All Newcastle Tours & Excursions in 2026

Look for wild bottlenose dolphins in the waters of Port Stephens on a dolphin-watching cruise from Nelson Bay. You can also get great photo ops of the Tomaree and Yacaaba Headlands, and ride in the boomnet (a sturdy net attached to the boat). Learn about the region's abundant marine wildlife as you cruise the waters in comfort on an all-weather boat (indoor and outdoor seating available).

Discover the delicious wines and food of the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine-producing region, during a full-day tour from Pokolbin, Cessnock, or Rothbury. After a handy pickup, your wine tour includes relaxed wine tastings at boutique wineries, plus a delicious restaurant lunch. Sample local cheeses and chocolate during stops at local shops. Learn more about the region from your driver–guide during this entertaining and informative tour.

Drive the Hunter Valley yourself, with a GPS audio guide that plays automatically as you go. Your booking unlocks Australia's oldest wine region in the free Wine Trails app: pick your date and starting point — Cessnock, Pokolbin, Broke or Lovedale — choose the cellar doors you want, and the app builds your personal route with turn-by-turn narration. 84 narrated stories cover 62 cellar doors and the people behind them: as you roll into Pokolbin you'll hear how James Busby stepped ashore in the 1820s carrying vine cuttings gathered across France and Spain, and how every Australian wine region that followed traces its genetics back to that single act. No group, no schedule, no guide — pause for a long cellar-door lunch, replay anything, and the audio keeps working when the signal drops on the back roads toward Broke. You'll need a car and a designated driver; tastings are booked and paid directly with the wineries.

The coast off Port Stephens often sees whales and dolphins pass by, although they can be challenging to spot from the land. Get closer to the action by setting out onto the open ocean with this wildlife-watching cruise. Learn about whales and dolphins from commentary aboard the catamaran and benefit from their experienced eyes to better spot any nearby creatures.

You will have the opportunity to: • Sit in a real fighter jet • Explore the many weapons, radars, ejection seats and artifacts on display • Try your hand at flying an F/A-18 Hornet in one of our motion simulators (bookings essential on 02 4965 1810 – additional cost) • Be amazed by the Norm Forrester Collection of hand-made model aircraft When you've finished viewing the many displays it’s an easy step up to the Observation Deck where you can sit and watch some of the world's most advanced aircraft take-off and land and don't forget to stop at the souvenir shop for something truly unique. Of course, it's always a pleasure to revel in the warm welcome, great food and friendly atmosphere of the cafe where you can stay cosy inside or venture outdoors to enjoy all the noise and activity of the fully operational Air Force Base. The choice is yours.

Award-Winning Boutique Winery: Taste hand-crafted wines from Cael’s Gate, proudly made with minimal intervention and sourced from premium vineyards in Hunter Valley and beyond Triple Indulgence: A perfectly curated experience combining wine, artisan cheese, and handcrafted chocolate – designed to elevate your palate Intimate and Authentic: Unlike large commercial tours, this tasting is personal, hosted by passionate cellar door staff who share the story behind every bottle Perfect for Couples & Small Groups: Ideal as a date, gift experience, or outing with friends Support Local: Enjoy cheese and chocolate from small-scale, local producers, supporting regional artisans alongside Cael’s Gate’s boutique wines

Enjoy all the sights Newcastle Harbour has to offer as we cruise the working port and picturesque foreshore. See the harbours coal loading facilities, tug boats and big ships up-close. Indulge in our freshly prepared buffet lunch consisting of seasoned roasted chicken, double smoked leg ham hand carved off the bone, fresh local prawns, and a selection of salads to compliment. Enjoy a selection of petit fours for dessert with complimentary tea & coffee or select from a full range of drinks available from our fully licensed bar.

Meet Australia's wildlife up close on this full day small group tour from Newcastle to Port Stephens. Dolphins, koalas, kangaroos and the Southern Hemisphere's largest sand dunes, all in one day with everything planned for you. Your day includes: -Cruise Port Stephens Bay on a 1.5-hour dolphin-watching boat ride, home to over 160 resident bottlenose dolphins. -Visit the Southern Hemisphere's largest moving sand dunes, a jaw-dropping spot for photos. -A private koala encounter at Oakvale Wildlife Park. Including patting of koalas. -Hand-feed the kangaroos and bottle-feed the baby goats, then meet emus, quokkas and more up close. -A freshly cooked BBQ lunch, with dietary needs catered for. -Return transport from your Newcastle accommodation is included, and friendly local guides bring the day to life from start to finish. Seats are limited, so reserve your spot today.

Between May and November, take to the water to see migrating humpback whales off the coast of Port Stephens. Find a comfortable spot on board your cruise vessel, grab a drink (own expense), listen to the live commentary, and look out for breaching, slapping, or rolling humpbacks. Also, keep an eye out for dolphins, which can often be seen in the same area.

Discover the dark side of Newcastle’s past—one that most visitors never experience—on this walking tour. With a guide to show you the city’s spookiest sights, uncover tales of true crimes that you might never hear otherwise. Hear about the Tomahawk Murderer, view locations such as the Convict Lumberyard and Old Jail; and absorb the creepy atmosphere as your guide reveals stories of killings, hauntings, fraud, and more.

Book ahead for front-row views of the Hunter Coast and its marine life on this cruise from Newcastle. Save time and avoid missing out by prebooking, and absorb the panoramas as you cruise along the coast. Watch for dolphins, seabirds, and turtles; sail by coastal forts, cliffs, and beaches; and cruise up-close to the caves at Caves Beach, all as a guide shares background. Photos of your trip are included.

Taste your way through the Hunter Valley, Australia's oldest wine region, on this small-group day tour from Newcastle. We've hand-picked a mix of iconic Australian labels and family-run cellar doors so every stop brings something new, with door-to-door transport so all you have to do is relax and enjoy. What's included: -Three exclusive seated wine tastings, each a relaxed and immersive cellar door experience -An artisan vodka and gin tasting, discovering the craft behind these award-winning spirits -A paired tasting of local cheese, chocolate or small bites, showing how food changes the flavours of wine -Lunch at 4 Pines at The Farm, with an à la carte meal (at your own cost) overlooking the vines -A small group of no more than 11 guests, for a personal and relaxed day -Engaging commentary from your guide on the region's history, winemaking and local culture -Pick up and drop off at your Newcastle address Please note the venues featured on each tour can vary.

Embark on an exhilarating half-day escapade into the heart of the Hunter Valley, where each moment promises a fusion of award-winning wines, breathtaking vineyard landscapes, and a delectable light lunch! Your adventure unfolds, picture yourself immersed in the rich tapestry of the Hunter Valley, Pokolbin, and Lovedale, as you indulge in tastings that dance on your palate like a symphony of flavours. But that’s not all – the climax of your journey takes place in the heart of a working boutique vineyard. Here, a locally sourced light lunch awaits, elevating your culinary experience amidst the vines. Not all dietary requirements, can be catered for with this light lunch. Your travels don’t finish there. Its off to a local distillery outlet for samples of vodkas and gins. Followed by a visit to the Hunter famous ‘Smelly Deli’ for a local cheese and chocolate shops, try not to fill yourself with all the yummy things to buy before we return you back to your accommodation.

Enjoy a choice of three distinctive tasting flights: Gin Flight, Dark Flight, or Sweet Flight, featuring signature spirits like Just Juniper Gin, No. 8 Dry Gin, Reggie’s Rum, Vodka Pure, Summertime Limoncello, and Orancello. Drink flight includes Fever‑Tree mixers, ice, and garnishes to complement each spirit. The seasonal Grazing Menu (subject to change): regional Cheese & Charcuterie, Olives and Toasted Sourdough - each group will have servings portioned to your group size.

Taste your way through Newcastle East on a small-group walking tour that pairs five local food and drink stops with the city's best street art and sculptures. Your local guide shares the stories behind both: the makers, the murals, and the food scene reshaping our old harbour city. Over an easy 2.5 km stroll, you'll sample a curated selection of five tastings, including a craft beer stop, while discovering hidden laneway artworks and sculptures most visitors miss. It's a relaxed, sociable couple of hours built around connection and storytelling, ideal for food lovers, art fans, and anyone wanting to see the real Newcastle beyond the obvious. Small groups mean you'll never feel rushed, and there's always time for questions, photos, and a chat with your guide. Sample tastings: Three locally made craft beers (tasting paddle) Half an Italian gourmet panini Handmade dumplings Locally caught, panko-crumbed prawns Newcastle-made ice cream Please note: stops vary, but the quality never does.

Taste the essence of the Hunter Valley on this exclusive boutique wine tour. Visit top vineyards and enjoy three seated wine tastings, complemented by artisan vodka and gin tastings. A local guide shares insights about the region's rich winemaking heritage while you savor either local cheeses, chocolates, or small bites paired tasting (varies each tour). Enjoy lunch at The Farm, 4 Pines, with stunning vineyard views (lunch at your own cost). With a maximum of 11 guests, this small-group experience guarantees personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for wine lovers and celebration groups alike. - Three exclusive wine tastings at selected vineyards (inc one paired experience) - Local pickup from Cessnock, Pokolbin, Lovedale, and more - Small group size for an intimate experience - Lunch available at The Farm with picturesque views - Vodka & Gin tasting

The Hunter Valley's breweries are spread out enough that visiting several usually means skipping the beer and driving. Hand the driving over on this guided tour and tasting experience. Cruise between three local breweries in an air-conditioned vehicle, sample craft beer and cider, and tuck into a delicious lunch and snacks.

NOVA Cruises pioneered whale watching from Newcastle back in 2006. Join Newcastle's longest running most experienced operator for an unforgettable 2.5-3 Hour ocean voyage and witness the amazing migration of over 25,000 Humpback whales passing Newcastle's scenic coastline. TOUR: Chance to see huge pods of playful dolphins, sea birds, seals, penguins, sharks, & much more. Includes bonus harbour and outer beach tour. Complimentary morning & afternoon tea. Informative commentary & free fact sheets. Licensed bar & snack food available onboard. Fully heated and air-conditioned Indoor & Outdoor viewing areas Best value whale watching in the Hunter!

Experience the beauty of the Hunter Valley and enjoy some of the region’s best wineries without having to worry about organizing your own transport with this full-day group tour from Newcastle. A guaranteed great day out, this tour includes visits to three different wineries and a distillery, where you’ll have the chance to sample an array of local produce including chocolate, cheese, and gin. You’ll also enjoy a delicious laid-back lunch.

Embark on an unforgettable small-group day tour to Port Stephens, blending adventure, relaxation, and local flavour. Start your morning with a scenic guided hike up Mount Tomaree (2.2km return) for panoramic views of the coastline and offshore islands. Prefer a slower pace? A flat coastal walk is available too. Next, board a 1.5-hour dolphin-watching cruise through the bay, home to over 160 resident bottlenose dolphins. After your marine adventure, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a popular local eatery (at your own cost) with fresh fish and seafood options available. Then unwind on the golden sands of one of Port Stephens’ pristine beaches—swim, sunbathe or simply take in the view. Cap off the day with a visit to B Farm for a craft beer tasting and a glimpse into the region’s local brewing scene. Throughout the day, our expert guides share fascinating stories about the area’s wildlife, culture and history. Let us handle the details while you discover the very best of Port Stephens.

Prebook to save time and see humpback whales in their natural habitat on this whale-spotting cruise from Newcastle. Board an eco-tourism boat and hit the open waters to observe humpbacks in the wild, learning about their natural behaviors via the commentary as the boat maintains a respectful distance. Plus, watch for dolphins and seals, and admire the coastal scenery as you hear details on local landmarks, culture, and history.

We are currently the only meadery in the Hunter Region. There are less than 30 meaderies in all of Australia, with only a fraction of them having cellar doors for tastings. There are few opportunities to taste mead while being guided by the mead maker.

Experience the thrill of a tandem skydive, and enjoy views of New South Wales' spectacular coastline, lakes and hinterland. Taking off from Belmont Airport, fly high above the Hunter Region of the North Coast before free-falling at speeds of more than 130 mph (220 kph) with your tandem guide. Feel your adrenaline pumping as you race toward the earth, then experience a peaceful parachute descent.