Explore the iconic spot of Nobbys Headland . The site is open on weekends and makes a fun excursion. Nobbys Headland is one of Newcastle’s best vantage points, with 360-degree views of the city, the working harbour and our stunning coastline.
Newcastle’s iconic Macquarie Pier and its historic harbourside walkway has had a makeover thanks to the Port Authority of New South Wales. The path is wider and there’s sandstone seating along the 900m route.
At the foot of Nobbys Head, a new paved area provides a gathering space for visitors to relax and watch the activity of the working port. This is also where you’ll spot the pencil.
Check out the sculpture in the dunes halfway up the hill on your right commemorating the Newcastle Lifeboat Service and Rocket Brigades. There is a sign there but it’s badly degraded and needs to be updated.
It’s an 800 metre walk from the Nobbys Beach car park with a bit of a steep climb at the end.
At the top of the headland, you’ll approach Nobbys Lighthouse. It became operational on 1 January 1858 with the assistance of lightkeepers. On the 4 September 1916, the lighthouse became automatic operation and the lightkeepers were no longer needed.
Their buildings still remain though even though they are empty and closed to the public. In previous years, there were exhibits in these buildings that you could wander through.
Up at the top, you’ll enjoy great views of Nobbys Beach, Stockton, the Harbour and back to Newcastle. From here, you’ll see many of Newcastle landmarks including Fort Scratchley, The Obelisk, Newcastle Ocean Baths, Stockton Bridge, Christ City Cathedral and The Mater Hospital.
At this height, it’s a great spot for dolphin and whale watching.
At different times, we’ve spotted whales as well as coal ships entering and leaving the port.
Good to Know
Location: Nobbys Headland is accessible via Macquarie Pier which starts where Wharf Road meets Shortland Esplanade.
Open: Nobbys Headland is open from 8am to 4pm on weekends and during visiting cruise ship days.
Cost: Entry to the site is free. Free parking at Nobbys Beach carpark.
Distance: It’s an 800 metre walk from the Nobbys Beach car park with a bit of a steep climb at the end.
Dogs: Dogs are welcome on the walk up to Nobbys Headland
Amenities: There’s also no public amenities so use the toilets at Nobbys SLSC before you go.
For more details about the project, visit www.portauthoritynsw.com.au/macquariepier.
You might also like:
70 Free & Low-Cost Things to Do With Kids in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Hunter
25 of the Best (and Mostly Free) Things to Do in and Around Newcastle
Started in late 2012 by a local mum, Newy with Kids has grown into a thriving go-to family guide for the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Hunter region. Parents visit the Newy with Kids website to find things to do with babies, kids and teens. Whether it’s local attractions, upcoming events, kids eat free, school holiday activities or birthday party ideas, Newy with Kids is the best website for local parents to find local kid-friendly activities and information 24/7.