Best things to do on a trip to the Central Coast

27 Oct 2021

The NSW Central Coast is one of Australia’s favourite holiday destinations. We cover the top attractions and activities for your next visit.

The CODOCK II (Picture by Dave Gosling)

Situated on the Pacific Ocean north of Sydney in NSW, the Central Coast is a vibrant region combining surf, sand, cliffs and bushland with a wide array of tourist destinations and recreational activities. Here are some of the best things to do on a trip to the Central Coast...

A FERRY RIDE TO REMEMBER

One of the best ways to experience the tranquility of the region is on a ferry ride operated by Central Coast Ferries. For example, you can see a number of local attractions and enjoy a special lunch on a day-trip to Davistown from Empire Bay or Woy Woy.

If you want to try something different for an upcoming event such as a birthday, anniversary or Christmas party, why not hire a charming traditional ferry to take your small group or larger party on a scenic cruise with the picturesque waterways as your backdrop? 

You’re bound to fall in love with the delightful CODOCK II, aka The Cockatoo Ferry. The hull of the CODOCK II was built during or immediately after World War II as a standard 40’ workboat destined for the defence forces.

Acquired by Cockatoo Dockyard in 1947, CODOCK II was converted into the passenger vessel seen today, with her job to ferry employees to and from Cockatoo Island as well as ships around the harbour.

Despite her age and decades of continuous service, CODOCK II remains a very sound vessel in wonderful working order. She has been with Central Coast Ferries since 2006 and has built a reputation as a favourite muse amongst local and visiting photographers. 

For more information, visit Central Coast Ferries.

ALL ABOUT NATURAL ATTRACTIONS

If you love spending time outdoors, admiring natural attractions or making serious wilderness escapes, it’s time for a Central Coast day-trip, long weekend or even an extended stay.

Immerse yourself in rainforest, boulders and unique wildlife at the 240ha Palm Grove Nature Reserve, located in the Ourimbah Creek valley just a few kilometres northwest of Gosford, the region’s main visitor gateway.

Walk through spectacular landscapes on the family-friendly Strom Loop or Bouddi Coastal Walk, the medium-difficulty Bullimah Spur Track, or the more challenging Dubbo Gully Loop Trail.

Alternatively, enjoy the impressive panorama from Mount Olive lookout in Popran National Park, or watch the bobbing boats as you gaze over Hardys Bay from Allen Strom lookout above Rocky Point.  

PARKS, FARMS AND PICNIC SPOTS

For a change of scenery, visit the Heritage Listed Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park, an 80-acre bushland sanctuary that’s home to some of Australia’s iconic wildlife, or take a tour to Broken Bay Pearl Farm where rare and valuable Akoya pearls are grown. 

Then again, you may want to simply laze in the sun with a barbecue or picnic at Elizabeth Bay in the beautiful Munmorah State Conservation Area. Feeling quite hungry?

Check out Woy Woy Fishermen’s Wharf and shop at the splendid seafood market, sit down for a gourmet seafood lunch, or pick up some fresh fish and chips – all right at the waterfront.

Keen to relax in style at a resort? Head to The Entrance, where the ocean meets Tuggerah Lake and the saltwater wetland is bursting with biodiversity. 

So, when are you planning your Central Coast adventure?