Whether you’re new to Newcastle, just visiting or have lived in the area all your life, there is always something new to see, do and rediscover along Newcastle’s dynamic working harbour. Rediscover the unique sights, sounds and flavours across more than five kms over publicly accessible waterfront. Discover new gems or get reacquainted with familiar favourite ways to spend the day at Port of Newcastle.

If you’re in need of some ideas on how to keep the family entertained over the summer - no need to drive too far, or even prep a packed lunch.

Starting with a trip to Stockton on the Newcastle Ferry

Every kid loves a boat ride, and it’s a bonus when an awesome playground awaits at the other end.

Jump on the ferry for a quick dash across Newcastle Harbour and let the kids run wild on the awesome kid's playground. Check out the Ferry Timetable so you can plan your day perfectly. Be sure to take their wheels so they can take a spin in the skate and bike park.

If they still have some energy left, get them riding along Pirate Point, past Little Beach, all the way to Shipwreck Walk where you can take in some of Newcastle’s best views. Watch all the movements of the working harbour and spot the rusty old wrecks which give this super popular walkway its name.

Prefer to get active on Newcastle Harbour?

Or perhaps you're looking to take up a new summer sport? Then this is the spot. Not only does Newcastle Harbour offer water sports for all interests but is the perfect backdrop to get your heart rate up at with an interesting mix of cityscape and iconic steelworks always deliver something interesting to watch as you work hard.

Want to get the kids involved? Don’t stress if you don’t have the equipment, Newy Paddlers hire out everything from paddleboards to canoe and kayaks, or why not sign them up to Tackers and have them learning how to sail like a pro.

Looking for somewhere to eat?

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to dining around the Harbour. From fine dining at Flotilla to fish and chips under the palms harbourside, there’s something for all tastes and budgets. With kids in tow you’re most likely wanting to keep it casual, which is super easy to do.

Café on Mitchell is just a stroll from the Stockton playground and offers great coffee, kids eats and cannoli to die for. On the other side of the harbour you can grab a pie from Harry's Cafe de Wheels and icecream from Scratchleys takeaway window is always a winner, as is the gelato and slushies at Lynch’s Hub.

Get on your bike and do the Nobbys to Carrington loop

For the ultimate harbour workout make your way to Nobbys Beach and take the bikes for a cruise along Nobbys Break Wall, before riding along Newcastle Harbour for the Carrington loop. With not a hill in sight, it suits the junior riders and those who haven't been on a bike for a while. Take your time as you cover the almost 10 km loop taking in all the harbour happenings along the way.

Wander the Carrington mangrove boardwalk

If you’re at the Carrington end of Newcastle Harbour take the kids for a walk around Throsby Creek and through the Carrington Mangrove Boardwalk. Floating above the estuaries that feed into the Hunter River and Port of Newcastle, the boardwalk provides a fun way to explore the waterways and provide the perfect opportunity to try and spot some unusual critters.