Newcastle has always been known as a country town, and to a degree, it still is. A mining and port city, it lies just a couple hours north of Sydney, yet has always flown well under the radar as far as a tourism destination. These days, though, people are a lot more aware of the amazing draw of Newcastle’s pristine beaches, bustling restaurant scene, and relaxed country vibe. Tourists to the area are realizing that the city “has it all”, and that there are actually plenty of epic things to do in Newcastle.
Table of Contents
- #1 Get to know the locals at Blackbutt Reserve
- #2 Step back in time at the Bogey Hole
- #3 Take a stroll along the Memorial Walk
- #4 Get lost at Stockton Beach
- #5 Go Wine Tasting in the Hunter Valley
- #6 Take a dip at Bar Beach
- #7 Meet the locals at Port Stephens
- #8 Go for a cruise around Lake Macquarie
- #9 Take a stroll at Nobbys Beach
- #10 Enjoy the vibes at Honeysuckle
- #11 Eat your way along Darby Street
- #12 Relax in King Edward Park
- Summary
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Before we start on my list of things to do in Newcastle, let’s first take a quick look at what constitutes “Newcastle”.
Newcastle is a city located at the mouth of the Hunter River. The main trade there has always been the coal mines up in the Hunter Valley. The coal is transported by train to the port, and the coal loaders in Newcastle load the ships that are constantly lined up off shore. Now, the mining is still there, and the coal loaders still churn away, but right around the corner, across the river and down the road there now exists a tourism vibe. Markets, restaurants and chic cafes reside where once there only stood the old corner store.
Newcastle, it is safe to say, has changed.
To the north, past the monstrous stretch of sand called Stockton Beach, lies the holiday haven of Port Stephens. To the west is the Hunter Valley, better known for it’s amazing wineries than for the coal mines that also dot the landscape. Closer to home, Lake Macquarie glimmers in the sunshine, beckoning to locals and tourists alike to come out and play.
Newcastle is more than just the coal city of old. It is now a playground for locals, and major drawcard for tourists that rivals many of the traditional Australian tourism destinations. Stopping by in Newcastle is no longer an option, but a “must do”. The question on the lips of most tourists, though, is what to do in this amazing place.
So, here are 12 epic things to do in Newcastle!
#1 Get to know the locals at Blackbutt Reserve
One place in Newcastle that many tourists don’t even realize exists is Blackbutt Reserve. To someone who has lived most of their life in the city, though, this seems rather strange. Blackbutt is an big drawcard, and besides being an amazing place to take your kids, it is absolute gold to an international tourist.
The reason for this is mostly due to the animal enclosures. Blackbutt Reserve has an incredible array of animals that call it home, from Emus and Kangaroos, to lizards, snakes and Peacocks. If you are after a taste of real Australian Fauna and Flora, then you simply can’t go past it!
The main attraction at Blackbutt, without a doubt, is the Koala enclosure. With a raised boardwalk and a beautiful gumtree setting, the Koalas live just out of reach of visitors as they stroll past. If seeing a Koala up close is high on your list, then this is definitely one of the best places in NSW to do just that!
Beyond this, the boardwalk continues meandering down through the trees, regularly stopping at more enclosures where other animals, reptiles and birds reside. The walk then finishes close to the BBQ area, where big grassy clearings and swings for the kids provide a great place to relax and enjoy the rest of the day.
#2 Step back in time at the Bogey Hole
The Bogey Hole is a swimming hole that has been hewn out of the rock, and lays at the base of Shepherds Hill, Newcastle. It is very popular with locals, and is a right of passage for any kid growing up in Newcastle to have their first swim there. I still remember the first time I visited, although it has changed a little these days, and is a lot safer than it used to be.
The origins of the Bogey Hole are woven into the very fabric of the city of Newcastle, and extend as far back as around the year 1820. The then Commandant of Newcastle, Major James Morisset, ordered convicts to carve the swimming hole out of the rock shelf located at sea level. It is unknown whether there was already a natural rock pool in existence, that was just enlarged, or if they started it from scratch. Either way, what resulted was an incredible swimming hole that exists to this day.
The Bogey hole was originally called the “Commandant’s Baths”, but these days is known as the Bogey Hole, which comes from the indigenous word for “Bathe”. It can be accessed easily from South Newcastle Beach, and is at the base of King Edward Park. The stairs leading down the rock face are recently refurbished, and there is even a platform at the bottom, making an experience at the Bogey Hole a lot safer than it used to be.
Be aware, though, that even on a calm day the swell is likely to jump up and wash over the swimming hole. On a larger swell, the waves crash in! Make sure your possessions are safe and kept in waterproof bags, just in case. Don’t let that put you off though, as this is a not to be missed experience, and one of the most Instagrammable places in Newcastle!
#3 Take a stroll along the Memorial Walk
Newcastle’s ANZAC Memorial Walk is a recent addition to the coastline, but is fast becoming one of the first places anyone visits. This is for good reason, as the walk has the best views in the entire city, providing a 360degree panorama of the entire area!
The walk was opened in 2015 in commemoration of the landing of troops at Gallipoli in 1915, 100 years prior. Coincidentally, that was the same year that the first steel production began in Newcastle. The Memorial Walk pays tribute to both, with the steel silhouettes of soldiers lining both sides at the beginning of the walk. These are adorned with 11,000 names of Hunter men and women who were enlisted to serve during World War 1.
The walk itself was constructed from 64 tonnes of steel, and constitutes a 450m long walkway that begins at Strzelecki Lookout and stretches along the cliff toward Bar Beach. It can easily be found by following the road north from Merewether past Bar Beach. At the top of the hill you will find Strzelecki Lookout and the carpark for the Memorial Walk. Don’t forget your camera!
#4 Get lost at Stockton Beach
Stockton Beach is an amazing 32km stretch of beach and sand dunes just north of Newcastle. It is the largest stretch of moving coastal dunes in the southern hemisphere, and is so spectacular that several movies have even been filmed there, including the original Mad Max.
The Stockton Bight Sand Dunes cover an impressive 4200 hectares, 1800 of which are forest. The rest is what we know affectionately as Stockton Beach, and is a playground for locals and tourists alike.
It was not always that way, though, and there is a lot of history that surrounds Stockton Beach. In the 19th century, ship wrecks were so common along the bight that two tin sheds were constructed mid way, and were used to shelter supplies for shipwrecked sailors. This became known as “tin city” and several other shacks sprung up around them. They are still there to this day.
The most well known shipwreck along the beach can still be seen. The “Sygna” has been there since 1974, and although is only a faint memory of what it used to be many years ago, is still a popular place for a stop off if you are on the beach. Sand banks and currents around the wreck attract surfers and fishermen from up and down the coast.
There is plenty to do on Stockton beach, besides the obvious surfing and fishing. The sands along the waters edge are hard and firm, and a favorite for 4wd enthusiasts. The 32km of never-ending dunes provide endless enjoyment, and if you don’t have your own 4wd you can always do a tour. There are also quad bikes you can tour on, horses and even camels! It truly is a massive playground for any beachy tourist!
#5 Go Wine Tasting in the Hunter Valley
Just to the west of Newcastle lies the Hunter Valley, which is one of the premier wine regions in the country. Located just 2hrs north of Sydney, and a short drive from Newcastle, it is a wine lovers heaven!
The Hunter Valley is home to over 150 wineries, many of which are household names throughout Australia. The region is the perfect home, too, as it covers the entire catchment area of the Hunter River and its tributaries. Success of the Hunter Valley over the years can be attributed to its proximity to Sydney, and the constant demand for its product. Hunter Wineries have therefore flourished, and have become a force in the industry in Australia.
For visitors and tourists, Cellar Doors are popular, and you cannot go far in the Hunter Valley without seeing bus loads of tipsy visitors on a wine tour. These can be taken from Sydney or Newcastle, and run all the time. Wine tours are not the only thing you can do in the Hunter Valley though.
As with the Swan Valley in Perth, many other activities that seem to be synonymous with wine regions have sprung up. Cheese, which goes hand in hand with wine, can be found everywhere in the Hunter Valley, most predominantly at the local “Smelly Cheese Shop”. World class Golf Courses can be found seemingly everywhere, and concerts run year round and are known as “A Day on the Green”. Nothing like knocking back a drop of your favorite white and dancing to great music, is there?
#6 Take a dip at Bar Beach
Bar beach is one of Newcastle’s most popular beaches. It can be found just near the southern end of the ANZAC Memorial Walk, and can be nicely combined into the perfect day out.
The beach itself is actually the northern end of a 1.4km long strip of sand that also incorporates Dixon Park Beach and Merewether Beach. The name Bar Beach comes from the rock formations at the beach that resemble a “barred” area that is known as “The Bar”.
Bar Beach is a perfect beach to swim at, and is popular with families, beach goers, and also surfers who take advantage of the waves that curl off the nearby rocks and reef. The surf club provides great take away food, and right across the road is a large park with skate park and plenty of open area. One of the big attractions to locals on a hot summers day, however, has always been the massive carpark on the cliff just above the beach. Never a problem finding somewhere to park, and no need to drive around in circles in the sun all morning!
One little known fact to visitors to Newcastle, is that just to the north of Bar Beach is a smaller beach called Susan Gilmore Beach, named after a shipwreck in 1884 of a ship called the Susan Gilmore. It is at the base of the cliff, (the Memorial Walk is far above), and once was able to be accessed via wooden stairs down the cliff face. These have since fallen away, yet the beach can still be accessed from Bar Beach if the tide is right. The sand is beautiful, and you can almost have a beach to yourself in the middle of the city on the right day!
#7 Meet the locals at Port Stephens
Just to the north of Newcastle is the area of Port Stephens. For many, many years it has been the holiday location for residents of Newcastle, and to this day it still is. With amazing beaches and miles of unspoilt coastline, who can argue? But there is a lot more to this amazing area than the clean white sands and crystal blue waters.
The most popular “local” residents of Port Stephens are the 140 odd dolphins that make the area their home. They live, play and frolic in the area, and can be seen almost on a daily basis. Head down to the beach or out onto the nearest headland and watch for a while. You are almost bound to sight them.
Otherwise, grab a tour and head out on a cruise. The local operators know exact how and where to find the dolphins, and will get you up close and personal in no time. You can even swim with them if you like!
At the right time of the year, which is generally May till November, you can also go on a cruise to see the Humpback Whales during their annual migration. You are almost guaranteed a sighting, and is an incredible experience!
#8 Go for a cruise around Lake Macquarie
Lake Macquarie is actually a city unto itself, and has its own council area. It is actually the fastest growing region in the Hunter area. The Lake itself, though, is what we want to talk about, and is an incredible place to visit.
Lake Macquarie is the largest salt water lake in the Southern Hemisphere. It is also more than 4 and a half times the size of Sydney Harbour! Now THAT’S a lot of water!
As you can imagine, with a body of water that big, there is plenty to do. A drive around the lake will take you through dozens of beautiful suburbs, many of which have lakeside parks and facilities that are extremely popular on weekends and holidays. There is also no shortage of Bars, restaurants or coffee shops!
If you want to get out on the lake, there are plenty of options. Find a cruise that will take you around the lake, and see some of the dozens of coves and inlets that are unable to be seen from the road. Hire a Kayak or canoe, and head out onto one of the several islands that dot the lake. Go diving in the channel inlet. Grab your fishing rod and try your luck. The sky really is the limit and Lake Macquarie truly is an Aquatic Playground!
#9 Take a stroll at Nobbys Beach
Newcastle Foreshore is a great place for a day out, and close to many other things in the Newcastle City area. Stop off for a picnic, or head down just to take in the amazing sun and vibes.
Nobbys Beach is right at the head of the foreshore area, and is synonymous with Newcastle. Nearly every photo of the area shows the iconic lighthouse, which is still in operation even today. The beach is popular with swimmers and surfers, and the break wall provides an amazing place to take a stroll and really enjoy the day.
For families at Nobbys, you can’t go wrong. There are large grassy areas as part of the foreshore, a lake, and plenty of swings and play area. BBQ’s seem to be everywhere, and there is even a large shady area under the nearby historic railway carriage sheds. The local council have also installed plenty of other shaded areas to make it even more friendly to those who are extra sun conscious.
The park areas aren’t the only attraction along the foreshore, though. From Nobbys Beach, a harborside walkway stretches down the river toward Scratchleys restaurant and the famous “Brewery” Tavern and function center. Night time is an especially great time to enjoy the stroll along the harbour front, and watch the ships and ferries ply their way up and down the river.
#10 Enjoy the vibes at Honeysuckle
Not much further along from the Foreshore area, you will pass by the Rydges motel and enter the new Honeysuckle district. This area was redeveloped in recent years to be the new entertainment center of Newcastle.
There is plenty to do in Honeysuckle, especially if you are looking for a bite to eat. The whole area is brimming with cafes, restaurants and premium fast food outlets. The Honeysuckle Hotel sits right on the edge of the harbor, and acts like a centerpiece for the entire area. At one end, Newcastle museum provides a step back into the past with its amazing exhibits and year round schedule of events.
During the day, take a stroll in the sun and enjoy the vibes of the Honeysuckle district. Rollerblade, cycle, walk or jog along the promenade and enjoy watching the comings and goings of the harbor. At night time, especially on the weekend, the vibe continues as people arrive for functions, or lavish dinners overlooking the water.
#11 Eat your way along Darby Street
Darby Street is the central area of Newcastle when it comes to dining and eating in the city. Think, Lygon street in Melbourne, but on a slightly downscaled and more homey scale.
The street is actually in the suburb of Cooks Hill, but is easily reached from both the CBD or Bar Beach. It is lined with chic restaurants and cafes, pubs, quirky music shops, secondhand bookshops and gift shops. Taking a stroll down Darby street is a right of passage for any visitor to Newcastle, and almost a weekly experience for most locals that live within inner Newcastle.
If you are looking for a great feed, try heading toward the Hotel Delaney. You can park out the back, and the pub has really great food and a wonderful vibe. Across the road is a stretch of restaurants and cafes that are some of the most popular in Newcastle, including Goldberg’s Coffee House and Three Monkeys Café.
#12 Relax in King Edward Park
Last but not least on this list of epic things to do in Newcastle, we have the iconic King Edward Park. Located at the top of the hill above the Bogey Hole, this steep and hilly park is lined with Norfolk Island Pines and is one of the best places in Newcastle to chill out on the grass, picnic style!
The park has a natural amphitheater, which, in the summer months, is host to an outdoor theatre. At Christmas time, they also host Carols By Candlelight there. Most people of Newcastle visit King Edward Park at some time during the year, as it is a natural center for outdoor entertainment.
The park sits on a steep hill, with a road that winds like a snake up from South Newcastle Beach. It has been reconfigured in recent years though, which put an end to the traditional and popular “Hill Climb” car race that was run annually until 2015.
Come to King Edward park at any time, especially on a sunny day, and you will find locals, tourists, families and couples laying on the grass, enjoying the views across Newcastle Beach, all the way to Port Stephens. You may even be witness to a wedding, as the famous Rotunda in the park is one of the most popular wedding locations in the city!
Summary
Well, that’s it for my list of epic things to do in Newcastle. Obviously there are more, but for most first time visitors to the city, if you follow this list then you will have seen and done most of it. Take your time and enjoy, because Newcastle really is an amazing city. Even IF it’s just like a big country town!
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I never knew anything about it never considered taking a trip down but you have me interested now! Thanks for sharing!