The Central Coast is amazing all year round, but with 80 kilometres of world-class coastline, a summer visit is extra special. And when you’ve had enough of sun, sea and sand (if that’s even possible), discover the Central Coast’s many other attractions, including waterside markets and artisan experiences.
Where to stay?
With so much to do, take your time. Indulge your senses, rest your weary head and savour your downtime. Take your pick of the coastal towns that stretch from Patonga to Budgewoi, and choose from family motels, resorts, private holiday rentals and campsites.
When visiting the Central Coast from Sydney, Avoca Beach is the perfect place for a staycation, with plenty of eateries, shops and even a theatre. Avoca’s stunning patrolled beach also has a large, natural rock pool for little (and big) kids. If fine dining and nightlife beckon, neighbouring Terrigal is the go-to place with late night bars and several award-winning restaurants.
If you’re visiting the Central Coast from Newcastle, a stay at The Entrance or Toowoon Bay will have you at the swimming pool before you know it. Ocean baths and two patrolled beaches await saltwater fans at The Entrance, a busy seaside town with walking, fishing, boating and cycling opportunities galore. Enjoy one of the regular events at Memorial Park, with an adjacent water garden for family fun.
Toowoon Bay is its quieter cousin a little further south. Snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding and reef exploring are popular. Enjoy a picnic on arguably the most picturesque beach on the Central Coast.
This little piggy…
…didn’t know which market to go to first! The Central Coast has a plethora of markets for absolute shopping heaven. The Italian-inspired Ettalong Galleria is open every weekend, while foodies will love Gosford City Farmers Market on any Sunday morning. Browse Terrigal Beach Markets on the first Saturday of the month, Wyee Markets on the second Saturday, Umina Beach Markets third Saturday, and Avoca Markets on the forth Sunday of the month.
Google Events lists other Central Coast markets. Whether you’re looking for vintage items, fashion, artisan produce and locally made homewares, or you fancy a leisurely browse while listening to local musicians, you’ll find a market to suit your mood.
Coffee, cocktails and Kinny Lager
Nothing screams summer more than a leisurely morning coffee and brunch, a few hours at the beach, followed by an afternoon cocktail or a cold beer. The artisans of the Central Coast Makers Trail have summer sorted for lovers of amazing food and beverages.
Get your morning started at Legend Coffee and Culture in West Gosford. As well as serving delicious coffee roasted on site and a great selection of café foods, they offer roastery tours and private cupping experiences.
Later in the day, learn how to make a selection of exquisite tasting cocktails at Distillery Botanica in Erina. Starting with a Distillery Botanica Raspberry Liqueur and soda on arrival, you will shake, stir and build whilst savouring delicious snacks.
Beer fans will want to head to Block ’n Tackle for a local brew. Perhaps a Kinny Lager, a refreshing bright beer, with a can design celebrating the brewery’s home of Kincumber. But don’t just drink it. Find out how it’s made on a Block ’n Tackle Brewery Tour (book in advance). With regular live music and events, the taproom is a family friendly space with non-alcoholic drinks and snacks available.
Spice up your summer BBQ
Take a little piece of the Central Coast home with fragrant BBQ spices from our very own Herbie, one of Australia’s foremost culinary herb and spice experts. Aussie, Native or American BBQ Spice Mixes are just a few possibilities at Herbie’s Spices in Charmhaven to liven up your next BBQ! If you’re lucky enough to be planning a visit to the Central Coast when Herbie is running his special Spicery Tour and education session, be sure to book in advance.
Stay a while
We could write a whole book on the experiences, natural attractions and summer activities for visitors to the Central Coast. There’s three months of scintillating summer ahead, so don’t be a stranger. Stay a while and celebrate summer like a local!
With so much on offer, it’s difficult to pick the best Central Coast outdoor activities. Whatever you choose, be sure to combine it with a Central Coast Makers Trail experience for a superb day out!