Things to do

Surrounded by the enchanting terrains of the Hunter Region is the beach side city of Newcastle. Newcastle was listed as a top ten city in Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel 2011’ guide. Newcastle’s rich history, diverse art culture, thriving dining and shopping scene makes it a popular holiday destination. The city's dynamic environment gives it a reputation as the city that is always changing, a city with world class business, research and industry.

Newcastle city is surrounded by eight breathtaking beaches. Merewether, Newcastle, Nobbys, and Bar Beach in particular are popular surfing and fishing locations, and are conveniently located close to the city centre. Ride the wave of surfing culture that characterises the city and join the locals for an early morning dip. Swim in the art deco Newcastle Ocean Baths (opened in 1922), and have fish and chips at the Canoe Pool, built in the late 1930s for young swimmers. Look out for whales and dolphins, a common sight off Newcastle’s beaches.

Be Entertained

In a city surrounded by beaches, Newcastle is the perfect place to catch some culture, be immersed in galleries and boutiques along Darby Street, Newcastle East, Cooks Hill or visit the Newcastle Art Gallery. Be lost in drama and live performance at the spectacular-restored Art Deco Civic Theatre.

Explore the Local History

Take a step back in time and explore Newcastle’s Fort Scratchley Historic Site, with its commanding position guarding the Hunter River Estuary. Another famous historic site and a survivor of the Japanese submarine attack of WWII and the 1989 Newcastle Earthquake, Christ Church Cathedral is a short car ride away. The city’s ‘Castle’ boasts exquisite architecture, beautiful grounds and wide views of Newcastle harbour.

Revisit Newcastle’s convict past with a visit to the convict-hewn Bogey Hole, built around 1820 for the personal use of Commandant James T. Morriset. Located beneath a rocky prominence at the foot of King Edward Park, the Bogey Hole gets battered during heavy seas.

Take a wildlife adventure through Blackbutt’s Reserve, relax amongst the Newcastle Rock Pools, or simply take a moment to sit and watch the port in action. Become lost among the giant 300m freight ships, guided by comparatively tiny tugs. Sharing the harbour with coal ships are freight ships, fishing boats, ferries, yachts, kayaks and private vessels, making for a chaotic but exciting scene.

Catch a Bite

Take time out to enjoy. Visit Honeysuckle, the Hunter’s premier waterfront playground. Inviting cafes, bars, nightlife and world-class restaurants, it’s where the bustling city meets the glistening harbour in style and sophistication.

Newcastle East and Darby Street also boasts a range of first class restaurants with sweeping views of the harbour and beaches.