12 Top Central Coast Walks You Must Do

The Central Coast is fortunate to have many stunning walks that are suitable for the whole family. To make things easier for you, I have listed our 12 favourite walks. Each and every one is fabulous. 

Take in the breathtaking coastal views, see waterfalls or enjoy relaxing strolls. Whether you're an avid nature enthusiast or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, these tracks are perfect for you and your family.

The kids and we never get tired of these walks because each offers its unique adventure. 

We have sorted the list from shortest to longest, so you can choose the one that best suits your preferences.

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1. Terrigal Boardwalk

Want to enjoy a relaxing stroll while marvelling at stunning ocean views?

The 200m boardwalk connects Terrigal Haven to the lively Terrigal Beach. It's undoubtedly one of the prettiest spots on the Central Coast.

Extend your walk by exploring the headland and admiring the lookout points with your dog. Walk up the stairs to the top of The Skillion and watch whales go by in winter.

Or continue walking into the town of Terrigal and indulge in one of the many cafes and restaurants.

This walk is suitable for all fitness levels and perfect for the whole family.

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2. Somersby Falls Walking Track

Somersby Falls are the most popular waterfalls on the Central Coast.

It's a perfect walk to do in summer because the dense rainforest keeps you cool.

Many families with kids visit these waterfalls each year. Who doesn't like waterfalls?

The track is steep but short.

The first section of the walk is via stairs and leads to the prettiest of the two waterfalls. Then you continue walking down to the bottom waterfall. This section is on rocks and is a little slippery so wear good walking shoes.

The best time to visit is after rainfall.

Somersby Falls: Read more

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3. Little Beach Trail

Enjoy a relaxing stroll with friends and family through a beautiful remnant rainforest.

This easy bush walk leads to Little Beach, a secluded cove in Bouddi National Park. It's a top place for a picnic and to chill while kids have fun exploring the little stream, beach and rocks.

You can even push a pram along the trail and many toddlers can handle the short trek by themselves. This journey was a favourite when our kids were little.

A camping ground, non-flush toilets, picnic tables and a barbecue are situated there.

You can also extend your hike by following the Coastal Walk.

Little Beach: Read more

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4. Maitland Bay Track

The Maitland Bay track in Bouddi National Park is a short but steep bushwalk. It winds down to the secluded Maitland Bay beach through gullies and lush vegetation.

The path is well maintained – it's paved and there are stairs.

Located between Killcare and Macmasters Beach, the walk is easily accessible by car.

The trail links to other great bushwalking tracks if you'd like to extend your walk:

The 1-kilometre Bullimah Spur walking path branches off near the top of the hill. It takes you to stunning views of Killcare Beach.

And the Coastal Walk branches off near the bottom of the trail. It takes you to incredible coastal views along a boardwalk. 

Read more: Maitland Bay Track

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5. Kariong Brook Falls Walk

Kariong Brook Falls is a lovely waterfall in Brisbane Water National Park.

The waterfall is impressive after rainfall.

Surrounded by rock ledges and lush vegetation, it feels like a sanctuary. The beautiful swimming hole at the bottom of the fall makes it even more inviting.

The first section of the walk is along a fire trail with a few gentle slopes. The second section is 300 m down a challenging but pretty track over sand and rocks.

Enjoy the serenity – all you can hear is the sound of the wind and the birds chirping.

Read more: Kariong Brook Falls

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6. Piles Creek Loop

Piles Creek loop is an enchanting bushwalk in Brisbane Water National Park.

Hike underneath sandstone caves, over an old suspension bridge and past waterfalls. And if you go in spring, past tons of pretty wildflowers.

The track follows Piles Creek through dry eucalypt forests and rainforest gullies.

It takes you to the bottom of the gorge and across the creek over the suspension bridge. There you'll hear the relaxing sound of the running stream.
It's a bit challenging but I've seen many families with older kids on this walk.

Piles Creek loop starts at Girrakool Picnic Area, a nice picnic spot.

Read more: Piles Creek Loop

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7. Pearl Beach to Patonga Walk

If you can only experience one hike, this one should be at the top of your list.

The Pearl Beach to Patonga walk is a top contender for one of the best Central Coast bushwalks.

It’s a pleasant hike up and down a headland between Pearl Beach and Patonga. You can pick up the walk from either town.

You get rewarded with incredible views on top of the headland at Warrah Lookout. You'll see a long way over the Hawkesbury River and Northern Beaches.

Read more: Pearl Beach to Patonga Walk.

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8. The Coast Walking Track

Following the coastline, The Coast walking track offers stunning ocean views.

The walk is in Wyrrabalong National Park between The Entrance and Terrigal. So it's easily accessible to most holidaymakers.

I've seen people of all fitness levels enjoying it, from families to couples to runners. The track is well-maintained and signposted.

Enjoy a picnic midway at Crackneck Lookout. You can also shorten the walk by stopping here. Admire the breathtaking ocean views and watch for migrating whales.

Then continue walking and spend some time at Bateau Bay Beach. The cove is relaxing and kids like walking on the rocks.

Read more: The Coast Walking Track.

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9. Coast to Lake Walk

The Coast to Lake walk is terrific if you don't like hills.

The walk is interesting and varied. Perfect for those wanting to enjoy cafes, scenic coastal views and swimmable beaches.

You'll walk through the trendy town of Long Jetty, well-known for its vintage shops and cafes.

Then you'll wander along stunning beaches, so pack your swimmers.

Finally, you'll stroll along the Entrance channel and shore of Tuggerah Lake.

The Coast to Lake walk is well signposted, and there are toilets and water refill stations along the way.

Read more: Coast to Lake Walk

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10. Mount Wondebyne Loop

The Mount Wondabyne Loop walk takes you on a relaxing journey deep into the bush.

The highlight of the walk is the stunning 360-degree views from the summit of Mount Wondebyne.

Though it's a bit of a scramble up to the top, the climb is well worth the effort.

At 251m, Mount Wondabyne is the tallest peak in Brisbane Water National Park.

Most of the walk however takes place on an easy trail, which you can also enjoy on a mountain bike.

Better to avoid hot sunny weather.

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11. Bouddi Coastal Walk

The Bouddi Coastal Walk is spectacular. This bush walk is truly the most popular on the Central Coast.

For good reasons:

Following the coastline, the hike offers breathtaking ocean views all the way. And it passes stunning beaches.

You'll walk over boardwalks in some sections, up the clifftops and down to beaches in others. So some parts are strenuous but well worth it.

Dip your toes at the secluded Maitland Bay and Little Beach. And enjoy amazing views at Gerrin Point Lookout.

Put on those hiking shoes and swimmers. And remember to pack your camera.

You'll need two cars for this one.

Read more: Bouddi Coastal Walk.

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12. The 5 Lands Walk

The 5 Lands Walk is a magnificent 10-kilometre hike that traverses five beaches.

This organised event happens on the Saturday closest to the winter solstice. You're sure to spot migrating whales.

But you can enjoy the walk any time of the year. Albeit without the phenomenal energy of the participating crowd, festivities and art exhibitions.

The idea behind the 5 Lands Walk is to connect “people to people” and “people to land”.

Hence the stunning location of the walk. And the art and entertainment by Aboriginal, cultural and local communities.

Thousands of people take part each year.

The walk begins at Macmasters Beach and ends at Terrigal.

Read more: 5 Lands Walk

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Check Out These Other Great Bushwalks on the Central Coast...

• Bouddi National Park walks
• Brisbane Water National Park walks
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park walks
• Wyrrabalong National Park walks