36 Unique Things to do on the Central Coast

Whether you’re a sun-seeker, an adventurer, a gourmand or a creative, here are some of the best things to do on the Central Coast for all visitors.

Located just 90 minutes north of Sydney, the Central Coast has long been a favourite weekender for soaking up sand and sea. But there’s so much more to this coastal haven, from bushwalks to waterfalls, award-winning restaurants to shucking oysters, whale watching to aboriginal-led tours. The region is also certified by Ecotourism Australia as an ECO Destination, meaning a visit here is also a tick for environmentally and socially responsible travel. Here, we’ve rounded up the best things to do on the Central Coast.

Free things to do
Fun things to do
Things to do with kids
Things to do for adults
Unique things to do
Things to do at night
Things to do in the rain

Free things to do

Just as in life, some of the best things are free on the Central Coast.

1. Soak up the sun at the Central Coast’s beaches

With an 87-kilometre coastline and 40-plus beaches, the Central Coast is a beach lovers’ nirvana. It almost goes without saying, part of the holiday experience is finding a patch of sand and enjoying the ocean lifestyle, whether that be splashing about with the kids at Toowoon Bay, taking a dip at The Entrance Ocean Baths or hopping about the rock pools at MacMasters Beach or Pearl Beach.

Aerial view of Toowoon Bay in Central Coast, Australia — Toowoon Bay is one of the 40-plus beaches to visit on the Central Coast.

2. Hike the Central Coast’s best walking tracks

More than half of the Central Coast is made up of natural areas, with many walking and hiking tracks that weave throughout. The Coast Walking Track at Wyrrabalong National Park takes you through coastal scrub to panoramic Crackneck Lookout; Brisbane Water National Park is where you’ll find the cascades of Somersby Falls; Bouddi National Park is home to the breathtaking eight-kilometre Bouddi Coastal Walk that traces an ancient headland; or walk through lush green rainforest and past waterfalls in Strickland State Forest.

A sign at the Bouddi Coastal Walk in Central Coast, Australia — The Bouddi Coastal Walk traces an ancient headland.

3. Take a dip in the ocean baths

Enjoy the salty sensation of an ocean dip without waves and swells at one of the Central Coast’s many ocean baths. Try the heritage-listed Grant McBride Baths at The Entrance, which date to 1938 and comprise a 50-metre lap pool, a 22-metre pool and a children’s wading pool. Pearl Beach’s 25-metre ocean pool was built into the cliffside in the 1920s. For shallow frolicking in a sandy-bottomed pool, try the 1948-built rockpool at Avoca or MacMasters Beach 17-metre pool, built in the 1960s.

The Pearl Beach rockpool, Pearl Beach. — Peaceful scenes at Pearl Beach ocean pool. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Take the time to explore the towns and villages

The Central Coast’s map is made up of an eclectic mix of towns and villages. Enjoy a languid pace at seaside villages such as Ettalong Beach and Copacabana, combine beach life with sophisticated shopping and dining at the bustling town of Terrigal, or explore urban hubs such as Long Jetty where creatives have settled in droves.

The interiors of La Boheme Terrigal in Central Coast, Australia — Sophisticated shopping at the chic and beachy La Boheme Terrigal.

5. Stop and smell the roses at these community gardens

Stroll through Mt Penang Parklands, where 70 per cent of plants are native to Australia, or feel zen at Edogawa Commemorative Garden, which is based on a traditional Japanese ‘shuyu’ (strolling style) garden. The latter also adjoins the Gosford Regional Art Gallery, which is worthy of lingering longer.

The flora at Mt Penang in Central Coast, Australia — Endemic flora at Mt Penang Parklands.

Fun things to do

From nature-based experiences to creative pursuits, and high-thrill adventures to cultural immersion, the Central Coast doubles down on enjoyment for all kinds of travellers.

6. Go for a paddle on the Central Coast’s lakes and lagoons

The Central Coast is a haven of waterways; explore them with a paddle or pedal. At Aquafun on Avoca Lake, you can hire a pedalboat, kayak or stand-up paddleboard just minutes from the golden sands of Avoca Beach. Terrigal Paddle Boats has boards and boats to hire on Terrigal Lagoon, just around a sandy bend from town. And Bombora Ettalong Beach SUP offers board hire and runs lessons at calm and pretty Ettalong Beach.

an aerial view of paddlers at Central Coast with Aquafun on Avoca Lake — Paddle your way around the Central Coast with Aquafun on Avoca Lake. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Hire a boat at The Entrance

Located under The Entrance Bridge, The Entrance Boat Shed has been catering to visitors since 1927. You can hire half-cabin motorboats, open motorboats and fishing gear, as well as stand-up paddleboards and pedal boats. But it’s the BBQ boat that we love – featuring a barbecue and toilet, groups of eight can enjoy a cook-up while cruising around The Entrance.

8. Learn to surf with a pro at Central Coast Surf Academy

Who better to teach you how to surf than a former pro? Central Coast Surf Academy is run by former professional surfer Amee Donohoe, with lessons at many locations including Umina Beach – which has safe conditions for learners of all ages – and Avoca Beach, which is known for its perfect point break.

A Central Coast Surf Academy coach and student heading out into the water in Central Coast, Australia — Learn how to surf at Central Coast Surf Academy, run by former pro surfer Amee Donohoe.

9. Join Terrigal Ocean Tours on a whale-watching tour or summer cruise

Terrigal Ocean Tours runs year-round cruises to see the incredible marine life around the Central Coast. Summer Fun Tours operate from Hardys Bay (November to April), on which you may spot dolphins, seals and little penguins around Broken Bay, and Whale Watching Tours operate from Terrigal (May to November) to see humpbacks on their yearly migration.

A whale breaching the waters while tourists from Terrigal Ocean Tours looks on in Central Coast, Australia — Spot a humpback whale on a whale-watching tour in Terrigal. (Image: Terrigal Ocean Tours)

10. Get the adrenaline pumping at Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures

Thrill seekers will love Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures , home to quad biking, abseiling, kayaking and more. For a quintessential Australian experience, join the Cattle Drive Ride where you’ll help to muster a herd of cattle through the scenic valley of eucalypt, creeks and pockets of rainforest, followed by a barbecue lunch at the homestead.

Road biking at Glenworth Valley in Central Coast, Australia — Quad biking is a top activity at Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures.

11. Walk in the footsteps of the Darkinjung people

The Central Coast is home to thousands of significant aboriginal sites where ancient rock art and middens have been discovered, such as Bulgandry Aboriginal Art Site in Kariong and Warre Warren Aboriginal Place in Upper Mangrove. Discover some of these and more with local elder Gavi Duncan of Darkinjung Cultural Tours , while also enjoying a bush food-inspired morning tea and Welcome to Country smoking ceremony.

An Australian aboriginal smoking ceremony — Witness a Welcome to Country smoking ceremony. (Image: Getty)

Things to do with kids

The Central Coast is the ultimate family-friendly destination, with endless exciting kid-friendly activities to keep them entertained.

12. Hone your ice skating skills at Erina Ice Arena

A perfect way to entertain the kids rain, hail or shine, Erina Ice Arena offers daily public skating sessions, holiday skating camps where they learn skills and enjoy free time, and late night discos on the weekends.

a kid ice skating at Erina Ice Arena — Kids can practice their ice-skating skills at Erina Ice Arena.

It’s located within Erina Fair shopping centre, so if your kids are old enough to skate alone, you can enjoy browsing the shops.

kids holding hands while ice skating at Erina Ice Arena — Erina Ice Arena offers daily public skating sessions for kids.

13. Play mini golf at Hole in Fun

Located in Lisarow, Hole in Fun is an 18-hole mini golf course that’s fun for kids and adults alike. On this quirky course you can putt your ball up ramps, through tunnels, under donuts, into oversized birthday cakes and bathtubs. There is also a virtual golf simulator, a licensed bar and café and free pizza on Saturdays.

two kids playing golf at Hole in Fun — Shoot your shot at this 18-hole mini golf course.

14. Zipline through the forest at Treetops Adventure

Summon your inner Tarzan or Jane at Treetops Adventure , which has multiple ropes courses and ziplines, or bounce, leap and play at adjacent NetWorld, which is a series of nets and ball pits elevated in the trees.

A kid about to zipline at Treetops Adventure Park in Central Coast, Australia — The ziplines at Treetops Adventure Park will be a sure hit for kids of all ages.

15. Spend the day with native wildlife at the Australian Reptile Park

Home to more than 2000 animals, from crocodiles to wombats to spiders, the iconic Australian Reptile Park has been delighting families for more than 60 years (as well as being involved in important antivenom and conservation work). Catch the daily shows, including feeding Elvis the croc, or book an animal encounter to go behind the scenes.

A man feeding a crocodile at the Australian Reptile Park in Central Coast, Australia — See Elvis the Croc being fed at the Australian Reptile Park.

16. Delight little ones at Amazement Farm & Fun Park

Amazement Farm & Fun Park at Wyong is a fun-filled day out for tiny travellers, with hedged mazes, friendly farm animals, a ride-on train, a kids’ playground, giant lawn games and pony rides.

Two small children petting ducklings — Friendly farm animals will be a delight to your tiny tots. (Image: Getty)

17. Visit the historic Norah Head Lighthouse

Norah Head Lighthouse has been guiding ships safely since 1903. Daily tours are available you can climb its 96 stairs, see the 700-prism light up close, listen to stories of shipwrecks and learn about the role of a lighthouse keeper.

The Norah Head Lighthouse in Central Coast, Australia — Get a bit of cardio in when you climb the 96 stairs of the Norah Head Lighthouse.

18. Live the farm life for a day along Tourist Drive 33

Head to the hinterland on a road trip along Tourist Drive 33 for some unique farm experiences such as pick-your-own fruit sessions. Head to Peruch Avocados in Somersby to pick avos (from October); Wyuna Farms in Kulnura to pick oranges (from January); and The Giving Farm in Jilliby to pick blueberries (from October). Or join a Morning Chores tour at Grace Springs Farm , where small children can help with tending to the chooks, ducks, pigs and cows.

A cow and its calf at Grace Spring Farms in Central Coast, Australia — Get your kids to love both animals AND chores at the Morning Chores Tour at Grace Springs Farm. (Image: Isaac Tseng)

Things to do for adults

Don’t let the little ones have all the fun; enjoy some adult time with these experiences.

19. Sample award-winning gin at Distillery Botanica

Set on a three-acre property in Erina, Distillery Botanica produces award-winning gins using native botanicals straight from the blossoming garden.

Exterior of the distillery door at Distillery Botanica on the Central Coast — The gin garden at Phillip Moore’s Distillery Botanica. (Image: Katie Carlin)

Stop by the newly refreshed distillery door for a tasting experience, take a tour with master distiller Philip Moore, join a cocktail-making class or book a distil-your-own gin workshop. Next door, Bar Botanica is open Thursday to Sunday serving bar bites and cocktails and hosts a regular bottomless brunch.

Interior of distillery door at Distillery Botanica on the Central Coast — The magic happens inside the distillery door. (Image: Katie Carlin)

20. Enjoy wine tasting with a twist at Firescreek Winery

Expand your wine-tasting repertoire at Firescreek Winery in Holgate, which produces 25 wines using natural flavours of fruits and flowers. Think of unique flavours such as elderberry, cinnamon and orange; coffee, chocolate and blackberry; and mandarin and chilli.

friends enjoying in the private garden at Firescreek Winery — Nab a serene spot in the private garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

You can also book a bespoke experience such as Chocolate and Wine Pairing, Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting, and Foraging and Mixology if you want to try something truly different.

an array of wines at Firescreek Winery — Sip on unique wine flavours at Firescreek Winery. (Image: Destination NSW)

21. Channel your inner artist

A perfect activity to do with a group of mates or as a date, Pinot & Picasso in Terrigal runs regular painting workshops where you can also enjoy your own drinks and nibbles and either showcase your talents or have a laugh at your efforts.

a couple enjoying a painting session at Pinot & Picasso — Paint your own piece of art at Pinot & Picasso.

If clay is your preferred medium, Centered Ceramics in Umina has a playful Wine and Clay class on Friday evenings, where you can craft a vase, mug or any type of ceramic you wish to take home.

ceramics on display at Centered Ceramics — Craft your own vase at Centered Ceramics. (Image: Destination NSW)

22. Feast your way around the Coast on the Central Coast Makers Trail

This self-guided and indulgent road trip can be done in a half- or full-day or you could dedicate an entire weekend to it.

It connects 12 of the Central Coast’s best food and drink purveyors and makers, from a whisky experience at Amber Lane Distillery in Yarramalong , a stop to pick up delicious and cute-as-a-button treats at Adri’s Gingerbread in Lisarow , to the award-winning and family-owned Little Creek cheese factory in Wyong .

a box of sweet treats with a cup of coffee at Adri’s Gingerbread in Lisarow — Pick up delicious and cute-as-a-button treats at Adri’s Gingerbread in Lisarow.

Unbuckle the belt for this one.

a cheese making lesson at Little CreekCheese, Wyong — Sample different types of cheese at Little Creek cheese factory in Wyong. (Image: Destination NSW)

23. Dine at the Central Coast’s world-class restaurants

Adults with a penchant for good food will be pleased with the culinary offerings on the Central Coast. The region is home to six restaurants that were hatted by the Australian Good Food Guide in 2022, including the intimate and sophisticated Yellowtail in Terrigal, Wild Flower Bar + Dining at luxe guesthouse Bells at Killcare, and charming hinterland restaurant and bakehouse Saddles at Mt White.

Food at Wild Flower Bar + Dining, Killcare — A mouth-watering spread at Wild Flower Bar + Dining. (Image: Dom Cherry)

24. Browse the Central Coast’s boutique stores

From vintage finds to bohemian clothing, the boutique shopping on the Central Coast is kept interesting by the many local designers and makers. It’s all about relaxed, chic and bohemian-style fashion on the Coast, with Bohemian Traders at Erina Heights, Shadow Bang at Long Jetty, La Boheme Lifestyle in Terrigal, and Antigua Collective, also Terrigal, among the favourites.

The interior of Shadow Bang Apothecary in Central Coast, Australia — The beautiful interiors of Shadow Bang Apothecary.

25. Stroll around the Central Coast’s many markets

If markets are more your style, you’re in luck. The Central Coast has a packed-out calendar of markets, including the long-standing Avoca Beachside Markets (held on the fourth Sunday of each month), Long Jetty Markets on the foreshore (held on the last Saturday of each month) and Woy Woy Waterfront markets (second Sunday of each month). You can read more about the Central Coast’s best markets in our guide.

The main path at the Avoca Beach Markets in Central Coast, Australia — Avoca Beach Markets has over 100 stalls for you to peruse on a lazy Sunday.

26. Say cheers to local craft beer

Clearly, Coasties love their beer, with a handful of craft breweries calling the region home. The OG, Six Strings Brewing , opened in 2012 and has a taphouse at Erina as well as weekend brewery tours. In Gosford, Bay Rd Brewing has a light and airy taphouse with a food truck that changes weekly. Kincumber’s microbrewery, Block N Tackle offers a cheese and beer paddle in collaboration with local cheesemongers Little Creek Cheese . At Lisarow, you can try a wide range of beers and have a feed at Hawkesbury River Brewing Co. , Big Little Brewing has opened at Gosford serving its craft beer alongside live music and a big screen for sports. And Goons Brewing is currently building its bricks-and-mortar brewery.

A close-up of the taps at Six String Brewery in Central Coast, Australia — Take your pick of craft brews on tap at Six String Brewery.

Unique things to do

From shucking for pearls to diving naval wrecks, the Central Coast has a long list of unforgettable experiences.

27. Shuck oysters while standing in the Hawkesbury River

If you’re an oyster lover, this is the ultimate experience. Don your waders and join Sydney Oyster Farm Tours at Mooney Mooney, where you will wade out in the waters where the oysters are grown, learn about the evolution of oyster farming, and then shuck and taste these delicious bivalves straight from the river.

The Sydney Oyster Farm Tour in Central Coast, Australia — The ultimate oyster experience: standing knee-deep in water as you shuck and taste oysters straight from the river.

28. Visit NSW’s only pearl farm

If you think pearl trumps oysters, then Broken Bay Pearl Farm – located on the sparkling Lower Hawkesbury River – should be on your radar. Sustainably growing the rarer-than-diamonds Akoya pearls, the run tours where you can learn about the lifecycle of a pearl, browse the jewellery at the ‘shellar door’, and enjoy some fresh local oysters.

A man farming for oysters in Central Coast, Australia — Pearls and oysters go hand in hand at the Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: Jacs Powell)

29. Have breakfast with alpacas at Iris Lodge

Forget smashed avo at your local café; join the alpacas of Iris Lodge Alpacas in Jilliby for breakfast instead. There are more than 100 alpacas to meet and greet, as well as sheep, cows and horses. Families can also stay overnight at the farm.

Three alpacas at the Alpaca Lounge in Central Coast, Australia — What better way to have brekkie than with these cute alpacas?

30. Scuba dive the artificial reef of the HMAS Adelaide

Scuttled in April 2011, the HMAS Adelaide is located 1.5 kilometres off the coast of Terrigal and is the largest former naval dive wreck in the Southern Hemisphere. This diverse and complex dive site quickly became an artificial reef thriving with marine life, such as crabs, octopus, sponges, large grouper, turtles, dolphins and seals. Dives can be booked through Pro Dive Central Coast .

Underwater views of coral reef — The HMAS Adelaide is a diverse and complex dive site. (Image: Getty)

Things to do at night

The fun doesn’t stop once the sun sets.

31. Spend an evening at the theatre

Laycock Street Community Theatre has been the home of performing arts on the Central Coast for more than three decades and the HQ for Gosford Musical Society, which stages its productions – alongside other national acts – at the 396-seat theatre. The Art House at Wyong is the Central Coast’s newest state-of-the-art performance space, attracting local and international acts, including Anh Do, Opera Australia and Amy Shark.

the state-of-the-art performance space at Laycock Street Community Theatre — Catch colourful performance at Laycock Street Community Theatre.

32. Hop around the Central Coast’s best bars

Make your way to Tropicana Social Club in Woy Woy for pizzas and tropical drinks with a 1950s vibe, or rewind another 20 years with a drink at Motel Mezza , which is housed in a former 1930s bank in Wyong. Another heritage building brought back to life is that of Long Jetty’s The Savoy ; this former 1950s theatre has been converted into a multi-purpose bar and restaurant, complete with regular film screenings. Hotel Gosford has become an iconic watering hole all over again after a huge refurb; its sleek Art Deco style is a nod to its 1920s origins. While in beach town Terrigal, Pocket Bar is an edgy bolthole where inventive cocktails and delicious bar bites are on the menu. Keep reading our guide for more bar-hopping recommendations.

The Savoy at Long Jetty — Long Jetty’s former 1950s theatre The Savoy, turned bar and restaurant.

33. Have a wild night at Australian Walkabout Wildlife Park

Located at Calga, Australian Walkabout Wildlife Park is a sanctuary for native animals including the Tassie devil, koala and wombat. Once the sun sets, you can bring a torch and follow a ranger as you spot wildlife, such as possums and bilbies, when they are most active. If you want to stay overnight, eco cabins are available to book, so you can enjoy a campfire and fall asleep to the sounds of the bush.

Camping ground overrun with kangaroos at the Australian Wildlife Walkabout Park in Central Coast, Australia — Hang about kangaroos at the Australian Wildlife Walkabout Park.

34. Catch a film or performance at Avoca Beach Theatre

Run by the same family since 1948, the historic Avoca Beach Theatre is a charming single-screen cinema with red velvet seats, and a café and wine bar to boot. Come to watch the latest blockbuster films as well as an impressive list of independent films.

The facade of the Avoca Beach Theatre in Central Coast, Australia — The charming exteriors of the Avoca Beach Theatre. (Image: Avoca Beach Theatre)

Things to do in the rain

If you’re stuck indoors thanks to wet weather, make it fun with these perfect rainy-day activities.

35. Admire art and photography at local galleries

Ken Duncan is one of Australia’s most famous landscape photographers; visit his gallery at Erina Heights , followed by a coffee or lunch in Kew Dining next door. Gosford Regional Gallery in East Gosford has three spaces with rotating exhibitions and the popular annual Gosford Art Prize. While over at Killcare, Bouddi Gallery exclusively trades in unique arts and crafts produced by remote Aboriginal Art Centres from across the country.

Interiors of the Bouddi Gallery in Central Coast, Australia — Bouddi Gallery exclusively trades in unique arts and crafts produced by remote Aboriginal Art Centres from across the country.

36. Bliss out at one of the Central Coast’s many day spas

Disconnect from your busy schedule and connect with the ancient land at the intimate Bells Day Spa at Bells at Killcare, where native products are used in conjunction with healing techniques inspired by Indigenous Australia. At Vie Spa in Pullman Magenta Shores Resort, all-Australian organic products are used for the top-to-toe rituals, in a space that provides Japanese-style zen. Or relax in the luxe Roman Spa at Aztec Skin Clinic & Day Spa , complete with a fruit and cheese platter, followed by a Fiji-inspired treatment.

The interiors of Vie Spa in Pullman Magenta Shores in Central Coast, Australia — At Vie Spa in Pullman Magenta Shores Resort, all Australian organic products are used for top-to-toe rituals.

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .