Tourists and locals alike rightfully celebrate the 29 glorious beaches that pepper the length of the Central Coast, but there is much fun to be had in the region during the winter months – no swimsuits required.

From breathtaking vantage points to watch the whales migrate, stunning bushwalks and incredible outdoor adventures, to unique experiences and some of Australian’s finest local produce, not to mention a world of culinary delight and bespoke retail therapy opportunities, there is something for everyone.

Central Coast Mayor Lisa Matthews said the region has so much to offer during the winter months it was a difficult task to narrow down a list of highlights.

“The Central Coast is obviously fantastic in the summer but it’s also a special place to be during the cooler months, there are so many options for short or long trips or for locals embracing the staycation in our beautiful region,” Mayor Matthews said.

“‘Visit Central Coast’ have pulled together a list of just some of the Coast’s winter highlights, but this is by no means exhaustive – there is so much on offer!

“We’re often blessed with beautiful winter weather, which makes our incredible bushwalks, stunning hinterland region and outdoor adventure experiences very appealing, but there are also lots of opportunities to get comfortable in a cozy spot with your drink of choice and mouth-watering food made with locally grown produce.

“Winter is not the time for hibernation on the Coast – I encourage visitors to explore all that’s on offer and for locals to rediscover their own backyard.”

Here is a snapshot of some of the winter highlights from ‘Visit Central Coast’:

• Breathtaking vantage points to watch the whales migrate - There is nothing quite like the majesty and beauty of seeing a whale in the wild. Each winter it is estimated 33,000 humpback whales travel past the Central Coast as part of their migration north. The Coast offers beautiful vantage points to catch a glimpse of one of these majestic creatures. Some of the best locations include Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve, Soldiers Beach Headland, Crackneck Lookout, The Skillion and Gerrin Point Lookout.
• Must-see scenic highlights - The Coast offers so much natural beauty. For bushwalkers the region is hard to beat but many locations are also easily accessible by car and ideal for a picnic with family or friends, maybe with some fresh local seafood. Some of the must-see wonders of the Coast include: Munmorah State Conservation Area; Jenny Dixon Reserve – Norah Head; Bush Street Reserve – Norah Head; Soldiers Beach Headland; Long Jetty Foreshore Reserve; Crackneck Lookout; Strickland State Forest; Mount Penang Gardens; Somersby Falls; and Bouddi National Park.
• Outdoor adventures - The diversity and beauty of the Central Coast landscape provides a playground for outdoor adventures that are often best experienced in the winter months. From thrill-seeking fun to simply enjoying the beauty of nature – there is something for everyone. Some highlights include: Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures; kayaking or stand up paddle boarding on one the Central Coast’s beautiful waterways (Tuggerah Lakes, Canton Beach, Long Jetty, Brisbane Water, Ettalong Beach, Hardys Bay and Patonga Beach to name a few); mountain biking with Central Coast Mountain Bike Tours in Ourimbah State Forest and other landmark locations across the region; TreeTops Central Coast in Ourimbah State Forest offers a world of adventure fun and features the longest zip line in the southern hemisphere; and of course the famous Walkabout Wildlife Park in Calga guarantees a day of fun for the entire family.
• Taste the creations of local producers - A visit to the Central Coast is not complete without tasting some of the regions fine locally-produced goods. Some highlights include: Little Creek Cheese and Luka Chocolates in Wyong; Distillery Botanica and Six String Brewing Co in Erina; Bay Rd Brewing in Gosford; Block ’n Tackle Brewery in Kincumber; Firescreek Winery in Holgate; and The Pecan Lady, Grace Springs Farm and Eastcoast Food and Beverages in the stunning Central Coast hinterland which feature opportunities to pick, of course eat, incredible local produce.
• Unique experiences - For visitors and locals wanting to experience something a little different the Coast offers a range of unique experiences. Highlights include: unique ‘Shellar Door’ experiences offered by Pearls of Australia in Mooney Mooney; paint and sip with Pinot & Picasso in Terrigal; try your hand at ceramics at Sheramics in Terrigal, Shellie Christian Studio in Fountaindale or Centred Ceramics in Umina; art therapy for adults and kids in Long Jetty at new Exhale Studios; cook up a storm with Julie Goodwin and her team at Julie’s Place; and The Entrance Historic Carousel is always a win with the kids.

For those seeking great food, particularly culinary delights made with local produce, there are incredible cafes and restaurants throughout the region. It is hard to avoid a good dose of retail therapy on the Coast – curated clothing and lifestyle boutiques are a particular highlight.

Central Coast Council would like to thank visitors to the region and community members for taking the COVID-19 situation seriously. Please continue to follow State and Federal Government directions to help minimise the spread of COVID-19:

• continue to practice physical distancing, which includes maintaining a distance of 1.5metres from others at all times
• continue to practise good hygiene, including washing your hands frequently.

Find out more about an array of Central Coast highlights at visitcentralcoast.com.au