Best Beach in Port Stephens Council

"With superb views up the coast, Merewether Beach is perhaps the most well-known beach in Newcastle, particularly due to it being the home of international surfing competition, Surfest. On any given morning, Merewether Beach and the surrounding cafes are packed with parents juggling coffee, sandy-haired kids, surfboards, dogs on leash all while catching up or reading the paper."

"Although it’s not technically in Newcastle, it’s up the road in Port Stephens so we consider it a regional beach. Little Beach is just around from the tourist hub of Nelson Bay. This peaceful harbour beach is perfect for littlies who will love playing in the sand or splashing in the calm water."

"Kids will enjoy splashing in the beachside creek and rock pools. Redhead Beach is home to Redhead Surf Lifesaving Club."

"This Newcastle breakfast spot is sun soaked and inviting with romantic, rustic furnishings. With a sage green interior, reclaimed wooden tables and an elegant and welcoming air, Autumn Rooms is a serious contender for best café in Newcastle. The best breakfast dishes here have to be either the berry cheesecake waffles with meringue and compote or the light and delicious crumpets with honey-roasted stone fruit and whipped lemon crème fraiche."

"Autumn Rooms is almost next door to Three Monkeys, so whenever I am walking past it’s always a tug of war to where I want to go. While Three Monkeys serve the classics, Autumn Rooms has more of an upper-class feel, and if you’re not the adventurous type, I would steer clear. They do serve a mean bacon and eggs, but besides this, it may not be ideal if you’re not one for gourmet food."