The Central Coast's world of pearls & oysters

Discover a hidden world of oysters and pearls in the heart of the Central Coast's stunning waterways

With a region filled with bays, lakes, rivers, and estuaries, it’s no surprise that the NSW Central Coast’s waterways are brimming with wondrous marine wildlife, working together to create their own perfect ecosystem. On the cusp of the region, the mighty Hawkesbury River and Broken Bay hide their own little gem deep within its waters, an abundant world of pearls and oysters.

Only a water world away...

Two hands holding an oyster with a pearl
The Broken Bay Akoya Pearl Oyster

A rare delicacy growing in our very own waters

For the past 20 years, a new, and rare species of pearl oyster has quietly been growing deep throughout Brisbane Waters and the lower Hawkesbury River - the Broken Bay Akoya pearl oyster.

Operating from Broken Bay Pearl Farm in Mooney Mooney Creek, this newest seafood delicacy has quickly become a favourite amongst premium fine-dining restaurants across New South Wales, offering its own unique flavour profile, likened to the subtle ‘Pearl Meat’* (from Broome) with a distinct briny flavour from the sea that comes from a classic oyster.

Uncover how Broken Bay Pearl Farm, New South Wales only pearl producer operating out of the historic oyster farming heartland on the Central Coast, has farmed this rare delicacy.

Discover where to find the freshest oysters

Searching for a spot to get your next oyster fix? The Central Coast is teeming with restaurants and bars, serving up freshly shucked oysters. Whether you like them natural, Kilpatrick or with a fresh and zingy topper, here's a selection of local hotspots to taste these foodie delights.

Sustaining our waters, one oyster at a time

Not just a delicacy, oysters are champions of sustainability and vital to keeping our waterways clean. Oysters are the kidneys of the ocean and ultimate carbon sequesters, filtering up to 150 litres of seawater in a single day and removing pollutants and excess carbon dioxide from the ocean.

Beyond their environmental contribution, oyster farming is one of the most sustainable aquaculture farming practices. To grow, oysters require no additional feeding and draw their nutrients from the surrounding environment, therefore enhancing our precious ecosystems and keeping them clean. 

 

Two hands holding a handful of young oysters
NSW's first ECO Certified oyster farm
In a state-wide first, the Central Coast's own Sydney Oyster Farm Tours have become the first ECO Certified oyster farm through peak body Ecotourism Australia. Learn about how this family-owned oyster farm are offering unique culinary experiences, with sustainability at the forefront.

A hand chucking an oyster
Hand-shucking a fresh oyster from Sydney Oyster Farm Tours

Indulge in the freshest foodie events on the Coast

Unite with oyster lovers in November at the annual Brisbane Water Oyster Festival. Discover the freshest oysters direct from local growers and see Lions Park at Woy Woy come alive with stalls boasting amazing food, live music and the freshest seafood from across the region.