The Central Coast is spread out, so group your sightseeing: Terrigal, Avoca and Bouddi in the south, The Entrance and Norah Head further north.
1 Terrigal and the Skillion
Terrigal is the coast’s busiest beach town, with a long beach and a strip of cafés. The Skillion is a sloping grassy headland at its southern end, with a short climb to a lookout over the ocean. Whales are sometimes seen from here in season.
Practical: Free. Short, steep walk. Best at sunrise.
2 Avoca Beach
A beautiful surf beach backed by a lagoon, with a village that has kept a relaxed feel, including a much-loved small cinema.
Practical: Free. Patrolled in summer.
3 Bouddi National Park
A coastal park of sandstone headlands, rainforest gullies and quiet beaches. The Bouddi Coastal Walk links several beaches and lookouts and can be done in sections.
Practical: Small vehicle fee in some areas. Allow 2–4 hours for a section of the walk.
4 Norah Head Lighthouse
Completed in 1903, this lighthouse stands on a rocky headland with sweeping coastal views. Guided tours of the tower run on some days.
Practical: Grounds free. Tours ticketed, check days in advance.
5 The Entrance
A holiday town where Tuggerah Lake meets the ocean, known for the daily pelican feeding on the waterfront, a tradition that draws crowds every afternoon.
Practical: Pelican feeding is free; check the current time locally.
6 Australian Reptile Park
A wildlife park at Somersby, near Gosford, known for its snakes, spiders and crocodiles and for producing venom used to make antivenom. There are also koalas, kangaroos and Tasmanian devils.
Practical: Ticketed. Allow 2–3 hours. Just off the M1 motorway.
