Fancy a day that feels like a mini adventure? Go “overseas” to Stockton. Whether you drive or take the ferry over (highly recommended!), it’s easy to spend a day exploring this harbourside gem.
Stockton ticks all the boxes for an active day out, with walks, playgrounds, views and a rich maritime history.
Kick things off with a ride on the Stockton Ferry from Queens Wharf. It only takes a few minutes, but it feels like a big adventure for little ones! Bring along your bikes and scooters too to explore Stockton. You can also drive over via the Stockton Bridge if it’s more convenient.
Once you arrive either by ferry or car, start at Griffiths Park and head north along the Stockton Foreshore Walk.
(Download a Newy with Kids scavenger hunt for Stockton which starts at Griffith Park and conveniently ends at the Stockton Breakwater).
The shared path is perfect for walking, scooting or cycling and takes you out onto the Stockton Breakwater, home of the Shipwreck Walk.
Along this stretch, you’ll spot remains of old vessels used to build the breakwater – there are over 200 shipwrecks in the area!
If you feel like a swim, you can swim at Stockton Beach. With a playground, amenities, and café nearby, the quiet and spacious Stockton 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.
At 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 Life Saving Club.
You can also swim at nearby Stockton Pool. It’s open from April to September and features two pools, a solar heated 50 metre pool and a shallow learners pool.
If you get hungry, grab lunch from a local café or pub (we recommend The Gladdy) or stock up on supplies at the IGA and find a shady spot along the harbour for a picnic.
Next stop is back to Griffith Park, home to the popular Stockton Active Hub.
It’s packed with modern play equipment, skate areas, and plenty of space to run and explore – all with beautiful views of the harbour.
It’s a great place to settle in for a while and let the kids burn off some energy. There’s plenty to keep kids occupied with a two-storey slide, flying foxes, revolving rope spinning swing, climbing nets and lots more.
If you have time, wander down to the Stockton Foreshore near Punt Road. This is where the original Stockton car ferry once operated and a lovely spot to watch ships glide by and enjoy the breeze.
Wrap up your day with a return ferry ride or drive home across the bridge – or if the kids insist, one more go at the playground!
Hot Tip: Bring scooters or bikes. Stockton is super flat and has great shared pathways to get around with ease. You can also explore Stockton on a family bike ride. It’s a 7km flat and easy cycle path from Stockton Bridge around the peninsula to the break wall.
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