Surf: Newcastle Beach is minutes from downtown and like Bondi, is popular with all kinds of beachgoers. It's also home for most pro contests, hoping to get the lefts off the point in good shape or some groomed peaks in the middle. Deflects the NE wind quite well and is very consistent, but lacks the excitement of Bar or Redhead. Environment: Crowds are constant and water quality can be suspect so close to the rivermouth. Closures due to shark sightings are increasing.