Photos supplied by NSW National Parks Sea Acres Port Macquarie Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained these winter school holidays? Across the North Coast, NSW National Parks is offering a wonderful range of ranger-guided experiences that encourage families to step outside, explore nature and discover some of the region's most remarkable places. From World Heritage-listed rainforests and colourful birdlife to rockpools, historic lighthouses and fascinating heritage sit

If you're planning a visit to Newcastle, there's never been a better time to explore the reimagined Newcastle Art Gallery, which has unveiled three major new exhibitions as part of its 2026 program. Newcastle Art Gallery 2026 Newcastle Art Gallery has unveiled three significant new exhibitions as part of its ambitious 2026 program, giving visitors even more reasons to explore one of New South Wales' leading cultural attractions. Following its reopening earlier this year after

When we think of North Coast style, we think of effortless elegance—flowing linen dresses, sun-kissed skin, denim shorts, and long afternoons watching the waves roll in. But the secret to truly elevating a casual coastal wardrobe always comes down to the details. The right accessories can take an outfit from "just threw this on" to an intentional, beautifully curated look. If you want to capture that authentic, laid-back beach aesthetic, it’s time to move away from mass-produ

Mt Yacaaba Hawks Nest Looking for the best weekend getaways on the NSW North Coast? Here's a list of places to visit, things to do and where to stay. Best Weekend Getaways on the NSW North Coast Tea Gardens & Hawks Nest What Makes Tea Gardens & Hawks Nest So Special Only a few hours drive north of Sydney, Tea Gardens & Hawks Nest offers a place to enjoy both water and National Park. The area becomes popular in the summer months with visitors booking out most places. Tea Garde

Bennetts Head Lookout Forster Bicentennial Walk Forster The Bicentennial Walk and Frewins Walk Foster offer a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area, ending at the stunning One Mile Beach in Forster. The best things about this walk is how much the scenery changes in a short distance. One moment you’re under coastal rainforest canopy, then suddenly looking out across the ocean. Start of the Bicentennial Walk The Bicentennial Walk is particula

Newcastle artist Ros Elkin has spent decades exploring creativity through ceramics, printmaking and painting, producing richly layered works inspired by nature, texture and the universe itself. Known for her atmospheric abstract paintings and wheel-thrown ceramics, Ros creates pieces that feel deeply connected to both the natural world and an inner sense of reflection. Her work often features flowing glazes, intricate surface detail and cosmic-inspired colour palettes that ev

Every year, thousands of humpback whales migrate along the NSW coastline, making Newcastle one of the best places in Australia to experience whale watching. From spectacular ocean lookouts to unforgettable whale watching cruises, this coastal city offers plenty of opportunities to witness these gentle giants as they travel north and south during migration season. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, visiting the Hunter region or simply looking for things to do in Newca

If you love fresh local produce, artisan food stalls and great coffee, the Newcastle Farmers Market is one of the best ways to spend a Sunday morning in Newcastle NSW. Held at the Newcastle Showground in Broadmeadow, the market has become a favourite with locals and visitors looking to shop directly from growers, makers and small regional producers. From seasonal fruit and vegetables to sourdough bread, flowers, gourmet treats and freshly brewed coffee, the atmosphere feels r

Stroud NSW is the historic centre of the Port Stephens Estate, established in November 1826. You may have already heard of the famous Stroud Show, but there's a lot more to this quaint village. Stroud is picturesque with rolling hills, and the village buildings take you back into time. The History of Stroud Stroud was named by Robert Dawson in 1826, as the valley reminded him of the Cotswolds countryside in England. The intention was to export the wool grown in the area to th

In 2019, the Nambucca Valley Train Carriages were built entirely from the ground up. The carriages are situated on the Mid North Coast of NSW, not far from Nambucca Heads. The railway carriages provides a one-of-a-kind B&B experience in self-contained private holiday lodgings, overlooking the railway line and a scenic country landscape. Nambucca Valley Train Carriages History The two carriages are a replica of the Wisebech and Upwell Tramway carriage, built in 1888 by GER (Gr

Nambucca Heads is one of those Mid North Coast towns that feels easy from the moment you arrive. Set where the Nambucca River meets the sea, it has a beautiful mix of river views, ocean beaches, rainforest pockets, lookouts, cafes and relaxed holiday parks. It is best known for the colourful V-Wall Outdoor Gallery, a breakwall covered in painted rocks, messages and memories at the mouth of the river. It is also a lovely base for beach walks, fishing, kayaking, golf, family ho

Crystalbrook Kingsley Roundhouse Restaurant Stretching along Newcastle’s revitalised waterfront, Honeysuckle has become one of the city’s most vibrant lifestyle precincts. Once an industrial harbourfront, the area is now home to stylish restaurants, waterside bars, luxury hotels and scenic walking paths that make it a favourite destination for both locals and visitors. Whether you are planning a weekend escape, a romantic getaway or simply looking for somewhere to enjoy sunse

Crystalbrook Kingsley Newcastle - Reasons to Stay For those planning a Newcastle escape, Crystalbrook Kingsley offers a stylish base in the centre of the city, just moments from Newcastle’s beaches, harbour foreshore, restaurants and cultural precinct. Housed within Newcastle’s striking former Council Administration Centre, the luxury hotel combines heritage architecture with contemporary interiors and sweeping views across the city and coastline. The property features sophis

There is something special about buying locally made products and in this article we meet the makers from the Hunter Valley and Mid North Coast NSW. Stay tuned for more artisans in future articles. Let's Meet the Makers Seaform Studio | Coastal Jewellery from the Mid Coast NSW Seaform Studio is a thoughtfully curated collection of handmade necklaces, earrings and bracelets inspired by the Mid Coast of NSW. Created by Samantha, the brand began as a simple beachcombing ritual w

Nestled in the lush hinterland of Byron Bay lies one of the most unique and spiritually uplifting destinations in Australia—The Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens. This tranquil sanctuary is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a place of peace, transformation, and connection with the Earth’s energy. What is the Crystal Castle Byron Bay? The Crystal Castle Byron Bay is a private botanical and crystal sanctuary located in Mullumbimby, about 20 minutes’ drive from Byron Ba