Central Coast

Keep living the dream and extend your stay in the central coast! The beautiful coastlines, golden beaches, alluring lakes and pristine national parks are the perfect backdrops for you recover from the Festival. These treasured natural assets stretch across the six regions of the Central Coast:  Gateway Cities, the Hinterland, the Peninsula, Beach Villages, The Entrance, and Northern Lakes, each with their own unique qualities.  

The Central Coast has it all, from quiet fishing villages to lively coastal towns, from renowned attractions to undiscovered charms with accommodation to suit every budget.  Sun, surf, sand and so much more …

Here are some of the highlights of the Central Coast to inspire and ignite the next chapter of your summer holiday:

Not to Miss:

• Immerse yourself in a live performance at Laycock Street Theatre 
  Relax while you cruise around the Brisbane Water aboard the Lady Kendall II
• Stop and buy fresh produce direct from the farm to your plate Indulge your senses at Cedar Park Lavender Farm
• Stroll around and absorb the old-world charm of Wisemans Ferry township
• Head to Gnostic Corner for good old fashioned service and a little mystique.
• Explore the area by water on one of the local Central Coast Ferries services.
• Go back in time and absorb the character of historic Avoca Beach Picture Theatre 

The Great outdoors: 

• Appreciate local Aboriginal culture and engravings at Bulgandry, Brisbane Water National Park.  
• Pack a tasty picnic and head to tranquil Somersby Falls and reconnect with nature 
• Take a walk on the World Heritage Listed Old Great North Road through Dhurag National Park 
• Spray some dirt as you mountain bike ride through Ourimbah State Forest Hike to Mt Ettalong lookout and gaze over the expansive view of Broken Bay and Lion Island 
• Pitch your tent and get back to basics at the Patonga Camping Area 
  Start the day with a coastal walk at Bouddi National Park 

Family fun:

• Swing through the trees and test your coordination skills at Treetop Adventure Park 
• Get your legs and mind in sync as you work your way through the challenging maze at Amazement. 
• Let your kids run amuck in the newly developed Umina Recreation Park 
• Take a trip to secluded Patonga Beach and enjoy a serve of fish and chips on the beach 
• Race your friends and family around the lake on pedal-boats from Aqua Fun 
• Enjoy a ride on the Historic Carousel, a favourite of kids visiting The Entrance since 1930 
• Let the kids cool off playing in the whimsical Vera's Water Garden Plunge into the ocean at Toowoon Bay, recently awarded Australia's Cleanest Beach

Free / Budget friendly:

• Admire the latest exhibition for free at Gosford Regional Art Gallery
• Go back in time and experience history at Henry Kendall Cottage in Gosford or Alison Homestead in Wyong 
• Visit the Ettalong Markets to snap up a bargain or two 
• Dangle a line from one of the many jetties spread around the neighbourhoods 
• Absorb the atmosphere and enjoy the fun of the lively entertainment at Memorial Park 
• Allow your senses to absorb the experiences waiting at the Sensory Garden, The Entrance North.

Insider's scoop:

• Enjoy the fresh fish and chips from Montis Ashore on the Gosford waterfront Experience an old style ferry crossing at Wisemans Ferry.
• Admire the view at Mangrove Dam while enjoying your picnic or BBQ lunch 
• Get away from it all staying a night at Australis Retreat at Wisemans Ferry. 
• Let the sunset take your breath away while sipping on a cool drink at Mantra Ettalong Beach. 
• Take a dawn barefoot wander along a secluded stretch of golden sandy coastline. 
• Take a leisurely stroll along the Heritage Walk absorbing the history of The Entrance