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Terrigal Beach, Terrigal — Image credit: Central Coast Tourism

Natural Attractions

Terrigal Beach

One of the best-known beaches on the Central Coast, Terrigal Beach is a cosmopolitan seaside town, popular with locals as it is with visitors. The beach offers safe swimming and has a small ocean rock pool tucked into the cliff at the southern end. Also located at the southern end of Terrigal Beach is Terrigal Haven, a protected boat harbour with a boat ramp, fishing charters, scuba diving and snorkelling, as well as picnic and barbecue facilities.

Terrigal NSW

0.1 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

1.1 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

1.9 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

2.0 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

2.1 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

2.2 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

4.2 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

4.9 km away

Aerial view of sandy beach, ocean and surrounding coastline — Image credit: Destination Central Coast

Natural Attractions

Copacabana Beach

Copacabana Beach provides a quiet and tranquil setting for the family. Copacabana features a whale viewing platform. During the winter months between late May and early August, the Humpback whale can sometimes be seen migrating to the warmer waters of the Central Coast region. The whales often come quite close to the coastline due to the northerly currents at this time of year. Professional Central Coast lifeguards patrol Copacabana Beach from Monday until Friday. During weekends and on Public Holidays these locations are patrolled by Surf Life Saving volunteers. The dog off-leash area runs from the southern end of Copacabana Beach and it runs down to Macmasters Beach and stops approximately at Gerda Road. People with a disability will now find it easier to access Copacabana beach with a Sand Cruiser wheelchair available for bookings. Contact Copacabana Surf Club for bookings.

Copacabana NSW

4.9 km away

The Coast Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

The Coast Walking Track

Discover one of the Central Coast’s most beautiful walks. The Coast walking track runs through a narrow strip of forest between Forresters and Bateau Bay Beaches. Setting out from Bateau Bay Beach picnic area, you'll wander along clifftops, past blackbutts and spotted gums, and absorb spectacular coastal views as you go. The best time to walk is between May and August, when you can do some whale watching from Crackneck lookout along the way. If you’re walking in spring, you’ll be treated to wildflowers coming into bloom, including ground orchids and flannel flowers, and you’re bound to spot birds all year round. The return walk is about six kilometres, but if you’d like a shorter walk, try going one way, or you can break the walk up into shorter sections. No matter how you undertake it, you’re sure to find it rewarding.

Forresters Beach NSW

5.5 km away

Ocean Pool nestled beneath a dramatic sandstone cliff at Macmasters Beach

Natural Attractions

MacMasters Beach

Macmasters Beach is a picturesque south-eastern suburb of the Central Coast region on the Bouddi Peninsula. Professional Central Coast lifeguards patrol Macmasters Beach from Monday until Friday. During weekends and on Public Holidays these locations are patrolled by Surf Life Saving volunteers. The dog friendly off leash area from 500m south of Copacabana Surf Club to Macmasters Beach, corner of Tungarra and Tudibaring Parade.

Macmasters Beach NSW

6.3 km away

Enjoying the coastal views at Crackneck Point Lookout — Image credit: Destination Central Coast x James Vodicka

Natural Attractions

Crackneck Point Lookout

Uncover the secret of local whale watchers and surfers at Crackneck lookout. Make a beeline for this atmospheric lookout between May and August and you may just be rewarded with views of whales swimming past on their northern migration, and surfers can check out wave conditions along the coastline. Crackneck lookout is a fantastic place for a photo stop or picnic at any time of year. Spread out a rug on the grass or set up at one of the picnic tables. You'll be surrounded by panoramic views of Shelly Beach, which continue along the Central Coast past Norah Head, Tuggerah Lake and The Entrance. It's a popular spot for hang gliding, so look up to the sky to see them drifting through the air magically.

Bateau Bay NSW

6.9 km away

Crackneck Point lookout

Natural Attractions

Crackneck Point lookout

Uncover the secret of local whale watchers and surfers at Crackneck Point lookout. Make a beeline for this atmospheric lookout between May and August and you may just be rewarded with views of whales swimming past on their northern migration, and surfers can check out wave conditions. Crackneck Point lookout is a fantastic place for a photo stop or picnic at any time of year. Spread out a rug on the grass, relax on one of the benches or set up at the accessible picnic tables. You'll be surrounded by panoramic views of Shelly Beach, which continue along the Central Coast past Norah Head, Tuggerah Lake and The Entrance. It's a popular spot for hang gliding, so look up to the sky to see them drifting through the air. If you're feeling energetic after a picnic lunch, why not take a short walk along The Coast walking track? The track stretches north for about 2km to Bateau Bay Beach picnic area, or south to Forresters Beach, about 1.5km away. Take a virtual tour of Crackneck Point lookout captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Bateau Bay NSW

6.9 km away

Strom Loop — Image credit: Photo: Nick Cubbin

Natural Attractions

Strom Loop

Strom loop is a good option for families who enjoy walking or beginner cycling, and want to get a taste of Bouddi National Park. Strom loop can be completed as either a five kilometre round trip or a three kilometre one-way trail ending at Mount Bouddi (Dingeldei) picnic area. Beginning at Maitland Bay Information Centre, follow Strom loop as it parallels the 2.5 kilometre stretch of Scenic Road. It’s a straightforward walking or cycling trail with scenic forest views and birdwatching opportunities. Most mammals in the park are nocturnal, but if you keep your eyes open you might be lucky to spot a swamp wallaby or echidna. After taking advantage of the facilities in Mount Bouddi (Dingeldei) picnic area, you can return along Strom loop or make a loop via Scenic Road, North West Ridge trail, and Turkey trail. If bushwalking, you can use the link to Maitland Bay walking track instead or Mount Bouddi walking track.

Bensville NSW

8.3 km away

Mount Bouddi Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Mount Bouddi Walking Track

Starting at Mount Bouddi (Dingeldei) picnic area, Mount Bouddi walking track is a short and easy walk through beautiful bushland with spectacular coastal views, making it a must-do for anyone visiting Bouddi National Park. With some short steep sections, this walking track leads through eucalypt woodlands dotted with grass trees and burrawangs. Watch for flashes of vibrant colour as parrots dart through the trees and listen for the uplifting laughter of the kookaburras. Before long the bush will open up with panoramic views of the coastline with Bouddi Point and Maitland Bay bombora before you. If you’ve still got energy to burn there’s the option to return via Bouddi Coastal walk to the south, then follow Maitland Bay track and Strom loop back to Mount Bouddi Road. Otherwise retrace your steps with the option to enjoy a leisurely lunch at Mount Bouddi (Dingeldei) picnic area.

Gosford NSW

8.4 km away

Mount Bouddi (Dingeldei) picnic area

Natural Attractions

Mount Bouddi (Dingeldei) picnic area

Sometimes referred to as the Dingeldei picnic area, Mount Bouddi picnic area is a great spot for a bush picnic. Roll out the picnic blanket or sit at one of the picnic tables and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere amongst the eucalypts. If it’s a sunny day, relax in the shade provided by the volunteer-built Dingeldei Shelter, named after a former trustee of Bouddi National Park. Some find the area’s private, rustic setting brings with it the feeling of being a bush pioneer.

Bouddi NSW

8.6 km away

Bouddi National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Bouddi National Park

Located on the Central Coast near Gosford, north of Sydney, the beautiful Bouddi National Park offers spectacular diverse landscapes - from beaches and steep cliffs through to rainforest and heathland. Make the most of the park's coastal location and camp at Little Beach, Putty Beach or Tallow Beach campground. Go swimming, fishing or whale watching. Explore the cycling trails or take in sweeping views from the lookouts and coastal walks, including the well-known Bouddi Coastal walk. Bouddi National Park is home to countless attractions, including one of Australia's first marine protected areas, significant Aboriginal sites, wildlife and wildflowers, and even an old paddle steamer wreck. It's a great getaway for a weekend or a week.

Bouddi NSW

9.2 km away

Bouddi Ridge Explorer — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Bouddi Ridge Explorer

Bouddi Ridge explorer is the longest mountain biking trail in Bouddi National Park. The trail is a 10 kilometre loop, combining several other park trails - Strom loop, Rocky Point trail, Daleys Point trail and MacMasters Ridge trail. Bouddi Ridge explorer offers real variety for mountain bikers. Strom loop and Rocky Point trail sections are easy going, while the undulating Daleys Point trail needs more effort and MacMasters Ridge trail is steep in parts, requiring greater fitness. Park your car at Maitland Bay Information Centre and start riding Strom loop, following park signage. Return along Strom trail, or make a loop via The Scenic Road and Turkey trail. Stop and enjoy the view from Allen Strom lookout at the end of Rocky Point trail.

Killcare Heights NSW

9.9 km away

Maitland Bay Track — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Maitland Bay Track

Maitland Bay track is one of Bouddi National Park’s most popular bushwalks. This short, steep walking track begins at Maitland Bay Information Centre. It then winds downhill to the secluded Maitland Bay, past the Bullimah Spur track junction, rock landings, gullies, Hawkesbury sandstone and Bouddi Grand Deep rainforest. Stop to swim, look for shells or simply dip your feet in the water. If it’s low tide, head to the bay’s eastern end to see remains of the PS Maitland, tragically wrecked in 1898. Allow 15 to 20 minutes to walk down the hill and 30 to 40 minutes to get back up. Some find it tough going on the return, so you may wish to walk the flatter three kilometres to Putty Beach and have someone pick you up there.

Killcare Heights NSW

10 km away

Bullimah Spur Track — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Bullimah Spur Track

Beginning from Maitland Bay Information Centre, Bullimah Spur track offers a medium difficulty walk through Central Coast bushland, flanked by some of the park’s most impressive panoramas. Descend along Maitland Bay track and down the stairs to Bullimah Spur track, which branches off to the right. The track junction is well-marked, so it’s easy to navigate your way. Follow the ridgeline past a forest of towering red gums and note the lovely understory of ancient ferns. Along the way you’ll see spectacular views overlooking Putty Beach, Tallow Beach, and all the way out to Lion Island and even Sydney. Near the end of the track you can see sweeping views over Putty Beach and the coastline to the south and the expansive Pacific Ocean.

Killcare NSW

10 km away

Daleys Point Walking Track — Image credit: Photo John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Daleys Point Walking Track

Daleys Point walking track, in Bouddi National Park, offers spectacular scenic views and an opportunity to experience unique Aboriginal cultural heritage. Starting near Wards Hill Road, this signposted track follows the ridgetop through beautiful bushlands with some short steep sections, to Daleys Point Aboriginal Site. It is a moderately easy walk that can be enjoyed on a family day trip. Winding through the woodlands, listen for the distinctive call of glossy black cockatoos. In spring, the bush is dotted with native wildflowers including the delicate white flannel flower. Before you know it you’ll arrive at Daleys Point with spectacular scenic views over Cockle Bay Nature Reserve and Brisbane Water. Also known as Milligans Cave or Fish Hook Shelter, these sandstone engravings are an important Aboriginal site. While you admire and take in the significance of this special place, please remember to respect the surroundings so as not to damage engravings.

Killcare Heights NSW

10 km away

Rocky Point Trail — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Rocky Point Trail

Bouddi National Park offers plenty of mountain biking opportunities on well-defined trails, also suitable for walking. One of the best cycling routes for beginners is Rocky Point trail, a one-way trail beginning just off Wards Hills Road and finishing at Allen Strom lookout. There are stellar scenic views from Allen Strom lookout over Hardys Bay and it is great for birdwatching along the way, so be sure to bring your binoculars. Rocky Point trail forms part of Bouddi Ridge explorer, which links several trails in a single loop throughout the park. The 10 kilometre loop combines ocean lookouts with beautiful forested tracks for a brilliant overview of the area.

Killcare Heights NSW

10 km away

Bells Day Spa

Spas and Retreats

Bells Day Spa

Bells Day Spa is imbued with that same East Coast Hampton's elegance, that you've come to expect at Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel, Restaurant and Spa. This sanctuary is a haven for guests to de-stress and unwind with spa treatments that have been thoughtfully designed to re-balance the synergy between mind, body and soul. Using the purest grade essential oils and the highest quality native plants, flowers, fruits and mud these products used in conjunction with unique Indigenous Australian healing techniques, deliver a spa experience that will deeply relax, restore and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Open 7 days a week, by appointment.

Killcare Heights NSW

10 km away

Enjoy clear waters and relaxed coastal atmosphere, perfect for swimming and stand up paddleboarding — Image credit: Destination Central Coast

Natural Attractions

Toowoon Bay Beach

Toowoon Bay Beach is one of the Central Coast's best secrets located just five-minute drive southeast of The Entrance. This protected beach is perfect for families and offers a picturesque horseshoe shape. However, bathers should take care of currents near the rocks at the southern end. At low tide, a small bay surrounds a reef which becomes exposed, creating a great spot for snorkeling and a good location to see migrating whales as they come close to the coastline. Professional Central Coast Council lifeguards patrol Toowoon Bay Beach from Monday until Friday. During weekends and on Public Holidays these locations are patrolled by Sur Life Saving volunteers. People with a disability will now find it easier to access Toowoon Bay Beach with a Sand Cruiser Wheelchair available for bookings. Contact Toowoon Bay Surf Club for bookings. Parking is available at public beachside car park and street side parking.

Toowoon Bay NSW

11 km away

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