Newcastle
In Australia’s second oldest city, this coastal town is located just a two-hour drive north of Sydney’s CBD. While many assume that a town full of history and architecture would be boring, there’s a different side to Newcastle. Now a vibrant city, this location is home to world-famous surf destinations and striking beach scenery coupled with boutique shops.In the summer, tourists flock to the Newcastle region for its beaches and seaside lifestyle (not to mention one of the country’s largest surfing festivals, Surfest, in February). The downtown is also full of bars, dining options, museums, and a thriving street scene. After summer ends, heading north to Port Stephens and the Newcastle region is the ideal winter escape.
Food and Wine Festival
The cooler months transform Newcastle into a foodie’s paradise. The annual Food and Wine Festival occurs between May - June, showcasing the talent of the local restauranteurs, chefs, and sommeliers. Exclusive wine tours, cooking classes or a chef-prepared long lunch are available for those keen to learn more.
Hot Air Balloon
Newcastle is surrounded by World Heritage listed sites. To experience the beauty of the region, wake up (very) early for a hot air balloon ride that glides over the picturesque landscapes.
Camping and Hiking
The Central Coast region offers some of the most pristine camping spots and trails for hiking in NSW. Heritage Wetlands National Park is a wildlife sanctuary, perfect for cycling or bird watching. Likewise, a camping trip on the beach in Belmont Wetlands State Park promises an incredible stay by the ocean, surrounded by natural wildlife. Blackbutt Nature Reserve, Glenworth Valley, and Kooragang Island in Hunter Wetlands National Park are all worth discovering for hiking and camping.
Beaches
Along the coastline, Ocean Baths and Merewether Baths are perfect for a morning, afternoon, or evening swim. Protected from larger waves, the baths are a haven for relaxation. Bar Beach is another shoreline that is ideal for families and soaking up some sun. Surf beaches include Stockton, Nobby, Dixon Park Beach, and Merewether – with waves to suit surfers of every level. Other beaches to check out during your travels include Horseshoe Beach and Newcastle Beach.
Leisurely Activities
In between your indulgences in delicious eateries, world-class wine and hanging out by the beach, Maritime Museum and Newcastle Art Gallery offer visitors the chance to appreciate the artistic side of Newcastle. Fort Scratchley offers stunning views and a new historic perspective of Russian Australian relations. Just beside the fort, take a short trek to Nobby’s Head Lookout and explore the lighthouse for coastal views. Christ Church Cathedral, King Edward Park, and the Convict Lumber Yard Heritage Park are also noteworthy destinations in the Newcastle area.
And Beyond
After exploring the inner metropolis, drive out to the Hunter Valley region. Watch the scenery transform from a beachside town to rolling hills and greener landscapes (spot the kangaroos!). At just a 30-minute drive from Newcastle, the Hunter Valley region is world-famous for its award-winning wineries and is well worth a day trip. The Hunter Valley comprises more than 150 wineries, and produces some of Australia’s best Shiraz and Semillon, as well as a crisp Chardonnay and delectable Cabernet Sauvignon.
Sparkling, red, white, it’s all divine. This region also features lip-smacking fine and casual dining experiences all year long. Be sure to stop at Harkham Winery, Pigs Peake Winery, Scarborough Wine Co., and Peppertree Wines (and this is just a start).
Port Stephens
Only a 30-minute drive from Williamtown Airport (and about a one-hour drive from Newcastle) sits Port Stephens. With 26 golden beaches, bays and coves, locals and travellers alike take advantage of the natural surfing, snorkelling and sun bathing features Port Stephens has to offer. Fresh seafood, local wines and craft beer also contribute to the gourmet, home-grown vibe.Beaches
Take your pick – the beaches and bays scattered throughout Port Stephens each bring their own adventure to the table:
Nelson Bay
Right by the main resort and accommodation areas sits Nelson Bay. Beaches such as Little Beach and Dutchman’s Beach are the perfect shores for partaking in a variety of water sports. Calm, soothing, clear waters wash up gently on shore, making Nelson Bay an ideal location for kids to play or for a family BBQ. Plus, the coastal beaches with larger swell are only a five-minute drive from this central location.
Shoal Bay
Named for its many sand shoals, this stunning shoreline offers bush walking and perfect conditions to set out on a fishing expedition or casual day cruise. This bay has one of the best seaside atmospheres around and is situated right by the famous Tomaree National Park.
Zenith and Wreck Beach
Both of these beaches can be accessed through Shoal Bay and rest south of Tomaree Mountain. Absorb the tropical mountain views and the waves kissing the sand after taking a short walk down a wooded pathway. If you keep your eyes peeled, you may see a whale or two during the migration season.
One Mile Beach
This is one of the main beaches that fills your Instagram feeds and is strewn throughout advertising gambits for Port Stephens. Considered the most ‘natural’ beach in the area, there are places to swim, cook, sun bathe, and surf – all in a day’s work.
Box Beach
Start your morning feeling refreshed. Have a surf or go bodyboarding as the sun comes up. The waves here beckon for you to take a swim but be mindful of a rougher current and the lack of shade (bring your sun umbrella). Box Beach is a bit harder to find and less frequented by tourists, making it a hidden gem.
Samurai Beach
To get here, you should have a 4WD to navigate the path less travelled. This beach is a nudist spot, so if you like to feel a bit freer, this is a great area to relax. The surf is suitable for swimming and fishing away from the crowds.
Stockton and Birubi Beach
Drive 20 minutes south near Worimi National Park to Stockton and Birubi beaches. Stockton stretches for 32km, perfect for kids to run, jump, and play. Plus, there are rocks for climbing and impeccable surfing conditions (particularly by Birubi which is on the north end of Stockton Beach). This is the largest moving sand mass in NSW, the ideal location for a quick 4WD along the beach or a BBQ with friends and family.
Anna Bay
Behind Birubi Beach sits Anna Bay. This area is ideal for dune activities such as camel riding and quad biking. Try your luck at sandboarding as you zoom down the dunes at max speed. Grab a bite to eat at one of the local cafes.
Fingal Bay
This beach is great for families and travellers looking for an adventure. Fishing, surfing, body boarding and swimming; fulfil your need for a day well spent being active on the coast. For the more daring, a sand-spit connects this beach to its very own island – Shark Island (continued below). Shower and toilet facilities are available near the beach.
Hiking and Trekking
Fingal (Shark) Island
Known as Shark Island by the locals, if you journey over to Fingal Bay, trekking to the island and seeing the Port Stephens Lighthouse will be one of the most memorable parts of your trip. Be sure to calculate the low tide times, as you can only cross the Fingal Spit during certain hours. Once you’ve hiked from the bay to the island, a casual 1.2km walk will land you spectacular views of the ocean and a chance to explore the remains of the homestead and lighthouse of Port Stephens.
Tomaree National Park
For a vantage point of the whole peninsula, the surrounding islands and beyond, climbing Tomaree Mountain is the endeavour to pursue. The ascent to the top is a steep one. Even though the hike is only approximately 0.62km each way, the uphill trail will prove to be a bit of a challenge. Allow about 1.5-2 hours return depending on your fitness level. Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars to see the humpback whales swimming near the coast.
Worimi National Park
Drive your vehicle across the dunes, and glide with the ebb and flow of the wind-swept sand. Pack your day full of undertakings such as sandboarding, fishing, whale watching, camel riding or exploring the local Aboriginal historic sites. Worimi encompasses Stockton Dunes and Birubi Beach.
Gan Gan Lookout
Views, views, views. Stop off at the Gan Gan Lookout for a panorama of the Port Stephens region and the ocean beyond. This is a convenient, accessible outlook to stop by on your way to the beach.
Soldiers Point
Watch the sunset dip beneath the horizon from Soldiers Point. This peninsula is located in close proximity to Nelson Bay with a well-known marina and boating facilities. Grab a bite to eat at The Point Restaurant for a fresh-from-the-ocean seafood meal.
Within the Port Stephens region, Myall Lakes National Park, Fisherman’s Bay, Morna Point, Broughton Island and Fly Point are also beautiful destinations for a trip well-travelled.
Dolphin & Whale Watching
Embark on a whale watching cruise with Imagine cruises or Moonshadow - TQC Cruises for an unforgettable experience. The best time to see humpback whales migrating along the coast is between May - November. The region is also home to a variety of Bottlenose dolphins. Spot them frolicking through the waves on a cruise or while paddling your kayak along the shoreline.
Wild Koalas
Check out Tilligerry Habitat Reserve at Tanilba Bay to see the famous Koala in its natural habitat (probably chewing on Eucalyptus leaves). Walks can be self-guided, or you can hop on a short 2-hour tour to engage with the other wildlife in abundance.
Food, Glorious Food
Whilst staying in Port Stephens, the region is home to some of the freshest seafood on the east coast, with your choice of delectable gastronomy. Check out a few of our recommended restaurants and cafes during your journey:
• Crest Birubi Beach – Anna Bay
• Little Beach Boathouse – Nelson Bay
• Little Nel – Nelson Bay
• Mavericks on the Bay – Nelson Bay
• Nelson Bay Fish Market
• The Point Restaurant – Soldiers Point
• Murray’s Craft Brewery – Nelson Bay
• Mod Thai – Nelson Bay
