Woy Woy

Woy Woy is the gateway to gorgeous beaches, waterways and national parks on the splendid Central Coast of NSW. Explore the picture-perfect coastline around Woy Woy on a scenic ferry tour, explore a lush national park or just enjoy tasty fish and chips on the waterfront.

The town 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. Woy Woy sits on Brisbane Water, so has no beach of its own, but is close to pretty Ettalong and Umina beaches.

Eat and drink

Woy Woy Fishermen’s Wharf has recently had a facelift and now offers a casual seafood takeaway as well as a stylish restaurant with views over the water to pretty Pelican Island. Ela Mesa is a popular Greek restaurant with live music (and occasional dancing), and Young Barons serves up housemade pasta and gelato five nights a week.

With sweeping views of Brisbane Water, the Boathouse Bar and Dining is an elegant waterfront restaurant at the Koolewong Marina. In nearby Ettalong Beach you can try sand-front dining at The Box on the Water or great coffee and brunch classics with a twist at Lords of Pour.

Outdoor adventures

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

On the water

Catch a scenic round trip ferry ride from Woy Woy Wharf, which takes about an hour and glides across the sparkling waterways of Brisbane Water and the Cockle Channel. To explore under your own steam, join Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures for a wine and seafood kayak tour of Woy Woy Bay and Brisbane Water.

Getting there and where to stay

Woy Woy is a 1hr 15min drive north of Sydney and around 90min south of Newcastle You can also catch the train direct from Sydney and the journey takes around 1hr 15min. Hop on a Central Coast Ferry from the wharf to connect to other towns on Brisbane Water. In Woy Woy, stay in waterfront motels or holiday houses.