Whether you're a local or visiting Port Stephens during the 2025 holiday season, following these safety tips is essential for a safe and enjoyable summer by the water.
Our key message this summer is simple: Stop, look, and stay alive.
To time, stay safe while enjoying our beautiful beaches, always swim between the flags, be aware of local hazards like the Fingal Spit, and know where our patrolled beaches are located.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable summer at our local beaches, Port Stephens Council and local lifesavers are urging residents and visitors to always swim between the red and yellow flags. Patrolled areas are the safest places to swim because they are monitored by professional lifeguards and volunteer lifeguards trained to respond to emergencies. During the peak season, patrols are active at Birubi Beach, Fingal Beach, and One Mile Beach.
Before heading out, swimmers are encouraged to use the Beachsafe App to check current patrol times and local beach conditions. It is important to never swim alone and to avoid entering the water once patrol hours have ended. For those visiting Fingal Spit, always speak to a lifeguard about tides and weather conditions, as strong currents can present significant hazards.
