As the weather heats up it’s great to slip, slop, slap and pack the kids and the dogs in the car to head to the beach. We love it because Vitamin D in reasonable doses is so good for your mental health, especially as a Mumma who can often feel low when faced with hours on end inside the house, it tires out the kids so they sleep and it’s free.

If you’d like an alternative to Newcastle and Merewether Baths read on.

1. Thong Tree Beach, Swansea Heads

This beach is so brilliant. It often has not a soul on it and it’s not rough so the kids don’t feel intimidated plus there are heaps of super cool rock pools and your four legged friend is allowed to come too.

2. Pelican Foreshore, Pelican

Pelican is really beautiful and a really down to earth place to hang out. There’s usually plenty of parking and it’s calm so the kids can just paddle around. Watch the current though it can be really strong sometimes in certain parts so take care. Your puppy is also invited and there’s heaps of room to set up a tent or an umbrella.

3. Spoon Rocks Bay, Caves Beach

4. Beach Road, Wangi

5. Grannies Pool, Blacksmiths

Other cool spots (pun intended)

Gap Creek Falls, Watagans
Dobell Park, Wangi
Booragul