27 Top Central Coast Attractions

So what are the best attractions and things to do on the Central Coast, New South Wales, Australia?

The beaches are the major attractions. But there are so many other things to do for people of all ages. 

Below you'll find plenty of ideas on what to do during your visit. 

Here are our favourite attractions... 

1. Beaches

Beaches are one of the most sought after attractions on the Central Coast. No wonder... they're beautiful!

Half the 87-kilometre coastline comprises beaches.

From fabulous surfing beaches to hidden beaches and calm beaches, we have them all. 

Click here to find your ideal beach OR click here for a family-friendly beach. 

2. Australian Reptile Park 

Have you ever seen a massive saltwater crocodile up close? Have you ever fed a kangaroo? This is your chance.

The Australian Reptile Park has been a favourite attraction in the region for many years.

Visit this zoo if you want to see deadly species of snakes and spiders, entertaining shows, and learn a thing or two. 

Click here to read our full article on the Australian Reptile Park.

3. Treetops Adventure

Here’s an exciting challenge for you if you'd like to walk from treetop to treetop.

It's a great adrenaline activity.

At Treetops Adventure, you’ll walk through an obstacle course high in the trees on wobbly logs and wires.

The obstacle course becomes harder and harder. 

Find out more about Treetops Adventure.

4. Bouddi Coastal Walk

Bouddi Coastal Walk is a famous bushwalk on the Central Coast.

Walk 8 kilometres on well-maintained bush tracks and trails along the coast.

Marvel at the stunning coastal landscapes.

Enjoy a vigorous workout and four secluded beaches along the way.

Click here to read our full post on Bouddi Coastal Walk.

5. Breakfast with Alpacas

Photo courtesy of Iris Lodge Alpacas

Get up close to lovely alpacas and Wiltipoll sheep at Iris Lodge Alpacas in Jilliby.

Upon arriving, you'll be greeted by Billy the alpaca who'll want you to feed him a banana before he lets you in.  

You can hand-feed the alpacas, sheep, cows and horses. Bring lots of bananas and sliced carrots!

Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and welcoming hosts, Sean & Sharon.

Find out more about Iris Lodge Alpacas. 

6. Bushwalks and National Parks

The Central Coast contains beautiful beaches and national parks.

The region is blessed with natural attractions!

Explore the national parks and conservation areas along the region’s coastline.

Experience great coastal walks and lookouts.

You can even swim at some beaches along the walks. Or walk to waterfalls and Aboriginal engraving sites. 

Click here to discover our best Central Coast walks. 

7. Central Coast Aqua Park

Central Coast Aqua Park is real fun—particularly for children.

You walk and slide on a floating inflatable course.

There’s lots of climbing and sliding. Jumping from one obstacle to the other. And slipping and falling in the water. 

The sessions go for 50 minutes. But you can pick more sessions. 

Runs over summer. 

Find out more about Aqua Park.

8. Microlight Adventures

Flying in a microlight has got to be on your bucket list. For many people it’s one in a lifetime experience.

Fly over Tuggerah Lake and down the coast over beautiful beaches and national parks.

It's a thrilling but also relaxing experience as you’re driven by Len, the owner. You can also control the microlight for a short period. 

Find out more about Microlight Adventures.

9. Aquafun

Photo courtesy of Aquafun

Hire pedal-boats, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards at Aquafun and glide around Avoca Lake.

Aquafun is great fun.

Adults can explore the natural beauty of the lake and kids have heaps of fun on the various boats.

You can swap boats as many times as you like!   

No need to book, just turn up. 

Take chairs and a picnic rug. There's plenty of shade. 

Click here to read our full post on Aquafun.

10. Zipcoaster

Zipcoaster is the world’s longest roller coaster zip line.

On a flying fox, you’ll turn 360 degrees, twist and zigzag for one kilometre. It’s six minutes riding like on a roller coaster around the trees!

Treetops Adventure is one of the most thrilling attractions on the Central Coast. 

Find out more.

11. Escape Room

Check out Escape Reality if you want a mentally challenging but super fun game.

The game is played in real life.

Bring your family and friends and use your brain power to solve a series of puzzles. You must decipher clues to find your way out of the escape room.

Rooms have different difficulty levels, from Jungala, the easiest, to Legend of the Mummy, the hardest.

Find out more.

12. Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park

Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park is a nature sanctuary in Calga. There are Australian wildlife and farm animals.

The place looks nothing like a zoo...

The not-so-shy kangaroos, pademelons and emus roam around the site and you can also spot wallabies and wallaroos.

You'll see other Australian animals in enclosures. 

Click here to read our full post on Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park.

13. Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures

Get your adrenaline pumping and experience one or more adventures. Try horse riding, abseiling, kayaking, laser skirmish and/or quad biking.

Mix and match any activities you wish.

You can even stay overnight. 

Find out more.

14. Central Coast Stadium

Do you feel like catching the local Central Coast Mariners in action? Maybe an NRL game or a concert?

Central Coast Stadium in Gosford is the Coast's premier sporting venue.

Wherever you stand in the stadium, you feel you're on top of the action.

Palm trees and views of Brisbane water make this a great venue to watch sport or a concert. 

Check what's on at Central Coast Stadium.

15. Jetpack Adventures

Jetpack Adventures is a thrilling water activity where you get propelled above the water and soar in the air with a jetpack or board.

Jetpack Adventures is at Mt Penang Parklands in Kariong.

You just need to book a day and time.

Pretty much anybody over 40 kilograms can fly. 

Find out more about Jetpack Adventures.

16. Hawkesbury River Cruises

Relax and escape the city on one of the fabulous cruises that explore the lower reach of the Hawkesbury River.

Contemplate scenic waterways, rugged cliffs, trees and wildlife.

Savour tasty food and listen to interesting and entertaining commentaries. 

Find out more about cruising the Hawkesbury River.

17. Distillery Botanica  

At Distillery Botanica you can taste and buy award-winning liqueur made with plants, such as aniseed and lemon myrtle.

They make gin with Australian natives.

Philip Moore has won prestigious awards including the 'Herb Liqueur of the Year' in Germany and a silver for gin in London.

Distillery Botanica has the best gin there is. 

Find out more about Distillery Botanica.

18. Gosford Regional Gallery

Gosford Regional Gallery displays works from established and emerging artists in photography, sculpture, visual art and design.

It’s nice to visit even if you're not interested in art because there are other things to see.

The Japanese garden with the koi fish is just as enjoyable as the exhibitions and you can have a light meal and coffee at The Point Cafe Japanese Gardens.

Click here to read our full post on Gosford Regional Gallery. 

19. Norah Head Lighthouse

Norah Head Lighthouse is a great lighthouse to visit near Sydney.

Walk the 96 stairs to the top while listening to a historical commentary. The view is amazing from up there.

Tours happen daily between 10 am and 1.30 pm. It only costs $6.

Norah Head is a pleasant spot to explore, and you can swim at the nearby beaches. 

Click here to find out more about Norah Head and the lighthouse. 

20. Amazement Farm & Fun Park 

Visit Amazement Farm & Fun Park If you’re looking to spend a relaxing and fun day out with small children.

Kids will enjoy walking through the mazes, encountering farm animals and hoping on the train ride.

There are also pony rides and petting shows.

Click here to read our full post on Amazement Farm & Fun Park.

21. Markets

Who doesn’t like a good market?

Local markets are a great place to spend a few hours wandering around on a sunny day.

There’s entertainment for kids, a vibrant atmosphere, homemade food, local products and handmade art and crafts.

Visiting a local market is a great way to discover local products. You can then buy them from the merchant’s online store. It helps support local artists and producers.

At least one market is held somewhere on the Central Coast every weekend.

Check what markets are on. 

22. Somersby Falls

Somersby Falls are popular waterfalls on the Central Coast.

Walk to two waterfalls located lower down a bush track.

The first waterfall sits mid-way down the bush track and the second at the bottom.

It's a great place to visit if it's hot because you can stay cool underneath the rainforest canopy and beside the water. 

Enjoy a picnic before or after your walk. 

Click here to read our full post on Somersby Falls. 

23. Avoca Beach Theatre

Avoca Beach Theatre is one of the few remaining single-screen cinemas in Australia.

This cinema was listed as one of the “ten most beautiful cinemas” in the world and it has received several awards.

They screen quality independent and foreign films. Enjoy a beer or a wine with your movie!

Avoca Beach Theatre is located just across the beach in Avoca Beach.

Check what's on at Avoca Beach Theatre. 

24. Mt Penang Gardens

Mount Penang Gardens is a relaxing spot to have a stroll. 

The gardens are situated among 8 hectares of beautiful grounds. 

Marvel at the fountains, cascades, ponds and other water features. Most plants are native to Australia. 

Enjoy a light meal at Waterfall Cafe before or after visiting the gardens and enjoy the view over the waterway. Or have a picnic in the gardens. 

Find out more about Mt Penang Gardens. 

25. Terrigal Skillion

The Skillion is an iconic landmark in Terrigal.

Walk to the top of this prominent cliff and enjoy the scenic coastal views. You’ll see Avoca Beach to the right and Terrigal and Wamberal to the left.

You may also spot humpback whales during their migration between May and November.

There are stairs and a handrail to make the climb easier. Kids love to roll down the grass on the way down.

Click here to read our full article on Terrigal Haven and the Skillion. 

26. Wyong Milk Factory

Wyong Milk Factory is a gem on the Central Coast.

Have a coffee at Wyong Milk Factory Cafe while your kids play at the playground.

Enjoy the beer garden at Wyong Milk Tavern. Paddle up Wyong River. Taste handmade cheese at the award-winning Little Creek Cheese Factory. And sample quality artisan chocolates at Luka Chocolates.

Click here to read our full article on Wyong Milk Factory. 

27. Ken Duncan Gallery

Ken Duncan is one of the top landscape photographers in Australia, and his gallery is located here on the Central Coast.

Walk around the gallery and look at his stunning landscape photos.

Then have a bite and coffee at the Sanctuary Cafe.

Click here to read our full post on Ken Duncan Gallery. 

More Things to Do on the Central Coast

• Things to do in Ettalong Beach
• Things to do in The Entrance
• Things to do in Terrigal
• Things to do in Umina Beach
• Discover Caves Beach