20 free things to do on the Central Coast
Escaping to NSW Central Coast for a holiday or weekend break doesn’t mean you have to have a big budget.
So many of the Central Coast’s highlights are free. From exploring the great outdoors and galleries indoors, here are 20 free things to do that won't send you bankrupt.
1. Pelican Time, The Entrance
An eco-friendly educational talk that gives locals and guests a unique insight into one of the region’s special birds, the Pelican. Experience them in their nature environment while learning about pelicans from trained volunteers.
Cost: Free, afterwards take a ride on the historic carousel that has stood at the water's edge since 1930.
2. Terrigal Boardwalk, Terrigal
This iconic architectural structure, established in 2021, offers an accessible wooden boardwalk that stretches over crashing waves from Terrigal’s main street to The Haven and The Skillion. Hugging the cliff face and stretching out into the ocean below, the 277 metre long wooden walking platform takes you to the vibrant esplanade one end or The Haven the other end.
Cost: Free and pocket change will buy you a barista coffee at the start of each end of the boardwalk.
3. The Skillion, Terrigal
Sitting 132 metres above sea level, the Terrigal Skillion offers accessible access via stairs to a breathtaking panoramic lookout. With views of the coastline you can catch glimpses of Avoca Beach and Wyrrabalong National Park. It's a favourite for both locals and visitors, and a great vantage point for spotting whales during their migration season.
Cost: Free, and don't forget your binoculars!
Norah head Lighthouse
Image Credit: Remy Brand x Destination Central Coast
Image Credit: Remy Brand x Destination Central Coast
Long Jetty's Jetty
Image Credit: James Vodicka
Image Credit: James Vodicka
4. Norah Head Lighthouse, Norah head
Standing tall on a rocky outcrop since 1903, heritage listed Norah Head Lighthouse has been a beacon for ships and offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Follow the walking around the lighthouse that leads to the stairs to scend down the rock platform and beach.
Cost: Free or take a tour of the working lighthouse
5. The Long Jetty, Long Jetty
Long Jetty is home to one of the Central Coast iconic landmarks. Built in 1915, The Long Jetty is the longest jetty in NSW that reaches 351m into the shallow waters of Tuggerah Lake. A picturesque place to take some beautiful photos at sunset and spot wetland wildlife.
Cost: Free, then walk into the town to browse the eclectic array of shops.
6. Long Jetty Mural, Long Jetty
Capture a colourful photograph of yourself in front of the vibrant ‘Long Jetty’ mural, it's an essential part of the Long Jetty experience. Painted by local artist Brent Smith in 2024 this mural is extremely Insta-worthy showcasing iconic features of Long Jetty.
Cost: Free leaving you to spend money supporting local makers and creators at the nearby markets.
Grant McBride Ocean Baths
Crackneck Lookout
Image Credit: John Spencer
Image Credit: John Spencer
7. Grant McBride Baths, The Entrance
These heritage listed historic ocean baths actually started as a basic rook pool and received a gradual makeover. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the 50 metre Olympic lap pool, 22 metre pool or wading pool. The baths are open to the public, have a lifeguard on duty all year round and offer a safe place to swim and relax while enjoying the beauty of the coastline.
Cost: Free to use, then head into The Entrance to treat yourself to a tasty gelato.
8. Gosford Regional Gallery and Edogawa Gardens, East Gosford
The Gosford Regional Gallery host a wide array of local, national and international art exhibitions from emerging and established artists. Continue outside to Edogawa Gardens that offers a peaceful, Japanese-inspired retreat. Together, they make for a relaxing day out in the heart of Gosford.
Cost: Free so you can save your money for fish food to fee to Koi in the Japanese Friendship Gardens
9. Wyrrabalong Crackneck to Forresters Walk
The 1.5km coastal walk provides stunning views of the ocean and is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Grab your binoculars and have your keen eyes ready to spot the mighty Humpback and Southern Right whales as they make their annual migration. The ‘humpback highway’ is a must see experience happening between May and November every year.
Cost: Free, take a moment to capture the scenic views and serenity.
Saddles
Image Credit: James Vodicka x Destination Central Coast
Image Credit: James Vodicka x Destination Central Coast
Bouddi National Park
Image Credit: Bowie Brown Photography x Destination Central Coast
Image Credit: Bowie Brown Photography x Destination Central Coast
10. Coast to Lake Walk, The Entrance
This scenic self guided walk connects the coastline to the tranquil lakeside, offering views of both the ocean and serene waterways. The 7.6km walk is divided into 4 sections and takes you past beaches, lookout, oceans baths and cafes.
Cost: Free, enjoy a light lunch in one of the cafes you pass.
11. Bouddi National Park Walk
On the Central Coast, nature is your treadmill and Bouddi National Park is a great excuse to exercise outdoors. The coastal national park features walking trails, boardwalks and offers diverse landscapes.
Cost: Free, and for a few dollars spend the night at Putt Beach campground. a top spot for fishing and swimming.
12. Tourist Drive 33
Tourist Drive 33 offers a scenic journey through the lush hinterland, with charming rural towns and peaceful countryside views. From pecan forests to emerald pools, fine food delis to the destination's ECO-Certified nature retreat, you'll discover a difference side to our region here.
Cost: Free. Stop by a hinterland farm gate to pick your own lunch.
Glenworth Valley
Image Credit: Remy Brand x Destination Central Coast
Image Credit: Remy Brand x Destination Central Coast
Strickland State Forest
Image Credit: Isaac Tseng x Destination Central Coast
Image Credit: Isaac Tseng x Destination Central Coast
13. Running of the Horses, Glenworth Valley
Witness the spectacular sight of 250 resident horses running through the Glenworth Valley. The Running of the Horses event is held daily at approximately 4:30pm as the horses are mustered out of the horse riding yards.
Cost: Free, with savings book a guided horse riding tour through rainforests, rock pools and native bushland.
14. Strickland State Forest Swing Bridge, Somersby
The swing bridge in Strickland State Forest is a unique feature that lets visitors experience the forest canopy up close. Follow the Arboretum Track, an easy 2.3km loop and experience streams, waterfalls, native plantations, wildlife and rainforest on your way to the suspension bridge.
Cost: Free, dogs are welcome so bring your furry friend for a bushwalk too!
15. Bulgandry Art Site Aboriginal Place, Kariong
Bulgandry Art Site is a culturally significant Aboriginal site in Brisbane Water National Park with ancient rock engravings. It offers an opportunity to connect with the region’s Indigenous heritage while enjoying scenic views.
Cost: Free
Emerald Pool
Image credit: James Vodicka X Destination Central Coast
Image credit: James Vodicka X Destination Central Coast
Somersby Falls
16. Piles Creek, Somersby
Hike through eucalypt forest at Piles Creek, pass through stunning waterfalls and a suspension bridge crossing. Take a moment to explore this quiet, peaceful spot, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of nature.
Cost: Free, finish with a BBQ at the picnic area at Girrakool loop track.
17. Emerald Pool, Glenworth Valley
Go for a wild swim in Emerald Pool, a natural secluded pool that is nestled in the lush bushland of Popran National Park. This quiet spot offers a serene and refreshing swimming experience in emerald waters surrounded by rocks and ferns. Your own little oasis.
Cost: Free, take plenty of water and don't forget your camera to capture magical memories.
18. Somersby Falls, Somersby
Somersby Falls is a series of three tranquil cascading waterfalls in Brisbane Waters National Park surrounded by accessible walking tracks and lush rainforest. Bring a picnic and make use of the free barbecues and picnic tables, or there is plenty of space to set up your own rug and chairs.
Cost: Free, but park entry fees apply.
One of the Central Coast's 40 beaches
Image credit: James Vodicka X Destination Central Coast
Image credit: James Vodicka X Destination Central Coast
Great North Road
Image Credit: James Vodicka X Destination Central Coast
Image Credit: James Vodicka X Destination Central Coast
19. World Heritage Old Great North Road
Built by convicts between 1826 and 1836, The Old Great North Road in Dharug National Park is one of the oldest roads in Australia. Overlooking the Hawkesbury River, the historic route offers a glimpse into the past from carvings in the rock face and the craftmanship of beautifully carved stonework. Hike along the road marvelling at the stunning scenery along the way.
Cost: Free, bring a picnic to enjoy and soak up the scenic river views.
20. Norah Head National Surfing Reserve, Norah Head
Being the first National Surfing Reserve on the Central Coast, this small and unique strip of coastline between Hargraves Beach and Pelican Point features at least: nine beach breaks, two point breaks, three bomboras and two reef breaks. These unspoiled breaks offer world-class surfable options in all wave and wind conditions.
Bonus. Recharge at the beach
Lay your towel down on one of the 40 beaches in the region, many lined with wild national parks, panoramic lookouts or chic beachfront dining. From swimming and surfing to paddling and walking, there is nothing better than feeling the sand between your toes.
Cost: free, and with the savings, refuel with freshly cooked fish and chips for a lunchtime treat.
*We recommend swimming at patrolled beaches between the flags in the summer months and in the ocean pools during in the winter months where there are lifeguards*