Newport Beach

Newport Beach is approximately 1.3 kilometres long with reddish-golden sands that faces east, making it open to swell from various directions. It's a popular spot that offers a blend of natural beauty and village atmosphere.

History

• Farming settlements emerged in the early 1800s, with the area primarily accessible by sea.
• Around 1880, the name "Newport" was established, derived from its role as a "new port" for steamers carrying passengers and cargo, including local shell lime and firewood.
• In the late 19th century, land subdivision, construction of a wharf, and the establishment of the Newport Hotel (1880) spurred tourism. Most visitors arrived by coach from Manly or by steamer from Sydney.
• For many decades, particularly through the 1920s and 1930s, Newport remained primarily a holiday destination, with many houses sitting empty for much of the year. Permanent residential development increased from the 1950s onward, following significant improvements to road access.

Features

• The beach's north end offers excellent surfing conditions. A jumble of rocks 250 metres south of the northern headland, known as The Peak, shapes two separate breaks that attract a highly skilled local surfing community.
• At the southern end, a full-size 50-metre saltwater pool sits on a large rock platform. This pool was a favourite subject of renowned Australian photographer Max Dupain during the 1930s and 1950s.
• It is the home beach of three times world surfing champion, Tom Carroll.
• High on the cliffs of Bungan Head stands a medieval-style stone castle known as Bungan Castle, built in 1919 by German art dealer Adolph Albers.