The laid-back beach culture of Newcastle brings the frenetic pace of one of Australia’s oldest cities down a notch to deliver the best of both worlds.
Sandy stretches of coastline serve up a plentiful supply of swimming spots and nature reserves to explore, while the city nurtures artistic expression in all its forms, often housed in repurposed historical buildings. Add in a food scene that ranges from beachside brunching to evening cocktails and you’re in for a real treat.
Getting to Newcastle
Newcastle is a two-hour drive north of Sydney or a 50-minute drive from the Hunter Valley and Port Stephens. You can fly direct into Newcastle Airport (located 30 minutes from the CBD) from all of Australia’s eastern capital cities as well as Adelaide, Cairns, Canberra and the Gold Coast. Newcastle is also part of the CityRail train network with frequent services on Sydney’s Newcastle/Central Coast line.
Things to do in Newcastle
With kilometres of pristine coastline, Newcastle lays claim to some of the best beaches and ocean baths in the state, offering sun seekers something a little different. Merewether is Newcastle’s most famous beach thanks to its ocean baths, the largest in the southern hemisphere, and annual international surfing competition, Surfest. Cool off here before hitting the Bathers Way, arguably one of the best ways to spend your time in Newcastle.
Visitors are also encouraged to hit up the local markets, which is an easy way to meet the locals and score an array of handmade goods. The Olive Tree Market is a great place to start, with over 130 of the best local artists, designers, makers, producers and street food purveyors setting up shop on the first Saturday of the month. Little ones will love it too – in fact, the whole of Newcastle is brimming with kid-friendly activities that make it the perfect holiday destination for families.
Places to stay in Newcastle
Perched on the waterfront and nestled between the city’s eateries, bars and boutique shops, Newcastle’s beautiful accommodation offerings have visitors spoilt for choice. From luxury hotels like Crystalbrook Kingsley and QT Newcastle to beachfront holiday homes and family-friendly caravan parks, there’s something to suit every type of traveller.
Places to eat in Newcastle
Newcastle is known as a popular foodie destination; in fact, some of the best restaurants in the country can be found here. A good way to get a lay of the land is Newcastle Food Month, held every April across the city.
Another great way to discover Newcastle offerings is by doing a self-guided crawl through the city’s best drinking dens, from bespoke breweries to cool bars and beachside pubs. Popular watering holes include the waterfront Queen’s Wharf Hotel and Forhorn Brewery, the city’s first modern craft brewhouse.
For those who prefer a morning meal (and those travelling with kids), there are plenty of cute cafes for brunching and munching. Or, treat yourself to a decadent high tea experience – complete with bottomless hot brews and scones galore.
Tours and packages in Newcastle
Let the professionals behind Surfest teach you to surf at Surfest Surf School on Nobbys Beach. Or get your spine tingling on a True Crime Tour and deep dive into the city’s shadiest characters and notorious crimes. Hop heads can embrace their love of beer on a brewery tour of Foghorn Brewery, then stay for pint and feed.
