Woy Woy

Perched on a peninsula at the southern edge of Brisbane Water, Woy Woy offers superb seafood, endless water views and plenty of charm. In this laid-back town on the NSW Central Coast, enjoy fish and chips by the waterfront, watching as kayakers paddle by, pelicans wander the wharf and fishing boats bob on the water.

A gateway to the area’s gorgeous beaches, waterways and national parks, Woy Woy has been a popular tourist destination for more than 130 years. Holidaymakers began arriving in the tiny fishing village in 1889 after construction of the Hawkesbury River Railway Bridge. Explore the picture-perfect coastline around Woy Woy on a scenic ferry tour.

Waterfront restaurants

For lunch, grab a seat on the deck at the stylish Woy Woy Fishermen’s Wharf and savour a local seafood feast and stunning views over the water to Pelican Island. Alternatively, you can get your meal to go from the on-site seafood market. Another dining spot with sweeping water views is the nearby Boathouse Bar and Dining, an elegant restaurant at Koolewong Marina.

More great restaurants in Woy Woy include Young Barons, which serves up housemade pasta; Ela Mesa, a popular Greek restaurant with live music, and KB Thai. In nearby Ettalong Beach, soak up ocean views at Box on the Water or great coffee and all-day brunch at Lords of Pour. You’ll find stews, curries and cakes at Locomotive Station in the neighbouring town of Tascott.

Outdoor adventures

Bring your mountain bike and explore tracks through Brisbane Water National Park, like Tommos loop and Rocky Ponds cycling loop. Hike to the top of Staples lookout for fabulous views over Mount Wondabyne, the park’s highest point. Or take in Woy Woy at a more sedate pace with a round of golf at Everglades Country Club.

On the water

To appreciate the area’s natural beauty, catch a scenic round trip ferry ride from Woy Woy Wharf, which takes about an hour and glides through the sparkling waterways of Brisbane Water and the Cockle Channel. Alternatively, join Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures for a wine and seafood kayak tour of Woy Woy Bay and Brisbane Water.

Getting there & where to stay

Woy Woy is a 1hr 15min drive north from Sydney and around 90min south from Newcastle. You can also catch the train direct from Sydney, with the journey taking around 1hr 15min. Hop on a Central Coast Ferry from Woy Woy Wharf to connect to other towns on Brisbane Water. Accommodation options in Woy Woy include waterfront motels and holiday houses.