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Central Coast
The Central Coast – sunny, cosmopolitan, relaxed. The food is superb, the boutiques special, the beaches simply stunning. And it’s a mere 1½ hour drive from Sydney.
The City of Gosford covers an area of 1,028sq.kms stretching east to the Pacific Ocean, south to the Hawkesbury River, west to the Judge Dowling Ranges and north to meet Wyong Shire on a border through Kulnura, Lisarow and Forresters Beach.
On the coast, Avoca, Terrigal, Wamberal and McMaster’s Beach are no longer the sleepy little fishing villages of the Central Coast, you’ll find luxury hotels, cosmopolitan restaurants and boutiques beside long white sandy beaches.
This coastal expanse is now far more chic and more extensive. Times have certainly changed! From the coastal ranges and sweeping curves of brilliant blue sea this seaside province is a fashionable cros- season destination attracting many holiday makers.
Further south you’ll find Ettalong, Patonga, Umina, Woy Woy and Gosford. With a unique blend of attractions there is much to see and do.
This is an area where a pleasant stroll becomes an idyllic and nostalgic experience. Golden beaches, sheltered tidal inlets, pockets of sub-tropical rainforest and the Brisbane Water National Park offer a host of recreational pursuits in the great outdoors.
Or, explore the thriving, but just as spectacular city of Gosford on Brisbane Water with its sleek sailing boats and sparkling waters.
The coastal towns of Bateau Bay, The Entrance, Toowoon Bay, and Blue Bay are surrounded by tranquil lakes and pristine beaches. This unique stretch of the Central Coast is a natural aquatic playground and mecca for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
Snorkel or scuba dive off the secluded bays where the sea hosts spectacular underwater scenery; or boogie board, body surf or ride the waves in the surging swells.
With great golf courses, excellent restaurants and an abundance of recreational activities it’s easy to see why this coastal expanse has been a favourite holiday destination for a long time now.
Further north, the villages of Budgewoi, Norah Head and Toukley offer an abundance of natural beauty to tempt visitors to this slice of the Central Coast with attractions as diverse as bushwalking in Munmorah National Park, Norah Head Lighthouse, sailing, water skiing, fishing and swimming in the nearby lakes or unspoilt beaches.
For a change of pace, tear yourself away from the coast to Yarramalong or Dooralong Valley in the hinterland, a scenic splendour of rural tranquillity.
Discovering the bush haven of the hinterland is a truly rewarding experience. Horseriding, four wheel driving and bushwalking are available or visit Bumble Hill Studio the ultimate arts and crafts studio at Kulnura.
Gosford
Gosford is the focal point of the New South Wales Central Coast. Aside from the town centre's urbane enticements - including the vibrant Ettalong Markets - the flip-side of Gosford is its pastoral tenor.
The long-standing Old Sydney Town has been a main and fun source of education on Australian colonial life, making for a great family day.
Flora and fauna are both main attractions of Gosford. You can get close to snakes, kangaroos and other native wildlife at the Australian Reptile Park, and Mangrove Boardwalk to the west is a true delight of nature.
The City of Gosford is on the Brisbane Water, with its sleek sailing boats and sparkling water. Also on the doorstep of the beautiful Brisbane Water National Park, offering many recreational pursuits in the great outdoors.
Terrigal
Terrigal certainly makes for one of the most appealing getaways on the New South Wales Central Coast. The pleasant atmosphere that comes with any town on the coastline is heightened by Terrigal's cosmopolitan vibe, established in its decor and attitude to life's luxuries.
An enticing environment like this makes it most desirable to take an ecotour of its lush surrounds - including Terrigal's greatest natural feature, Skillion - capped off with a first-class meal.
The beaches - Terrigal and Forresters - are two of the most sought-after water spots in the region.
Toowoon Bay
Toowoon Bay is a lovely village on the seaside of the scenic Central Coast. It offers accommodation in caravan parks or units and has plenty to keep you busy.
Laze the day away on the beach either fishing or swimming or visit the nearby attractions that the Central Coast has to offer. Toowoon Bay village shops can supply all your needs including, post office, chemist, general store and restaurant.
The Entrance
The Entrance is one of the closest spots to Sydney that begins to offer a true feeling that you're removed from the busy city, with its defining great lake and clear beaches.
It's a well-noted stop-off for a picnic as you head further up the coast - a hit with the kids because of the pelicans that flock around the town and get an official feeding every afternoon.
And if they're not worn out by then, take them to the giant waterslide, the war museum, or nearby Wyrrabalong National Park.
Destination Guides
Find Accommodation |
Where to Eat
Aromas on Sea Café
The Terrace Shops, Crowne Plaza, Terrigal
Smell the sea from this smart café overlooking Terrigal Beach. The al
fresco seating is always popular.
Ph: 02 4384 3501
Iguana Joes Waterfront Restaurant & Bar
12 Dane Drive, Gosford
Central Coast’s newest waterfront restaurant overlooking the Brisbane
Water in Gosford. Exotic, dynamic and delicious with a hint of Caribbean. And
if you are arriving by boat – they have a wharf at the door!
Ph: 02 4325 2020
Feast on Avoca
85 Avoca Drive, Avoca Beach
180-degree ocean views from the upstairs location makes for the ultimate dining
experience. Chef Andre Chouvin trained in France with mentors such as Paul
Bocuse and Michel Lorain, and has a reputation for fine innovative cuisine.
Ph: 02 4381 0707
Must See Must Do
Glenworth Valley Horse Riding
69 Cooks Road, Peats Ridge
Not a nag in sight – over 200 horses to choose from and over 2,500 acres
of spectacular rainforest trails and lush green valleys to explore.
Ph: 02 4375 1222
Gosford Regional Gallery
36 Webb Street, East Gosford
Open daily from 10am to 4pm, there are 3 galleries with a mixture of major
Australian artists, a traditional Japanese Garden, and an excellent brasserie
and café!
Ph: 02 4325 0056
Beaches
Central Coast beaches you should know about include Copacabana, south of Terrigal, and Bateau Bay, north of Terrigal. Both are popular surfing beaches and both are patrolled.
After Dark
Lord Ashley Lounge
Crowne Plaza, Terrigal. Relax beside the roaring log fire and enjoy live entertainment
most evenings.
Ph: 02 4384 9111
Key Largo Nightclub
Also in Crowne Plaza, Terrigal, a hotspot for locals and visitors alike.
Ph: 02 4384 9111
Retail Therapy
Gallery 460 & Sculpture Park
460 Avoca Drive, Green Point
Just 10 minutes drive from Terrigal, Gallery 460 features regularly changing
exhibitions by leading Australian artists.The Gallery is set on eight hectares
of landscaped gardens, forming Australia’s largest privately owned
Sculpture Park.
Ph: 02 4369 2111
Insignia of Erina Heights
484 The Entrance Rd, Erina Heights
Discover the 11 rooms of furniture, gifts, home wares and fantastic range of
special treasures Insignia has to offer.
Ph: 02 4365 1870
Weather
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| Min temp | 17C | 12C | 5C | 11C |
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