10 offbeat experiences in Newcastle

Known for its swimming spots, Newcastle’s Ocean Baths is one you shouldn’t skip. With an art deco pavilion, this famous spot dates back to the early 1900s and is a favourite among locals. Not only is it free to enter but if you come early enough you might even catch the sunrise. 

Known for being an arts hub with lots of creatives calling Newcastle home, it’s no wonder there’s a lineup of galleries throughout the city. Must sees include The Lock-Up, MakeSpace and Mitch Revs Gallery.

Just a three minute drive or an uphill idyllic walk from Merewether Beach lies the hidden gem Hickson Street lookout. Not only is it the perfect spot to while away some hours over a cheese board, but it looks out over Burwood beach and Glenrock State Conservation Area where you take in views that are simply unmatched. 

Europe and Newcastle come together at this restaurant where empanadas, cacio e pepe and kangaroo all star on the menu. With spectacular small and large plates, as well as charcuteries, this menu is designed to be shared among friends and family, so rally up your loved ones for the occasion.

With ten years of experience, pro surfer Philippa Anderson has a lot of knowledge to impart. Her surf school offers 80 minute lessons that cater to all ages and levels and will have you on the board in no time. Lessons are at Nobbys Beach offering gentler tides and a sand bank, which makes for a good place to nail the basics.

Take your art appreciation outdoors by strolling through the city in search of its many street art murals. Book in a guided walking tour with Newcastle Afoot so you can learn all about the local artists featured including Mitch Revs, Jasmine Cracuin, Bronte Naylor and Jordan Lucky, among others. 

After a day of exploring, walk along the Foreshore to Newcastle's newest restaurant, Blanca. This family-run restaurant will transport you to the Mediterranean with alfresco dining and dishes that channel the likes of Greece and Sicily, but are all made with fresh local produce. You’ll want to block out a whole evening for this one.

There’s a bespoke cocktail for everyone in Newcastle. Start at the speakeasy cocktail bar Coal and Cedar, before dusting off your tropical party shirts at Blue Kahunas. Fuel up with nachos and Margaritas at the Falcon, then head to Uptowns Bar for a boogie and end the night with a boozy dessert like the alcoholic sorbet at Mad Poet.

This gorgeous ocean pool got its distinctive look from being hand-carved out of a wave-cut rock platform by convicts back in 1819. Though originally made to be a private pool, Bogey Hole is now a swimming hotspot for locals and tourists alike. Take caution though as it’s unpatrolled.

Sink some beers at one of Newcastle’s top live music venues that fondly calls its regulars Rocals (Rogue locals). Head up to the rooftop bar for a gig or if it’s a Thursday you might want to stick around downstairs for open mic night. The beer is the focus with 12 taps to try and a range of frothy options including English Bitter, Dark Ale and Irish Stout.