Take this scenic route on your next Sydney to Newcastle road trip

Melissa Mason Melissa Mason
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With many of New South Wales’ best beach towns along the route, turning your Sydney to Newcastle drive into an experience is a must.

You might have taken a Sydney to Newcastle road trip in the past, only thinking of getting to your destination. This is understandable – Newcastle is a thriving city filled with great cafes, plenty of family fun, and loads of pubs, breweries and nightlife to enjoy. But if you choose the slow driving route from Sydney to Newcastle, you’re in for a treat. Populated with some of the best NSW beaches, national parks and up-close nature experiences, the drive is one worth relishing. Here is our guide to the perfect Sydney to Newcastle road trip.

Kur-Ring-Gai Chase National Park

The third oldest national park in Australia, Kur-ring-gai Chase National Park is a beautiful wilderness inside of Sydney popular with locals but often missed by those not in the know. Spend a day exploring the various walking trails and relaxing under leafy trees with a picnic.

Must See: Bobbin Head

Bobbin Head is a great spot for kids and adults alike, with lovely picnic areas shaded by trees, on the banks of Cowan Creek. There is a playground for little ones, and it’s worthwhile getting out on the water via the paddle boats for hire down at the marina.

an aerial view overlooking Bobbin Head Picnic Ground and CowanCreek
Relax by the water at Bobbin Head. (Image: Destination NSW)

Accommodation: Killara Hotel and Suites

Killara Hotel and Suites is a comfortable place to lay your head nearby. Recently renovated, it’s close to the excellent dining and boutique shopping of Sydney’s North Shore.

the executive king room interior at Killara Hotel and Suites
Stay for the night at Killara Hotel and Suites.

Patonga Beach

Take the exit off the highway past Mooney Mooney and travel down to Patonga Beach and its beautiful surroundings. Stay a few days and beach-hop between Patonga Beach, Pearl Beach and Ettalong Beach, enjoy the cafe and dining scene, and relish in the tranquillity of this coastal region.

A table full of meals ordered at The Boathouse Hotel Patonga
The food rivals the views at The Boathouse Hotel in Patonga. (Image: Destination NSW)

Must See: Palm Beach by Ferry

From Patonga Beach, you can jump on the ferry across to Palm Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. It’s a short trip and, on a sunny day, makes for a beautiful cruise. At Palm Beach, you’ll find hikes, water activities and relaxed cafes for a leisurely lunch.

Women at the Palm Beach Lighthouse trail summit looking out over the views
Palm Beach is just a ferry ride across the water from Patonga. (Image: Destination NSW)

Accommodation: The Boathouse Hotel

This boutique hotel and famous restaurant is very popular and worth booking ahead. Did you miss out on a room? Treat yourself to a delicious, relaxed lunch or dinner at the restaurant downstairs.

a bedroom in an apartment suite located at The BoathouseHotel, Patonga
Bed down at The Boathouse Hotel for a cosy stay. (Image: Destination NSW)

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Gosford

The Central Coast of NSW is worthy of its own weekend itinerary, but its proximity to the M1 highway makes it a fantastic place to take a break, too. Taking the Gosford turn-off will see you on a road that winds along the coast, right up to Newcastle if you want to beach-hop your way there. Otherwise, Terrigal Beach is a short 15-minute drive and features a pristine, kid-friendly shoreline and plenty of cafes worth enjoying lunch at.

Dolphins in the water at Terrigal Beach
Views of The Haven across the water in Terrigal. (Image: Destination NSW)

Must See: The Australian Reptile Park

Kids and tourists will find their native Australian wildlife encounters at The Australian Reptile Park, which is located near the M1. Yes, there are plenty of scaly critters to observe, but visitors can also get photos with koalas, feed kangaroos and watch free animal shows daily.

a koala hugging a tree branch
Spot koalas up close at The Australian Reptile Park.

Accommodation: The Quarters

Drive a few minutes up the road from Terrigal Beach, and you’ll find peaceful Forrester’s Beach. The Quarters is a relaxed, well-placed hotel with plenty of room options, including family accommodation and upscale options for couples after a romantic stay.

Lake Macquarie

Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake has something for everyone, really. Fishing enthusiasts will love the 174 kilometres of lake foreshore and will surely catch a few at Swansea, where Lake Macquarie meets the ocean.

sunrise views over Lake Macquarie
A stop at Lake Macquarie offers a laid-back and tranquil setting to stretch your legs.

Wallarah National Park is nearby and features serene bike riding tracks, and kids will love Speers Point Park and its award-winning playground.

friends enjoying a coastal walk through Wallarah National Park, Lake Macquarie
Rewarding views await you at Wallarah National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Must See: Caves Beach

The stunning Caves Beach is a hive of activity in summer thanks to crystal-clear waters and its stunning, rocky backdrop, but it’s also worth visiting during cooler months. Aside from swimming, the beach is famous for its caves, which visitors can explore at their leisure.

Accommodation: Ingenia Holiday Park Lake Macquarie

Ingenia Holiday Park Lake Macquarie is a pet-friendly holiday park popular with families and nature enthusiasts. Its position right on the water, with access to walking trails and national parkland, means you’ll never be short on things to do. Relax and enjoy the sunset in a waterfront cabin, or pull up the RV at one of the grass-covered powered sites.

a waterfront cabin at Ingenia Holiday Park Lake Macquarie
Settle in a waterfront cabin at Ingenia Holiday Park Lake Macquarie.

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Merewether Beach

Though technically within Newcastle’s bounds, Merewether Beach is a lovely stop worth adding to your Sydney to Newcastle road trip itinerary before you reach the city. This top-rated beach has rockpools, ocean baths and a lengthy boardwalk, making it a popular swimming spot for locals and tourists alike.

an aerial view of Merewether Baths
Find rock pools on the stunning coast of Newcastle at Merewether Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

Must see: Merewether Ocean Baths

One of the best ocean pools in NSW (and the largest in the southern hemisphere), Merewether Ocean Baths caters to all kinds of swimmers, from those looking to practice laps to families after a safe swimming area for the kids. There are warm showers, plenty of areas to sit and relax, and the baths are close to some wonderful cafes.

an aerial view of Merewether Ocean Baths
Plunge into Merewether Ocean Baths. (Image: Destination NSW)

Accommodation: Merewether Beach House B&B

Pick from bed-and-breakfast style accommodation or the self-contained cottage at Merewether Beach House B&B, a period home just 150 metres from the beach. Rooms are tastefully decorated, come with free wi-fi and air-conditioning, and can be converted into family-style suite accommodation.

the Merewether Beach House
Fall asleep to the calming sound of waves crashing on the shores by Merewether Beach House.

Newcastle

You’ve made it! With a wealth of things to do and see, dining options that will delight even the most high-brow of foodies, and beaches galore, your stay in Newcastle will undoubtedly be jam-packed. First, settle in, kick up your feet and relax after your Sydney to Newcastle road trip.

the rooftop bar at Romberg's Crystalbrook Kingsley
Drop by Romberg’s for a nightcap. (Image: Destination NSW/ Crystalbrook Kingsley)

Must See: Stockton Sand Dunes

Part of the Worimi Conservation Lands, these dunes run for 32 kilometres and offer something for everyone, from the daredevils to nature lovers. There are many ways to experience the Stockton sand dunes, but a particularly memorable choice is the Aboriginal Culture Sandboarding and Quad Bike tour, which blends cultural education with the thrills of dune adventures.

friends enjoying a Quad Bike tour on Stockton Sand Dunes
Explore Stockton Sand Dunes on a Quad Bike tour. (Image: Destination NSW)

Accommodation: Crystalbrook Kingsley

As Newcastle’s first five-star hotel, it’s worth splurging for at least one night at Crystalbrook Kingsley, which tops our list of the best Newcastle accommodation. The hotel recently won the Hotel of the Year at the Australasia-Pacific Hotel Design Awards for its tasteful interiors and architecture.

the lobby at Crystalbrook Kingsley
Enjoy a luxury stay at Crystalbrook Kingsley.
For more inspiration, insider tips and itineraries, read our travel guide to Newcastle.

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Melissa Mason
Melissa Mason is a freelance journalist who loves road tripping and car snacks. Previously holding Editor roles at ELLE, marie claire, Broadsheet and Pedestrian.TV, she now writes travel and lifestyle content for a wealth of Australian titles like SMH, Mamamia and Urban List, as well as copywriting for international brands. Outside of writing, she loves walks with her dog Ted, a great Sunday afternoon with friends, and op shopping. If she could be anywhere right now it would be lounging on a hammock at a tropical resort with a great romantic fantasy book.
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Why the Central Coast is a foodie mecca

    Elise Cullen Elise Cullen
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    Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

    Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

    From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

    vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare
    From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

    Central Coast oyster experiences

    From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

    But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast, however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

    Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

    guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food
    Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

    Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed. Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

    shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm
    Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

    Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

    While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

    Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

    Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s.

    If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

    woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong
    Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

    Organic dining

    What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

    The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

    Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics. Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

    farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics
    See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

    Paddock-to-plate dining

    High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

    Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

    woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food
    Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare. One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

    Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

    cocktail at Bells At Killcare
    Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

    Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.