Central Coast, New South Wales

Something for everyone On The Central Coast, New South Wales

Central Coast Central Coast is a beautiful region in New South Wales, located on the Tasman Sea coast, which lies to the north of Sydney and the south of Newcastle.

The Central Coast is the third-largest urban area within New South Wales and the ninth-largest in Australia. The local government region had an estimated 333,627 residents in June 2018. Geographically, the Central Coast is generally considered to encompass the area bordered by the Hawkesbury River in the south, the Watagan Mountains to the west, and the southern part of Lake Macquarie on the Sydney basin. The city of Gosford is the central commercial hub.

Being only an hour away from Sydney, the Central Coast, is a popular weekend destination for tourists and locals alike. Known for its beautiful harbour, stunning beaches, small beachside towns, luxury accommodation, stunning coastal terrain, great shopping and lush national parks, the Central Coast makes for the perfect getaway or place to call home.

History Of The Central Coast

The area has been inhabited for many thousands of years by Aboriginal people. Locally, the Kuringgai tribe were among the early Aboriginal people to make contact with British colonists. An Aboriginal Man from the area of Bungaree was one of the most famous people from the first colonization of New South Wales. He was among those first Aboriginal people to master English and was a friend to the first Governors Phillip, King and Macquarie. He was also a companion to explorer Matthew Flinders in circumnavigating Australia. Macquarie declared Bungaree “The King of the Broken Bay Tribes”.

In 1811 the governor of New South Wales, Lachlan Macquarie, made an initial land concession in the area to William Nash, a former marine from the First Fleet. The grant was not renewed in the region until 1821.
From colonial times until the early 20th century, the rapid expansion of suburban communities resulted in the creation of the Central Coast & Newcastle Line and the region’s opening to tourism.

Best Hikes On The Central Coast

Patonga to Pearl Beach

The moderately strenuous hike, which starts near Patonga’s boat ramp, is three kilometres in one direction and takes you through Brisbane Water National Park. Warrah Lookout offers stunning views of Broken Bay and the Hawkesbury River. You can stop at Pearl Beach to take a dip in the turquoise waters.

Time: 1.5-2 Hours

Mooney Mooney Nature Walk

The eight-kilometre walk takes in the beauty of Brisbane Water National Park. It is a stunning track that offers breathtaking views of lush rainforests, waterfalls, and native bushland. You’ll start at the Girrakool picnic site and follow the Piles Creek deep gorge to the famous suspension bridge.

Time: 2.5-3 hours

Walking Track at Hominy Creek

At the end of Hominy Creek Walking Track, you will find a refreshing plunge in the Emerald Pool. The five-kilometre circuit, shaded by eucalyptus and offering views of Popran National Park’s Popran Valley, is a peaceful escape. Continue on the 248 Trail for stunning views of Popran Valley.

Time: 2.5-3 hours

The Great North Walk

The Great North Walk is a stunning but challenging hike. It is characterized by spectacular water views, rainforest canopy, native wildlife, and rocky landscapes. The track stretches 250 km from Sydney CBD to Newcastle and includes several national parks, including Brisbane Water National Park. The track’s Central Coast section runs 34 kms.

Time: 1-3 Days

Box Head Track

Box Head Track is an excellent place to begin a Central Coast hike. The easy walk of just over 3 km is more about Bouddi National Park’s natural landscape than endurance. Box Head Track offers stunning views of the Tasman sea and mountainous views and a wealth of native birdlife. It is an excellent excursion for all levels of fitness.

Time: 1 Hour

Bouddi National Park Coastal Walk

The Bouddi National Park Coastal Walk spans eight kilometres along the rugged coast from MacMasters Beach to Putty Beach. It is a perfect picture of the Central Coast. The moderate hike, which traverses beaches, boardwalks and rainforests, is one of Australia’s best coastal walks. You won’t want to miss the spectacular Gerrin Point Lookout photo opportunity or the chance to see migrating whales.

Time: 3.5-4.5 hours

Devines Hill Loop

The Devines Hill Loop, a Heritage-listed track that runs 28 kilometres near Wiseman’s Ferry, is an ambitious walk. It covers Old Great North Road and Thomas James Bridge. Devines Hill Hill also includes Hangmans Rock and other historical remnants of the 1800s convict era. The strenuous trail is located in Yengo National Park and is a favourite venture for both experienced mountain bikers and hikers.

Time: 6 Hours

Best Places To Swim on The Central Coast

Maitland Bay – Bouddi National Park

Forget the crowded car parks and the loud chatter of the Central Coast beaches. This little piece of paradise is quiet and peaceful. Maitland Bay, which is hidden in Bouddi National Park’s trees and reached by a 1-km bush track, is a perfect spot for anyone looking to relax and get away from the crowds of the main beaches. Many swimmers are put off by the walking trail, making it quieter. Trust us, the peaceful tranquillity, the snorkelling opportunities, and the calm waters are all worth the effort.

Kariong Brook Falls – Brisbane Water National Park

There are many hidden rivers, waterfalls, and swimming holes that people don’t see while visiting the area. They make for a peaceful and tranquil place when crowds gather at the beaches. Kariong Brook Falls is just one example of such a spot. The small waterfall is located in Brisbane Water National Park. It has a beautiful pool that’s perfect for swimming after rain.

Emerald Pool – Popran National Park

This stunning swimming hole is located in Popran National Park. There is a short walk to reach the fresh river water, which appears green by the small ferns at the bottom and gives this beautiful location its name.

Bongon Beach – Munmorah State Conservation Area

Bongon Beach, is smaller and quieter than the more popular Frazer Beach and is often overlooked by visitors to Munmorah State Reserve. The tiny, forty-metre stretch is hidden in a peaceful cove and is famous for its gentle waves and shimmering blue waters. You can only access this little piece of paradise by walking from Snapper Point Road or – if your heart is set on a challenge – by climbing up the rocky point at Frazer Beach.

Spoon Bay – Wamberal Lagoon Nature Reserve

This small beach is located in Wamberal Lagoon Nature Reserve and is rarely crowded. This is the ideal spot to swim, sunbathe, or surf. It’s an excellent spot to visit while you’re exploring the Central Coast area.

Best Time Of Year To Visit The Central Coast

From January to May, September to December and September to December are the best times for visiting Central Coast Australia. You will experience a pleasant or warm climate and very little rain. The average temperature on the Central Coast is 29degC (January) and 18degC (June). If you don’t have kids and can avoid travelling during school holidays, this is even better as the Central Coast is a top-rated holiday destination for families.

How To Get To The Central Coast From Sydney

The Central Coast is 81km from Sydney, and the quickest and most straightforward way to reach to central coast is by car, which takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes.

If you don’t have a car, hiring a car in Sydney is easy as there are many service providers.

The second option for getting from Sydney to the Central Coast is to take the train. A train from Central Station in Sydney to Gosford Station will take 1 hour 30 minutes and will cost $10.

The third option for travelling to the central coast from Sydney is to take a bus. A bus ride from Sydney Central Station to Gosford will take 1 hour 30 minutes and cost $5.

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