City of Newcastle acknowledges that we operate on the grounds of the traditional country of the Awabakal and Worimi peoples.
We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and continuing relationship with the land,
and that they are the proud survivors of more than two hundred years of dispossession.
City of Newcastle reiterates its commitment to address disadvantages and attain justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this community.
Always was, always will
be
Welcome to Newcastle
Newcastle is more than your typical holiday destination; it is eclectic and vibrant, relaxed yet sophisticated, and a perfect place for curious travellers to seek the unexpected and explore.
If you crave new, are keen for unique, and want to discover an iconic coastal destination with an energetic creative culture, effortless natural beauty, and a diverse selection of experiences, you’re in the right place.
Newcastle is a city that rewards curiosity and the quirky; roll your sleeves up, it’s adventure time.
Gimbay Gatigaan, a collaboration between Curious Legends and the Newcastle Worimi community, commissioned by City of Newcastle.
Top 10 things to do
Reward your curiosity in Newcastle
Bathers Way + Newcaslte Memorial Walk
Do not (we repeat, do not) leave Newcastle without taking the time to experience the Bathers Way, and jewel in the crown, Newcastle Memorial Walk. This 6 km walking path offers constant coastal views, an undulating walking track and the opportunity to spot dolphins and whales off the coastline.
After Dark
A coastal city by day, but once the sun goes down there is plenty more to discover. Find yourself in an underground whiskey bar, sipping cocktails on a five-star hotel rooftop, rocking out to live music, whiling away the hours overlooking the harbour, or singing the night away in an authentic karaoke bar.
It’s hard to beat a morning walk, swim, or coffee at the beach when on holidays. Dive into one of Newcastle’s pristine beaches—Nobbys, Newcastle, Bar, Dixon Park, Merewether, or Stockton. Travelling with a pup? Then Horseshoe Beach is for you.
Street art
Colourful, big, and bold is the name of the game when it comes to street art in Newcastle. Murals can be found just about anywhere; explore the beaches and skate parks, the CBD, along the harbour, urban streets, and more.
Glenrock State Conservation Area
Just a 10-minute drive from the CBD (or walk from Merewether Beach on low tide) lies this sanctuary of green space perfect for bushwalking and mountain biking. We love the 5 km Yuelarbah Track!
Newcastle Surfest
Museum Park, artwork by Fintan Magee
Glenrock State Conservation Area
Top 10 things to do
6
Explore with a local
One of the best ways to get to know any city is with a local of course. Join the likes of Newy Tour Co., Newcastle Afoot or Geotrail and Nature Tours on land, or hop aboard with CoastXP or Nova Cruises to uncover the coast by boat.
Seek boutique
Craft distilleries and breweries, artisan markets, independent galleries, an annual arts festival, high-end restaurants and hole-in-the-wall coffee haunts, you’ll find your fix in Newcastle.
Blackbutt Reserve
Often referred to as the ‘green heart of Newcastle’, Blackbutt Reserve is 10-minutes from the city and features a free animal trail, picnic areas, and playground.
Housed in the historic Railway Workshops and just steps from the harbour, we recommend stopping in at the museum to discover more about Newcastle’s past and to check out the latest exhibition. Pop into the Visitor Information Centre (next door) while you’re there and chat to a local or pick up a gift.
Extra, Extra!
Where Merewether meets Glenrock State Conservation Area is Newcastle’s best kept secret, Hickson Street Lookout. Follow the meandering track to reveal a secluded patch of grass with unmatched panoramic coastal views.
The lookout is the ultimate picnic spot best enjoyed on a sunny, calm day (so check the weather before you set off).
Hickson Street Lookout also doubles as a paragliding launch pad, so if the wind picks up you’ll get to witness a spectacular aerial show from some of the local paragliders.
The Harbour
Stroll, run, ride, or skate along the Foreshore and watch as ships, tug boats, sailboats, dragon boaters, and ferries make their way around the harbour.
Hickson Street Lookout
Newcastle Harbour
Newcastle Museum
Taste the extraordinary
Where once parmigiana at the corner pub was the height of culinary sophistication, Newcastle’s food scene has undergone a metamorphosis. Talented chefs and restaurateurs – many having shifted from the big smoke – are driving Newcastle’s foodie evolution.
An abundance of fresh meat, produce and seafood – not to mention Hunter Valley wines – lie on the city’s doorstep. From fish and chips beneath marquee lights to an 11-course Yakitori degustation, come experience the culinary revolution for yourself.
Family favourites
Have you even been to Newcastle if you haven’t shared a chip or two with hungry seagulls? Spread out a picnic blanket on the communal lawn at Scotties for fish and chips (or perhaps a lobster club sandwich) beneath the marquee lights.
Another popular post-beach option is The Kiosk at Newcastle Beach.
Tuck into a family-sized fish and chip pack (ideal for hungry hoards) with a backdrop of rolling waves.
Families love Napoli Centrale’s authentic pizzas fired with locally sourced, slow-
burning ironbark. Sit indoors and watch the pizzamakers at work or nab an alfresco table and people watch like a true Italian.
For dessert, wander over to Popolo Artisan Gelateria for authentic handmade gelato (both classics and contemporary flavours star) made fresh daily. Between Scotties and The Kiosk sits another ice cream lover’s dream, East End Ice Creamery.
Other options for the whole brood include Lowlands Bowling Club, Larrie’s, The Lucky Hotel, The Grain Store, and Beach Burrito.
Relaxed bites
Looking for casual dining or a quick bite before a gig? These laidback eateries will have you sorted.
Located in Newcastle’s East End, Market St Basement is an atmospheric Italian restaurant known for its fresh pasta and mouthwatering pizzas. Neighbours is right next door and is part of the main restaurant at night, but by day, it’s a gorgeous café.
On Watt Street, Lock’s Paddock pays tribute to a historic stonemason’s yard once home to National Trust treasure
Miss Porter’s House. The seasonal share menu includes the theatrical signature dish cacio e pepe served in a hollowed-out parmesan wheel.
Parry St Garage is a bustling Italianinspired restaurant with all the usual favourites, plus exciting additions such as king prawn hot pots, lamb pappardelle, and swordfish skewers. For Mexican lovers, Antojitos is a must.
Feel like juicy, stacked burgers? Head to Rascals or Newy Burger Co.
Antojitos
Earp Distilling Co.
Elevated dining
Âpé Yakitori Bar (sister restaurant to enduring favourite Nagisa next door) showcases the Hunter Valley’s best produce cooked over charcoal. Dine harbourside or take a seat at the yakitori grill for Âpé’s epic degustation menu paired with wine, Japanese whisky or sakes.
Inner-city Wickham is home to Flotilla - another venue spearheading Newcastle’s foodie revolution with its “refined yet casual” approach to dining. Lazy Sunday lunch here is a must.
At Signal Box almost everything on the modern Australian bistro menu is made from scratch. Dine inside a minimalist steel and concrete dining pavilion that pays homage to its industrial past.
Savour Humbug owner-chef Michael Portley’s playful take on Italian fare accompanied by sustainable vinos and new-age Hunter Valley wines.
Heroing local produce and incredible ocean views, is Peregrin Restaurant. Modern Australian cuisine is on the menu (as are the city’s most arresting vistas) at The Roundhouse, or tuck into authentic Spanish tapas at Bocados in a candlelit dining room. Fresh Mediterranean decadence can be found at Honeysuckle’s Blanca, Rustica overlooking Newcastle Beach, and Merewether’s Surfhouse Restaurant.
Âpé Yakitori Bar
Flotilla
Carnivores
Sample some of Newcastle’s best cuts washed down with a glass or two of Hunter Valley red at The Prince of Merewether or Bistro Penny. Carnivores are equally well catered for at Brazilian barbecue style eatery MEET housed in a glamorous industrial warehouse space on Darby Street. The signature churrasco sees the dishes just keep on coming.
Modern Australian bar and grill, Jana, at QT Newcastle showcases a local produce-driven menu (almost everything is sourced in NSW), including the mouthwatering Hungerford Bone in Rib-Eye.
Epic breakfasts
Creole spiced eggs with avocado mousse and chorizo, or house-made crumpets with wattleseed fraîche, plum jam, almond and oat crumb? Find creative dishes like these at Cooks Hill café the Autumn Rooms. Dine inside, in the leafy courtyard or upstairs overlooking the bustling streetscape.
Head to The Junction to experience Talulah, a café known for its specialty coffee, fresh and reimagined breakfast classics, and cruisy atmosphere. The Tejano Benedict is a menu favourite, or for sweet tooths the Bread-and-Butter Pudding is a must!
Housed in a historic bank building, the light-filled Momo Wholefood on Hunter Street is like a nice warm hug. Expect a wholefood menu weighted with vegan and vegetarian options along with banging coffee by local Unison Coffee Roasters.
For dishes beyond the ubiquitous smashed avo on sourdough, Equium Social in Mayfield East is worth the journey. Try the house-made crumpets or rye and potato waffle with ocean trout gravlax and poached eggs.
Other local brekkie faves include Convoy Commune, Three Monkeys, Good Brother Espresso, and Baked Uprising.
Autumn Rooms
Jana Restaurant at QT Newcastle
Stir your senses after dark
Days belong to sand and surf, but when the sun goes down a whole other side of Newcastle comes out to play. Explore hidden speakeasies, rooftop bars, cool craft breweries, and the city’s dark and daring past.
Top Tip:
Check out Earp Distilling Co. in daylight hours and book into a distillery tour, gin blending class or become a distiller for a day and create your own gin at their signature gin school workshop.
DISTILLERS AND BREWERIES
Once a rough and tumble port awash with bootleggers, sailors and merchants, Newcastle is revelling in a revival of craft brewers and small batch distillers.
Grain to glass happens all under the one roof at Foghorn Brewery; housed in a historic warehouse, the extensive range of IPAs literally travels from serving tanks to frosty glass.
Over in the harbourside village of Carrington, Earp Distilling Co. is found in a repurposed tile warehouse. Expect stellar cocktails and good times at this family-run gin distillery with its swanky bar and 5000-litre still from the Netherlands.
Not far from the rolling waves, 36 frosty taps pour a range of fresh beers and limited releases at Modus Merewether.
A non-alcoholic range is also on offer at this impressive and award-winning brew house.
In Newcastle’s west end, locally made tap brews and live music are found at the Rogue Scholar. Be sure to check out the rooftop space at this fun brewpub, which enjoys a cult following.
Other top spots for local hops include Good Folk Brewing Co., Method Brewing, Shout Brewing, and Thirsty Messiah.
Modus Merewether
Earp Distilling Co.
Top Tip:
Small BArs Small BArs Small BArs Small BArs
Small BARS
Dive into Newcastle’s burgeoning small bar scene complete with bespoke cocktails, fine Hunter vinos and revelry.
Millennial crowd favourite the Falcon Bar dishes up southern state inspired comfort food, Mexican beer and stellar cocktails.
Uptowns Bar celebrates NBA, sneakers, video games and hip hop, while subterranean speakeasy The Underground is an atmospheric place for a tipple. Enter via the steps on Bolton Street beneath the historic Grand Hotel.
Found behind unassuming doors at the top of the Hunter Street Mall, mismatched furniture, fishing nets
and the best of Tiki culture are found at tropical rum shack Blue Kahunas.
Glamorous 1920s-inspired whisky bar Bartholomew’s is housed within the 1903 Methodist Mission Building on King Street. This award-winning bar reputedly stocks the state’s largest whisky collection outside Sydney.
Seek out gyoza and bespoke cocktails at Japanese-inspired speakeasy, the Koutetsu. Australian gins and Japanese whiskeys dominate the cocktail list while mixologists can whip up custom drinks to suit individual palettes.
Concealed behind a barbershop wall in one of Newcastle’s many heritage
buildings is prohibition-style speakeasy Coal and Cedar. Prop yourself up at the bar and watch as inked bartenders craft epic whisky sours and top shelf cocktails. Entry by passcode.
Enjoy alluring heritage décor with a modern edge, Australian fusion menus, and expertly crafted cocktails at Roxanne on Hunter St. Order your favourites and cosy up in a quiet corner, or be part of the action at the vintage bar.
Japanophiles will love Jam’s Karaoke and Bar offering an authentic karaoke experience in private, fully serviced rooms along with a sake menu, beers, cocktails and izakaya food.
The Koutetsu
The city’s compact nature is made for bar hopping either on foot or along the 2.7 km light rail.
Rooftop BARS
Once bereft of rooftop bars (and fivestar hotels), visitors to Newcastle are now spoilt for choice. Order a coastal margarita at Crystalbrook Kinglsey’s swanky rooftop bar, Romberg’s, while drinking in sweeping coastal vistas.
Rooftop at QT, the city’s highest open rooftop bar, looks out across the harbour, and is an incredible spot to sip the sunset away. Enjoy ice cold craft beers and spritzes to Hunter Valley wines and spirits. Italian-inspired bites too.
LIVE MUSIC
From intimate gigs to large-scale shows hosting international talent, Newcastle’s live music scene is buzzing.
Honeysuckle Hotel serves up live music Friday, Saturday, and Sundays with free entry, and jazz enthusiasts simply must head to The Underground, Tuesday and Thursday nights for touring artists and dynamic jam sessions.
The Oriental Hotel serves up local artists Friday, Saturday and Sunday with free entry, and Carrington hot-spots the Seven Seas, The Criterion and Young Street are also well worth a visit.
But wait, there’s more - the Green Roof, Queens Wharf Hotel, Rogue Scholar and the Lucky Hotel all provide incredible live music that’s sure to keep the party going.
Other options include Charlies Rooftop for Palm Springs vibes, Merewether Surfhouse for unparalleled coastal views, or Peregrin at The Beach Hotel for refined wine lists and divine eats.
EXPLORE NEWCASTLE’S BOOZY PAST AND UNDERBELLY
Discover the city’s boozy history on a fun walking tour with Newcastle Afoot. Explore Newcastle’s past, present and future punctuated by creative cocktails, interesting tales and encounters with friendly Novocastrians.
As the sun goes down Dark Stories explores Newcastle’s dark side. Its ‘True Crime Stories’ tour delves into the city’s shadowy past of murder, fraudsters, adulterers and lordly impersonators.
Concert in Newcastle
Newcastle nightlife
Find inspiration around every corner
Offering a thriving arts culture, Newcastle has long nurtured the creative and the curious. Browse art galleries, admire the city’s ever-expanding collection of world-class street art and explore its historic fort –keeper of Newcastle’s storied past.
Stroll the streets of Newcastle and see through the eyes of an artist following the self-guided walking trail (pick up map at the Visitor Information Centre) or browse the city’s many excellent galleries and museums.
Cooks Hill Galleries showcases artworks from a stable of Australian artists ranging from contemporary to colonial, The Creator Incubator is a lively creative hub of resident artists, designers, makers and thinkers while Cstudios in Newcastle’s west end specialises in contemporary and fine art. Pseudonym Gallery creates an immersive and well-curated experience for visitors, artist collective SMAC Studio is found in inner city Tighes Hill while Newcastle Art Space
(NAS) is where artists create, make and share.
Once home to inmates, the Lock-Up is now an award-winning independent arts space showcasing local and contemporary Australian art. Another of Newcastle’s most significant heritage buildings - complete with preserved padded cell and windowless exercise yard - it operated as Newcastle Police Station from 1861 until 1982. Inside its once austere walls you’ll find art exhibitions, workshops, creative talks and more.
BOUTIQUE SHOPPING
Explore Newcastle’s many boutiques and bespoke gift shops to find that perfect keepsake or souvenir. Expect to find local artisan ceramics, jewellery, clothing accessories, tea and honey, and fashion dotted around the city.
Just some of our faves include Make Space Gallery & Workshop, Blackbird Corner, Betty Loves Books, High Tea With Mrs Woo, Studio Melt, Hide + Seeker, Made On Darby, Honest Paper, Grounded By Designs at MOA & Co., and Palinopsia Ceramics. The Lock-Up
Street Art
In Newcastle, art is all around you –all you need to do is look up. Unleash your curiosity and you’ll discover a city of extraordinary urban artworks.
Take a walk through the streets of Newcastle and you’ll see that the city has spent the better part of the last
UNLEASH YOUR INNER ARTIST
The colourful creations of talented Newcastle artist Mitch Revs adorn many a wall throughout the city, not to mention his namesake gallery in The Junction where you can book into a Decked Out Workshop. Head to the Art Department, Grounded by Design at Moa & Co., or The Clay Room Tighes Hill for hands-on clay sessions.
Life drawing classes are also held at the contemporary LEDA Gallery while Hudson Street Hum, a short stroll from Hamilton Railway Station, offers a choice of creative workshops ranging from portrait drawing, landscapes in watercolour, moss embroidery and pyrography (wood burning).
decade transforming itself visually –from an industrial hub to a vibrant and creative destination, where projects like The Big Picture Fest have transformed the city into an outdoor art gallery.
Encounter large-scale murals from renowned locals like Mitch Revs, Jasmine Craciun, Bronte Naylor and Jordan Lucky, and national and international artists like Fintan Magee, Claire Foxton, Rosie Woods and Georgia Hill, to name a few.
Top Tip:
Self-guided walking maps are available at the Visitor Information Centre
Mitch Revs Gallery
Artwork by Bronte Naylor
THE FORT, THE MUSEUM AND THE THEATRE
A keeper of Newcastle’s storied past, historic Fort Scratchley stands proudly on Flagstaff Hill. Built in the 1880s to ward off the threat of a Russian attack, guns were never fired in anger until the Japanese shelled Newcastle in a surprise attack in 1942. A resounding boom echoes across the city daily (except Tuesdays) as two-pound cannons are fired at the same time the ball on Customs House is lowered – a time-honoured seafaring practice used to allow sea captains to adjust their navigation instruments. Explore the fort’s labyrinth of tunnels on a guided tour with passionate volunteers who bring the fort’s history to life.
Learn about Newcastle’s industrial past and discover a rotation of fascinating exhibitions with a visit to Newcastle Museum. Housed in the historic Honeysuckle Railway Workshops, the buildings date back to the 1800s and have been transformed into a modern education and museum space. Visiting in school holidays? Check out their program of events.
Top Tip:
Newcastle Art Gallery, designed by local architect Brian Pile with its geometric forms and brutalist aesthetic, is currently undergoing extensive renovations, and due to open later 2025.
With her show stopping good looks, the heritage-listed Civic Theatre is the place to catch a fabulous line-up of local and national acts. Considered one of NSW’s finest theatre buildings designed by Henry Eli White, architect of Sydney’s State and Capitol Theatres, be sure to admire the theatre’s grand ornamental dome.
At Nobbys Lighthouse on the NobbysWhibayganba headland, take in 360-degree vistas, heritage buildings and the creative works of artists at Lighthouse Arts. An arts trading store sells works by local creatives ranging from books to ceramics.
Fort Scratchley
Newcastle Museum
Civic Theatre
Experience the great outdoors
It’s a city flanked by a bustling harbour, postcard worthy beaches, and a conservation park crisscrossed by hiking and mountain bike trails. Stroll the landmark Bathers Way, do laps at historic ocean baths or join a guided cycling tour of Newcastle’s magnificent coastline.
Skating, cycling, running, hiking, sailing, surfing, SUP, and hang gliding are but a few of the outdoor pursuits on offer.
CYCLE AND STROLL
Stretching from Nobbys Headland all the way to Merewether Beach at the gateway of Glenrock State Conservation Area, the 6 km Bathers Way rivals Sydney’s famous Bondi to Bronte. The iconic Newcastle Memorial Walk forms part of the coastal trail and its 450 m clifftop span – built to mark the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings – affords 360-degree ocean and city vistas and beyond to the Hunter Valley and Worimi Conservation Lands.
Find your way to Newcastle Beach skirting the coastline to Nobbys Beach where Nobbys Lighthouse stands guard on the headland. Keep an eye out for dolphins along the way and whales from June to November. You may even spot a seal along Macquarie Pier, known to locals as simply ‘the breakwall’.
The pathway running beside the calm waters of Throsby Creek is a great option for a cycle, roll, stroll or jog. You may spot budding sailors being put through their paces and water birds fishing for lunch. At Carrington, explore the raised boardwalk that zig zags its way through lush mangrove trees, home to scurrying crabs, fish, birds and a (noisy) resident flying-fox population. Stop at the viewing platform where kayakers often paddle by. Runners love the level harbourside running track here.
The 15 km Fernleigh Track connecting Newcastle and neighbouring Lake Macquarie along a bushland corridor is a popular cycling and walking track. Highlights include industrial heritage features and the 181 m Fernleigh tunnel, which runs beneath the Pacific Highway.
Top Tip:
The Fernleigh Track is ideal for a family bike ride or scooter.
Paragliding over Glenrock State Conservation Area
Fernleigh Track
Bar Beach’s Empire Park skate park is considered one of Australia’s best while also offering one of the most scenic backdrops. Sitting opposite the rolling waves of Bar Beach, several major skate competitions have been held here while some of Newcastle’s best skaters (Poppy Olsen included) have honed their skills here.
The park features a ‘gold bowl’ - a 2.1 m by 3.3 m bowl finished with pool coping - along with a fun banked wall, stairs with hubba ledges and a flat bank with rail.
The Hunter’s first street style skate plaza meanwhile is found at Stockton Active
SKATE SKATE SKATE SKATE SKATE SKATE SKATE SKATE
Hub on Stockton’s Foreshore, accessed by car or a short and novel ferry crossing. Taking inspiration from the docks, the 40 m skate plaza incorporates long lines, steel sculptural features and the remnants of gantry infrastructure. A playground with sandpits, flying foxes and plenty of shade is also here.
A celebration of accessibility, diversity, drop-ins, kick-flips, and just getting amongst it—South Newcastle Skatepark sits alongside the iconic Newcastle Beach and features the Hunter’s first wheelchair-accessible (WCMX) skate bowl. The skate park is designed to welcome all skill levels, whether you’re a young first-timer or a seasoned pro.
Empire Park
Newcastle Beach
MOUNTAIN BIKING AND HIKING
If mountain biking is your thing, Glenrock State Conservation Area offers 14 kms of purpose-built bike trails. Wind your way along dirt trails through gum trees, open forest and woodlands with a chorus of cicadas ringing in your ears.
Adrenalin junkies love the jumps and rough technical descents on the downhill run over boulders, tree roots and purpose-built jumps. Tracks are graded: green circle for beginners, blue square for intermediate and black diamond for advanced.
Catch your breath at vantage points overlooking Burwood Beach and Glenrock Lagoon.
Sheltering the region’s last surviving pocket of coastal rainforest, Glenrock also offers bushwalking and secluded beaches reached only by foot. You can trek to Glenrock from Merewether Beach or drive to the car park at the start of the popular Yuelarbah Track.
Blackbutt Reserve, the city’s beating heart, also includes more than 10 kms of nature trails that wind their way through bushland, rainforest and alongside bubbling creeks. Kids will love the koala, wombat and bird encounters, free-roaming peacocks and regular reptile shows.
Sail
If you want to get out on the water, Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club offers Discover Sailing and Friday Harbour Sailing programs on Newcastle’s harbour. Let the blustery sea air clear the cobwebs then enjoy sundowners with local yachties at the clubhouse.
Join Geotrail and Nature Tours for a guided walk through Glenrock State Conservation Area.
Uncover a stunning coastline
A show-stopping coastline showcases postcard-worthy beaches, inlets, ocean baths, and heritage ocean pools begging for a dip.
There are six beaches in total (seven if you include dog friendly Horseshoe Beach on Newcastle Harbour) –all within a short distance of the CBD. With 29 surf breaks, a working harbour and calm waterways, it’s little surprise many of Newcastle’s star attractions revolve around the water.
Stroll beaches lapped by rolling waves, hit the surf or gulp in the fresh salty air in Australia’s coolest city by the sea.
Beaches and Ocean Baths
Don swimmers (bathers or togs), slip, slop, slap and head to one of Newcastle’s beaches to find your patch of sand.
Newcastle Beach, the city’s most accessible beach, is also the busiest and is an easy walk or light rail ride from the CBD.
Watch surfers leap from the rocks near the Canoe Pool and paddle out for a wave behind Shark Alley (surfers particularly love Newcastle when there’s a nor’easter). Swimmers dive beneath waves washing off the stress of the day, while the CrossFit crew arrive at first light to work out with a backdrop of rolling waves.
With its distinctive and architecturally significant Art Deco pavilion, Newcastle Ocean Baths is one of the city’s outstanding historic landmarks and is a popular informal open-air studio for amateur photographers. Recently renovated and free to the public, this is a must-visit swimming spot.
Visit the iconic Bogey Hole, a jaw dropping rock pool hand-hewn by convicts and Australia’s earliest known example of a purpose-built ocean swimming pool. To find it, follow the Bathers Way Walk and enter King Edward Park. Keep to the coast and a set of stairs will take you to this picturesque pool.
The head-turning Bar Beach is home to the Cooks Hill Lifesaving Club and some of Newcastle’s most expensive
real estate. Offering stunning views into the depths of Merewether, it’s a solid favourite for the ease of parking and typically has fewer waves making it enjoyable for little ones and those less confident in the surf.
Merewether Beach is the most wellknown beach in Newcastle, particularly due to it being the home of international surfing competition, Surfest.
A national surfing reserve, this magical stretch of coastline is always buzzing, especially on big wave days when the crowds flock to Merewether Point to watch the surfers taking on the monster swells.
Merewether Ocean Baths are found at the southern end of Merewether Beach. This eye-catching historic gem –dating back to the 1900s – is the southern hemisphere’s largest ocean baths and an Instagrammers dream.
Be sure to visit the rooftop bar of the Merewether Surfhouse and drink in those expansive sea vistas.
Our other beaches – equally as beautiful – include Nobbys, Dixon Park (located between Merewether and Bar Beach) and Stockton, a short ferry ride across Newcastle’s bustling harbour.
If you’re travelling with fur babies make a beeline for Horseshoe Beach (not patrolled) where dogs can frolic in the calm waters of the harbour and burn up energy on this pooch friendly patch of sand.
Merewether Ocean Baths
Bogey Hole
LEARN TO SURF
Join a private or group lesson yearround with Surfest Surf School, Newcastle Surf School or with local surfer Philippa Anderson. Philippa, who hails from Merewether, along with fellow surfers Ellie Lambkin and Sarah Baum, want to encourage more females to get in the water and help surfers reach personal goals through her eponymous surf school. Lessons run by all surf schools are offered at Nobbys Beach with experienced surf instructors. Nobbys Beach offers gentler tides and a sand bank, making it a good place to nail the basics.
COASTAL TRAILS
Newcastle’s Bathers Way is one of the premier coastal walks in NSW, stretching 6 km from Merewether Beach in the south to Nobbys Beach in the north.
Spectacular views abound, from the stunning coastal panoramas at the top of Strzelecki Lookout, to the iconic stretch of sand leading up to Nobbys Lighthouse. The walk offers a rollercoaster journey of hills and descents, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a break at beach kiosks and cafes along the way, or pack a picnic and enjoy a slower pace.
The Newcastle Memorial Walk forms part of the Bathers Way and its 450 m clifftop span affords 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and out to the Hunter Valley. The walkway is also adorned with steel silhouettes of soldiers, as well as the names of almost 11,000 Hunter Valley men and women who enlisted to serve during World War I. Lights illuminate the the path after dark so visitors are welcome 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Surf Surf Surf Surf Surf
Newcastle Memorial Walk
Merewether Beach
SUP, Kayak and Kite
The languid waters of Throsby Creek are ideal for stand up paddle boarding (aka SUP) or kayaking. A good place to start is the Carrington Boat Ramp near the Newcastle Rowing Club. Other options include Horseshoe Beach or Little Beach at Stockton.
For the kite surfers, Nobbys Beach is the go-to spot in Newcastle. With decent access to waves, it’s best when the north easterly and southerly winds are blowing.
GET OUT ON THE WATER
Newcastle’s coastline is a whale migration highway – May to Nov – and CoastXP are experts at locating these curious creatures for front-row seats to breathtaking breaches. Their custombuilt vessel is perfect for small and intimate cruises with year-round tours exploring the coast, where dolphins, seals, and the occasional sea turtle are known to join in the fun.
Nova Cruises meanwhile explores the ever-changing waterways of Newcastle Harbour, the Hunter River and pristine coastal waters. Lunch on Newcastle’s harbour, twilight dinner and whale watching are some of the scheduled cruises on offer.
Nobbys Beach
Stay Curious, Sleep well
TOP Tip:
Beach views, five-star, dog friendly, budget conscious – your accommodation options in Newcastle are aplenty, and the best part? Many of them are in the city centre within walking or light rail distance to the best in Newcastle’s attractions and experiences.
Little National Hotel
Crystalbrook Kingsley is Newcastle’s first five-star hotel (but not the last!). With exquisite suites, contemporary styling and stunning views over the harbour and Civic Park, it’s the perfect indulgent weekender. Colloquially known as the Champagne Cork or Wedding Cake due to its unusual shape, the building was originally constructed in 1977 and has since been reimagined into a masterpiece of sustainable luxury. Make sure you check out the one-of-a-kind rooftop bar Rombergs and restaurant Roundhouse for unparalleled views and an extraordinary drinks list and menu.
Staying with the five-star theme, QT Newcastle is another architectural delight. The original building façade dates back to 1890 and the designer hotel that now lives within pays homage to its history through its quirky, heritagestyled interior décor. If you’re looking to splurge, check out the corner suites with epic views and even more epic bathtub. This is offbeat luxury.
Little National Hotel at Honeysuckle is also an excellent 4-star hotel in the heart of Honeysuckle. Guest rooms are compact yet use efficient spatial planning and generously proportioned sleeping spaces to ensure each guest is wrapped in comfort.
If you’re here for a few days, with a group, or are travelling with kids, apartment-style accommodation may be more suitable for you. If that’s the case Quest Newcastle West, Terminus Apartments, or 291 on King are all centrally located.
If the beach on your doorstep is what you’re after, you can’t go past Noah’s on the Beach or Novotel (savour a morning coffee at nearby Estabar, Liquid Gold, The Kiosk Newcastle Beach or East End Hub).
Whereas a stay at Rydges Newcastle is the perfect spot to soak up harbour views from the pool, while having quick access to attractions like Civic Theatre, Darby Street and Newcastle Museum.
Rydges Newcastle
Crystalbrook Kingsley
What’s on in Newcastle
Newcastle’s events calendar is alive with action, creativity, and world-class entertainment. Here’s a taste of what’s on offer:
New Annual is a 10-day celebration of Newcastle’s dynamic arts scene, featuring an exciting mix of theatre, music, dance, and visual arts. This contemporary festival transforms the city with innovative performances, storytelling, and immersive installations.
Each year elite international and Australian surfers take to the waves at Newcastle’s famous Merewether Beach for Surfest – Australia’s largest surfing competition and a thrilling addition to the World Surf League calendar.
Newcastle Food Month showcases the top chefs, produce, and restaurants
in the region. Expect exclusive dining events, degustation dinners, lively food trails, and pop-up experiences on this month-long food-loving adventure.
Newcastle is a sport-obsessed city, hosting a variety of action-packed home and exhibition matches throughout the year. Join the locals to cheer on the Newcastle Knights in
the NRL and WNRL or experience the electric atmosphere at Newcastle Jets A-League matches.
Newcastle Running Festival takes advantage of the city’s picturesque and undulating coastline, testing the fiercest of competitors while welcoming all skill levels. The city’s most loved events include Hill to Harbour and the Newcastle Marathon.
Whether you’re into stadium extravaganzas, festivals, or intimate gigs there’s a performance to satisfy your passion for music in Newcastle. Highlights include the multi-day Great Southern Nights series and the eclectic Newcastle Music Festival
Newcastle’s Civic Theatre & Playhouse is the jewel in the crown when it comes to stage performance in the region. The grand architecture backdrops a diverse programme, featuring major international productions and musicians, and hosts opera, ballet, and comedy tours.
Immerse yourself in Newcastle’s culture and creative energy – Newcastle Fringe Festival celebrates independent theatre, comedy, and live acts, while the Newcastle Writers Festival attracts renowned authors and thinkers for workshops, discussions, and storytelling sessions.
The Olive Tree Markets and Homegrown Markets are perfect for finding handmade arts, crafts, and designer goods, while the Newcastle City Farmers Market offers fresh local produce, gourmet treats, and artisanal delights.
For event dates and locations: www.visitnewcastle.com.au
Big Picture Fest
Civic Theatre
Surfest
Getting here and around
Getting Here
Wherever you’re coming from, Newcastle is within easy reach.
Car: Newcastle is an easy drive on the M1 from Sydney. If you’re coming from the North, the Pacific Highway will get you here.
Plane: Fly direct to Newcastle from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, Sunshine Coast and Cairns, as well as regional cities including Ballina/Byron, Dubbo and Taree.
Newcastle Airport is a 25-minute drive from the city centre.
Train: Inter-city services operate regularly from Newcastle Interchange to Sydney and Brisbane, via many regional towns. Train travel time between Sydney and Newcastle is about 2.5 hours.
Getting AROUND
Newcastle is a compact city where visitors can enjoy a diverse range of experiences all within close proximity of the city centre.
Public transport services include trains and buses connecting the city to the suburbs, a light rail system with stops at key locations, connecting the Newcastle Interchange to Newcastle East and a ferry running from Queens Wharf on the Newcastle foreshore to Stockton.
Newcastle is also a very walkable city, with a range of scenic walking tracks in the city centre and suburbs.
SPEAK TO A LOCAL
Newcastle Visitor Information Centre is conveniently located in the heart of the cultural precinct, between the Civic Theatre and Newcastle Museum. Get all the latest information on tours, historical sites, and upcoming events, plus you can pick up maps, walking guides, and a range of locally made products and Newcastle souvenirs.
