Shoal Bay: Beaches, Art and Trails at Tomaree Head
Accommodation in Shoal Bay
Discover Shoal Bay through its beaches, art and trails at Tomaree Head. Soft white sand and turquoise water define the beach, alongside the public Shoal Bay Art Trail, SUP rentals with an introductory lesson and walking trails in the surrounding area.
Beaches, art and coastal trails
Soft white sand meets turquoise water at Shoal Bay Beach. At one end of the beach are a lighthouse and Mount Tomaree. An easy walk to the northern end of the beach leads to a road that provides access to a lighthouse, a maritime museum and tea rooms. For a specific visit, it is advisable to check the opening hours and access arrangements for each destination in advance.
The Shoal Bay Art Trail starts just behind the Shoal Bay Boat Ramp and heads towards Tomaree Headland and the start of the Tomaree Coastal Walk. The beach and the art trail offer different experiences: the beach is defined by its sand, the colour of the water and its landscape features, while the trail offers access to public art and heads towards the headland and coastal walk. You can choose whether to focus on the beach or include an art trail in your plans.
SUP and an annual event in March
At Shoal Bay SUP, an introductory lesson for beginners is included in the rental fee when you hire a paddleboard. So the rental offer includes more than just the board hire. Check current availability before planning the activity.
A signature event takes place every March, combining local character with a coastal atmosphere. If you would like to plan your stay around this date, check the event dates in advance. The March event gives your trip a clear seasonal focus and can help inform your choice of travel dates.
Walks and history nearby
A 40-minute walk near Shoal Bay leads to Tomaree Summit and offers coastal views. Also nearby, a coastal walking trail runs from Zenith Beach via Wreck Beach and Box Beach to Fingal Bay. The routes offer different highlights: the Summit walk focuses on walking time and coastal views, while the coastal route takes in a succession of beaches and ends at Fingal Bay. Check current track conditions before setting out.
Gun emplacements from the Second World War are located at Tomaree Head. These emplacements and torpedo tubes once served to defend Australia's east coast. If you also choose destinations based on cultural and historical interests, they offer another way to understand Shoal Bay.
Discover more destinations: Warners Bay, East Maitland, Soldiers Point, Martinsville, Anna Bay, Cessnock, Nelson Bay, Maryville.
Go to the main travel overview: Newcastle.
