New South Wales location profile
Tanilba Bay NSW 2319
Tanilba Bay is a quiet waterfront suburb on the Tilligerry Peninsula in Port Stephens, known for calm bays, koalas and the heritage-listed Tanilba House. It appeals to families and retirees seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle with boating, fishing and nature walks.
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Why families consider Tanilba Bay
Laid-back coastal community with a mix of retirees, defence and aviation workers from nearby RAAF Base Williamtown, and young families. Lifestyle centres on the foreshore, golf, and bushland trails, with relatively affordable homes compared to inner-city coastal areas.
Amenities & services
- Tanilba Bay Shopping Centre (incl. Coles)
- Tanilba Bay Medical Centre and allied health
- Local cafes, takeaways and club bistro
- Pharmacy, post office and essential retail
- Tanilba Bay Public School
- Tilligerry Library (Port Stephens Council), Lemon Tree Passage
- Tomaree Library, Salamander Bay
- Raymond Terrace Library, Raymond Terrace
Transport & connectivity
- Port Stephens Coaches bus services to Newcastle, Raymond Terrace and Salamander Bay
- Major roads: Lemon Tree Passage Rd, Nelson Bay Rd and Pacific Hwy (A1) via Stockton Bridge/Hexham
- Nearest train stations: Hexham, Warabrook (University) and Newcastle Interchange (approx. 30–45km)
Lifestyle & recreation
- Tanilba Bay Golf Club (18-hole) and clubhouse
- Tilligerry Habitat nature walks and koala spotting
- Foreshore reserves with swimming, boating and fishing
- Playgrounds, sports courts and community events
- Tilligerry Habitat Reserve
- Tanilba Bay Foreshore Reserve
- Tanilba House heritage gardens and grounds
Education context
One long day care/preschool in Tanilba Bay with OOSH at the local primary school; additional centres available nearby in Lemon Tree Passage, Medowie and Salamander Bay.
- University of Newcastle – Callaghan campus (Shortland, Newcastle)
- University of Newcastle – NUspace city campus (Newcastle CBD)