Summary
Newcastle is a harbour city in the Australian state of New South Wales. Its plentiful beaches are linked by the Bathers Way, a coastal walk stretching between Nobbys Beach and Merewether Beach. The walk provides access to Bogey Hole, a convict-built ocean bath from the colonial period. Also on the path is the 1880s Fort Scratchley, a historic site and a viewpoint for spotting migrating whales. ― Google
Founded: 1804
Area: 261.8 km²
Elevation: 9 m
Population: 322,278 (2016) United Nations
Top things to do
The Bathers Way walk
A must do, for those willing to walk, is the Bathers Way walk stretching six kilometres from Merewether Baths in the south to Nobbys Beach in the north.
The best way to explore the stunning coastline is on the Newcastle Memorial Walk, which connects with the Bathers Way, a scenic 6km walk from historic Nobbys Lighthouse to Merewether Ocean Baths, near Glenrock State Conservation Area. Stop for a swim at the art deco Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole, a rock pool built by convicts in 1819.
Spectacular views can be enjoyed from start to finish, with stunning coastal vistas at the top of Strzelecki Lookout and the iconic stretch of sand leading up to Nobbys Lighthouse among the many highlights.
While you’re there take some time to enjoy the Newcastle Memorial Walk, a 450-metre elevated walk that offers 360 views of the coast, all the way to Stockton Sand Dunes and the Hunter Valley. If you are lucky, you might even spot a whale.
Parking is available at the key locations on the walk, including Nobbys Beach, King Edward Park, Bar Beach, Dixon Park Beach and Merewether Beach.
Another great walk is the Shipwreck Walk out along the breakwall and see the wreck of the Adolphe. Its at Stockton which is one of the northern suburbs of Newcastle
Eating and drinking
Petite bar…
Foodies are in for a treat in Newcastle. Walk the Honeysuckle harbourside precinct – Honeysuckle Drive & Wharf Rd, and you’ll find a delicious range of waterside bars, cafés and restaurants. Have lunch by the ocean at the chic Merewether Surfhouse – its upmarket but definately worth a good look. There are oodles of other restaurants scattered throughout the city, particularly on Darby Street. Or pick up fresh local produce at the weekly Newcastle City Farmers Market on Sundays.
Pub on the waters edge that closed at a strange hour etc
Stockton Beach
If you have heard of Newcastle, then you could also have heard about Stockton Beach.
Stockton Beach is famous for its sand dunes that are part of the largest moving sand dune system in the southern hemisphere. Explore them by four-wheel drive or try sandboarding. The beach is 32 kilometres long with excellent swimming, surfing and fishing. Take the Shipwreck Walk out along the breakwall and see the wreck of the Adolphe.
A passenger ferry connects Stockton to Newcastle seven days a week, it’s only a five-minute journey across the harbour, please visit the Newcastle Transport website for timetable information.
Children love the foreshore playground with a flying fox, skate park, variety of slides, swings and climbing equipment.
Close by
Visit the Hunter valley for wineries and more entertainment etc