Seven great reasons to visit Newcastle, Australia

Seven great reasons to visit Newcastle, Australia

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There are so many reasons why you should visit Newcastle. Surrounded by beautiful beaches, full of historic landmarks and with endless exciting activities, there's something for everyone no matter what's your style.

Here are seven reasons why this vibrant regional city should be next on your holiday bucket list:

The beaches

Newcastle is famous for its wicked surf spots and beautiful sandy beaches. Bar Beach is perfect for families, with a patrolled swimming area and a sheltered rock pool for kids. Nobby’s Beach is another popular swimming spot for families. Surfers everywhere know of the iconic Merewether Beach where you’ll find local surfers at any time of day. There's also Newcastle Beach, which is recognised as one of the Australia’s best surf spots.

Surfest

The city famous for its surf beaches also hosts the largest surfing festival in the southern hemisphere, Surfest. Held every February, this exciting festival attracts the world’s best surfers. Locals and visitors crowd onto Merewether Beach to watch them compete in the Burton Automotive Pro and the Burton Automotive Women's Classic.

The markets

Explore the latest clothing and accessories and also original art stalls at The Olive Tree Markets, which are held each month at Civic Park. On top of that, every Wednesday 2.30 to 9pm at the Newcastle Showground you’ll find the Night Markets, where you’ll discover new flavours with street food and craft beers. There are also exciting street performers and artisan stalls.

The music

Newcastle’s pub and music scene is awesome – just ask the locals. Whether you want to listen to local acts at Lizottes over a tasty meal, or enjoy some jazz music with drinks at an intimate venue like The Terrace Bar, Newcastle’s music scene has something for everyone. After all, this is the place silverchair was born. And

Shopping

If boutique shopping is on your agenda then Darby St is the place to visit. With popular indie shops such as Abicus and Ramjet you’ll come across retro inspired clothing for guys and girls. Honeybee stocks interesting jewellery and clocks with a sweet little café out the back. If you’re home is in need of some TLC, head to nearby Hunter St and check out the various shimmering colours and textures at The Deck Homewares and Fashion.

Fascinating history

Newcastle is Australia’s second oldest city, which means it’s steeped in history. Admire the unique architecture of Newcastle's historic landmarks such as the mesmerising Newcastle Ocean Baths and the Newcastle City Hall's charming sandstone walls and pillars. Tourists also love the Newcastle East Heritage Walk, which takes you past many historic points of interest. You can also take a dip in the Bogey Hole, which was cut into ocean rocks by convicts in 1819.

It’s where the action is

Whether you want to relax and hit a few holes at Beresfield Golf Course, go on a sand dune safari, race your mates at Go-Karts-Go, or hanglide/skydive over the ocean, adventures of all kinds await for adrenaline junkies.

BRIANNA PIAZZA

Brianna Piazza

Brianna Piazza

Brianna Piazza is an Australian television reporter and part-time travel blogger. Originally from Melbourne, she's currently living in Cairns where she works for WIN News and spends her weekends exploring the outdoors Far North Queensland.

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