Tourism Australia’s Beach Ambassador, Brad Farmer, knows what he’s talking about when it comes to surf, sand and sea. Beating the famous shorelines of Bondi, Manly and Surfers Paradise, Newcastle’s picturesque Merewether took the crown for ‘best city beach’ in his 2018 101 Best Beaches list. It may be the highlight, but Merewether is just one of many sandy stretches capturing the attention of travellers and property investors looking for lifestyle perks.
Australia’s best city beach, Merewether
It offers all the benefits of a city beach, without the hordes of tourists that descend on Bondi and Surfers Paradise.
Merewether Beach
Noted for being a National Surfing Reserve, Merewether also boasts the historic Ocean Baths complex, which is the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Just 5 minutes from downtown, it offers all the benefits of a city beach, without the hordes of tourists that descend on Bondi and Surfers Paradise.
Bar Beach
A short walk along Bather’s Way scenic walk from Merewether, Bar Beach is a suburb with a casual vibe on the edge of the ocean. The beach itself offers a rock pool area that’s perfect for children, lifeguards, change rooms, picnic tables and a kiosk.
Horseshoe Beach
If you love taking your pup to the beach, Horseshoe allows leash-free fun. It’s located in Newcastle Harbour, with sheltered water and a rock wall that’s perfect to throw a line in and hopefully catch some dinner.
Newcastle Beach
Newcastle Beach is literally right on the doorstep of the Newcastle CBD. Walk through the historic Time Tunnel Mural from Hunter Street and you’ll find a kiosk, change rooms and a vibrant stretch of sand filled with beach-loving locals.
Nobbys Beach and Lighthouse is a local favourite
Nobbys Beach and Newcastle Ocean Baths
Featuring Nobbys Lighthouse, the harbour breakwall, the art deco Newcastle Ocean Baths and the Soldiers Baths Rock Pool, Nobbys Beach and the surrounding area is, arguably, the local favourite. BBQs, swimming and learning how to surf are the top activities, with plenty of spots for relaxation too.
Stockton Beach
Hop on a ferry from the harbour and you’ll arrive in the laid-back beach suburb of Stockton in a few minutes. The suburb is bordered by a glittering coastline, with empty stretches of sand, shady parks and flat roads perfect for family biking. The main beach offers BBQs, a kids playground and change rooms.
With so many options so close to the CBD, it’s little wonder Newcastle’s beaches are firmly in the global tourism spotlight and a defining factor for property investment potential.