Are you planning a road trip north of Sydney? Make sure you hit all the right spots on the Central Coast.
Whether visiting in the summer or winter, there’s a lot to see and do on the Central Coast. Some of the attractions are unique to the area and make it easy for you to create unforgettable memories.
Of course, some places should have priority over others on your bucket list, so make sure you don’t miss out on the following.
Hike Up the Skillion
If you stop by Terrigal, which most tourists do, head up the Skillion. It’s an impressive headland with a unique shape and is the region’s iconic landmark.
Although it’s a steep climb, the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean from this spot is worth the effort. It’s also not a bad place to grab a bite, enjoy a couple of drinks, or relax in the massive green space in the area.
Explore the Bouddi Coastal Walk
Ever wondered what some of the area’s most secluded beaches look like? To know the answer, head on to the Bouddi Coastal Walk.
It’s a relaxing, albeit weird, boardwalk with many twists and turns. The path follows the coastline and takes you through cliff tops, empty beaches, vantage points, and rainforest-shaded areas.
If you visit during the winter, you can also catch up to thousands of whales migrating along the East Coast. It’s simply one of the best things to do in Central Coast, NSW.
Visit the Central Coast Stadium
You may think that visiting an Australian stadium isn’t worth the trouble. But where else can you see an arena surrounded by natural palm trees? How about a giant pair of sauce bottles marking one end of the field?
The Central Coast Stadium is easily one of the unique attractions in the region. And it’s proof that Central Coast tourism sure can provide visitors with some unique sights.
Watch the Pelican Feeding
Take some time and go all the way to the north end of the NSW Central Coast and you’ll soon enter the Pelican Capital of Australia.
Make sure you’re there at 3:30 pm to see the daily pelican feeding. It’s a big attraction on the Memorial Plaza waterfront and onlookers of all ages can enjoy the show and see the majestic birds up close.
Given the abundance of marine life in the region, it’s also not a bad spot for you to go fishing if you want to relax for a few hours.
Explore the Sensory Gardens
Not far from the pelican feeding grounds is where you can find the Sensory Gardens. And enjoying some tranquility in this location is one of the best things to do in Central Coast, NSW.
After all, the gardens offer a majestic view over the Tuggerah Lakes. You can even visit on a rainy day thanks to the many weather shelters it has.
But why are they called the Sensory Gardens?
The design and landscaping were designed for people with no sight. It allows them to experience – through touch, feel, and smell – the Australian flora.
See $70 Million Worth of Classic Cars
So, you want to take a break from sightseeing and traveling on the coast? That’s perfectly fine. Feel free to stop by the Gosford Classic Car Museum if you want to see something else.
In the day, you can check out a collection of 450 classic vehicles worth over $70 million. You’ll see plenty of cars produced by popular manufacturers here, from Ford to Ferrari, through to obscure Soviet designs that you probably won’t get to inspect elsewhere.
You can park your car and your head for the night at the Ibis Gosford.
Have a Hands-on Reptile Interaction
One of the best Central Coast things to see is the Australian Reptile Park. Over 2,000 reptiles and animals call this facility their home. You can cuddle koalas, hold pythons, play with kangaroos, and interact with many more park inhabitants.
Check out the exhilarating wildlife experience that also offers educational shows and tours. It’s simply an exciting place to visit for animal lovers or families traveling with kids.
Not to mention the scenic backdrop of the Central Coast and the park’s natural bush environment make it an excellent spot for some picturesque views.
Go on Whale Watching Tours
Seeing the whales is a favorite pastime in the region. It’s even one of the most popular things to do in Central Coast, NSW, especially when on a boat.
Make sure to book some tickets on a whale-watching cruise if you’re near Ettalong. Departing from there increases your chances of going on the best routes along the coast.
Keep in mind that sighting frequencies may decrease outside the migration season.
Have Some Water-Themed Activities
Fancy spending a few hours in a water park? Central Coast, NSW offers one of the continent’s best aqua parks.
Almost all of the Central Coast Aqua Park’s rides are in the ocean. But it’s perfectly safe since a large uninet enclosure safeguards the water from large marine life.
You can find fun activities for guests of all ages, plenty of lifeguards, and lots of shows, too. But, the obstacle/slides course is the hottest attraction at the park.
There are even a few entry packages if you’re looking for group or family discounts.
Avoca Beach Picture Theater
Are you dying to go to the cinema? And are you even more excited about the idea of an old-school experience? If so, then get your tickets to catch a movie in the Avoca Beach Picture Theater.
It’s a historic beachside cinema that first started showing movies in 1948. This small film house still gives off a vibe similar to that of the Golden Age of Hollywood. You’ll even get to watch a variety of motion pictures, from new releases to cult classics.
Spending an evening at an award-winning regional cinema is not a bad way to end your day.
Better than Sydney!
The Central Coast offers a good blend of modern and classic, whether it’s the venues or activities. Its idyllic setting, great water, fantastic beaches, and many attractions make it a must-visit region.
Take your time and explore all that the Central Coast has to offer to make the most of your trip.
