10 reasons to visit the Central Coast this Winter

The Central Coast is well known for its summer holiday destination vibes and it's easy to see why when the region is blessed with incredible coastlines and hidden beaches to explore, coastal towns to browse and not to mention the endless choice of water activities to keep you on your toes. However, as the temperature drops and winter season sets in, the Central Coast's wintry charm has to be embraced. From cosy fireside dinners for two, walks through autumnal meadows, early evening sunsets to admire, a chance to watch the humpback whales migrate and enjoy picking winter seasonal veggies, there is an abundance of activity to keep you busy.

Escape the winter blues and visit the Central Coast where you will find our eco destination waiting for you with its rich tapestry of things to do, try, see and experience during the cooler months. 

These are ten reasons to visit the Central Coast this winter and showcase the region is all its wintry glory. 

1. Just an hour’s drive north of Sydney

The Central Coast is just an hour’s drive north of Sydney. Whether you want to hike the walking tracks of the coastline, discover the secluded hinterland or just see what the area has to offer, it is all only an hour away from Sydney. Stay a day or make a weekend to remember.

2. Winter deals

Who doesn't like a good deal? Luckily our region's makers, creators, producers and vendors do too. We have collated a list of special money savings deals and coupons that can be used while you visit and stay on the coast. Take a peak, we think you'll be impressed. 

3. An abundance of cosy holiday properties

Keeping warm and snug while on the Central Coast is easy this winter with an abundance of beautiful holiday rentals available with all the creature comforts at your door. Choose from farms stays, glamping tents, coastal cottages, pet-friendly abodes, luxury hotels and boutique hinterland retreats. Whatever your preference you'll be spoilt for choice on your winter escape. 

4. The diverse landscapes of our National Parks

The Central Coast is lucky to have beautiful national parks scattered all over our region which feature a variety of rainforest, hinterland, waterfall and sandy beach landscapes that are ideal for hiking, swimming and fishing.

In the north, you will find Munmorah State Conservation Area where you can visit the secluded Frazer Beach and take in the spectacular views from Snapper Point and Wybung Head and Wyrrabalong National Park is another top spot where you can go surfing at Pelican Beach or hike one of the many scenic trails.  

In the south, you will find Brisbane Water National Park where you can check out Somersby Falls, hike the Girrakool Loop Track or embark on the Patonga to Pearl Beach Walk to experience some of the region’s most breathtaking views. Another southern gem is Bouddi National Park where the coastal walk will take you from Putty Beach to Macmasters Beach, enjoy its incredible scenery along the way including the turquoise blue waters of Maitland Bay and Little Beach.

Find a deeper cultural exchange when you explore your surroundings through the local eye of Aboriginal peoples. With Darkinjung Cultural Tours and Girri Girra Aboriginal Experiences you'll find guided tour experiences that range in nature by their locality and sites, but each taking you on a journey of their nation's timeless ancestral stories, smoking ceremonies, cultural singing and dancing that will engage and educate.

5. Perfect vantage points to watch the whales migrate

The Central Coast has many breathtaking lookouts that provide the perfect vantage point to watch the whales during their migration north for the winter, pack a picnic and spend hours gazing out over the ocean to catch a glimpse of one of these majestical creatures. Our top location picks to catch a glimpse are Pelican Beach Road Lookout, Captain Cook Lookout, Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve, Soldiers Beach Headland, Crackneck Lookout, The Skillion and Gerrin Point Lookout.

Opt for a different perspective from the water with Terrigal Ocean Tours . Enjoy a 40 to 60 minute cruise along the Central Coast beaches on a high performance Eco Tour vessel. Learn about the spectacular humpback whale migration from May to November with a marine biologist and you may be lucky enough to see the breeching mammals. Then, enjoy a few thrills on a high speed run back to the Haven.

6. Hinterland wonderland

Take the scenic way through the Central Coast hinterland and enjoy country escapes by the coastline. With a treasure trove of charming towns to explore such as Kulnura and Dooralong and farms teeming with fruit picking and farm encounters, you'll be forgiven for feeling like this traditional beach destination has been kept secret from you. Stay the night in our beautiful Hinterland region, enjoy a winter warming meal in one of the many unique restaurants or get on your walking boots and enjoy a spot of bushwalking. 

7. Winter warming dining

The Coast's restaurant and cafe scene is buzzing and we are lucky enough to be blessed with a huge range of eateries offering a wide range of tasty cuisines. Supporting our local growers and producers is big business and the local chefs make it their business to use local seasonal produce in their dishes, so you really are eating fresh. From breakfast to brunch, long lunches to hearty evening dinners, the dining options on the Central Coast are vast. With new restaurants openings and pop-up bars appearing, winter menus are in abundance as the days get shorter and nights get colder, but one thing is for sure, the quality of the food is still second to none. 

8. Outdoor adventures to keep you toasty

The Central Coast landscape provides a playground for outdoor adventures and after living with restrictions for the past two months, now is the time to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy some thrill-seeking fun.

Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures is open for business with abseiling, quad biking, kayaking, horse trail rides and horse-riding lessons. Plan and book to avoid disappointment.

Soar through the Ourimbah State Forest on flying foxes and walk between trees on suspension bridges at TreeTop Adventure Park. Enjoy the rush of gliding past the ground the below or tackling the rope swings ahead. A fun activity to get the heart pumping and adherline rushing.

The waterways of the Central Coast offer pristine conditions for kayaking and stand up paddleboarding. Tuggerah Lakes in the north of the region offers many launch points, but Canton Beach and Long Jetty Foreshore are ideal. Brisbane Water in the south again has many launch points, but Ettalong Beach and Hardys Bay are our picks. Patonga Beach Foreshore is another great spot for calm conditions.

If mountain biking is your go-to for your outdoor adventure fix, Central Coast Mountain Bike Tours operate tours in Ourimbah State Forest and other landmark locations across the region.

9. See, taste and feel the creations of our local artisan producers, makers and creators

A visit to the Central Coast is not complete without treating your tastebuds to some of the regions fine locally-produced goods.

Little Creek Cheese is an award-winning, handmade gourmet cheese factory in Wyong and a visit is an absolute must if you are a lover of cheese. Whilst you are there, head next door to Luka Chocolates for handmade artisan Belgian chocolates.

If gin is your weakness, then Distillery Botanica is the place to go. Head over to the boutique gin distillery that makes the multi-award-winning Moore’s Gin. Pop in for a taste test of their gin and liqueurs and take a taste of the Central Coast home with you.

The Central Coast is home to several craft breweries. Six String Brewing Co., Bay Rd Brewing and Block’n Tackle Brewery are local craft brewers. Botanical wine from Firescreek Winery is another tempting stop, housed in an incredibly pretty cellar door location in Holgate, stroll through the beautiful gardens in the Central Coast’s hinterland. 

The Central Coast makers and creators including our vibrant live music scene regularly gather for festival extravaganzas with some of the biggest annual events on the calendar being in Winter including the Harvest Festival. 

The Central Coast landscape and lifestyle have inspired artisans of all disciplines to explore their craft and follow their passion. Enjoy the riches of their talent by visiting art galleries around the Coast; food and art can fill a rainy day. 

For your monthly opportunity to meet our makers and creators and enjoy local musicians you can also pencil in Avoca Beach Markets for a visit on the fourth Sunday of each month.     

10. Golden sandy beaches all year round

Enjoy the tranquillity of our regions stunning coastline and beaches all year around. If taking a dip or going for a surf isn't your thing during the wintery months, a walk on the beach with the cool water around your toes will keep those winter blues at bay.

The good swell conditions for surfers are more consistent during the cooler months when the Coast's iconic surf breaks are less crowded. Some of the favourite spots amongst locals are Soldiers, North Shelly, Forresters and Avoca beaches.

If you enjoy those long walks on the beach, feeling the sand between your toes and hearing the sound of crashing waves then Budgewoi, North Entrance, Wamberal and Umina Beaches are all perfect options. .Don't forget your four legged friend, these beaches are dog friendly allowing your pooch to run around off the lead and enjoy the sand between their paws.  

Kids will love a splash in the rockpools on those warmer winter days as parents soak up the gorgeous rays of the sun. Norah Head, Avoca Beach and Macmaster Beach all have shallow pools perfect for the little ones to explore.

If you are wanting to head to some of the lesser-known beaches, visit Tallow Beach, Lobster Beach and Cabbage Tree Harbour which are some local secret spots.