Exploring
Newcastle

New South Wales

Fighter jets, national parks, world class beaches. Travel to Newcastle as a family is a must for any caravan family.

Newcastle, historically an industrial town, is transforming into one of Australia’s prime regional centres. Its proximity to Sydney has made it a hotspot for growth and development. While it might not be the first choice for traveling families, Newcastle offers a wealth of experiences worth exploring.

Our Stay at Blacksmiths Beach

Situated on the southern side of the city, Blacksmiths Beach served as our base. Its location was perfect for us traveling to Newcastle as a family exploring both Newcastle and the Central Coast. The beach itself is lovely, and the area provides a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, especially considering its size.

We stayed at Blacksmiths Beachside Holiday Park

Highlights of Our Newcastle Adventure

Fighter World

This fighter jet museum was a highlight for our boys. They were thrilled to see the jets up close and learn about their history. Fighter World offers an engaging and educational experience for the whole family.

Caves Beach

Caves Beach boasts a fantastic cafe and a kid-friendly pub/bar, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal.

The surf here was excellent, providing plenty of fun for both beginners and seasoned surfers.

Frazer Park

Frazer Park, a remarkable national park, was another highlight. For just $8 per car, you can access stunning beaches and trails. The natural beauty and tranquility of the park make it a must-visit destination.

Merewether Beach and Rock Pools

Merewether Beach is iconic for its stunning views and great surf. The nearby rock pools add a unique element of fun.

With charming cafes and a lively atmosphere, Merewether Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

Setting up your van

Being a city, it means having the opportunity to get the things you need before heading on an adveture. There are plenty of caravan stores for parts and BCF, Bunnings and Super Cheat Auto are never too far away.

Sunshine Coast

Exploring the
Sunshine Coast

Queensland

Travel to the Sunshine Coast as a family, and you’ll discover why it’s Queensland’s third most populous area. This stunning region offers everything from beautiful beaches to an incredible hinterland, making it a perfect destination for a family adventure.

Our Stay in Coolum

During our two-week stay on the Sunshine Coast, we chose to base ourselves in Coolum. This central location was ideal for exploring everything we wanted to see and do. From Coolum, we had easy access to Noosa, the Eumundi Markets, and Mooloolaba. It was also reasonably close to the hinterland areas like Maleny, Montville, and Mapleton.

Highlights of Our Trip

Noosa National Park

Noosa National Park was a standout highlight for us. It’s probably one of the most incredible national parks in Australia, offering amazing surf (although we didn’t catch any waves this time), stunning walks, and breathtaking scenery. The coastal views and diverse wildlife made it a memorable experience for the whole family.

Eumundi Markets

Despite Brad’s general dislike for markets, the Eumundi Markets were a different story. This massive market was not only fun but also offered some of the best food we’ve ever tasted. The variety and quality of the stalls made it a must-visit spot on our trip.

Kondalilla National Park

A visit to Kondalilla National Park was another highlight. The walk to the rock pools is fantastic, and the pools themselves are some of the freshest and most refreshing we’ve ever experienced. It’s a great spot for a family hike and a cool dip in the natural waters.

Getting Around the Sunshine Coast

Getting around the Sunshine Coast with a caravan was relatively easy. However, it’s important to be aware of the traffic, as the area is generally quite built up. Despite this, the well-maintained roads and clear signage made our travels smooth and enjoyable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, travel to the Sunshine Coast as a family, and you’ll find a region that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and fun activities. Whether it’s exploring Noosa National Park, enjoying the Eumundi Markets, or hiking in Kondalilla National Park, the Sunshine Coast provides a memorable and diverse experience for every family member.