Newcastle, NSW

World-class surf city — Merewether and Bar Beach deliver powerful waves beneath the old coal port's dramatic headlands.

Live AI Coastal Briefing

Friday 28 August is shaping up to be a beautiful day in our world-class surf city, with the sun rising over the dramatic headlands and powerful waves rolling in beneath. The temperature is already at 11C, and it's expected to stay that way with a maximum of 11C forecast for the day. With mostly clear skies and just 11% cloud cover, it's going to be a great day to get out and enjoy the coast.



The ocean conditions are looking exciting for surfers, with a wave height of 1.76m that's best suited to experienced riders. The water temperature is a comfortable 18.4C, making it perfect for a spring suit, and the tides are looking good with a high tide of 1.2m at 08:26 am and a low tide of -1.9m at 02:05 pm. Whether you're in the water or just enjoying the view, the ocean is certainly going to be a highlight of the day.



For all the sports and fitness enthusiasts out there, today is a great day to get out and enjoy your favourite activities. Surfers will love the powerful waves, while runners and cyclists will appreciate the cool and calm conditions, with just an 8 km/h wind from the NW and low humidity. Anglers and paddleboarders will also find plenty of opportunities to get out on the water and enjoy the scenery, and with no rain expected, it's a great day to be outdoors. The UV index is low, so you don't need to worry about special protection, and the air quality is at a moderate 64 AQI.



As we head into the afternoon, the conditions are expected to remain pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and calm winds. It's a great day to be out and about, whether you're swimming, surfing, or just enjoying a walk along the beach. So why not make the most of this beautiful day and get out to enjoy our stunning coastline, and we'll catch you back here tomorrow with another update on the coastal weather.

About This Coastline

Newcastle is a working harbour city with surf beaches, sandstone headlands and a coastal culture that sits alongside one of Australia’s most important ports.

The result is a place where the coastline is experienced through several layers rather than through one signature view alone.

The Vibe

The city feels active rather than resort-like.

Early swimmers use the ocean baths, surfers gather at breaks around Merewether and Newcastle beaches, and the Bathers Way carries walkers between lookouts, parks and the harbour entrance. Visitors can find a lively public face close to the main facilities, then a noticeably quieter mood only a short walk away.

The Local Anchor

Fort Scratchley overlooks the mouth of the Hunter River and links the modern shoreline to Newcastle’s military and industrial history.

Nearby Nobbys Head, its lighthouse and the breakwater form the familiar eastern edge of the city. These elements prevent the destination from feeling generic, giving its beaches and waterfront a history that belongs specifically to this part of Australia.

The Landscape

Open Pacific beaches stretch south from Nobbys, while rock shelves and ocean pools interrupt the sand.

The coastline is exposed to swell and weather, and elevated paths provide broad views towards migrating whales during the seasonal passage. Its beauty should not obscure the need for local awareness, particularly where open water, remote access or fast-changing weather are involved.

Across the area, the coast is best understood as a living landscape rather than a single viewpoint or attraction.