It’s only a short drive down the road.

Got some spare time for exploring this Summer? Maybe a trip down the road to the up and coming suburb of Caves Beach should be on your to-do list.

With an almost always empty beach (compared to Newcastle), Caves and rock pools to explore for days, and coffee and foodie joint to check out; why wouldn’t you?

1. Caves Beach

First stop is to get down to the beach to soak up the sun’s rays or enjoy the cool waters. Keep your eyes peeled as the dolphins frequent the beach quite regularly!

To access, you can park in the main carpark next to the surf club, or up at the lookout and walk down the wooden staircase to reach the beach.

2. The Caves

If you’re visiting at low tide, make sure to go and adventure through the never-ending caves and rock pools. Keep the kids entertained for hours as they play hide and seek throughout all the caves little nooks and explore the beauty of the rock pools.

Tip – Make sure to keep an eye on the tide!

3. Caves Beach Kiosk

All this adventuring, exploring, swimming and sunbathing means it must be time to fill up on some food! If you’re not keen on venturing too far, you can pick up something from the Two Pines Kiosk just under the Surf Life Saving club. Whilst they obviously serve up all your usual Summer favourites such as fish and chips and Icy Poles, they’re also known for their scrumptious baked goods and coffee from Crema Coffee.

4. Surf Life Saving Club 

Visiting on a Friday or Sunday arvo? Just upstairs the bar is open with some of the best water views across town, and if you’re there on a Sunday you might be lucky enough to catch some live music.

5. Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows

Looking for something a bit more fancy, head up the road to Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows where you can pull up a seat on the outdoor balcony or pick a table down on the grass and watch the world go by.

For those of you with kids, keep an eye on their website and socials over the School Hols as they usually have lots of fun stuff happening!
Where: 27 Mawson Close

6. Mawson

Another hop, skip and jump up the road will land you at Mawson. Known for their coffee as well as their brekky and lunch offerings.

Those with four-legged friends should give this place a visit just to pick up some of their awesome dog treats! When we called in they had doggy burgers, duck jerky, doggy doughnuts, and even doggy mini hot-dogs!
Where: 5/3 Mawson Close

7. Boffee Cafe

Another fav coffee spot just across the road from Mawson is Boffee Café! The buzzing local hub is decked out in vibrant greenery and serves up specialty coffee, all-day breakfast and lunch!
Where: 64 Caves Beach Road

8. Finite Gallery

Located in a spacious modern gallery space, Finite Gallery has a constantly revolving display of fine arts and crafts by established and local artists. Located within walking distance of the Mawson and Caves Coastal Bar, it makes for the perfect pre or post lunch thing to do.
Where: 60 Caves Beach Road