Nobbys Head Beach is a popular recreation spot for the residents of Newcastle who come here to sun themselves on the long golden sands and to fish. Discover Australian maritime history at the old lighthouse and signal master’s cottage and stick around to watch the sun set over Newcastle Harbour.
This beach was once an island called Coal Island. In 1846, a pier was built connecting it to the mainland. Come here today and walk along the breakwater that later replaced the pier. Over the years, sand has built up along the wall creating a picturesque strip with the historic lighthouse watching over it from its elevated position on the rocks.
While you can swim at Nobbys Beach, the submerged rocks and rips can make it dangerous so make sure lifeguards are on patrol. Out in the water, stay inside the flags that mark the safe swimming area. Those keen on fishing can do so at the rocky southern end of the beach. When the wind picks up and swells form, surfers and kitesurfers flock to the beach.
Venture up to the whitewashed lighthouse and signal master’s cottage area on top of the rocky promontory. This area is open only on Sundays and closes before sunset. From the top of the headland, admire vistas that extend over Newcastle Harbour, the Hunter River and the Tasman Sea.
Nobbys Lighthouse was built in the late 1850s to warn incoming ships of danger. Wander around the headland and investigate the three cottages surrounding it. These were built to house the lighthouse keeper, his assistants and their families. The signal master’s cottage occasionally hosts exhibitions so check if there is anything happening there during your visit.
Nobbys Beach, with its picturesque lighthouse atop the rocky outcrop, is a stunning place for sunset photography. The beach is less than 15 minutes’ walk from the Newcastle Interchange bus station. Lifeguards patrol the beach daily year-round.
