Talisman of surf mecca Merewether Beach, the Beach Hotel, is unveiling its new aspect and plans for the future, under the tenure of current custodian Glenn Piper.
Known by locals as simply the all-encompassing ‘The Beaches’, Newcastle’s iconic surfside pub was acquired by expanding hotelier Glenn Piper mid-2022, who hit the scene early 2020 with purchase of the similarly famous Harbord Beach Hotel.
Over the past year he has strived to get to know the community and its enduring spirit to help shape the venue’s next chapter. Himself an avid surfer, he spent numerous holidays in his youth visiting relatives in Merewether.
Recognising that the locals have been gathering there for generations, he says taking hold of its future is “a tremendous honour” that comes with great responsibility.
“As a passionate surfer who has long cherished the community and spirit of Merewether since I was a child, I’m thrilled to be part of the next chapter of the iconic Beach Hotel.
“Its restoration will create a timeless space blending Merewether’s laid-back coastal ease and the area’s rich history while paying homage to the local culture and community.
“More than just its Art Deco architecture and iconic views, we want it to be a homage to the medley of cultures that have shaped this storied place – the friends and the family, the surf and the city, the nostalgic and the modern – all under one roof where everyone is welcome”.
The makeover is said to be inspired by the heart and salt of both Merewether and its community, honouring it and Newcastle’s history, and as the unofficial home to Merewether’s famous annual surf carnival, firmly embracing the essence of Australian surf culture.
Piper’s vision is for The Beaches is to continue the intrinsic links to its roots, while contributing to local business and becoming a space where nostalgic and casual modern touches meet in “all the right ways”.
The first phase now presents Larrie’s, as a true community hub for the whole family opening in April. Styled as a beachside kiosk, reminiscent of the classic Aussie milk bars of old, it will serve cheeky, modern twists on beach staples such as chicken-salt chips, pairing the nostalgic flavours of suburban takeaway joints with the coastal spirit.
The renovation has been designed in collaboration with local architects EJE Interiors, looking for an aesthetic that alludes to the precinct’s history as home to the country’s biggest surf carnival, bringing vintage brown and mustard tiled bars, and aluminium-edged laminate countertops above checkerboard floors. Choices incorporating Aussie brews and ice-cold colas languish in retro-style fridges.
Phase two is slated for later this year, as the group takes a respectfully gradual approach to the refurbishment of further areas, which will see the introduction of a revitalised ground floor, with its expansive main bar, as well as a new “coastal dining experience” on the upper level.
“I hope that locals and visitors alike will enjoy the refreshed Beach Hotel and feel a sense of connection to this special place,” says Piper.
