3 Days of relaxation on the Coast

Sometimes all it takes is a few days to reset mind and body. Spend three days slowing down a notch or two on the beautiful Central Coast with this relaxing itinerary.

Blow away the cobwebs with a barefoot stroll along the protected waters of Toowoon Bay before taking a dip with the locals. Connected to Shelly Beach’s northern end and curvaceous neighbour Blue Bay, Toowoon Bay’s languid waters beckon for a dip, stand up paddleboard or snorkel around the rocks.

Dust off your sandy feet and either make for Toowoon Bay Village’s sweet cluster of shops or Long Jetty’s bustling café strip. Pop into Flour and Co, a much-loved family-run bakery and café or have coffee with the locals at the trendy Mr Sha Sha's with its coastal decor and laid going vibes. Cross the road for bakery cum café at the Green Tangerine serving up fabulous coffee and house made goods.

Lose the crowds at the northern end of the Central Coast, known as the Peninsula where the beautiful Bouddi National Park beckons with its coastal walks and secluded, unspoiled beaches. From the Marie Byles Lookout you can see all the way to Bondi while Palm Beach feels so close you could reach out and touch it. Tackle the 8km Bouddi Coastal Walk stretching all the way from Putty Beach to Macmasters Beach, diving in for a refreshing swim at walk’s end.

Far from the madding crowds is the secluded Lobster Beach fringed by towering bushland reached along the Flannel Flower Walking Track. If you happen to visit midweek you may find yourself completely alone on this beguiling stretch of sand gently lapped by waves. Access is via a set of stairs or by boat. Bring your snorkel gear.

Reward yourself with an old school sausage roll at The Fat Goose bakery or have coffee overlooking the sparkling bay at Hardys Bay Bistro, a local favourite.

Veer away from the coast for the hinterland where you can shower under a waterfall or do yoga in verdant gardens. Make the renowned Somerby Falls located in Brisbane Water National Park (not far from Gosford) your first stop. Rock hop across mossy platforms and wash stress away showering beneath cascading water. Trails follow the falls from top to bottom (take care as stairs can be slippery especially after heavy rain).

Enjoy a picnic afterwards with the scrub turkeys or make for Bamboo Buddha for sound healing, yoga and beautiful vegan food in a tranquil Balinese-style garden.