Now’s the time to #LoveNSW and #LoveCentralCoast
Home to wonderful wildlife, beautiful beaches, and fantastic family fun, the Central Coast sits as a top 10 regional tourism destination and is just an hour from both Sydney and Newcastle.
This Central Coast Day Trip Itinerary is perfect for young families, couples and the young at heart who are looking for a little adventure! Starting from Sydney or Newcastle, this day trip will give you a taste of what the Central Coast has to offer as you explore the region’s natural beauty.
Somersby Falls
Start the day at these tranquil waterfalls, nestled within a lush green rainforest. Stretch your legs and take in the natural beauty of the falls with a short, 500m return walk on the Somersby Falls walking track.
8.00AM – Travel from Sydney or Newcastle to Somersby Falls – 60 mins travel
9.00AM – Arrive at Somersby Falls – stay 25 mins
9.25AM – Travel from Somersby Falls to the Australian Reptile Park – 5 mins travel
Australian Reptile Park
Perfect for kids and adults alike, you’ll have the best family FUN day OUT at the Australian Reptile Park! Hand-feed our free roaming kangaroos, catch the morning Reptile Show and get up close with a cuddly koala. Finish off with lunch at the Hard Croc Café before your next stop!
9.30AM – Arrive at Australian Reptile Park – stay 3 hours
12.30PM – Travel from Australian Reptile Park to Terrigal Beach – 30 mins travel
Terrigal Beach
This iconic Central Coast beach is a vibrant hub known for great coffee, shopping and gorgeous coastline. Make sure you head to the southern end of the beach and dip your toes into the natural ocean rock pool.
12.30PM – Travel from Australian Reptile Park to Terrigal Beach – 30 mins travel
1.00PM – Arrive at Terrigal Beach – stay 1 hour
Terrigal Haven
Hop in the car for a short drive up the hill to Terrigal Haven. Once there, hike to the top of local landmark, the Skillion, and admire the incredible view of Terrigal, Wamberal, Avoca and beyond.
2.00PM – Travel from Terrigal Beach to Terrigal Haven – 5 mins travel
2.05PM – Arrive at Terrigal Haven – stay 15 mins
Bouddi Coastal Walk
Arriving at Putty Beach, you’ll begin your trek at the southern starting point of the stunning Bouddi Coastal Walk. The complete track is 8.5km but if you head to Gerrin Point Lookout from Putty Beach, the walk is a 2.4km round trip. Take in the spectacular panoramic views of Maitland Bay and the coastal boundary of Bouddi National Park.
2.20PM – Travel from Terrigal Haven to Bouddi Coastal Walk – 20 mins travel
2.40PM – Arrive at Bouddi Coastal Walk/Putty Beach (Putty Beach to Gerrin Point Lookout – 2.8km trek) – stay 60 mins
Staples Lookout
Enjoy this scenic pitstop on the way to your next destination! Just off the side of Woy Woy road, this lookout offers expansive views of Brisbane Water and Woy Woy Bay. This gorgeous view is the perfect backdrop for some quick family photos.
3.40PM – Travel from Bouddi Coastal Walk to Staples Lookout – 25 mins travel
4.05PM – Arrive at Staples Lookout – stay 5 mins
Bulgandry Art Site Aboriginal Place
This sacred site is home to an incredible collection of Aboriginal rock art. Venture out onto the raised platform and gaze at these ancient engravings. How many native Australian animals can you see in the rock carvings? Please be sure to tread carefully and respect this culturally significant site.
4.10PM – Travel from Staples Lookout to Bulgandry Aboriginal Site – 5 mins travel
4.15PM – Arrive at Bulgandry Aboriginal Site – stay 10 mins
Girrakool Picnic Area
Before you head back to Sydney or Newcastle, make one final stop for a bite to eat in this serene picnic area. If you have time, explore the Girrakool Loop Track for a short bushwalk to stretch your legs before the trip back home. Note that the carpark closes at 5pm.
4.25PM – Travel from Bulgandry Aboriginal Site to Girrakool Picnic Area – 10 mins travel
4.35PM – Arrive at Girrakool Picnic Area – stay 25 mins
5.00PM – Travel from Girrakool Picnic Area to Sydney or Newcastle – 60 mins travel
6.00PM – Returned to Sydney or Newcastle
Visit the Central Coast
From coast to country, there are hundreds of little adventures on the Central Coast with great eats, gorgeous stays and loads to do for a weekend getaway or relaxing holiday.
Central Coast Accommodation
When visiting the Australian Reptile Park, why not make a weekend of the trip and stay on the scenic Central Coast! Check out our special accommodation packages and other great spots to stay.
