Secret Spots On The Central Coast You Need To Check Out

Family
All Ages

By: Flora James, 28 July 2020

Renowned for its idyllic oceanscapes and sweeping stretches of sand, the Central Coast is the ideal day trip or weekend getaway for Sydneysiders. Picturesque pockets of prettiness that exude effortless, laid-back coastal charm can be found just 1-2 hours drive from the city—and there are a few lesser-known spots that should be at the forefront of your agenda for your next visit.

Here are some stunning secret spots on the Central Coast you need to check out.

Little Beach

Image via www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

Tucked away in Bouddi National Park, Little Beach is like a hidden oasis within the lush green rainforest surrounds. Not far from Gosford, this popular seaside camping spot is a must for nature-lovers with great surfing, bushwalking and fishing. The vibrant wildflowers on the Bouddi Coastal walk will take your breath away and look out for whales during the winter migration season.

Spoon Bay

Image via icentralcoast.com/central-coast-beaches

A widely unknown beach even to locals that serves up the serenity in spades, Spoon Bay is actually really close to Terrigal but feels like a world apart from the busy tourist hub. Accessed from a walkway off a backstreet of Forresters Beach, this one-kilometre long beach is hidden away behind the rocky headland of Wamberal Point.

Often described as a beach nook, it’s a perfect calm and quiet spot for a family dip and a play in the sand. The waves are also pretty decent; perfect for little ones getting a grip on the surf.

Blue Bay

Image via icentralcoast.com/blue-bay-nsw

If small-town charm is what you’re after, you’ll find an abundance of it in Blue Bay. Nestled between the better-known suburbs of Toowoon Bay and The Entrance, the beach is one of the most picturesque in the region. If you’re after a spot where yours might be the only footprints in the sand, Blue Bay is for you.

It’s the perfect spot for a weekend away, as it's close to some of the bigger suburbs like Long Jetty and Toowoon Bay with burgeoning cafe and shopping scenes, whilst also promising complete tranquillity and privacy upon your return. Bliss!

Patonga and Pearl Beach

Image: Traveller.com.au

Tranquillity and quintessential seaside charm about in Patonga—the most southerly beach on the Central Coast. If it’s unspoiled nature and seclusion you’re after, you’ll love a weekend spent here.

There’s plenty for kids to do, thanks to calm, pleasant waters that are perfect for little ones swimming, plus a fun children's play area and woodland hillsides that are ripe for exploring.

The bushwalk that joins Patonga and Pearl Beach will take you through red gums, eucalyptus and the stunning views of the Brisbane Water National Park, and it’s one of the highlights of the area; perfect for an active afternoon with the family and taking a dip at both beaches!

If you need to hydrate, make a beeline for the Boathouse Hotel in Patonga, it's absolutely stunning after the $5m facelift it received in 2018. If you love it so much that you don't ever want to leave, you can book now a room in the hotel upstairs.

Rumbalara Reserve

A tranquil sanctuary perched on a hill-top with sweeping views over the Central Coast, Rumbalara Reserve is one of the best vantage points to take in the natural wonders of the area. It has a number of walking tracks from leisurely to challenging and some short loops for little legs! There are also lookouts to take in the stunning rainforest surrounds and Yaruga Picnic Area to relax.

MacMasters Beach

Situated on the idyllic Bouddi peninsula, Macmasters Beach is rated one of the top 100 surf beaches in Australia, and its Surf Live Saving club provides surf patrol during school holidays and on the weekends. For little ones who aren’t so keen on raucous waves, there’s a tidal pool that is perfect for young children.

The ideal destination for active families, there are excellent bushwalking opportunities to other beaches around, plus those waves won’t catch themselves…

Davistown and Saratoga

Image: R A Stanley Landscape Photography

If it’s a quaint village vibe you’re after, these lakeside Central Coast towns will not disappoint. Set on the stunning Brisbane Waters, both towns are connected to a ferry service that can take you to Woy Woy; the gateway to the Central Coast’s beaches and prime fish and chip eating destination!

There are a few shops, cafes and restaurants within walking distance, as well as a long bike track that will take you along the water to Kincumber; there the kid-friendly Kincumber Hotel awaits.

Wyong

Wyong Milk Factory

There are a couple of cool places tucked away in this little town. The historic Chapman Building is an iconic, heritage landmark in Wyong and one of the oldest establishments in the area. It has been lovingly restored to create an enchanting hub of boutique shops. Visit local wonders like Glee coffee and The Marshmallow Co and enjoy a picnic on the lovely manicured lawn. They also hold a monthly market.

Wyong Milk Factory is also a historic working factory that has been reborn as a lively mecca of family-friendly fun! There are loads of places to eat and drink, stock up on treats and let the kids burn up energy in the playground.