Date ideas for Valentines Day in Newcastle

Grab a gelato at Estabar or one of Kiwi's famous 'ice-cream burgers' and saunter across the road to Newcastle beach. There's benches overlooking the water if your date is likely to be unimpressed by a crunchy sand topping. Extra brownie points if you're in time for sunset (the perfect distraction if you're daring enough to attempt the ol' yawn and casually placed arm around the back trick...)

Pack a picnic for a lunch-time date (or bring candles for night-time if you're feeling super romantic) and pull up a rug in one of Newcastle's most beautiful parks. But remember- this is a family park, and canoodling will not be tolerated.

Especially beautiful at sunset,The Esplanade provides a variety of dining options in a gorgeous setting. Sit on the balcony overlooking Lake Macquarie at Blue Water Pizza, enjoy a coffee at Hippo Espresso or indulge in a new ice cream experience at Dippin Dots. Take a lazy stroll around the lake or a bike ride, if you're feeling particularly energetic.

With an abundance of restaurants to suit a many number of budgets and taste buds, Darby Street is the perfect, safe choice for a date for any age group. For a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with tasty and well-priced meals and drinks, try 3 Monkeys Cafe. Share tapas at The Depot, dessert at Goldbergs or recreate the spaghetti scene à la 'Lady and the Tramp' at Delucas. For drinks, the newly extended Hotel Delany is an old favourite, or check out Soho Bar on Darby for cocktails if you're in need of some liquid courage.

It doesn't matter if your date is a chocolate lover or already sweet enough, you'll be sure to impress them with the brand new Max Brenner chocolate cafe in the South Piazza of Charlestown Square. Indulge in their infamous (for the waistline) chocolate pizza, waffles or share a pot of chocolate fondue. You can also buy cute Valentine gift packs to take away...