Newcastle is typically known for its bustling harbour and its proximity to the Hunter Valley. There are also plenty of things to do in Newcastle with the kids beyond coastal walks. From exciting encounters with native animals to thrilling adventures on the sand, there are plenty of fun activities that the entire family will enjoy at Newie.
To take away the stress of planning and researching, we've compiled a list of the best family-friendly things to do in Newcastle, NSW!
- Befriend animals at Oakvale Wildlife Park
- Spot dolphins on a Port Stephens cruise
- Have a blast sand boarding at Port Stephens
- Learn about dangerous animals at Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters
- Enjoy a hearty lunch on a Lake Macquarie cruise
- Watch whales in the morning at Newcastle
- Discover how honey is made on a beehive tour
- Explore Newcastle's hidden caves and beaches
- Have a whale of a time on a Newcastle cruise
- Go on a quad bike adventure at Port Stephens
1. Befriend different kinds of animals at Oakvale Wildlife Park
Spend some koala-ity time with adorable animals at Oakvale. Image credit: @ali_lee_cooke
Combine a fun adventure with an educational experience at Oakvale Wildlife Park. The kids will enjoy giving treats to different animals, from koalas to kangaroos, at the 25-acre attraction. There are also talks and shows by experts, so you’ll get to learn firsthand from the pros. An excellent activity for all ages!
2. Spot dolphins on a Port Stephens cruise
Spot pods of lively dolphins on your cruise. Image credit: @imagesbyjuz
Ever seen dolphins in their natural habitat? This Port Stephens cruise is your best bet. It has a 99% success rate for dolphin spotting, so make sure you pack your cameras to capture the memories. Besides the magical creatures, you’ll also get a chance to marvel at Tomaree and Yacaaba during the trip.
3. Have a blast sand boarding at Port Stephens
The kids will love playing with the sand at Stockton Beach. Image credit: @portstephens4wdtours
Treat your kids to one of the most enjoyable things to do near Newcastle — sandboarding at Stockton Beach. Slide down dunes to your heart’s content, get a chance to visit the beautiful Birubi Beach, and learn all about the local environment. There’s a reason why this is one of the best activities in Port Stephens!
4. Learn about dangerous animals at Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters
Enjoy a fin-to-face encounter at Irukandji. Image credit: @irukandji_sharknray
Calling all animal lovers! We have just the activity for you. Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters offers both kids and adults a chance to get up close with sharks and rays. You can even level up the experience by feeding zebra nurse sharks or going snorkeling. Plus, Irukandji donates 5% of the proceeds to conservation efforts, so you would also be contributing to a good cause.
5. Enjoy a hearty lunch on a Lake Macquarie cruise
Take the entire fam for a peaceful cruise at Lake Macquarie. Image credit: @lake_macquarie_cruises
Keen for a laid-back holiday? One of the most relaxing things to do in Newcastle is to go on a Lake Macquarie cruise. What makes it even better is the delectable barbecue lunch. From fresh prawns to sausages and salads, there are plenty of options for the entire fam. It doesn’t hurt to marvel at golden sand beaches and pristine blue waters along the way!
6. Watch whales in the morning at Newcastle
Be amazed by majestic whales. Image credit: @coast.xp
Can you imagine starting your day on a relaxing morning whale-watching cruise? Treat the kids to see these magnificent creatures up close and see how they’ll be impressed by their sheer size (humpback whales can grow to a whopping 36.3 metric tonnes!). Keep your eyes peeled for other marine animals like seabirds and seals. One of the best things to do in Newcastle!
7. Explore Newcastle's hidden caves and beaches
See a different side of Newie on this exciting adventure
Searching for things to do in Newcastle that will take your kids’ attention away from their phones? Look no further than this adventure cruise. Aboard a comfy boat, you and the fam will sail to the less accessible but just as magnificent parts of Newie, like Caves Beach and Catherine Hill Bay. Make sure you have your cameras ready because you’ll also pass by forts built during World War II, Shark Bay, and Moon Island.
8. Have a whale of a time on a whale-watching cruise in Newcastle
Capture IG-worthy photos of the impressive whales. Image credit: @coast.xp
See humpback whales make their way from the Antarctic to the south on this whale-watching cruise! What sets this tour apart is that it uses a custom-built, eco-friendly boat to travel the waterway. Enjoy the sweeping views and keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales, New Zealand fur seals, and dolphins.
9. Go on a quad bike adventure at Port Stephens
Quad bikes, golden sand, and family make for a great picture
Headed to Newcastle with teeangers? Take them on a quad biking adventure at Port Stephens for an unforgettable experience. Onboard a 400cc quad bike, you and your kids will have a blast traveling around the Worimi Sand Dunes. Don’t forget to bring an ID because this activity is only for visitors aged 16 and up.
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