The seaside suburb of Newcastle has become increasingly popular over the past few years, with Sydneysiders flocking to the once sleepy town, the local creative scene booming and foodies making their mark, Newcastle is becoming one of NSW’s most popular areas to both live and visit.

With so much to see and do, we thought we’d make your visit easier with this best things to eat, see, do and drink guide to our beautiful city, Newcastle! From the best places to visit in Newcastle, activities for the whole family, and top attractions; explore it all with this ultimate guide. 

1. Beaches

We’ve become known for our beautiful long stretches of sand, and once you’ve checked out the numerous beaches across Newcastle, you’ll be able to understand. The spots to check out include Nobby’s Beach, Newcastle Beach, Susan Gilmore Beach, Bar Beach, Dixon Park Beach, Merewether Beach, and Burwood Beach!

2. Small Bars

Newcastle’s small bar scene has absolutely BOOMED in the past few years with now, more than 20 bars gracing the CBD and surrounding suburbs. For all the favourites, check out our guide to small bars across Newcastle; there’s a little something to suit everyone’s needs.

3. Best Restaurants

Similarly, to the thriving bar scene, Newcastle’s foodies have been absolutely revelling in the recent growth of restaurant options across the city and surrounding suburbs. From fine dining restaurants to unique experiences, Newcastle offers it all. To explore HUNTERhunter’s top 10 restaurants in Newcastle, click here.

4. Explore Newcastle from a different angle

Hit the water or take to the skies to see Newcastle from a completely different perspective. Jump aboard a CoastXP cruise and see the skyline from the water as you explore the rich local aquatic life. Maybe book in a flight with Newcastle-based helicopter group, Aerologistics as you fly over Newcastle and our stunning coastline.

More of an adrenaline junkie? Book in for a session of hang gliding or paragliding and feel the wind in your hair as you take in the beauty of Newcastle’s beaches from above.

5. Wellness & Fitness

Keen for a little TLC or to work out whilst in Newcastle? You’re in luck! 

Book in for a private infrared sauna session at Zadig Studio, a salt therapy session at King St’s Salt Therapy Centre, or even a facial and massage at Endota Spa.

Keen to work out? Explore our guide to walking trails and hiking spots across Newcastle or join in on a workout with one of Newcastle's many gyms, pilates studios, or yoga and meditation venues.

6. Art & Culture

Unsurprisingly, Newcastle’s creative scene has followed suit and boomed over the years with many artists now calling Newcastle home, an increase in local art galleries and studios, and even creative workshops!

Book in for a unique creative workshop with Raw Celebrations, or wander the many art galleries on offer including Newcastle Art Gallery, cstudios Art Gallery, Cooks Hill Art Gallery, The Lock-Up, and SMAC Studio amongst our favourites.

7. Explore the city by bike

You’ll be able to see much more of the city when you’re zooming around on two wheels! Follow our ever-growing local bike paths or hit the road and wind your way around Newcastle at your own pace.

Book in on a guided tour with Newy Rides and get well acquainted with the local architecture and geography.

8. Boutique Shopping

Keen shopper? Well, let us set you out on a shopping spree because Newcastle has some of the best boutique shopping offerings across NSW; not that we are bias or anything.

Wander down our three distinctly unique shopping strips; Hunter St, Darby St, and Beaumont St and find yourself a treasure to take home with you.

9. Visit the local market scene

Newcastle absolutely LOVES a market! Never a weekend goes by where you won’t be able to get along to at least one local market. Our favourites include Newcastle’s premier design market, Olive Tree that takes place once a month at Civic Park, Homegrown Markets set-up shop every few weeks at The Station, and Newcastle City Farmer’s Market that is on every Sunday over at Newcastle Showground.

10. Coffee

You can’t come to Newcastle without making the most of our ever-growing coffee scene that is sure to make even the biggest coffee snob quietly impressed. Whether you’re buying beans from one of our local coffee roasters to take home with you or your exploring our rich café scene, one things for sure, you’re mad if you leave Newcastle without giving the coffee a red-hot go!

Still wondering what to do in Newcastle? Check out our always updated what's on in Newcastle guide here!