Sally Fitzgibbons’ Insider Guide to Newcastle

Just two hours north of Sydney in coastal New South Wales lies Newcastle.

Packed full of great things to see and do, Newcastle is perfect for Sydney locals wanting a city escape or international travellers on an Australian road trip.

Morning 

Whether you arrived in Newcastle in the morning or drove down the night before, everyone knows you need a good coffee in order to start the day right. So park the car, grab your day bag and set off in search of caffeine and a tasty breakfast!

Newcastle is packed full of excellent hidden (and more well-known) cafes and coffee shops. We recommend stopping at Three Monkeys Café (a Newcastle institution) for a hearty breakfast.

Midday

Once you’re fuelled-up and ready to make a start on the day, take in the views from above on the Christ Church Cathedral Climb for 360° views of the city.

Afternoon 

Later in the day, make your way to Fort Scratchley and uncover Newcastle’s rich history. A former coastal defence installation, Fort Scratchley is a must-see attraction for history lovers.

Discover the amazing underground tunnels, check out the museum and exhibitions and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for whales out in the distance (normally between the months of May and November each year). 

Afterwards, take a stroll from Fort Scratchley along the Breakwall of Nobby’s Beach, up to Nobbys Lighthouse (which is still a functioning lighthouse). From here, you can enjoy excellent views of Newcastle, Stockton and the Hunter River. 

Evening 

Once you’ve well-truly worked up an appetite, it’s time to sit back and watch the evening roll in at one of Newcastle’s excellent beach bars and restaurants. Try Merewether Surfhouse for delicious pizzas and swanky cocktails or The Beach Hotel for casual dining with plenty of beers on tap. 

Check into Novotel Newcastle Beach, conveniently located in Newcastle's East End, close to bars and dining and a short walk to the beach. 

There's an onsite gym, spa, and restaurant and plenty of things to do within walking distance of the hotel.

Morning 

It’s time to hit the water so be sure to bring your swimmers. But first… breakfast!

Make your way to Ground Up Espresso for a great brew and a tasty breakfast. You definitly won’t be able to pass up Poached Eggs Stack or perhaps try Build Your Own Breaky if you’re feeling like something a little more, you. You’ll know you’ve found it when you see a brightly-coloured Tetris building.

Or head towards the beach and visit Estabar Cafe. Close to Novotel Newcastle Beach, Estabar is a Newcastle favourite, with excellent ocean views and an all-day breakfast sure to satisfy all appetites. Try the blackfox crumpets or pesto and eggs on sourdough – yum!

Midday

After breakfast take a stroll down to Bogey Hole. This picture-perfect sea bath is heritage-listed and you’ll understand why once you’re there. Hand-built by convicts in 1819, Bogey Hole is worth the visit, even if it’s too chilly to swim.

However, with big crashing waves making their way into the bath, it’s not a great place for swimming laps. Instead, head to Merewether Ocean Baths that are equally as beautiful and a lot more suitable for those looking to work out. 

Afternoon

Wrapping up a trip in Newcastle wouldn’t be complete without some excellent seafood at Scottie's. Serving-up Newcastle’s favourite seafood since 1950 it’s  fair to say they’ve got it down to a fine art!