Bathers Way

Fast facts

• Coastal walk, with convict history, surf beaches and cosmopolitan touches.
• From Nobbys Head to Merewether Ocean Baths, Newcastle, North Coast.
• 5 km

Why walk it

Threading its way along Newcastle’s coastline, this sublime walking track strings together many of the city’s prime historic attractions, and its best beaches.

On a sunny day, there is no better way to explore the history and culture of Australia’s second oldest colonial settlement – convict relics, art deco delights and a few contemporary enhancements such as ice cream shops and shady cafes.

The walk ends at Merewether Beach, from where public transport is available. Just as the name suggests, the Bathers Way demands swimmers and a towel – the beaches and sea pools along the walk are hard to resist.

Along the way

Discover the fascinating history of Fort Scratchley, the only fort in Australia to have fired on an enemy vessel during World War II.

Inspect the foundations of Nobbys breakwall, laid by convict gangs that quarried stone against surging seas in the 18th century.

Plunge into the Bogey Hole at the foot of Shepherds Hill, carved out by convict labour at the beginning of the 18th century.

Explore the rock pools along the beach edge – squirming with sea life.

Watch the surfers in action – Newcastle has spawned some of Australia’s hottest surfing talent.

Have a swim at Merewether baths, the largest sea baths in the southern hemisphere.

Don’t miss

• Gourmet treats of Darby Street, The Junction or City Centre.
• A surfing lesson with one of the local experts.
• The kite surfers at play on Nobbys Beach.
• Fish and chips on the sand from a beachside takeaway.
• The yellow information signs that delve into history and culture.