What to do on a weekend in Newcastle, about two hours by car or three hours by train from Sydney, here are the beaches and things not to miss for two days of relaxation and beaches in Newcastle.
If you are planning a weekend out of Sydney, Newcastle it is an easy and close destination, about two hours by car or three hours by train. Two days are perfect for exploring the town and the beaches, I wouldn't recommend staying longer as the city is small and the number of places to visit and things to do quite limited.
Newcastle, or Newie as it is called by the local population, it is the second most inhabited center in New South Wales after Sydney, and the first carboniferous port in the world. In recent years the city has tried to shake off the gray patina of an industrial town, and has begun to focus on beaches, which is also responsible for the relaxed mood and the inevitable flip flops worn by citizens 24 hours a day, but also on a proliferation of new neighborhoods, clubs and restaurants.
Where to go
If you are looking for a lively neighborhood with bars and clubs, don't miss it Darby Street, where you will also find shops for alternative music and used books, design and fashion. For a relaxed stroll on the bay, or for drinks and dinner, try theHoneysuckle precint, perhaps at sunset, when the red sky will frame the already suggestive view.
If you don't mind some physical activity, you can tackle the Memorial Walk, inaugurated in April 2015, built for the centenary of the battle of Gallipoli (Turkey) in which the Australian and New Zealand armies suffered huge losses. The walk offers a striking view of the ocean and the city, while remembering the war dead soldiers from the Newcastle area with silhouettes of soldiers along the way, and the full list of names.
Beaches
If your vacation isn't complete without a trip to the sea, you won't be disappointed with Newcastle's beaches.
Nobbys Beach e Newcastle Beach are the most comfortable and closest beaches to the city. The first is more suitable for families, for those looking for a safe place to swim, for those who are new to surfing, and also for those who want to try kite surfing. The second boasts the best waves for surfers. Both offer the convenience of changing rooms, a kiosk and even free dining areas.
Beach bar it is the safest, perfect for families and swimmers, but also for those who enjoy running or walking on the beach.
Mereweather beach it is the most suitable for surfing, so much so that it was the birthplace of world surfing champion Mark Richards. If you're looking for something sheltered, or swimming isn't your thing, you can head to the Mereweather baths, saltwater pools built over the ocean.
All the beaches are covered by lifeguard services in the summer, between 9 am and 5 pm.
When to go
Generally I would recommend the summer period to take advantage of the good weather to go to the beach, but avoid the holidays! I was there during the Christmas period and almost everything was closed, or with minimal staff, even the hotel! Most restaurants are closed on Monday evenings all year round.
For more information visit Newcastle's official website www.visitnewcastle.com.au
