Another course in the golf-rich Port Stephens and Greater Hunter area, Tanilba Bay is the most rapidly improving club in the area and is located only 40 minutes drive from Newcastle. Tanilba Bay is nestled between the very popular tourist area of Nelson Bay and the fabulous wine country of the Hunter Valley. There is a civic pride to the popular tourist area of Port Stephens which benefits the many golf courses - all the holes are immaculately maintained by volunteers. Tanilba Bay is one of the less 'serious' courses, with more casual dress standards and affordable pricing, appealing to casual golfers, newcomers, younger players, or larger groups.

In the bushfire of August 2018, the Golf Club rooms and car park transformed into the local HQ for both Rural and Volunteer Fire Brigade crews who fought the fire as it raged over from Oyster Bay and up Lemon Tree Passage Rd towards the Golf Course, a large number of homes and the local caravan park. No homes were damaged and no lives were lost in the fire, due to the outstanding efforts of the fire service and volunteers.

Tanilba has gone through various design upheavals over the years. Some of these have been implemented by locals. Despite the ad hoc approach, the course doesn't feel disjointed or unprofessional. Mostly par 4s, a majority of the 18 holes feature undulations and tiers. Though a parkland course and on natural bushland, hitting the rough isn't as punishing as it could be, making for some tight competition when playing in a group.

The club holds weekly competitions in a variety of formats, from serious competitors to newcomers vying for prizes such as bar tabs and meals. An all-weather course and with discounted rates in low light (A$10 from 3 pm daily), Tanilba is a go-to for the area's golfers. Feeling as much like a comfortable local social club as it is a golf course, the friendly nature makes it a great stop for non-golfers who may find themselves in the region.

Club Memberships are available, which may also include members of the local RSL and provide discounts on food and beverages. Tanilba Bay Golf Club is also located minutes drive from picturesque Tanilba Bay and Lemon Tree Passage, which boasts abundant nature and wildlife as well as a Koala Habitat. Accommodation is available with some homes offering short stays and holiday letting in the area, with some boasting absolute water frontage.