WITH the Greater Sydney area still in lockdown, Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer is putting the call out to locals from the Hunter and beyond to head to Port Stephens for a covid-safe weekend.

Mr Palmer said that while Port Stephens is traditionally a summer destination, there is still plenty to do during the cooler months.

“Port Stephens is an easy drive for Hunter locals and with Sydney in lockdown, it is a great option for a day trip or weekend stay.

“Most of our neighbours throughout the Hunter can finish work, pack a bag and be here in time for dinner.

“Our local businesses have their covid-safe plans in place and are ready to welcome visitors.

“Whether you are up for an adventure, are bringing the family or need a few days away with your partner to just chill out, Port Stephens is perfect for a short break.

“With Dine and Discover vouchers extended until the end of August, there are plenty of budget friendly ideas to keep everyone busy.”

Here are Mr Palmer’s top ten covid-safe things to do in Port Stephens this weekend.

For adventurers

10. Got a 4WD? Get yourself a beach permit and head to Birubi Beach.

Pack a picnic, a beanie and your camera.

The rolling dunes are spectacular and the drive from Birubi Beach to Stockton Beach is a great way to fill in the day.

Especially if you stop along the way to check out Tin City, a game of beach cricket or to stretch your legs with a walk over the dunes.

9. If you don’t have a 4WD but still want to experience the dunes, there are plenty of options – 4WD tours, camel rides, sandboarding or quad bikes.

Head to the visitor information centre at Nelson Bay or jump online to find out all the options.

8. Feeling brave? There are plenty of scuba diving schools ready to explore the Port Stephens Marine Park and the upside is there is no wind chill under water!

For families

7. Make the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary your base for the weekend in one of the awesome glamping tents.

Meet the local resident koalas, walk the Newcastle Airport skywalk and learn all about our favourite Aussie animal.

If you want more wildlife encounters, drop into Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters and the amazing Oakvale Wildlife Park.

6. Put on your sneakers and head to Tanilba Bay to see if you can spot any koalas in the wild. There is a fantastic walk along the waterfront and this is known koala habitat.

Check out the Tilligerry Habitat website for all the details.

5. Grab the camera and head to Boat Harbour for a bit of whale watching.

There is some climbing over rocks involved, so sturdy shoes and a jacket are a must.

For couples

4. Grab your golf clubs for a leisurely 18 holes or a visit to the driving range.

There are plenty of golfing options available for all levels of ability.

3. Have a long lunch or dinner.

There are plenty of waterfront options available but if you prefer a riverside option head for Raymond Terrace or Karuah.

If a cosy country pub is more your scene, then Hinton is the place for you.

2. Walk the waterfront. Start at Apex Park in Nelson Bay and follow the footpath west over the hill.

There is a footpath pretty much the whole way to the Anchorage, when you get there you can reward yourself with a drink or a bite to eat before tackling the return journey.

If you arrive at Apex Park between 1pm and 3pm, kick back and enjoy the live music.

For everyone

1. Head through Shoal Bay and take on the Tomaree Headland Walk.

It is a bit of a hike to the top but the view when you get there is spectacular.

Keep in mind some of the path is quite narrow, so take a mask in your pocket just in case.

When you are done, visit Shoal Bay for food, drinks and ice-cream