Heading one hour south of Lake Macquarie takes you to the beautiful Central Coast. This is a popular getaway for people travelling from Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, and Sydney. With many stunning beaches bordered by four pristine national parks, you’ll enjoy outstanding natural beauty. Discover thriving retail centres, and abundant choices for places to eat and stay. The Central Coast is a must-visit for families.
Central Coast Stays
The Entrance – is a popular destination for families. Choose accommodation to suit every budget, from camping to luxury holiday homes. Visitors flock to the waterfront to see the pelicans get fed, every day of the year. The local council built a feeding platform in 1996 and a team of volunteers, supported by local sponsors, has made it possible for the pelicans to eat fresh fish daily. These might be Australia’s happiest pelicans!
Terrigal – is the place to be for a more cosmopolitan vibe. Accommodation tends to be a little more expensive here but you’ll soon see why with everything you want just a stroll away. Discover amazing cafes and restaurants along the esplanade, or head to a rooftop terrace bar for a cocktail. From the beaches to the boutiques and the cosmopolitan cafe scene, holidaymakers flock to Terrigal for the popular coastal experience.
Umina – is the place of a long white sandy beach and spectacular views over Broken Bay. Camp or hire a cabin at the popular holiday park, or choose from a smorgasbord of accommodation options. Umina borders Brisbane Waters National Park which is picture-perfect for a nature lover.
Avoca Beach – is a jewel in the crown of the Central Coast. With a 1.7 km sandy beach, this beach is renowned as a perfect place to learn to surf. If you’re looking for tranquil waters, consider hiring a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and heading out onto Avoca Lake. You can paddle across to the island for a fun, family adventure. A quieter suburb than Terrigal, this is a great place to relax. Choose accommodation at the local caravan park, hotel, or holiday rentals.
Norah Head – is one of our favourites. It’s quiet, with the most spectacular coastline, and ocean sounds. You instantly relax and slow your breathing down. It’s no wonder the whales love to visit. Check out the Norah Head Lighthouse, coastal walkways, and cafes. Book accommodation at the caravan park, in a holiday home, or you can even stay at the lighthouse!
Central Coast National Parks
Brisbane Water National Park – surrounds a large portion of the Central Coast and is a protected park. Waterfalls, walks, lookouts, picnic areas, flora and fauna call this park their home. Somersby Falls is a must-see. Check out the waterfall, walking tracks, and rainforest. You’ll find picnic tables and free BBQs here as well. If you’re into mountain biking, head to Tommos Loop and Rocky Ponds 20-km bushland ride. The Great North Walk which travels 250 km from Sydney to Newcastle passes through this park. Girrakool Picnic Area is a great place to stop for a picnic or BBQ. From your picnic, continue along the Girrakool Loop Walk which takes you through the rainforest, past waterfalls, and Aboriginal rock engravings.
Popran National Park – is set in the hinterland of the central coast with horse riding, cycling, or walking through the Popran National Park. Head down to the Emerald Pool to enjoy a picnic while you’re here.
Wyrrabalong National Park – is located close to The Entrance. You’ll enjoy coastal walks, beautiful beaches, lookouts, and perfectly positioned picnic spots.
Bouddi National Park – If you love beaches, coastal views, and back-to-nature camping, this is your place. You can choose from Little Beach, Tallow Beach, or Putty Beach campgrounds for your family stay. You can enter the coastal walk at any point, and walk for as long as you like. In total, it’s 8.5km each way if you’re up for some adventure.
Central Coast Attractions
Norah Head Lighthouse – is situated on the headland at Norah Head, and has been protecting passing ships for 117 years. If you’re looking for somewhere different to stay or you’d enjoy climbing the 96 steps to the top of the lighthouse for a tour, visit the lighthouse. Explore the beach down below with the rock pools brimming with life.
Australian Reptile Park – is located close to Gosford and is a fun activity for the whole family. Visit the native animals like koalas, wombats, kangaroos, emus, and Tasmanian devils. Watch Elvis the crocodile being fed and wander through the reptile area for the lizards and snakes. There’s a great playpark for the kids and a picnic area where you can feed the kangaroos.
Tree Tops Adventure Park – is perfect if you love adventure and are not afraid of heights. Situated in Ourimbah State Forest you can climb from the age of 3. There is a kids course designed for children aged 3 to 9 years, a junior and young adult course for kids aged 10 years to 15 years, and an adult course. Juniors must meet height and weight requirements and be accompanied by an adult.
Captain Cook Lookout – is the spot to go if you want ocean views from Norah Head down to Sydney CBD. This is a great whale-watching spot with such a magnificent ocean scenery.
Taking the family on a day trip from Lake Macquarie is a fun family day out. Our region offers so much, let’s explore it together. For more inspiration, head to our Out & About section.
