Shoal Bay: 2 or 3 Nights for Up To Six People with Sparkling Wine $269

The Resort: Ramada Resort Shoal Bay Escape the bustle of your city with a trip to the beachfront location of Ramada Resort Shoal Bay. Enjoy picturesque ocean views as you take advantage of the half-day bike hire and cycle around your new surroundings. Take a short trip to the nearby Port Stephens and fill your stay with your favourite water sports. The area is known for whale watching, and Groupies can opt to include a 2.5-hour experience to enhance their escape. Settle into a comfortable apartment and open a bottle of sparkling wine to toast your holiday. Each apartment features kitchen facilities and a private bathroom to help you feel at home. From a choice of three on-site restaurants, purchase light snacks, a hearty buffet breakfast or romantic dinner from eateries serving modern Australian cuisine. Room Details One-Bedroom Sidewater Apartment Bed size/type: One king or queen bed Standard occupancy: Two people Maximum occupancy: Two people One-Bedroom Deluxe Beachfront Apartment Bed size/type: One king or queen bed Standard occupancy: Two people Maximum occupancy: Two people Two-Bedroom Waterview Apartment Bed size/type: One queen bed with one king bed or two single beds Standard occupancy: Four people Maximum occupancy: Four people Three-Bedroom Bayview Apartment Bed size/type: Two queen beds and one king bed Standard occupancy: Six people Maximum occupancy: Six people The Area: Shoal Bay and Port Stephens, NSW Though it is home to famous sights like Australia’s largest shipwreck and the expansive sand dunes from the Mad Max movie, Port Stephens is still one of New South Wales’ best-kept secrets. The small coastal region boasts photo-worthy scenery thanks to its sandy landscape and pristine beaches, which offer many ideal vantage points for spotting migrating humpback whales during the winter and spring months. A family-friendly destination like no other, the Port Stephens region is awash with cute cafés, water and land-based activities and a dose of fresh seaside air. Located on the northern side of the port is Hawks Nest, a slow-paced village flanked by expansive lakes, rivers, bushland and East Coast shoreline. Hit up the region’s famous sand dunes for hours of fun, whether it is a hike, 4WD adventure or simply sliding down the sandy slopes. Then hit the beach, river or lake for myriad water sports or a simple splash around.