Find hotels in The Bight from £50

The best area to stay in The Bight is the main coastal stretch, particularly around the towns of Port Stephens and Jervis Bay.Port Stephens, often called the "Dolphin Capital of Australia," offers a mix of stunning beaches, calm bays, and a relaxed atmosphere. The main areas within Port Stephens, such as Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay, are top. Nelson Bay is the central hub, with a marina, a good selection of restaurants, and shops along Stockton Street. Shoal Bay, a bit further east, is known for its beautiful white sand beach and the iconic Tomaree Head Summit Walk, offering panoramic views.Families will find Port Stephens an excellent choice. The calm, shallow waters of Bagnalls Beach and Dutchmans Beach are ideal for children, and there are plenty of family-friendly activities like dolphin watching cruises departing from Nelson Bay. The area also has many holiday parks and resorts with facilities designed for families, including swimming pools and play areas.Jervis Bay, a little further south, is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, particularly Hyams Beach, which holds a Guinness World Record for the whitest sand in the world. The towns of Huskisson and Vincentia are popular choices for accommodation. Huskisson has a charming main street, Owen Street, with cafes, restaurants, and whale watching tour operators. Vincentia offers more residential options and direct access to many of the bay's beautiful beaches.Couples looking for a romantic escape will appreciate Jervis Bay. The secluded coves and clear waters are great for snorkelling, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the beach. Hotels and boutique accommodations in Huskisson and Vincentia often offer rooms with bay views, providing a tranquil setting for a getaway.

The best time to go to The Bight is during the Australian winter, from June to September, which coincides with the annual whale migration.During these months, you'll have the best chance of spotting Southern Right Whales as they come to the sheltered waters of The Bight to calve and nurse their young. The Nullarbor Cliffs provide excellent viewpoints for land-based whale watching, particularly around the Head of the Bight viewing platform.For those interested in seeing the whales, this period offers the most reliable sightings and generally cooler, more comfortable temperatures for exploring the coastal areas.