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NEWCASTLE — A COASTAL TOWN WITH BIG CITY ENERGY!
Seaside splendor
Beach, baths, breaks — Newcastle's surf and sand lifestyle is as vibrant as it is refreshing.
Saltwater lovers can choose between six beaches and 29 surf breaks or take a dip in the picturesque Newcastle or Merewether Ocean Baths. For unique swimming spots you can't go past the iconic Bogey Hole, and for ocean-life adventurers Soldiers Baths at Nobbys Beach is a snorkeller's paradise.
Taking in the vast coastline on foot is as simple as following the Bathers Way. Stretching from Merewether to Nobbys Headland and back, this 12km return trail will have you enjoying the sweeping views from the Anzac Memorial Walk and maybe even spotting a whale or two if you're visiting between June to November.
Insider Tip: Take part in a surf lesson with Philipa Anderson Surf School or Newcastle Surf School for a memorable family activity and to navigate the local breaks with ease.
Taste the sweet life
Chilled cafés and beachside kiosks through to fine dining theatrics and exquisite produce — Newcastle is a flavour haven bursting with character.
Darby Street is a hotspot for breakfast and brunch, featuring favourites like Autumn Rooms, Goldbergs and Three Monkeys. Or the kids will love The Hood Milk Bar which is just a few doors down from artisan donut makers, Doughheads at The Junction.
Modus Merewether and Foghorn Brewery offer unique family dining with the added bonus of pouring local award-winning brews. Seafood lovers shouldn't miss Scotties for sensational fish and chips, while those seeking upscale dining can indulge in the culinary delights of hatted restaurants like The Flotilla and Humbug. Or the likes of Oh My Papa! inject the fun into each dumpling and cocktail they serve.
Jump into adventure
Beyond the beach, Newcastle will satisfy your appetite for outdoor action.
Newcastle's very own coastal wilderness, Glenrock State Conservation Area, is just 10 minutes from the CBD. Biking, hiking, or running; there's a trail and activity suited to any family. Whether it's the high energy mountain biking trails or the cruisy Yuelarbah Walking Track, exploring nature is a Newcastle speciality.
CoastXP and Nova Cruises provide opportunities to explore the region's coastal wonders and marine life, offering insights into the area's indigenous heritage and geological history.
Revel in creativity
Immerse yourself in Newcastle's vibrant art scene, where street art adorns the city's walls and independent galleries showcase local talent.
From The Lock-Up Art Space to Make Space and Blackstone Gallery, there's no shortage of artistic inspiration to discover. Easy to explore on foot, either join a Newcastle Afoot walking tour or download a map, then soak up all the colour and intrigue our local artists have to offer.
Have arty kids? Book into a Mitch Revs Decked Out Workshop for a hands-on skateboard design experience, that doubles as the ultimate holiday souvenir.
Insider tip: Plan your visit during art-focused festivals like New Annual or the Newcastle Fringe for an extra dose of creativity.
Be dazzled after the sun sets
Keep the fun times flowing with long afternoons and lively evenings that take in the city lights and reveal Newcastle's other side.
The Gold Bowl at Empire Skate Park is a popular spot to skate into the early evening, but families wanting to amp up the adventure should jump on the Stockton Ferry and cruise over to the street style skate plaza across the harbour. The ride back to Newcastle is a dazzling one, as the harbour and surrounds are lit up. It's a classic keepsake photo op.
As Newcastle's vibrant nightlife emerges, city staying families can walk along the Newcastle Foreshore and stop for a casual drink at one of the many harbourside family favourites, like The Lucky or Queens Wharf Hotel.
Or for true crime fans, the starry night skies also bring out the Dark Stories crew, who relish delving into Newcastle's dark past on their tours.
Insider tip: Throughout summer Newcastle's historic train yard, The Station, transforms into a Friday night family mecca with food trucks, live music, and lawn games, keeping all ages entertained into the night.
One stay is never enough
Newcastle offers so much for curious families wanting an offbeat getaway. Next time, there's still the museum, historic highlights like Fort Scratchley, not to mention the hundreds of other cafes and restaurants eager to feed well-travelled folk.
And maybe next time leave the kids at home because Newcastle's small bar scene is senssssational.
LOVING NEWCASTLE?
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Coastal Family Adventure: A Newcastle Minibreak with a Vibrant City Twist
Duration: 4 days, 3 nights
Target Market: Family - 2 adults, 2 kids (ages 5-12)
Strap yourselves in. You're heading on a coastal family adventure with a vibrant city twist.
This Newcastle minibreak promises a stack of outdoor family fun, scrumptious culinary delights, eclectic street art and adventures, and a whole lot of fresh, salty air. Ready? It's time…
Day 1 - Thursday
The crew's all packed and you're heading straight to Newcastle to kick-start your blissed out minibreak with the fam. As you arrive at the coastal city, head for the very central Quest Apartments Newcastle. This place will be your home away from home for the next few nights.
You might be tempted to drop the bags and head straight for a relaxing nibble and some local wines at Hope Estate at The Landing or walk along Honeysuckle promenade to grab a cheeky cocktail at Blanca, so go ahead, you're on holiday time. But once you're settled in and refreshed, let's give your kids a chance to burn off some energy.
Grab your swimmers and towel because you're heading to the newly reinvigorated Newcastle Ocean Baths for some cool, salty fun. Getting around this compact city is easy. Simply cross the road from your apartment and jump on the light rail. The ride from Honeysuckle to your stop, Newcastle Beach, takes a cruisy 7 mins and when you hop off walk straight ahead towards the iconic art deco façade of the Baths.
The curved aqua steps alongside the lap pool are more than just a picturesque spot to soak up some Vitamin D between dips. They're also a great vantage point to take in the salty haze of Newcastle Beach in the afternoon, complete with dramatic rocky outcrops and towering architecture.
Afternoons swims at the baths are perfect by themselves but add fresh fruit smoothies or a peppy cold brew in the mix, well now you're talking. Lucky for you and your crew The Kiosk Newcastle Beach is super close, so happily sip away the afternoon, then start making your way back to home base.
Depending on your vibe, or the demands of any little ones in your midst, Newcastle city has a host of approachable and relaxed restaurants to make your first night in Newcastle a tasty, yet chilled-out one. First up, we're thinking Napoli Centrale Pizza Bar for an authentic wood-fired experience where you get to watch the pizzamakers do their thing. Susuru Ramen and Gyoza serve up Japanese soul food where an evening of broth slurping and noodle twirling are on the menu. Or Oh My Papa always delights with their delectable Yakitori and Yum Cha. It's your call.
Either way, there's always room for dessert right!? Conveniently nestled nearby all three restaurant options sits Popolo Artisan Gelateria, featuring a sweet suite of hand-made flavours. Imagine fresh sour cherry in a crunchy cone, almond amaretti in a petite cup, or a tub of classic vanilla to take back to the room. It's always a family-crowd pleaser. Or if you're up for an after-dinner stroll, head to Monella on Darby Street for a cup or cone (or a tub to take away!)
All that's left now is to take in the harbour lights along Newcastle Foreshore as you casually stroll back to that large cosy bed. Rest-up, because Day 2 promises to be an epic one.
Local tip: Civic Theatre has a year-round calendar of musicals, comedy, plays, and concerts, and is just across from the Civic Light Rail stop. If you time your stay just right, you could catch an award-winning performance or international sensation during your Newcastle adventure.
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FOUR DAYS IN NEWCASTLE
Visitors can expect to savour nature, get active, indulge a love of flavour, and soak up a whole lot of culture — so what are you waiting for, let's start discovering...
Newcastle is a colourful city that’s anything but ordinary. When you indulge your curiosity and uncover Newcastle’s vibrant culture, rich heritage and electric atmosphere, you experience an unexpected feast for the senses and leave with enticing stories and a satisfied spirit.
Surrounded by stunning coastline and world renowned surf beaches, the ocean feeds the soul of our compact city. Rather than check in and put your feet up, have your perceptions challenged and seek off beat in our boutique city.
