The Central Coast family-friendly travel guide

While you can visit the Central Coast at any time of year, the focus on outdoor activities really lends itself to the warmer months. From December to February, the hottest part of the year, temperatures normally sit in the mid-to-high-twenties. Winters are mild, with blue skies in the days and a jacket needed for the cooler evenings.

The closest major airport to the Central Coast is Sydney Airport. Those flying from eastern states may be able to fly into Newcastle Airport instead, which is closer than Sydney to the northern part of the Central Coast.

The Central Coast is about a 90-minute drive from Sydney on the M1. Most attractions are easily accessible by road, but parking fills up quickly at some places, particularly at the beaches in summer. 

While the main cities of Gosford, Woy Woy and Wyong are accessible by train, most major attractions, including beaches, are only serviced by buses. Terrigal, Wamberal and Avoca beaches are a 30-40 minute bus trip from Gosford station.

The Central Coast plays host to a myriad of dining options. Particularly along the beaches, there is a huge range of restaurants catering to all budgets, as well as many smaller outlets that are perfect to grab a snack from.

Foodies will be excited to attend the Central Coast Food and Wine Festival, with numerous vendors showcasing local produce. For seafood lovers, the Central Coast has countless fish and chips shops: check out Woy Woy Fishermen’s Wharf for arguably the best fish and chips around.

All across the Central Coast you’ll find community markets. The Entrance Market is held every Saturday, with pelican feeding nearby as a bonus. The Avoca Beachside Markets are held by Avoca lake on the fourth Sunday of every month, with over 100 stalls as well as art workshops for the kids and live music.

The Central Coast plays host to the usual shopping centres, but also has some more unique offerings. Stores like La Bohème, Piccolo Pear, Tiki La La and Blonde Onyx will put a quirky spin on your holiday shopping experience.

Tipping is appreciated, but not expected in Australia.

Attire-wise, anything goes. Just make sure (particularly in the summer months) to wear sun safe clothes; a hat and some sunscreen will go a long way towards making your holiday happy and sunburn free.

Mains voltage in Australia is 230V AC, 50Hz. Use a two-pin (shaped like a “V”) or three-pin adaptor (different to British three-pin adaptors).

No special immunisations or vaccinations are required to visit Australia unless you have come from, or have visited, a yellow fever infected country within six days of your arrival. However, regulations and medical advice can change at short notice, so check with your doctor and the Australian Department of Health before you leave home.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Australian cities.

By and large, the Central Coast is considered a safe destination, although still exercise regular safety precautions as you would at home.

Be sure to stay vigilant around the beaches, not only with sunscreen but also watching your kids while they’re in the water. Educate your little ones about rips and remember that lifeguards are doing their best to watch everybody, but the beaches can be extremely crowded and you should never consider them your child’s babysitter!

Located within Brisbane Water National Park, Somersby Falls is an undiscovered gem just a short drive off the Pacific Highway. With waterfalls, swimming lagoons, picnic areas and walking trails, it’s the perfect stop off for families and a great place to snap a picture of the little ones splashing around.

This stretch of sand is a very popular surf spot for both beginners and experienced surfers, so parents can get a great action shot of little groms hitting the waves. Not only that, the beach itself is gorgeous and a great spot for fishing, hiking or just having a lazy Sunday breakfast overlooking the ocean.

Perhaps the single most Instagrammable attraction on the Central Coast, Norah Head Lighthouse has remained virtually untouched since it was built in 1903. Boasting incredible views over neighbouring Soldiers Beach and out to the ocean, you may even spot some whales from this vantage point if visiting at the right time of the year.