Explore Newcastle with Tyson Mayr

The right combination of big city and coastal vibes, Newcastle has world-class surf,  incredible food scene and a plethora of adventures waiting to be enjoyed.

Follow Tyson Mayr's guide to exploring Newcastle.

Newcastle is known for its surf and has some of the best beaches on the East Coast.

Join professional surfer, Phillipa Anderson, at her Nobbys Beach surf school for an 80 minute lesson. Whether it’s your first time on a board, you’re a competitive surfer or want to improve your technique, the team have you covered with both private and group lesson options. 

Top tip: Time your surf lesson to coincide with the start of a Newy Rides tour, which also start from Nobbys Beach. 

If you're more of an 'on' water, than an 'in' water person, head to the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club for a sailing lesson with their experienced team.  While we can't guarantee you won't get a bit wet, you're certainly in for some fun and will learn new skills along the way - all while experiencing Newcastle Harbour from a new perspective. 

Top tip: Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club has a restaurant on-site for a post-sailing meal, or head down the road to Uprising Bakery for a coffee and pastry treat.

Go on tour with Ben from Newy Rides - this half day tour will take you from the City to the suburbs via craft breweries, iconic selfie spots, large scale street art and leave you feeling like a local. Each bike is upcycled and painted to reflect something unique to Newcastle - will you spend the tour on Frogstomp, the Pasha Bulker or the Shortland Ferry?

Glenrock State Conservation Area is just ten minutes from the CBD (and walking distance from Merewether Beach if the tide is low) and is THE place for mountain biking, a family bushwalk or trail running. Remember your helmet, sunscreen and to tell someone your plans.

Top tip: If you're after picnic tables and play equipment then take a trip to Blackbutt Reserve where peacocks roam free, koalas call the trees home and the play equipment is epic. There's several bushwalking trails at Blackbutt Reserve too. 

Make your way to Earp Distillery in Carrington and join a two hour gin making masterclass in their custom gin lab. Select from a wide range of Australian and international botanicals and create the gin concoction of your choosing! With a G&T on arrival and the chance to enjoy your own mix at the end of the class, why of make a day of it and stay for another tasting or something to eat. 

Image © Tyson Mayr and Destination NSW