Stockton Beach received a lot of media attention last year due to ongoing erosion issues. Sand nourishment activity in late 2023 saw 130,000 cubic metres of sand deposited on the shore of the beach and, if you’ve not visited before, now is an ideal time to make the trip ‘overseas’ for a family day out on Stockton Beach.
With a playground, amenities, and a cafe nearby, this quiet, family-friendly beach is one of our favourite beaches for a family day out. Protected from southerly swells, it’s also one of Newcastle’s safest beaches.
On the southern end of Newcastle Bight, Stockton Beach is patrolled from September to April by council lifeguards as well as volunteer lifesavers from Stockton Surf Lifesaving Club.
You can usually find a park in the large, free car park. Sunday mornings, from about 9am, can get busy during nipper season (October to March) and it can be harder to find a park. If you don’t mind a walk, you should be able to find an on-street park a short distance away.
There’s no shade on the beach, so bring an umbrella or shelter.
The flags are usually set up on the stretch of beach between the surf club and Lexie’s on the Beach cafe, with ample space for kids to swim, splash and play. The smaller, gentler waves down this end of the beach are generally safe for kids to bodyboard and surf.
It’s not uncommon to see dolphins swimming close to the shore at Stockton Beach. Be aware though, that stingrays also frequent these waters. If you do happen to see a stingray, stay well away from it and don’t approach it. When the north-easterlies blow, bluebottles can show up as well. Look out for the signs on the beach warning of stingers.
Stretching for approximately 32 km to Anna Bay in Port Stephens the view back along the beach, with its seemingly endless stretch of sand, is stunning.
When the kids are ready for a change of scenery, Rawson Park Playground is situated on the opposite side of the car park. It has swings, slides, climbing equipment and more. Adjacent to the playground, you’ll find plenty of covered picnic tables and a gas barbecue.
Stockton Bowling Club is within walking distance or Lexie’s on the Beach, has beautiful views of the beach from their indoor and outdoor tables. If you prefer hot chips on the beach, Lexie’s on The Beach also do takeaway.
Other things to do while you’re visiting Stockton include walking along the Shipwreck Walk, taking the kids for a play at Stockton Active Hub, swimming at Stockton Swimming Centre (open from September to April), cycling the Stockton Foreshore, walking across Stockton Bridge and exploring the Stockton Sand Dunes in a 4wd.
If you enjoy caravanning or camping, consider booking into the NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park for a weekend or longer. Located just metres from the beach, it makes a great base to explore this part of Newcastle. They’re also, seasonally, pet-friendly.
Good to Know
Patrolled: Stockton Beach is patrolled from September to April
Toilets & Showers: Yes
Shade: No, bring a beach shelter or beach umbrella
Parking: Free parking
Picnic Area: Yes, undercover and open picnic tables
Nearest Cafe: Lexie’s on the Beach located at beach entrance
Disabled Accessibility: Beach wheelchair available and kept in lifeguard room
Nearest Playground: Small playground located between Surf Club and Bowling Club