Newcastle Beaches Guide
Stockton Beach
This wonderfully long beach stretches all the way to Port Stephens. There is good surf the whole way along, so get in a 4WD and take off for the most uncrowded waves imaginable. Simmers should be aware that this beach is only patrolled at the extreme ends of the beach so swim with car. There are many tourist operators running horse tours along this beach which is a great way to experience this long open stretch of coastline. Alternatively hire a 4WD or motorbike and take to the striking sand dunes that tower 50m in some parts.
Blacksmiths Beach
Blacksmiths beach is another long stretch of coastline that is very exposed to the Pacific ocean and is known for good surf and a great beach to have a long stroll on. There is also access for 4WD. Fishermen also take not there is some excellent fishing to be had along this beach. At the far north end of Blacksmiths beach is Redhead, you will find that there is some protection here from northerly winds and has a striking large red headland which can offer some protection for surfers hoping to get some nice waves in the corner.
Dudley Beach
Dudley beaches one of Newcastle better beaches. It is very secluded as it’s set in a national park with no residences or built structures near the beach, just the wonderful setting of gum trees. Popular for surfers and walkers Dudley beach is exposed but offers some excellent surfing near the southern end where it can handle a good size swell. Dudley is locked up at the end of each day so don’t leave it too late to head to the beach.
Merewether Beach
Merewether beach is one of Newcastle most popular beaches. It has the largest salt water swimming baths in the southern hemisphere., so you are able to get a safe swim in at any time. There is good sand banks and point breaks for surfers particularly the southern end that can handle a massive swell. Look out for the bathers way walking track which will take you all the way to Nobbies beach and is a great way to enjoy Merewether beach.
Newcastle Beach
Set only a few minutes walk from the CBD of Newcastle city there aren’t many places in the would with such an convenient location. Where else can you go off the train or walk from popular shops to such a beautiful beach? There is also a large child splash pool and salt water baths. Surfers find Newcastle beach a great spot for always having surfable waves. The sand banks are consistently good and there is a great left hand point break which handles some big swell. This beach is always patrolled so you can swim in safety between the flags.
Nobbies Beach
Nobbies Beach would have to rank as probably Newcastle best beach. It is suitable for all kinds of activities including surfing, fishing, windsurfing, swimming and kite surfing. You will find a childs pool at the southern end. This beach is always patrolled and is safe to swim at. There is a break wall at the northern end which is a great place for a walk and offers good views of Newcastle and the northern coastline of Stockton Beach.
Redhead Beach
Redhead Beach is popular with many Newcastle locals, it’s a great place for a walk and to avoid the more crowded beaches of Merewether, Nobbies and Newcastle beaches. There is excellent surf in the northern pocket which can for a great right hand wave. The striking “redhead” also provides some shelter from the north and is a good location to avoid the winds that are exposed from Blacksmiths beach. This beach is patrolled so you are safe to swim between the flags.
Bar Beach
Bar beaches is connected to Merewether in the south. It enjoys excellent surfing also and has a small children’s bathing pool at the far north end. It is fully patrolled and is safe to swim between the flags. There is a prominent car park on the north side where you can park your car and have an excellent view of both Bar beach and Merewether beaches. There is also change rooms and a kiosk.
