Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Port Stephens

Newcastle is a bustling coastal city with surf-friendly beaches, a vibrant nightlife, and a thriving arts scene.

The coastline is one of Newcastle’s main attractions, whether you’re interested in water sports, relaxing on the beach, or getting the best views. You can explore the coast with walks such as the Newcastle Memorial Walk, a six kilometer track that is open to the public twenty-four hours a day. You can also relax for the day in one of Newcastle’s rock pools and ocean baths, like the Merewether Ocean Baths or Bogey Hole.

To explore the city’s heritage and history, visit the Newcastle Museum and the Fort Scratchley Historic Site. Or explore the current culture of Newcastle by taking a walk down Darby Street, an iconic avenue with boutique shops, florists, and local eateries. Newcastle is a foodies’ paradise, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars to try. You can also connect with the local queer culture at Bernie’s Bar, a dedicated safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Newcastle is a city that embraces the artistic and the eclectic, with street art and outdoor galleries throughout the city center as well as contemporary art galleries like The Lock Up and Blackstone Gallery. You can also time your visit to coincide with New Annual, a yearly arts and culture festival that highlights contemporary art and performance.

Newcastle has a very active queer community, and the annual Newcastle Pride Festival is not to be missed. Newcastle Pride also runs smaller events throughout the year, so follow them on socials to get up to date information about what’s on.

The Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions.

A popular getaway destination for LGBTQ+ travellers seeking great culinary experiences in stunning natural settings, the Hunter Valley is known for its picturesque vineyards and rich cultural experiences, plus a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can feel at home.

The region’s vibrant food and wine scene is perfect for anyone looking to indulge. Take a leisurely tour through award-winning wineries, sample world-class wines or dine at one of the many gourmet restaurants with sweeping views of the valley.

Beyond the vineyards, there’s so much more to explore. Whether you're into nature walks, hot air balloon rides or spa retreats, the Hunter Valley has a range of outdoor activities for for all holiday needs. And if you’re a fan of live music, you’ll find friendly events, festivals, and performances throughout the year, particularly during Pride Month and major public holidays.

The local community is warm, inclusive and always ready to share what makes the region so special. You’ll find LGBTQ+ owned and friendly accommodations, making it easy to feel at ease during your stay. Plus, the charming towns of Pokolbin, Cessnock and Lovedale have a casual vibe, where it’s easy to unwind and be yourself, whether exploring boutiques or enjoying a quiet sunset over the rolling hills.

Port Stephens is a stunning coastal paradise that’s perfect for a fun seaside escape, just north of Sydney.

With pristine beaches, vibrant marine life and charming towns, Port Stephens offers a diverse range of activities for all kinds of travellers—whether you’re after a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway.

The area is known for its natural beauty, with activities like dolphin-spotting, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters or exploring the iconic sand dunes of Stockton Beach. LGBTQ+ travellers will find plenty of space to be themselves, whether you’re lounging on the beach, taking a boat cruise or enjoying the chilled coastal vibe at one of the area's great cafes and restaurants.

Port Stephens also offers a range of LGBTQ+ friendly accommodation, from boutique stays to luxury resorts with stunning ocean views. Its friendly community is known for being inclusive and welcoming, with lots of events and festivals throughout the years celebrating the area's rich diversity.

For those seeking a little more action, Port Stephens has no shortage of things to do, including water sports, hiking and exploring the surrounding national parks. After a day of adventure, relax with a glass of wine at a local vineyard or enjoy a romantic sunset walk along one of the many beautiful beaches.