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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sit down at Amber Lane Distillery for a great whisky experience.

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.

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.

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.

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare

From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast, however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food

Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed. Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm

Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s.

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong

Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics. Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics

See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food

Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare. One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.