Toboggan Hill Park Guide: Ticket , Ride & Review

Anyone planning a family day out on the NSW coast has probably heard about Toboggan Hill Park in Nelson Bay, with its 1 km toboggan run carving down the hillside. Since opening in 1987, the park has been a fixture of Port Stephens, and this guide lays out ticket prices, opening hours, ride options, and insider tips that actually matter for a smooth day out.

Length of toboggan run: 1 km ·
Number of attractions: 7+ ·
Location: Nelson Bay, New South Wales, Australia ·
Suitable for: All ages

What are the ticket prices and discounts at Toboggan Hill Park?

Standard ticket prices

The official tickets page lists several entry-and-ride bundles. An 8 years and over entry ticket costs $15 and includes 1 ride ticket. A 4 to 7 years entry ticket costs $12, also with 1 ride ticket — but it excludes the toboggan (according to the official tickets page). Children 3 and under can still enjoy the park, with ride tickets purchased as needed.

Discounts and packages

For visitors planning a full day, the bundled passes offer better value. The Nipper Pass ($36) covers park entry plus 4 ride tickets for children 7 and under. The Diamond Pass ($38) includes entry and 4 ride tickets for visitors 8 and over. Stepping up, the Silver Pass ($57) gives 6 ride tickets, and the Gold Pass ($66.50) provides 7 ride tickets — enough for most of the park’s activities (these prices are from the official tickets page).

Online booking options

The official site states that all tickets are purchased on arrival — there is no online pre-booking (referenced on the park’s information page). This means visitors should plan accordingly, especially during peak periods when queues at the ticket window can build.

Group rates

The park does not publish specific group rate details on its main tickets page, but group bookings are available. Families and larger parties should contact the park directly or check the information page for the latest group pricing options.

What are the opening hours of Toboggan Hill Park?

Regular opening hours

The park advertises opening hours as open every day from 10:00 AM (on the official home page). The information page confirms the park is open all year round, with specific opening times displayed in a calendar.

Holiday and seasonal hours

During school holidays and public holidays, the park opens at 10:00 AM as usual, but the official advice is to arrive right at opening because these are the busiest days. The park may close earlier during winter months, so checking the calendar before setting out is wise.

Best time to arrive

The park’s information page advises arriving at 10:00 AM during school holidays, when queues are shortest. Peak times typically run from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when wait times for the toboggan and other popular rides can stretch.

The trade-off: arriving early buys you shorter queues but means you’re done earlier in the day. For families with young children, that trade-off usually works well — the park is most enjoyable before the crowds peak.

What rides and attractions does Toboggan Hill Park offer?

Toboggan run (1 km)

The main draw is a 1 km toboggan track that descends the hillside with 11 twists and turns (according to the Port Stephens tourism overview). Riders control their own speed using a brake lever, making it suitable for both thrill-seekers and cautious first-timers. Children 7 years and under must ride with an adult (policy from the official tickets page). The maximum weight for tobogganing is 120 kg (from the information page).

Indoor rock climbing

The indoor activity zone includes a rock climbing wall, described by the Port Stephens tourism site as suitable for a range of ages and skill levels. It’s one of the go-to activities when weather is less cooperative.

Roller skating rink

Also inside the activity zone is a hot ice skating rink — a synthetic surface that skates like real ice but without the cold. Skates are available for hire as part of the ride ticket system.

Bowling

A small bowling alley adds a classic family-friendly option. It operates on the same ride ticket system, with one ticket covering a game.

Mini golf

The outdoor mini golf course is one of the park’s more relaxed activities, suitable for younger children and groups who want a break from the more active rides.

Giant maze

The giant maze is a walk-through puzzle that challenges visitors to find their way to the center and back. It’s a popular choice for groups and families with school-age children.

Tractor train

The tractor train ride is a gentle, slow-paced option aimed primarily at younger children. It loops around a section of the park and is a favorite among the toddler set.

The mix of outdoor and indoor activities gives the park a genuine all-weather capability. Rain doesn’t ruin the day — the indoor zone with climbing, skating, bowling, and air hockey keeps visitors busy regardless of the forecast.

What do visitors say about Toboggan Hill Park?

TripAdvisor ratings

Toboggan Hill Park consistently earns strong ratings on TripAdvisor, with most reviews landing at 4 or 5 stars. Visitors from across Australia and international travelers alike rate it as a top-tier family attraction in Port Stephens.

Common praise

Positive reviews frequently highlight the park’s broad appeal across age groups — grandparents, parents, and children all find something to enjoy. The toboggan run is almost universally praised, and many reviewers note the friendly, helpful staff. The ability to switch between indoor and outdoor activities is also a recurring compliment.

Frequent criticism

The most common criticism relates to queue times during peak hours. Several TripAdvisor reviewers advise arriving at opening time and heading straight to the toboggan, as wait times can build quickly after 11:00 AM. A smaller number of visitors mention that the park’s equipment shows some wear, though most agree it remains safe and functional.

Recent feedback

Recent reviews from 2024 and 2025 continue to reflect the same patterns: strong praise for the toboggan run and the variety of activities, tempered by cautions about midday crowds. The consensus among regular visitors is that the park delivers good value when you plan your timing wisely.

“Arrive before opening and head straight to the toboggan — that’s the secret to getting three or four runs in before the queues start.”

— TripAdvisor reviewer, regular visitor to Toboggan Hill Park

“The park offers something for everyone, from the toboggan to the indoor activities. It’s a fantastic day out for families.”

— A regular visitor on TripAdvisor

What are the things to do at Toboggan Hill Park?

Plan your day

A full visit to Toboggan Hill Park typically takes 3–5 hours, depending on crowd levels and how many activities you want to try. The park’s 7+ attractions can easily fill a morning or afternoon, especially if you’re using a multi-ride pass (according to the Port Stephens tourism overview).

Activity order tips

The most effective strategy, repeated by frequent visitors: arrive at 10:00 AM, buy a Gold or Silver Pass, and head directly to the toboggan. Knock out two or three runs while the queue is short, then move to the indoor activities (rock climbing, skating, bowling) during the midday peak. Save mini golf, the maze, and the tractor train for the late morning or early afternoon when queues for those are lighter.

Nearby attractions

Toboggan Hill Park sits in Nelson Bay, the heart of the Port Stephens region. The park is located at 16 Aquatic Close, behind the Tomaree Shopping Centre (according to the official home page). Nearby attractions include the Nelson Bay foreshore, dolphin-watching cruises, Tomaree National Park lookouts, and several beaches. Many families combine a morning at the park with an afternoon on the water.

Eating and facilities

The park has an on-site café offering snacks, drinks, and hot food. There are also picnic areas where visitors can eat food they’ve brought in. The official information page confirms that outside food is permitted. Toilets, changing facilities, and shaded seating areas are available throughout the grounds.

Confirmed facts and what remains unclear

Confirmed facts

• Toboggan Hill Park is located at 16 Aquatic Close, Nelson Bay, New South Wales, Australia (Toboggan Hill Park official home page)
• The park’s main attraction is a 1 km toboggan run with 11 twists and turns (Port Stephens tourism overview)
• The park offers at least 7 different activities including toboggan, rock climbing, roller skating, bowling, mini golf, a maze, and a tractor train
• The park is open every day from 10:00 AM, all year round (Toboggan Hill Park information page)
• Children 7 and under must ride the toboggan with an adult (policy from the official tickets page)
• Maximum weight for the toboggan is 120 kg (information page)
• All tickets must be purchased on arrival — no online pre-booking (information page)
• The park was founded in 1987 (Port Stephens Australia article)

What’s unclear

• Exact current ticket prices — the official site posts prices, but they may change seasonally; always check before visiting
• Seasonal opening hour variations — the park’s calendar shows daily times, and these can shift in winter or on public holidays
• Discount availability for groups or special promotions — not all deals are listed online
• Height restrictions for specific rides — the official site doesn’t publish detailed height requirements for every attraction

The takeaway: the core facts about the park are well-documented by official and tourism sources, but visitors should verify pricing and hours immediately before their trip, as seasonal changes and temporary closures are not always updated on third-party sites.

Frequently asked questions