It may be famous for its world-class surf and postcard-perfect beaches, but Newcastle is so much more than its coast. Choose your own adventure in this vibrant and eclectic city: feel the adrenaline rush as you explore the outdoors and breathtaking natural attractions; connect with passionate locals with unique foodie experiences and craft brews unique to this city; and walk in wonder through inspiring cultural attractions and awe-inspiring heritage sites. There’s something that’s bound to surprise you in Newcastle – add these unexpected activities in to your next holiday to-do list.
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1. Go Cruisin’
There are numerous ways to explore the Newcastle coastline on foot, but have you ever considered admiring it from a different angle? Sightseeing cruises in Newcastle depart from CBD and reveal the natural beauty of the city’s coastline from the water.
You’ll venture out via the Newcastle Harbour, passing the Newcastle Breakwall and Nobbys Lighthouse on your way out onto the ocean. One of the great joys of a Newcastle sightseeing cruise is explore the various sea caves, cliffs and beaches. The beloved Newcastle Beach and Mereweather Beach await to the south, while the sandy shoreline and windswept dunes of Worimi Conservation Lands can be admired in the north, Wildlife lovers can witness epic humpback whales between June and November.
Things to do nearby
- Soak up the harbour views with a fresh seafood meal at Scratchleys on the Wharf.
- Enjoy a refreshment or two at Signal Box, a local favourite and fast becoming an iconic dining spot in the city.
- Take things from day to night and catch a show at Civic Theatre Newcastle
- Book in for a cocktail making masterclass at The Koutetsu or Coal & Cedar
2. Tours and tastings at Earp, Foghorn and Styx
FogHorn Brewhouse, the city’s first craft beer brewery, is a prime example. It’s located in the CBD and offers fascinating tours for a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. You can also enjoy delicious craft beer platters and beer and food pairings in the lively restaurant.
Don’t stop at just one. Venture over to Styx Brewery, which has set up shop in an old coal testing facility in Carrington. The small-batch brewer is all about its locals, paying homage to the region and Greek Mythology through its range of quenching ales.
Mix things up with a visit to Earp Distilling Co., where you can join distillery tours and guided tastings. Alternatively, learn the skill of mixology through the Gin Blending Class or become a distiller for the day at Spirit School. You’ll even leave with your own bottle of bespoke spirit distilled just for you. Those who simply want to sample the tasty food and liquor can hang out in the bar or time their visit for live music.
Other Great Places to Drink in Newcastle
- Indulge in top-shelf whisky from around the world and inventive cocktails at Babylon’s sophisticated bar.
- Ginger Meg’s captures the essence of a small alley bar in South-East Asia with Orient-inspired cocktails and exotic bar snacks.
- Gin lovers are spoilt with a laundry list of distillers at Saints Bar, while the rest of us can choose from a range of liquor, wine, beer and cocktails.
- Unwind near Newcastle Beach with excellent wine, music, tapas and cocktails at the French-inspired boutique, Bar Petite.
3. Walk in Glenrock State Conservation Area
Glenrock State Conservation Area, only 5km from Newcastle, is a natural-playground for bushwalkers, trail runners and mountain bikers. There are two main family trails, Burwood and Yuelarbah, which range from 1.5 to five kilometres return. Burwood can also be used by horse riders and links up with Glenrock Beach. Yuelarbah, meanwhile, leads past Flaggy Creak, two waterfalls and a stunning lookout on the way to the beach.
The wildlife conservation area is also home to a variety of native wildlife, including bandicoots, bats and gliders. The beaches are also ideal for a bit of fishing, while hang gliders can often be seen soaring from the cliffs.
Things to do nearby
- If the tide is low, you can walk to Burwood Beach and Glenrock from Merewether Beach.
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at Merewether Surfhouse.
- Take in the views over Glenrock and the ocean from Hickson Street Lookout.
4. Visit Newcastle Museum and Fort Scratchley
Located centrally to the Honeysuckle precinct, Foreshore and CBD, Newcastle Museum presents family-friendly and interactive exhibits showcasing the region’s industrial and natural history. The museum is free to enter and has numerous fascinating displays.
The permanent Fire and Earth exhibition lets you experience how tough the working conditions were for coal miners, while a Newcastle Story brings the city’s character and history to life through audio visual displays and preserved artefacts, The museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, from art shows to immersions in espionage, nature and wine.
Open on weekends, Fort Scratchley is a former coastal defence fort that is now a museum, which also offers guided tours. Built in 1882, the fort houses a range of historic buildings, including 600m of underground tunnels with displays depicting the Fort’s use over time. As you walk around the grounds, you can visit the Parade Ground, Barracks, Servants Quarters and enjoy the 360-degree views of the ocean, city, harbour and beaches. Take a guided tour for a more immersive experience and don’t miss the daily cannon firing at 1pm.
Our tips:
- Enjoy harbour views and a cold beer along Honeysuckle at one of the many bars and restaurants including The Dockyard, Honeysuckle Hotel, or Nagisa Japanese.
- Travel between the Museum and Fort Scratchley on the Light Rail. If you’ve got the energy, the walk along the Foreshore from the Museum to Fort Scratchley is scenic and flat.
- After your trip to the museum, make sure you stop in at the Visitor Information Centre and pick up a locally made gift, Newcastle t shirt and enjoy this rail heritage building which was once a train station.
Uncover the gems of Newcastle
Newcastle knows how to help you have a good time. Nature, adventure, dining and the outdoors are all covered with a wealth of unique and enthralling experiences. Better still, everything is so close at hand you’re never far from your next cruise, craft brew, hike or museum.
Book your next Newcastle getaway through KAYAK for the best deals on hotels.
