4 Fresh Finds on the Central Coast March 2023

With the Central Coast's newly celebrated status as a certified ECO Destination, our first year as a Finalist in the National Banksia Sustainability Awards, a second year running in the global Green Destinations Top 100 List, and recognition as an Outstanding Region in Australia's most prestigious food award...

...There's many exciting natural, culinary, creative and cultural experiences emerging across the region in 2023!

With more than 40 beaches to wade into, a network of wildlife-rich lakes, lagoons and waterways for the aqua-enthusiast, five national parks and five state forests with walking and cycle trails, seaside villages dotted with casually-cool dining and al fresco bars, a produce-rich hinterland and variety of accommodation styles from holiday properties, hotel resorts, tiny homes and boutique stays. There is just SO MUCH to choose from when exploring the Central Coast right now.

We've simplified your research and each month your planning can start with 4 fresh experiences. Take your pick of what’s new below to dot your Autumn calendar with the best places to enjoy something different on the Central Coast.

Chocolate lovers your date night is about to get sweeter! Bring your someone special or a group of friends and spend 3 hours at The Factory’s new Adult Chocolate Making Workshop in Gosford.  

Enjoy the art of creating with chocolate, it’s a skill that the world class chocolatier will teach you during the evening. Learn how to temper chocolate using it to make two varieties of bonbons with your choice of molds, chocolate and fillings. Decorate decadent truffles with chocolate drizzle while letting your inner chocolatier run wild!

These heavenly workshops start at 6pm each Friday and you will be provided with everything you need. Be prepared to immerse yourself in the world of chocolate and appreciate how unique each bonbon is you make. There will be a break to enjoy some non-chocolate finger food and wine while examining your masterpieces.

Take home your box of chocolatey delights or give them as a gift. Booking is essential for this yummy workshop.

Explore more things to do on the Central Coast here

With a décor of natural stone, textured wall and arched enclaves you would be forgiven to think you had escaped to the Mediterranean. Alas Lago Cucina is Budgewoi’s newest contemporary Italian inspired restaurant, nestled upstairs on level 1 of the recently renovated Budgewoi Hotel.

With a menu of bold flavours and classic favourites plus a cocktail list to capture the essence of the Southern European coastline you will feel like you are on a truly relaxing holiday as soon as you step inside the trattoria.  Lago Cucina meaning Kitchen by the Lake, offers glimpses of the nearby by lake and a dining experience that will be well remembered.

Diners can enjoy antipasti and sharing plates, classic wood fired pizza and delectable deserts. The restaurant is open from Wednesday to Saturday from 6pm-11pm and on Sundays from 12pm-10pm. Be sure to book this unique and beautifully designed eatery.

Explore more places to eat & drink across the Central Coast here

Mia McLean is a watercolour from the Central Coast and owner of Salty Art Gallery in Ettalong Beach. Her coastal works encapsulate the beauty and complexity of sea life along our region’s coastline. Painting marine life and whimsical ocean scenes, Mia recreates Australia’s incredible natural ecosystem to raise awareness for the conservation and environmental changes these venerable animals and flora face.

This celebrated local artist has had her stunning watercolours exhibited in many exhibitions on the Central Coast and around Australia. BIOPAK featured her Green Sea Turtle in their 2019 Biocup Art Series and most recently House and Garden Magazine recognised her artworks when she appeared as a featured artist.

Salty Workshops are available throughout the year introducing students to watercolour techniques, application, blending, pigment density and studying nature to create a take home piece of art. With no experience necessary, Mia’s 3 hour workshops create a safe space to experiment and enjoy the creative process.

Her original works are available to purchase from her gallery as well as online.

Explore more makers & creators on the Central Coast here

Opened just in time for Easter, the Ocean Beach Holiday Resorts at Umina Beach, newest glamping accommodation is now taking bookings. With the trend of tiny homes now very much part of our lives, the ‘Glamtainer’ offers campers class and style while being surrounded by nature. Coming with an industrial modern décor, the renovated container evokes luxury without taking up a large footprint. However, don’t let the words container or tiny home unnerve you, with two spacious bedrooms, an up-market bathroom, modern kitchenette and roomy lounge room, these rentals will be very popular with families and couples.

After a day exploring Mount Ettalong Lookout, Umina Beach markets or the many cafes and bars in town, sit under the stars in the evening, listening to the waves lapping onto the nearby beach and enjoy cooking a BBQ on the outdoor deck.  The ‘Glamtainer’ brings a slick and new meaning to glamping which we are sure will convert the non-campers among you.

Booking can be made directly on Ocean Beach Holiday Resorts website.

Explore more places to stay on the Central Coast here