Winter in Newcastle: The Ultimate Guide to Cozy Adventures and Coastal Escapes
Winter looks good on you, Newy
You may immediately think of summer when planning a trip to Newcastle, Australia’s coolest city by the sea. Bustling waterside bars and cafes, gelato and glorious beaches. And you’d be right. But let us fill you in on a little-known secret: winter in Newcastle is where it’s at.
No jostling for tables at hip restaurants, clear blue skies and clean rolling waves (the surf is at its best in winter) make the cooler months an ideal time to explore Australia’s second oldest city.
Take long walks on practically empty beaches, drink wine at cosy bars and take front row seats to the east coast’s best show - the great annual whale migration that is. Honestly, it doesn’t get any better.
Explore the latest offers and packages from Crystalbrook Kingsley in Newcastle.
Newcastle whale watching
Some coastal towns have tried to corner the whale watching market but don’t let that fool you. Newcastle offers front-row seats along the humpback highway for viewing some of the 35,000 whales that make their annual commute from Antarctica to warmer waters north.
Dom May from CoastXP loves nothing more than being out on the water, exploring Newcastle’s beautiful coastline and showing off the incredible marine life which includes whales, dolphins and seals. CoastXP’s Newcastle whale watching groups are small, personal and Dom has had multiple encounters with curious whales.
The chance of seeing whales on one of CoastXP’s whale watching tours which operate from June to November from Honeysuckle (a short walk from the Kingsley) is high. “Our whale population is growing so the chances of seeing them is on the rise too,” Dom says.
If you don’t have good sea legs, simply head for one of Newcastle’s lofty vantage spots and watch for that tell-tale stream of air puncturing the sky. Best spots include the Anzac Memorial Walk, Fort Scratchley and the Obelisk but anywhere along the Bathers Way stretching from Nobbys Beach to Merewether Beach is fair game from June through to November.
Image Credits: Destination NSW
Newcastle surfing
As the summer crowds pack up Newcastle surfers quietly rub their hands with glee. Surfing in Newcastle is considered at its best in winter with consistent clean waves and light offshore winds.
And what surfers love about Newcastle’s beaches – recognised globally - is you can surf in almost every wind (except for a straight easterly). Offshore reefs tempt skilled surfers while Dixon Park and The Cliff offer good beach breaks.
Merewether Beach is one of Australia’s National Surfing Reserves (a register of iconic surfing spots) where four-time world surfing champion Mark Richards, Luke Egan, Matt Hoy and Ryan Callinan honed their craft.
On big wave days crowds flock to Merewether Point to catch a glimpse of surfers taking on monster swells.
Take your pick of Newcastle’s string of six beaches, have a surf lesson with Surfest Surf School or just park yourself overlooking a break and watch the surfers having fun. It’s almost as good as being out there.
Image Credit: Destination NSW
Cosy Newcastle bars and cafes
Crisp Newcastle winter days call for dimly lit bars, warm as a hug cafes and hearty pub meals next to a blazing fire.
If it’s fireside dining you’re after, head to the Burwood Inn at Merewether and treat yourself to (arguably) Newcastle’s best steak and a warming glass of Hunter Valley red.
A short detour off the foodie track will bring you to Flotilla, brought to inner city Wickham by former Silverchair bassist Chris Joannou. Take a seat at this intimate fine diner or prop yourself at the bar for a menu showcasing the best of Australian produce.
The welcome meanwhile is always warm at Wil & Sons, found on bustling Darby Street (a short stroll from Crystalbrook Kinglsey). Look for the eye-catching blue façade and take a table inside the light filled space with its rustic industrial feel. The corn fritters with asparagus and smoked salmon, legendary bacon and egg rolls and fab deli sandwiches will have you sorted, especially if you’re feeling dusty. Or just pop in for a glass of wine after a spot of boutique shopping.
One of the most sought-after places to dine in Newcastle is Roundhouse restaurant at Crystalbrook Kingsley. The modern Australian menu offered at the rooftop restaurant is equal to the sweeping vistas from Nobbys Head to Port Stephens. Eighty percent of produce sourced for the hotel’s signature restaurant is grown within a three-hour radius while the extensive wine list showcases the breadth of the Hunter’s wine varietals. Take a seat at the olive grove themed restaurant inspired by the Hunter Valley’s archetypal groves and the hotel owner’s upbringing. Order a Shiraz from the Hunter Valley and soak up views for days.
Image Credit: Destination NSW
Coastal walks with stunning views
Newcastle’s coastline is just as stunning in winter as it is in summer—if not more so. With fewer crowds and crisp, refreshing air, the region’s coastal walks offer an unbeatable way to soak in the natural beauty. The Newcastle Memorial Walk is a must-visit, providing panoramic ocean views and a glimpse into the city’s ANZAC history. For those looking for a longer trek, the Yuelarbah Walking Track in Glenrock State Conservation Area offers a scenic bushland escape that leads to the coastline. Walking along the Bathers Way, which stretches from Nobbys Beach to Merewether, is also a fantastic way to experience Newcastle’s rugged coastline while keeping an eye out for migrating whales.
Image Credits: Destination NSW
Hunter Valley wine tours – a winter escape
Just a short drive from Newcastle, the Hunter Valley transforms into a winter wonderland for wine lovers. The cooler temperatures enhance the tasting experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the bold reds and crisp whites the region is famous for. Many wineries offer cozy cellar-door tastings by a roaring fire, creating the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing getaway. Notable spots like Audrey Wilkinson, Brokenwood Wines, and Tyrrell’s offer immersive tasting experiences, while boutique wineries provide intimate, personalized tours. For a full-day adventure, guided wine tours take the stress out of planning, offering transport, gourmet food pairings, and visits to multiple cellar doors.
Winter camping under the stars
For adventurous travelers, winter camping around Newcastle offers a unique way to experience nature without the summer crowds. While the nights can be chilly, the lack of humidity and clear skies make for incredible stargazing opportunities. The Watagans National Park is a prime spot for campers looking to immerse themselves in lush forests and tranquil surroundings. If you prefer camping by the beach, Freeman’s Campground near Catherine Hill Bay offers a picturesque coastal setting. For those who enjoy a bit more comfort, glamping options like Tents at the Pines in the Hunter Valley provide a cozy yet adventurous winter escape, complete with warm bedding, fire pits, and stunning natural landscapes.
Make your winter escape unforgettable
Winter in Newcastle offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and indulgence. Whether you’re exploring scenic coastal trails, spotting majestic whales, or sipping wine in the Hunter Valley, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the season. After a day of exploring, retreat to a cozy and stylish stay where you can unwind in comfort. Crystalbrook Kingsley provides the perfect winter sanctuary with its warm, inviting spaces and luxurious amenities. So, why not turn your Newcastle winter getaway into an experience to remember? Book your stay and enjoy the best of the season in style.