The Anchorage

The Anchorage Port Stephens is an upscale resort that faces Corlette’s attractive marina, and much of the hotel looks out over the rows of gleaming fiberglass yachts. The resort consists of a loose semicircle of white low buildings with steep roofs and steel-blue accents, grouped around a small lap pool set in a sunny terrace that provides views over the marina. The "Hamptons-inspired" design is beachy and elegant, with lots of natural materials and nautical decor. Expect tastefully muted decor and tons of windows that flood the rooms and common areas with natural light. The peaceful resort is frequented by couples looking for a tranquil getaway, as well as wedding and event groups.

The Anchorage Port Stephens is located in the tiny Port Stephens town of Corlette, looking out over the marina, and a two-minute walk from Corlette Port Park and a long stretch of unspoiled coast. There are few shops, bars, or restaurants in Corlette, which may be a blessing or a curse depending on how guests feel about nightlife. Worimi National Park is a 15-minute drive away, and the nearest large city is Newcastle, which is a 55-minute drive away. Expect a 30-minute transfer time to Newcastle Williamtown Airport.

The 80 beachy rooms at the Anchorage Port Stephens are all bright and airy, with white walls and large windows looking out over either the marina or the neatly trimmed garden. Even the smallest rooms are sizable, with ample space for a king-size bed, armchairs, and a coffee table. Their furniture is made of thick-hewn, sun-bleached wood, and they have dark herringbone carpets, built-in closets, and neutral linens except for pops of blue or off-red in throw pillows. Some have space for a couch, while Loft rooms may have second rooms on mezzanine floors beneath steeply pitched ceilings. Villas take up an entire building, and have either one or two separate bedrooms, lounges with large couches, and open-plan kitchen/dining areas with all the necessary amenities. All rooms have a furnished balcony or terrace, while Villas have small gardens. Bathrooms are decorated in creamy limestone, and have walk-in rainfall showers, hairdryers, and toiletries. Upgraded rooms add deep soaking tubs. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, kettles, iPod docks, AC, flat-screen TVs, safes, robes, and minibars. 

A range of leisure amenities are geared toward guests looking to relax at the Anchorage Port Stephens. The hotel has a spa with treatment rooms for massages and wellness treatments of all sorts, as well as a good-sized pool on a sunny terrace with a kiddy pool, views over the marina, and plenty of sun loungers. Unfortunately, there is no gym. The hotel has two restaurants, one of which is casual and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The more formal Wild Herring serves seafood-centric dinners three days a week, and has become a popular spot for well-heeled locals looking to celebrate. The restaurant also serves a well-regarded high tea, served out on the restaurant’s terrace. However, some guests have noted that the hotel’s restaurants can feel like a poor value, especially at breakfast. The Hemingway Bar is a cozy spot, with tastefully battered Chesterfield sofas and deep teal walls , plus daily whiskey tastings. Meeting and event spaces are available on-site. Wi-Fi is free and available throughout the property.