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A Kookaburra on a road sign — Image credit: Jonathan Keren-Black

Landmarks and Buildings

Narara Ecovillage

The Narara Ecovillage (NEV) is a growing community of 150 plus people across all age ranges, which is located on the Central Coast near Gosford. It is on the site of the historic Gosford Agricultural Research Institute and borders the beautiful Strickland State Forest on three sides. Walking through the peaceful alpine-style ecovillage to the forest, you will discover a variety of environmental homes, and doubtless meet some friendly villagers at the coffee cart or on your walk. Narara Ecovillage aims to nurture a resilient and inclusive intergenerational community that inspires collaboration, innovation and fun; to live with kindness, aware of interdependence with others and the natural world; and to learn and demonstrate ways to thrive within the earth's ecological capacity, drawing on Indigenous wisdom and fostering regenerative environmental, social and economic practices.

Narara NSW

4.0 km away

Staff assistance available for new skaters — Image credit: Erina Ice Arena

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Erina Ice Arena

Erina Ice Arena is a vibrant indoor recreational facility designed for the community to enjoy ice skating with their friends and family. Their public sessions provide the perfect opportunity for anyone to experience ice skating - escape from the heat in Summer, or embrace the cold for a complete Winter experience. Perhaps you want a bit more of an upbeat experience? Their Disco sessions will fit the brief. Ice Hockey games and Figure Skating Performances are scheduled from time to time throughout the year.

Erina NSW

5.0 km away

Suspension Bridge on the Arboretum Track — Image credit: Forestry Corporation of NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Arboretum Track, Strickland State Forest

The Arboretum Walking Track is a 2.3 kilometre loop track through one of Australia's oldest arboretums. Dating back to 1887, this easy grade track is fringed by historic forestry arboretum plantings including giant Australian Red Cedar, Bunya and Hoop Pines. This track includes a suspension bridge. The Arboretum Track commences at Stoney Creek carpark in Strickland State Forest. For those wishing to extend their walk, the Bellbird Track is a 1.3 kilometre loop off the Arboretum Track. The Bellbird Loop starts near Stoney Creek and rejoins the Arboretum Track just past the suspension bridge. Walking tracks in Strickland State Forest are maintained by a group of volunteers, The Friends of Strickland, with support from Forestry Corporation of NSW. Walking tracks in Strickland State Forest are beloved by dog walkers too; dogs under their owner's control are welcome in this beautiful forest. Visitors are asked to please be aware that Bunya Pine produce large cones the size of footballs which, spectacular in appearance, may cause injury. Please be mindful of falling pine cones and exercise caution during the January to March period.

Niagara Park NSW

5.5 km away

Entry to The Australian Reptile Park — Image credit: The Australian Reptile Park

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Australian Reptile Park

The Australian Reptile Park, located on the Central Coast of New South Wales and awarded Australia's best major tourist attraction, is renowned for being a great family fun day out, only one hour from Sydney and Newcastle. Get up close with native Australian wildlife including kangaroos, koalas, Tasmanian devils and wombats. Admire cassowaries, dingos, Komodo dragons, and walk with Hugo, their giant Galapagos tortoise. Learn about the venom program in the reptile show and catch the awe-inspiring Elvis the saltwater crocodile, plus the 40 American alligators in the lagoon. Kids of all ages will enjoy the playground and interactive exhibits, including the Lost World of Reptiles, Spider World, Frog Hollow and Weigel Venom Centre. Pack a barbecue lunch and enjoy the complimentary barbecue facilities in the picnic grounds surrounded by kangaroos or enjoy a variety of food from the cafe.

Somersby NSW

5.6 km away

A lush oasis at Distillery Botanica — Image credit: Distillery Botanica

Parks and Gardens

Distillery Botanica

Distillery Botanica is a hidden gem on the NSW Central Coast, where award-winning spirits are crafted amongst beautifully landscaped gardens. Visitors can wander the fragrant grounds, sample gins and liqueurs in the tasting room, or enjoy a seasonal cocktail while taking in the garden views. The distillery hosts a range of hands-on workshops and experiences from 'Distill Your Own Gin' and cocktail classes to creative Sip and Paint or Clay and Sip events making it a must-visit destination for spirit lovers and experience seekers alike. A visit to Distillery Botanica offers more than just a tasting, it's an immersive experience celebrating Australian botanicals, creativity, and craftsmanship.

Erina NSW

5.8 km away

Great North walk - Brisbane Water National Park

Natural Attractions

Great North walk - Brisbane Water National Park

Built in 1988 to celebrate Australia’s bicentennial year, Great North walk is a 250 kilometre bushwalking track linking the Sydney CBD with the Hunter Valley and Newcastle. The track passes through a number of national parks, including Brisbane Water National Park (for 34 kilometre), and is undoubtedly one of the best walks in NSW. The walk offers something for everyone. If you’re walking with children you can choose an easy section of the track, and if you’re feeling energetic you can choose an overnight walk, or a more challenging section to hike. Whichever way you choose to walk this iconic track, you will definitely enjoy spectacular views, a scenic landscape and the sounds of native birds and wildlife.

Somersby NSW

5.9 km away

Girrakool picnic area

Natural Attractions

Girrakool picnic area

Looking for a place to picnic? Girrakool picnic area is well equipped with free barbecues, picnic tables and plenty of parking and it is conveniently located for those travelling from Sydney or Newcastle, all together making it a great place for a family gathering. The main picnic ground next to the carpark is a large grassy area with plenty of room to kick a ball around with the kids, while a bushland picnic area at the far end of the carpark provides a more rugged bush setting for those who like to get in the thick of it. You might be lucky enough to share the experience with a wallaby or two, and if you feel like stretching your legs, try the easy Girrakool loop walk that takes you past Aboriginal rock engravings, through forest and past waterfalls. Make sure you take your camera; there are some great photos to be taken.

Somersby NSW

5.9 km away

Bulgandry Art Site Aboriginal Place

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Bulgandry Art Site Aboriginal Place

Bulgandry Art Site Aboriginal Place in Brisbane Water National Park is a special landscape, rich in ancient Aboriginal rock art. There's a wide range of well-preserved engravings to see; most of them are more than 200 years old with many perhaps ten times that age. Please treat this site with respect and do not walk on or touch the engravings. The name Bulgandry belongs to the large engraving of a man thought to represent an ancestral hero, depicted with an impressive headdress. You'll also see engravings of wallabies, fish, a dolphin and what's thought to be a canoe and a bird. Keep walking to see some stone tool sharpening grooves nearby, or simply take in the site's beautiful bush surroundings. Indigenous sites such as Bulgandry provide valuable insight into Aboriginal traditions, past lifestyles and previous interactions with the environment. These sites are an important part of present-day Aboriginal culture, so please remember to tread carefully and with respect.

Kariong NSW

6.0 km away

Somersby Falls walking track

Natural Attractions

Somersby Falls walking track

Starting at one of the most spectacular and popular rest stops on the NSW Central Coast – Somersby Falls picnic area – Somersby Falls walking track winds down to the bottom of the falls along a graceful 100 metre path, with lookout stops along the way. This is a great walk at any time of year, but it really shines in the summer months, when the cool spray offers a respite from the heat, and after heavy rains, when the falls are particularly striking. Be sure to bring your camera and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including water dragons, frogs and goannas. If you look up, you may even spot a kookaburra – birdwatching is terrific here, so don’t forget binoculars either. After visiting the bottom of the falls, return to the picnic area and pass the remainder of the day in the cool shade of a tree over a long lunch.

Somersby NSW

6.2 km away

Girrakool loop track

Natural Attractions

Girrakool loop track

Girrakool loop track is a short and easy walk that starts and finishes at Girrakool picnic area. It offers scenic views over waterfalls and is full of colourful wildflowers during late winter and early spring. At the start of the walk, be sure to check out the Aboriginal rock engraving site, take care not to walk over it though. From here, you’ll wind down into bushland, past views of forest, waterfalls and the creek. Make sure you stop at Illoura lookout and the shady waterfall at Andamira lookout for a photo or two.

Somersby NSW

6.2 km away

Strickland Falls — Image credit: Forestry Corporation of NSW

Natural Attractions

Strickland Falls Track

Strickland Falls Walking Track is a 1.6 kilometre loop track of medium grade. Commencing from the Banksia Picnic Area carpark, this walking track takes visitors through diverse plant communities, ranging from wildflower-rich heath on ridge tops, to tall eucalypts on slopes and creeks lined with lush rainforest. As the track descends towards Strickland Falls, visitors will notice a change in humidity, temperature and the size of the trees. Spectacular cliffs, mossy rocks, ferns, palms, moist eucalypt forest and gully rainforest are features of this stunning walk. Walking tracks in Strickland State Forest are maintained by a group of volunteers, The Friends of Strickland, with support from Forestry Corporation of NSW. New members are always welcome - see Forestry's website for more details.

Niagara Park NSW

6.3 km away

Tommos loop and Rocky Ponds cycling loop

Natural Attractions

Tommos loop and Rocky Ponds cycling loop

Pack a bit of adventure into your day and take your bike for a spin along this mountain biking loop. The trail starts opposite the impressive Staples lookout with pretty views of Brisbane Water, it then heads off to explore the ridge. Set your own pace, either tackling the trail like a mountain biking pro, leaving a cloud of dust in your wake, or going a little slower for a gentle ride to look for wildlife and admire the scenery. Tommos loop trail is great for older kids and beginner adults, and it’s a good idea to take sunscreen and plenty of water. Remember to wear protective equipment, including a helmet and take care on the steeper sections towards the end of the Rocky Ponds trail.

Kariong NSW

6.5 km away

Piles Creek loop

Natural Attractions

Piles Creek loop

If you’re looking for a hike with a chance to unwind afterwards, head to Girrakool for Piles Creek loop. Wandering through dry eucalypt forest, this day walk follows the deep gorge of Piles Creek past waterfalls and scenic clearings, so make sure you bring your camera. It even crosses a suspension bridge and reaches the Illoura lookout, with stellar views over the forest canopy, which offers a good opportunity for birdwatching. At Illoura, the trail also crosses the Girrakool loop for a longer walk that takes in a fascinating Aboriginal site with carvings in Hawkesbury sandstone. Eventually, all roads lead back to the large grassy Girrakool picnic area, where you might like to fire up the free gas barbecues for a lazy afternoon in the shade of eucalypts.

Somersby NSW

6.5 km away

Creek, Strickland State Forest — Image credit: Forestry Corporation of NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Strickland State Forest

Strickland State Forest is the ecotourism gem of the Central Coast. Entry is via the top of Mangrove Road, Somersby. For a small day-use forest (five square kilometres), Strickland contains an impressive diversity of flora and fauna: wildflowers, heath woodland, tall eucalypts and lush rainforest. Strickland was the site of the first government forest nursery (1886 - 1890) and national forestry training school (1920 - 1927). Remnants of native and exotic tree plantings established during those times, known as an arboretum, are among the oldest in Australia. Picnic facilities are set in a dry eucalypt forest and include picnic tables, a large all-weather shelter, fireplaces and toilets. Extensive and well-built walking trails feature cabbage tree palms, and rainforest vegetation and meander through the arboretum. Strickland State Forest offers a tranquil and unique Australian forest experience. Strickland State Forest is in the Hunter Central Coast Tourism Hall of Fame for ecotourism, having won gold three years running. Walking tracks in Strickland State Forest are maintained by a group of volunteers, The Friends of Strickland, with support from Forestry Corporation of NSW. See Forestry's website for more information.

Niagara Park NSW

6.8 km away

Staples lookout

Natural Attractions

Staples lookout

If you’re looking for a scenic place to gaze across the expanse of Brisbane Water and Woy Woy Bay, Staples lookout is the spot. Built right on the side of Woy Woy Road, this vantage point offers views in several directions. Look southwest, for instance, and you can see all the way to Mount Wondabyne, the highest point in Brisbane Water National Park. Several rare bird species live here, so you’ll want to bring binoculars. Try to find a spotted-tailed quoll or a yellow-tailed black cockatoo. Then break out the picnic for a relaxing lunch at one of the picnic tables, with outstanding views of this national park as your backdrop.

Kariong NSW

6.8 km away

Somersby Falls picnic area

Natural Attractions

Somersby Falls picnic area

Somersby Falls picnic area is the perfect place to escape from everyday life. Enjoy your meal amidst lush rainforest that feels a million miles away, but in reality is so close to home. It's a great place to picnic, with free barbecues and picnic tables and plenty of space to set up your own rug and chairs. There are also accessible walking tracks nearby, and it's a short walk to view 3 levels of the cascading waterfalls. Whether you picnic under the shade of tall trees at the far end of the carpark, or next to Floods Creek before it descends over the cascades, you're bound to see a bird or two. Make sure you look out for the industrious brush turkeys that might be keen on sharing your lunch. In the warmer months, you might also see water dragons, skinks and goannas around lunch time. If you're there early in the morning, keep an eye out for lyrebirds. When you've enjoyed a tasty barbecue and feel like stretching your legs, try Somersby Falls walking track. It's an 800m return walk through rainforest that takes in views of the top and bottom waterfalls.

Somersby NSW

7.1 km away

Mooney Mooney nature walk

Natural Attractions

Mooney Mooney nature walk

Mooney Mooney nature walk links Mooney Mooney and Girrakool, leading through some of the most picturesque parts of Brisbane Water National Park. This challenging walk passes through diverse landscapes, including rainforest, grassy woodlands, waterfalls, casuarina forest and cave-like rocky overhangs. Climbing steeply, perfectly positioned lookouts offer the chance to rest and take in the exquisite NSW Central Coast vistas. Crossing the scenic Piles Creek suspension bridge, pause to soak up serene views in all directions. In spring, you’ll see carpets of colourful wildflowers, including red darwinias, yellow acacias and orange banksias. If you’re keen on birdwatching, you’ll love having the opportunity to see lyrebirds and kookaburras. Observant walkers may even spot a koala or two, along with native orchids clinging to moss-covered boulders. You can also start this walk from the Girrakool end of the track.

Kariong NSW

7.9 km away

Brisbane Water National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Brisbane Water National Park

Brisbane Water National Park is on the central coast near Gosford, north of Sydney. The park offers a range of wonderful experiences, making it a great daytrip or weekend away from the city. Come to see colourful spring wildflowers, ancient Aboriginal engraving sites and scenic views from the park's lookouts. There are great fishing spots to discover, along with walking and cycling trails that cross rainforest and rugged sandstone country. The park's waterways are a great place to spend a day on the water, so don't forget your kayak. Head to one of the coastal towns, like Umina Beach to organise your lunch before finding your own scenic picnic spot, or make a stop at Patonga for some tasty fish and chips and a beach view.

Kariong NSW

8.7 km away

CCMDC's Interactive Touch Pool — Image credit: Supplied by Destination Central Coast x Bianchi Photography

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre

Discover the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre: where education meets adventure! Located on the stunning Central Coast of New South Wales, the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre offers an immersive and interactive exploration of the marine environments. With hands-on exhibits, innovative aquariums, and educational trails, there’s something to captivate visitors of all ages. Children and teenagers can enjoy puzzles, colouring, painting, sea life quizzes, and microscopes, while adults and groups can book expert-led tours tailored for schools, seniors, families, and more. Whether you’re visiting during the school holidays or planning a special outing, the Centre provides engaging activities and workshops that inspire a love for marine conservation. Explore, learn, and be inspired at the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre – a must-visit for families and nature enthusiasts.

Terrigal NSW

9.0 km away

Aerial view of Wamberal Beach and the surrounding coastline — Image credit: Destination Central Coast

Natural Attractions

Wamberal Beach

Wamberal Beach offers a relaxed coastal escape, with a 3.8 kilometre stretch of sandy beach linking Wamberal to Terrigal. Popular for surfing, swimming, beach walks and sunrise strolls, the beach is also great spot to enjoy the Central Coast's beautiful coastline. Wamberal Beach is patrolled by Professional Central Coast Council lifeguards Monday to Friday. During weekends and on Public Holidays these locations are patrolled by Surf Life Saving volunteers. For beach patrol dates and times, please see the website. A designated dog off-leash area from Surfers Road to Pacific Street. People with a disability will now find it easier to access Wamberal Beach with a Sand Cruiser wheelchair available for bookings. Contact Wamberal Beach Surf Club for bookings.

Wamberal NSW

9.5 km away

Location is amazing

Amusement and Theme Parks

Aquafun Avoca Lake

Discover the ultimate outdoor adventure at Aquafun Avoca Lake, a top Central Coast attraction you simply can't miss! Dive into an array of water activities with our vast selection of pedalboats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards available for hire. Nestled on the scenic shores of Avoca Lake, this expansive coastal lagoon boasts an enchanting island, numerous bays, and captivating wetlands waiting to be explored. Unwind in the picturesque park setting, complete with shady picnic spots and barbecue areas, perfect for a leisurely day out. Just a short 100-metre stroll from the vibrant Avoca Beach shops and cafes, you'll also find a children's playground, an oval, and the stunning surf beach. Make unforgettable memories at Aquafun Avoca Lake, where adventure and relaxation seamlessly blend. Aquafun is a great Central Coast activity suitable for the whole family.

Avoca Beach NSW

9.5 km away

Ettalong Beach — Image credit: Destination Central Coast

Entertainment Venues

Ettalong Beach

Ettalong beach is a popular Central Coast enclave and a safe, fun family favourite. The beach provides a scenic breadth of activity at this waterfront town overlooking Broken Bay and Lion Island. Ettalong Beach's appeal lies in its beaches, lagoons, waterways and safe swimming for children. This popular town on the Central Coast also offers a wide range of seaside and bush accommodation. It's a renowned fishing beach, with excellent boating facilities. Ferries and charter vessels run regular tours around the majestic Brisbane Water National Park, providing scenic, fishing and whale watching experiences. There are many family friendly things to do within close reach. Visit Ocean and Umina Beaches for more than 2km of sandy beaches and an inland waterway that is great for younger children to have a splash around. Please note: Ettalong Beach is not patrolled by lifeguards.

Ettalong Beach NSW

9.6 km away

Avoca Lake

Natural Attractions

Avoca Lake

Nestled between the coastal settlements of North Avoca and Avoca Beach, Avoca Lake is an intermittently closed estuarial lagoon, catering to a variety of recreational activities. Located in the Central Coast region of NSW, Avoca is only a 1.5-hour trip from Sydney, making it the idyllic day trip from the city. There is a large island in the middle and many bays to explore the coastal wetlands, and a fisherman's paradise, with catches including bream, whiting, flathead, estuarial perch and the elusive mangrove jack. The waters are perfectly safe for a relaxing swim, canoe or kayak, with companies like Aquafun on Avoca Lake offering fun adventure activities to try on the waterway playground. You can also hire pedal boats and stand-up paddle boards, which make for great fun for all the family. Relax under the hanging fig trees at the picnic area and enjoy a barbecue lunch. Avoca Lake is ideally located close to the beach and shops in the centre of town. The area encompasses some of NSW's most exquisite surf beaches, woodlands, lagoons and lakes.

Avoca Beach NSW

9.8 km away

Avoca Beach — Image credit: From Above Images

Natural Attractions

Avoca Beach

Avoca Beach is a major Central Coast holiday and surfing area. It's situated among a residential coastline of wooded hills, beaches and lakes. Avoca Beach on the Central Coast features rocky headlands at each end of a long, golden beach. Popular as a holiday destination, especially for families, it has a vibrant surf culture and a relaxed and friendly ambience. There are lot of things to do, including fishing, beach walking, exploring the nearby parks and headlands, and simply relaxing in a quiet place. Professional Central Coast lifeguards patrol Avoca Beach from Monday until Friday. During weekends and on a Public Holidays these locations are patrolled by Surf Life Saving volunteers. For beach patrol dates and times, please see the website. There is a dog off from View Street to the Shark Tower. People with a disability will now find it easier to access Avoca Beach with a Sand Cruiser and a Hippocampe (Adult Size) wheelchair available for bookings. Contact Avoca Surf Club for bookings 02 4382 1514

Avoca Beach NSW

9.8 km away

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