From Bush to Beach: 12 of the Most Scenic Central Coast Walks

From bushwalks to coastal views and waterfalls, these Central Coast walks will deliver you to the region’s most scenic spots.

The Central Coast lays claim to pristine beaches, extensive coastal estuaries, lush hinterland and beautiful seaside villages – all of which are best explored on foot. From accessible strolls to day-long wilderness expeditions, here are our picks of the best walks and hikes on the Central Coast.

1. Bouddi Coastal Walk

Where: Bouddi National Park
Distance: 8.5 kilometres one way
Difficulty: Hard

Details: Sydney has the Bondi to Bronte, Melbourne has the Thousand Steps and the Central Coast has the Bouddi Coastal Walk. It is home to numerous Aboriginal sites, one of the country’s first protected marine areas, and plenty of ancient landscapes to marvel at.

View of tessellated pavement on the Bouddi National Park coastal walk on the Central Coast — Spot the Tessellated Pavement shortly after departing from Putty Beach. (Image: Katie Carlin)

The walk delivers sweeping ocean views, whale-spotting opportunities, and plenty of deserted beaches to stop at for a swim. Don’t miss the remains of the SS Maitland shipwreck at Bouddi Point.

Looking down from the trail along the Bouddi National Park Coastal Walk — Sweeping coastal views. (Image: Katie Carlin)

While the 17-kilometre round-trip can be done in a day, those who aim to complete the journey should note it can take up to eight hours. The track begins at Putty Beach picnic area and includes a mix of beach walking, steep stairs, formed tracks, and rocky platforms. It ends at Macmasters Beach, where walkers can exit the walk or opt to make the return journey.

Coastal walk in Bouddi National Park on the Central Coast — (Image: Nikki To)

You don’t need to tackle the entirety of the coastal walk in one day. Breaking it up into shorter distances is just as rewarding. For some shorter routes try:

Putty Beach to Maitland Bay (3 kilometres)
Maitland Bay to Little Beach (3.5 kilometres)
Little Beach to Macmasters Beach (1.7 kilometres)

Putty Beach is the start of the Bouddi National Park Coastal Walk — Walk the loop from Putty Beach (pictured) to Maitland Bay and back. (Image: Katie Carlin)

2. Girrakool Loop Track

Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Distance: Two-kilometre loop
Difficulty: Easy

Details: Traverse tranquil bushland past colourful wildflowers along the Girrakool Loop Track. This easy, signposted trail begins and ends at the Girrakool picnic area – it’s the ideal way to walk off lunch. There are two lookouts to pause at along the trail: the Andamira lookout for views of the tree-shrouded waterfall and the picturesque Illoura lookout. Don’t miss the Aboriginal rock engraving site at the start of the walk and take your time to breathe in the fresh air as you wind your way through the bush.

Waterfall, Girrakool Loop Track from Andamira Lookout — A tranquil waterfall along the Girrakool Loop Track from Andamira lookout. (Image: John Yurasek/DCCEEW)

3. The Ridge to Rainforest Track

Where: Strickland State Forest
Distance: 2.1 kilometres one way
Difficulty: Easy

Details: Strickland State Forest packs a punch when it comes to diverse walking tracks despite its modest five-square-kilometre size. One of the most popular options is the Ridge to Rainforest track. Begin the walk near the entry road to Banksia Picnic Area and follow the track lined with tall gum trees past mossy rocks and hoop pines along the ridge until you reach the gully of the rainforest. The Arboretum Track – which heads in the opposite direction from the picnic area – is popular for its suspension bridge.

Strickland State Forest was the site of the first government forest nursery (1886-1890) and the first national forestry training school (1920 – 1927). Aptly, remnants of native and exotic tree plantings are now among the oldest in Australia and can be admired as you walk along the trail.

4. Coast to Lake Walk

Where: The Entrance
Distance: 7.6-kilometre loop
Difficulty: Medium

Details: This self-guided walk takes in the best of The Entrance and surrounding areas. Get a first-hand look at the landmarks, attractions and scenery that this popular pocket on the Central Coast has to offer.

Begin your journey at Memorial Park and follow the boardwalk along the coastline to The Entrance Surf Life Saving Club. After picking up a kiosk coffee, continue past the Ocean Baths and Edith Ring Rest lookout onto Toowoon Bay Surf Club. Follow the shared pathway from Long Jetty to Memorial Park in the Entrance. As you pass through Picnic Point, make use of the skate park, fitness station, picnic shelters and BBQs.

Some sections of the walk are fully accessible to all abilities, prams and bicycles. Some sections require beach access and rock platform walking.

The Coast to Lake walk takes in the best of The Entrance and surrounding areas.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

5. Patonga to Pearl Beach

Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Distance: 3 kilometres one way
Difficulty: Hard

Details: It may be shorter in distance than some of its local counterparts, but the Patonga to Pearl Beach hike trails through some rather challenging terrain.

Tessellated Rock Pavement between Patonga and Pearl Beach.

Follow the signs to the national park at the end of Patonga Beach to begin the walk. The steep trail will lead you through sandstone caves adorned with natural hanging ferns, past red gums and towering eucalypts.

Patonga to Pearl Beach Trail, trailhead and rainforest — One of many secluded spots to stop along the Patonga to Pearl Beach Trail. (Image: John Yurasek/DCCEEW)

Stop at the Warrah lookout for panoramic views of the Hawkesbury River and Pacific Ocean. Your exit will be marked at Crystal Avenue. From here you can follow the sounds of crashing waves to emerge from the bush onto Pearl Beach. Linger here for a well-earned swim before taking advantage of the cafes nearby.

Scenic aerials overlooking Pearl Beach on the Central Coast. — The beauty of Pearl Beach from above. (Image: Destination Central Coast)

6. 5 Lands Coastal Walk

Where: Macmasters Beach, Copacabana, Avoca Beach, North Avoca and Terrigal
Distance: 9 kilometres one way
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

Details: The 5 Lands Coastal Walk is so good that there is even a festival in its honour. It happens every year, just after the winter solstice toward the end of June. Thousands of people – young and old, fit and unfit – take part.

Sunny day at Macmasters Beach and ocean pool on the Central Coast. — The walk begins at Macmasters Beach. (Image: Destination Central Coast)

Stretching from Macmasters Beach to Terrigal, the trip gets its name from the stunning selection of suburbs it traverses, each possessing its own one-of-a-kind characteristics. From Macmasters Beach, Copacabana, Avoca Beach, North Avoca and Terrigal, soak up the atmosphere of each one.

The 5 lands Coastal Walk — The 5 Lands Coastal Walk is so good that there is even a festival in its honor.

Walking the full route will take from four to six hours, but allow plenty of time to enjoy the views, visit the exhibitions, witness the Aboriginal ceremonies and ethnic cultural displays and spot some whales if you’re lucky.

View of the coastline from the water at Terrigal Beach on the Central Coast — Terrigal Beach marks the end of the 5 Lands Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Kincumber to Terrigal (via Glasson’s Trl)

Where: Kincumba Mountain Regional Reserve

Distance: 4.5 kilometres one way

Difficulty: Moderate

Details: Enjoy a front-row seat to the beauty of Kincumba Mountain Regional Reserve.

Explore the diverse landscapes and natural attractions along the Kincumber to Terrigal trail. You’ll pass by cave walls etched with ancient rock art, trail through rugged forest tracks, constructed paths and some challenging steep sections that reward hikers with incredible clifftop views and a variety of flora and fauna – including seasonal wildflowers, soaring grass trees, a plethora of birds and wildlife.

Start at Glasson’s trail and head towards Honeman’s Rock, a large outcrop with a neighbouring picnic area. After a rest, navigate the inside of a large cave on Kanning Walk and continue to the views at Colin Watters Lookout. The journey ends at Terrigal’s Sandringham Close.

8. Somersby Falls

Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Distance: 800 metres
Difficulty: Moderate

View from above Somersby Falls on the Central Coast — The beautiful Somersby Falls from above. (Image: Katie Carlin)

Details: This might be a short walk, but it’s one of the most spectacular in the region for what you’ll find at the end. From Somersby Falls picnic area, this walking track winds steeply down three levels of the cascading Somersby Falls with lookouts at each of the three tiers. The bottom section is magical, particularly after heavy rains when the falls cascade down into deep emerald pools.

Woman sits under the waterfall at Somersby Falls on the Central Coast — Cool off under the waterfall or take a dip in the shallow pools. (Image: Katie Carlin)

The walk itself is steep and comprises many steps, which can be slippery in parts. Take your time and look around the hyper-green rainforest as you go, as you may spot the water dragons, frogs and goannas that call this place home.

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9. The Coast Walking Track

Where: Wyrrabalong National Park
Distance: 6 kilometres return
Difficulty: Moderate – Difficult

Details: You can start this coastal walk from either the Bateau Bay picnic area or the gate at the top of Cromarty Hill Road in Forresters Beach.

The track traces clifftops, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and epic whale-watching vantage points. You’ll walk through native scrub, past blackbutts and under spotted gums, and during spring, the landscape is dotted with wildflowers, including flannel flowers and ground orchids. It’s a pretty walk that covers sandy ground, pathways and staircases, with some steep sections.

Along the way, Crackneck Lookout is a great place to take a break and enjoy a picnic. Keep your eye out for whales and dolphins and watch the paragliders take flight when conditions are right.

10. Terrigal Lagoon to Terrigal Haven

Where: Terrigal
Distance: 3 kilometres return
Difficulty: Easy

Details: This scenic loop begins at the edge of Terrigal Lagoon – on Pacific Street – and crosses the bridge over the lagoon into Terrigal. As you walk over the hill into town, you’ll have views of the lagoon and the beach, which is particularly beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

You’ll walk along the beach, past the surf club and cross Terrigal Boardwalk into the Haven. The boardwalk is built into rockpools, and you’ll often be able to see crabs as they dart about on the rocks below. During a big swell, you might get wet from the sea spray, which is welcome on hot days!

Families swimming in the rock pool at Terrigal Beach on the Central Coast — Kids are at play in the rock pool alongside the boardwalk connecting Terrigal Beach to the Haven. (Image: Katie Carlin)

The Haven comprises a small beach and a bay filled with fishing boats. Walk around the headland, which has sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and is home to a dog park where furry friends are allowed off-leash. Be sure to add the climb to the top of the Skillion for even more incredible views before looping back and returning the same way.

Friends walking to the lookout at the top of The Skillion inTerrigal. — Friends climb the Skillion with views of the Haven below. (Image: Destination NSW)

11. Ettalong Beach to Umina Beach

Where: Ettalong / Umina
Distance: 2.8 kilometres one-way
Difficulty: Easy

Start this walk at Ettalong waterfront, which is home to the BOX on the Water, a restaurant and kiosk, and a kids’ playground. Along the waterfront, there’s a shared pathway that stretches to the neighbouring suburb of Umina.

Sunrise at Lion Island, Broken Bay on the Central Coast — Soak up views of Broken Bay towards Lion Island along the trail. (Image: Destination NSW)

The path is flat the entire way, making it a great one to walk, scoot or ride bikes. Soak up views of Broken Bay towards Lion Island and the Pacific Ocean the entire way. You’ll pass both Ocean Beach and Umina Beach surf clubs along the way, both of which have kiosks for snacks and drinks.

The path ends at the Peninsula Recreation Precinct, an epic beachside playground and sporting area, where you’ll also find a café and the popular NRMA Ocean Beach caravan park.

Aerial view of the NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday resort in Central Coast, Australia — NRMA Ocean Beach caravan park is a popular spot come summer. (Image: Christopher Flaxman)

12. Norah Head Lighthouse Loop

Where: Norah Head
Distance: 2.2-kilometre loop
Difficulty: Easy – moderate

Views of the beach as the walk from Norah Head Lighthouse to Norah Head Beach — Begin or end your walk at Norah Head Lighthouse. (Image: Katie Carlin)

This walk starts at the car park at Bush Street Reserve in Norah Head, across from Norah Head Beach Haus, where you can grab a pre-walk coffee and post-walk lunch. The track winds through bush, past a small beach lookout and a mariners’ memorial, towards the 1903-built Norah Head Lighthouse. You can enjoy a historic tour of the working lighthouse (pre-book) and even stay in the heritage cottages.

Views of the rock platform and beach at Norah Head Lighthouse — Views of the rock platforms and beaches below the lighthouse. (Image: Katie Carlin)

From the lighthouse, there is a wooden staircase that leads down to the beach, where – depending on the tide – you can stroll along the sand and rocky platforms towards the rockpool at Cabbage Tree Harbour (kids will enjoy cooling off here on hot days). From here, follow the footpath and steps that head back up towards Bush Street Reserve.

The iconic Norah Head Lighthouse at sunset. (Image: Destination NSW)

For more nature experiences on the Central Coast, read our locals’ guide to the best beaches to visit.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery. Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda, and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines.

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk, one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines, where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala. Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie, right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk, an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park. Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast, a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery, where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm. Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal, which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores, between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch. Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong. A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery, which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen. It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach, right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

12 scenic Central Coast walks to take you from the bush to the sand

From bushwalks to coastal views and waterfalls, these Central Coast walks will deliver you to the region’s most scenic spots.

1. Bouddi Coastal Walk

2. Girrakool Loop Track

3. The Ridge to Rainforest Track

4. Coast to Lake Walk

5. Patonga to Pearl Beach

6. 5 Lands Coastal Walk

7. Kincumber to Terrigal (via Glasson’s Trl)

8. Somersby Falls

9. The Coast Walking Track

10. Terrigal Lagoon to Terrigal Haven

11. Ettalong Beach to Umina Beach

12. Norah Head Lighthouse Loop

Why the Central Coast is a foodie mecca

Everything you want from a 5-star coastal break at Killcare

Crowne Plaza Terrigal: The perfect seaside escape

The ultimate Central Coast summer holiday

Why winter is the best time to be on the New South Wales coast

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

Winter on the Central Coast

Winter in Wollongong

From bushwalks to coastal views and waterfalls, these Central Coast walks will deliver you to the region’s most scenic spots.

1. Bouddi Coastal Walk

2. Girrakool Loop Track

3. The Ridge to Rainforest Track

4. Coast to Lake Walk

AI Prompt

5. Patonga to Pearl Beach

6. 5 Lands Coastal Walk

7. Kincumber to Terrigal (via Glasson’s Trl)

8. Somersby Falls

9. The Coast Walking Track

10. Terrigal Lagoon to Terrigal Haven

11. Ettalong Beach to Umina Beach

12. Norah Head Lighthouse Loop

Why the Central Coast is a foodie mecca

Everything you want from a 5-star coastal break at Killcare

Crowne Plaza Terrigal: The perfect seaside escape

The ultimate Central Coast summer holiday

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

Winter on the Central Coast

Winter in Wollongong