6 Dog-Friendly Walks In Newcastle
Just two hours north of Sydney, Newcastle is a beautiful coastal city that’s perfect for exploring on foot, especially if you have a furry friend in tow. With its kilometres of stunning beaches, coastal trails, and lush bushlands, Newcastle offers some of the best dog-friendly walks. We’ve curated a list of 6 dog-friendly walks in Newcastle:
Bathers Way
Distance: 6km one way
Grade: Easy
Leash: Yes, at all times
The Bathers Way is a beautiful walking track that follows a stunning stretch of coast from Merewether Baths to Nobbys Beach. It can be accessed from various points along the way, and the section from Merewether Beach to Dixon Park Beach is suitable for wheelchairs and prams. With its breathtaking views and accessibility, the Bathers Way is a popular route for many, expect to see many dogs along the way! Be aware that dogs are not allowed on the Memorial Walk and Bridge section and will need to use the footpath along Memorial Drive.
Nobbys Breakwall
Distance: 1.5km one way
Grade: Easy
Leash: Yes, at all times
The Nobby’s Breakwall walk is a picturesque walking path that starts from Nobby’s Beach Reserve and takes you past the Nobbys Lighthouse to the end of the breakwall. The walk offers breathtaking views of the ocean and is a popular spot for both tourists, locals and dogs. Along the way, you’ll also pass the beautiful Horseshoe Beach, which is an off-leash beach, making it a great spot to take your furry friend. However, it’s important to note that this walk should only be done in calm conditions as large swells can make the breakwall a dangerous place to walk.
Fernleigh Track: Belmont - Jewells
Distance: 3.3km one way
Grade: Easy
Leash: Yes, at all times
The Belmont to Jewells stretch of the Fernleigh Track is a beloved segment of a 15 kilometre pathway constructed beside an old railway line. This trail meanders through a variety of landscapes, including wetlands, coastal areas, and bushland, showcasing an array of environments and habitats for native birds and wildlife. The path transitions from wetlands to coastal heath vegetation and eventually leads walkers behind the 10,000-year-old sand dune system of 9 Mile Beach.
Pirrita Island Boardwalk, Swansea
Distance: 500m return
Grade: Easy
Leash: Yes, at all times
Suitable for wheelchairs and prams.
The Pirrita Island Boardwalk is a lovely and easy walk, perfect for stretching your legs, getting your dog outdoors, and taking in the beautiful views of Lake Macquarie. The boardwalk is 230 metres long and winds through mangroves, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe the region’s natural beauty up close. This walk is an excellent option for a family day out as there are spots to swim nearby in the lake. Additionally, there are picnic tables available, making it a great spot for a relaxing picnic lunch while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
Ken & Audrey Owens Walk, Redhead
Distance: 4km (one way)
Grade: Easy
Leash: Yes, at all times, except in the designated off-leash areas
Suitable for wheelchairs and prams.
Owens Walk in Redhead offers 4km of beautiful pathways, boardwalks, bridges and observation platforms. Follow this track as it winds its way through the stunning coastal terrain, running parallel to Redhead Beach. The walk features multiple observation platforms that provide excellent vantage points for watching the surf or scanning the horizon for dolphins or whales. Furry friends are allowed off-leash on the nearby Redhead Beach, south of Second Creek.
Shipwreck Walk, Stockton
Distance: 2km (return)
Grade: Easy
Leash: Yes, at all times, except in the designated off-leash areas
Suitable for wheelchairs and prams.
The Shipwreck Walk in Newcastle offers a unique opportunity to explore history and natural beauty at the same time. Running parallel to the Nobbys Breakwall, this breakwall walk provides an up-close view of the Adolphe shipwreck, which met its demise in 1904. Again, be mindful of environmental conditions as walking on breakwalls can be extremely dangerous in extreme weather.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, Newcastle’s dog-friendly walks are a must-see for any dog lover. So, grab your leash and start exploring – Newcastle’s best dog-friendly walks are waiting for you!
