Newcastle has a reputation for being one of the best surfing locations in Australia. Surfing, body boarding and swimming are very popular activities.

Council employ professional lifeguards patrol our beaches throughout the year. Most beaches are patrolled during spring, summer and autumn with winter patrols Nobbys and Bar Beaches. Sunday patrols from September to April are provided by Surf Lifesaving Club volunteers.

Bragging rights are up for grabs at the annual Newcastle v Lake Macquarie lifeguard challenge. The best of the best from our local professional lifeguards compete in a three leg challenge – run, swim and board.

There are six Surf Clubs in the Newcastle City Council area coordinated by Hunter Surf Lifesaving

Beachwatch monitors beach water quality in the Hunter and other regions.

Newcastle beaches took out every category at the regional Keep Australia Beautiful Clean Beach awards.

Archived from: http://www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/recreation/beaches_and_pools