Unique stays in Newcastle for every type of traveller

For a sustainable stay with a side of luxe: Crystalbrook Kingsley 

Crystalbrook Kingsley was the first five-star hotel to open in Newcastle, and it made an impact on the scene with its strong connections to culture and its commitment to sustainability. The property sits pretty within Newcastle’s legendary (and historic) Roundhouse building, which means that rooms enjoy a unique shape and perspective of the city – each comes with all the latest tech and pops of jewel-toned colours in design. While you’re within walking distance of amazing bars and restaurants (as well as museums and theatres), the hotel has its own applauded establishments: head to the rooftop to drink at Romberg’s then dine at Roundhouse, or enjoy casual fare at street-level Ms Mary.    

Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle

For quirky design: QT Newcastle 

Adding a dose of whimsy to Newcastle’s East End, QT Newcastle is housed within the heritage-listed, 113-year-old David Jones building on Hunter Mall. The QT brand is known for its playful approach to hotels, and that certainly rings true at this property. When you check in, look forward to rooms that honour the history of the building while adding coastal colours that nod to your outlook. The view was also the inspiration behind Rooftop at QT, where you can wine and dine with a sweeping city outlook. Or head to Jana Restaurant & Bar for meals that revolve around the region’s bountiful produce. 

QT Newcastle, Newcastle

For surf breaks on your doorstep: Novotel Newcastle Beach 

Newcastle Beach is known for having some of the best surf breaks in Australia. And it’s on your doorstep when you check in to Novotel Newcastle Beach. If you’re not on the sand or in the sea (or enjoying scenic coastal walks), the hotel is ideally placed to access some of Newcastle’s top restaurants, cafes and bars, not to mention buzzing shopping and cultural precincts – there’s also an on-site restaurant, Bistro Dalby, which gets rave reviews. Rooms are slick, spacious and light-filled, and some offer enough room for families. But the real reason you check in here is location, location, location. 

Harbourview room at the Novotel Newcastle Beach - Credit: Novotel Newcastle Beach

For waterfront views: Rydges Newcastle 

Located among the waterfront boutiques, cafes, bars and eateries of the legendary Honeysuckle promenade, Rydges Newcastle is the perfect perch to base yourself when exploring this happening city. With amazing views of the harbour and only moments from Newcastle’s biggest attractions, the property offers a range of spacious, open-plan suites designed in welcoming, earthy tones – each comes with a kitchenette and separate living and dining area. Young travellers are well catered for with an outdoor pool and water slide, play area, games room and mini train, while adults can unwind at Wharf 350 Restaurant & Bar, replete with water views.    

Restaurant at Rydges Newcastle - Credit: Rydges Newcastle

For a stylishly refurbished pub: The Lucky Hotel 

Palm Springs comes to Newcastle’s East End at the funky Lucky Hotel – think natural stone, exposed bricks, pineapples, cacti and the occasional monkey, combined with vibrant pops of colour and an expansive luscious green courtyard. And that’s all before you enter the rooms, each with a playful design including a wall-painted quote about luck – which will you get? The location is hard to beat, just a short walk from Newcastle’s famous beaches and baths, harbour, restaurants and cafes. But you don’t need to leave the premises to refuel thanks to the hotel’s own excellent drinking and dining establishment.  

Delux room with Sofa at The Lucky Hotel - Credit: The Lucky Hotel

For the city’s only beachfront hotel: Noah’s on the Beach 

Want the waves to lull you to sleep? You’ve come to the right place. Overlooking the surf of Newcastle Beach, this hotel is also within walking distance of the harbour and attractions of the city’s bustling central district. Rooms come with floor-to-ceiling windows that open to private balconies, maximising views of the sand and the sea – look out for whales migrating along the coast from May through November. If you just can’t get enough of that view, book a table at the hugely popular restaurant, where you have a front-row seat to the ocean drama unfolding outside.   

Restaurant with a view at Noah's On the Beach - Credit: Noah's on the Beach

For a house with history: Mister Brooks on Brown 

One of the city's most historically significant homes (dating from 1870) has been transformed into this modern and eclectic residence, replete with six spacious bedrooms, four balconies, three bathrooms, two living spaces… and endless charm. The design throughout is impeccable, with plenty of playful colour and bespoke furnishings. And when it comes time to unwind, there’s an outdoor courtyard replete with a plunge pool. When you’re on one of those balconies you’ll be able to glimpse the harbour; otherwise, it’s just a short drive to Newcastle’s sun-kissed beaches.

Lounge room at Mister Brooks on Brown - Credit: Monique Lovick Photography

For a Hamptons-style retreat: Caves Coastal Bar and Bungalows 

Just south of Newcastle, wedged between Lake Macquarie and stunning beaches, Caves enjoys an enviable waterside location. The property’s luxury accommodation options include bungalows, villas, townhouses and a four-bedroom beach house, accessed by timber boardwalks – effortless beachside chic is the ethos here when it comes to design. The venue’s restaurant comes with an enormous patio looking out to Caves Beach, and is the perfect setting for a long, lazy seaside lunch. And when it comes to exploring, you’re just a 30-minute drive from the heart of Newcastle. 

A bungalow at Caves Coastal Bar and Bungalows - Credit: Caves Coastal Bar and Bungalows

For those on a budget: Quest Newcastle West 

Located in a refurbished historic building that was once the 1876 Woods Castlemaine Brewery, this property is a great value-for-money option for families and those travelling in groups. While there are studios and one-bedroom apartments, there are also two- and three-bedroom apartments which are perfect for overnight or long-term stays. Make the most of your in-room kitchen facilities, or head down to the barbecue area to cook up a feast. You’re also within walking distance of the nearby restaurants, bars and cafes of the waterside Honeysuckle precinct; alternatively, hop on the light rail (there’s a stop in front of the hotel) to explore further afield.   

Quest Newcastle West - Credit: Quest Newcastle

For those with kids in tow: NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park 

With the beach on your doorstep and the buzz of Newcastle next door, NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park is the ideal getaway for families exploring the Greater Newcastle area. Wake up to the sound of the ocean in beachfront accommodation options, ranging from sites where you can pitch a tent or park your trailer to two- and three-bedroom villas with all the trimmings you need to self-cater. Take advantage of a great collection of facilities including a camp kitchen, lounge and television area, games room, playground and barbecue facilities. Plus, if you are travelling with your four-legged friend, dogs are also welcome when staying on sites. Take in the beautiful beaches located directly in front of the holiday park, or explore the endless sand dunes of the region, some of which can tower up to 40 metres high. 

NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park - Credit: NRMA Parts and Resorts