Whether you are looking for a quick weekend getaway or a much-needed extended break, it’s always great when you can take some time off after working hard for so long and have the chance to spend quality time with your family and friends.
So, if you are interested in blowing off some steam and doing some fun activities during your holiday, then you should give the beautiful city of Newcastle, Australia a go. Just 160 kms north of Sydney, Newcastle is an ideal spot for families who want to enjoy its gorgeous beaches, thriving dining scene, rich history, and natural attractions.
Getting there
While you have the option to travel by train or bus, it’s more convenient to look for a reliable means of transportation. Since you’d want to make the most out of your visit, having your own set of wheels is ideal.
Fortunately, you don’t have to go over your budget because it’s easy to look for companies that offer affordable car rental in Australia. With a car, it will only take you roughly two hours to drive to Newcastle from Sydney. Also, you’ll have the freedom to go anywhere you want at your own convenience.
Where to go and what to do
Now, check out these best places you need to visit and exciting activities you can enjoy with your mates and loved ones in Newcastle.
Head to the beaches
Newcastle is truly blessed. It is rare to see a city anywhere in the world that is surrounded by eight beautiful beaches. From Newcastle Beach, Bar Beach, Nobby Beach, Merewether Beach, to name a few, you can get your fair share of sand, surf, and swim at any of these top-notch beaches.
A favourite among locals, Nobby Beach exudes a laid-back, family-friendly vibe that appeals to surfers, health enthusiasts, and cyclists. At its southern end, you can chill at any of the excellent facilities, playground, and park.
You and your family can either choose to have a delightful barbecue or enjoy a relaxing walk while appreciating the beautiful views at North Burleigh Hill.
If you are looking to catch some great waves, the best place for you to be at is Newcastle Beach. It is well-known for being one of the best surfing hotspots in the country.
Recently hailed as Australia’s best city beach, Merewether Beach beat out other iconic locations like Bondi Beach and Surfers Paradise. It is also home to Mark Richards, a four-time world surfing champion, and a favourite venue to one of the biggest surfing festival held every February.
More wine than you can imagine
Aside from its glorious beaches and surfing spots, another draw of Newcastle is its neighbouring Hunter Valley region. If you want to sample world-class wine, you can visit dozens of wineries and join any of the local wine tours. Wine lovers will feel as if they’ve died and gone to heaven once they visit the various cafes and restaurants that are just waiting to be discovered.
Get in touch with nature at Blackbutt Reserve
Nature lovers are in for a treat at Blackbutt Reserve. Located at Carnley Avenue, Kotara, it’s a mere ten-minute drive from the city. You and your children will spend a memorable time exploring more than 180 hectares of native bushland.
Your kids will be thrilled to see the Reserve’s wildlife exhibits, enjoy playing at the picnic grounds and getting up close and personal with its public animal encounters.
So, if ever you’re up for an epic adventure in the Land Down Under, make sure you don’t miss out on Newcastle’s natural attractions, laid-back vibe, marvellous beaches, and rich history. Are you looking forward to any of Newcastle’s exciting destinations? Please let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear from you!