Fast facts
- Picturesque villages set in bays and inlets
- Famous for its surf beaches, lakes and national parks
- One hour’s drive north of Sydney
Why go there
From Broken Bay at the mouth of the Hawkesbury River to south of Newcastle, the Central Coast includes a mix of bays and inlets, pristine beaches, lakes and lush hinterland.
Here you’ll enjoy the region’s laid-back atmosphere, whether you’re swimming, surfing, fishing or sailing, or simply relaxing at one of the waterfront cafés or restaurants. With accommodation ranging from B&Bs to luxury resorts, there’s something to suit every budget.
Things to do
- Take a dip at Terrigal or Avoca beach, then enjoy a coffee at an alfresco café.
- Watch the pelican feeding at The Entrance, 3.30 pm daily.
- Go bushwalking in Bouddi National Park.
- Watch for whales between June and November, the migration season.
- Go sailboarding or kayaking on Tuggerah Lake.
Don’t miss
- Australian Reptile Park, Somersby, an award-winning zoo which has Australia’s largest collection of reptiles as well as koalas, kangaroos and platypus.
- Norah Head Lighthouse, where you’ll learn about manning a lighthouse in the early 1900s.
- Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park to learn about bush tucker, bush medicine, see endangered species and ancient Aboriginal cultural sites.
- Learning to ride at Glenworth Valley Horse Riding, Australia’s largest free-range horse-riding centre.
- A ferry across Broken Bay (from Ettalong to Palm Beach) or on Brisbane Water (from Woy Woy to Davistown).
Events
- Central Coast Country Music Festival, The Entrance, in March.
- Gathering of the Clans, Toukley, in August.
- Australian Springtime Flora Festival, Kariong, near Gosford, in September.
