranging from $25 for half hour to $60 for a full hour.
Stand-up paddel / pedal boarding in Shoal Bay
The summary:
Pedal boarding – A little bit of a leg work-out.
Paddle boarding – A little bit of an arm work-out.
Crystal Clear Water, make it a crystal clear Kayak.
You can now add full-time floating to you repertoire…
One of our favourite things to do while staying in a FOLLO is getting into a Clear Kayak. Not only do you get to experience the view above the tide, but you can also explore what’s down below. Watching the fish swim beneath you and sometimes seeing some other creatures living their best life – This is a really fun activity to do with the kids (or adults who want some play time) – but be prepared for some over-excitement and get ready to keep the Kayak nice and steady so you don’t join them under the sea!
For either of these, you can contact Rod@shoalbaysup.com.au to enquire about a weekend booking or tour. Best to book in advance so that you’re pedal/ paddle boards and kayaks are ready when you arrive.
Did you know there are over 140 bottlenose dolphins in Port Stephens?
These friendly locals are one of the most loved residents in the area and with sightings so often, it really makes life at the Bay feel pretty special.
While they go about their day living their playful lives, visitors are always eager to catch a glimpse of them in action.
Book a whale-watching cruise from May to November: Humpback whale season (this is during their annual migration season)
Looking for a private chartered cruise for something special? Look no further than Blue water sailing. Cruise around on a private Yatch to secluded locations in and around the Port Stephens area.
We can’t give you lots of options, but we can give you some tips on wasabi.
Whether you like it raw, sashimi-style, flash fried as part of a sushi roll or chopped up Poke style, eating raw fish is just about everywhere in Australia.
Pair it with a glass of Saki for the authentic Japanese experience or a glass of wine over dinner – it’s a flavourful eating experience that is honestly unlike anything else.
Right now, you’re probably asking yourself “Why are there no results for Sushi in Shoal Bay except on this website?”
Well, we have some good news and bad news. The bad news is, there is none in the Shoal Bay area… The Good news is – There is some in Nelson Bay and it’s about a 3.3km walk or a 7-minute drive from Shoal Bay.
So considering we can’t spoil you with sushi in Shoal Bay, here are some sushi etiquette tips to have you eating it like a Pro
So considering we can’t spoil you with sushi in Shoal Bay, here are some sushi etiquette tips to have you eating it like a Pro.
Always sit at the sushi bar if possible!
When eating nigiri sushi (rice topped with fish) or sushi rolls, use your hands, not your chopsticks – otherwise it will just fall apart. For sashimi, use chopsticks.
Important – Don’t drown the fish. A little soy sauce is fine, but don’t dip the sushi rice-side first as it will crumble into your sauce leaving you with a mess and no delicious sushi. Instead, flip the piece over and let the fish barely touch the liquid. Bite once. Sashimi, nigiri sushi, and maki rolls should be consumed in one bite if possible, two bites for a beginner.
Eat in order. Appreciating sushi means tasting the subtle flavours, the temperature, and texture. Start with sashimi, then sushi with rice, then end with the miso soup. Tip: Pickled ginger should be eaten only as a palate cleanser between bites.
As for what to do with the wasabi: Nigiri sushi already contains a bit of wasabi between the rice and fish; when eating sashimi, a little wasabi mixed into your soy sauce is okay.
For the only authentic Japanse Sushi in Port Stephens visit:
Tsuki Japanese 3/29 Stockton St, Nelson Bay NSW 2315
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