Shoal Bay: Beach, Art and Coastal Walks

Soft white sand and turquoise water define Shoal Bay Beach. Public art, paths with coastal views and traces of coastal defence add further dimensions to the area. When planning your holiday, you can decide whether to spend most of your time at the beach or also include art, history and walks.

The beach and notable landmarks

At one end of the beach are a lighthouse and Mount Tomaree. Together with the pale sand and turquoise water, they shape the coastal landscape, though the beach, mountain and lighthouse need not be treated as a single destination. If you think of Shoal Bay primarily as a beach destination, this gives your trip planning a clear focus; the other paths and sights offer options for different interests during your holiday.

Art trail and paths by the water

The Shoal Bay Art Trail begins just behind the Shoal Bay Boat Ramp. This permanent public art trail leads towards Tomaree Headland and the start of the Tomaree Coastal Walk. It connects outdoor art with a way to explore the coastal paths. If you’re interested in art as well as spending time at the beach, the trail offers a distinct way to discover Shoal Bay.

An easy walk to the northern end of the beach leads to a road that provides access to a lighthouse, a marine museum and tea rooms. This adds other places to visit to the views of the beach and coast. You can include the walk and these places in the same day’s plans.

Nearby, a 40-minute walk leads to the Tomaree Summit and offers coastal views. Also nearby, a coastal walking track runs from Zenith Beach via Wreck Beach and Box Beach to Fingal Bay. These describe two different kinds of walking experiences: the summit walk is described by its duration and coastal views, while the coastal walking track is described by its succession of beaches and its destination.

Traces of coastal defence

Near Shoal Bay, there are gun emplacements from the Second World War at Tomaree Head. Gun emplacements and torpedo tubes were once used to defend Australia’s east coast. This historical perspective differs from a beach day or a hike: it focuses on the former use of these defence installations and gives a stay a historical dimension as well.

A March event and time on the water

Shoal Bay is also home to an event described as a signature event. It takes place every year in March and brings together local character and a coastal atmosphere. If you’d like to plan your trip around this date, check the specific event dates as part of your planning.

Another way to experience the coast is with Shoal Bay SUP: when you rent a paddleboard, an introductory lesson for beginners is included in the rental fee. If you plan to take this lesson, check availability in advance. This lets you treat an activity on the water and walks or hiking trails as different options when planning your trip.

Choose the right holiday apartment for your travel interests

When looking for a holiday apartment in Shoal Bay, it helps to first decide what you’d like to focus on: the beach, art and history, or paths with coastal views. Think about which of these you actually want to explore during your stay, and search for accommodation to match your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Dora Creek, Jesmond, East Maitland, Soldiers Point, Luskintyre, Lovedale, Adamstown, Charlestown.

For the broader travel overview: Newcastle.