Arise bright and early with a stroll along the waterfront soaking up the view with a seat at Tommy's Cafe. Located right across from the bay, this is an ideal place to fuel up with pancakes, mushrooms on toast, avo smash, fresh juices and more, served in the leafy surrounds of their outdoor terrace.

Dive into outdoor swimming for a refreshing start to your morning. This 50m Olympic sized pool is heated and open as early as 5am weekdays and 7-8am on weekends. If you're travelling as a group, there's plenty of room to chill and watch from the grandstands, cheering on the keen members your "team" as they try to perfect their breaststroke.

Once you've showered off from your laps, venture just outside Gosford Swimming Pool to find Eat Street Cafe, a local staple for grabbing an easy lunch by Gosford waterfront. Whether you crave sweet or savoury, this spot will cater to it with hotdogs, pizza, pies, gourmet doughnuts, icecream and much more. Enjoy as an al fresco picnic by the waterside.

With one of the best locations on the waterfront, the Gosford Sailing Club is the place to be to observe sailors taking an afternoon jaunt on the water each Wednesday. During daylight savings, catch this picturesque event from 5:30pm, which starts and finishes in front of the Club. During summertime, yacht racing is also held on the first and third Tuesdays of the month in Dragon Force 65 boats. Find a spot on the sunny deck with a drink and enjoy!

Get ready for a colourful evening of fun and belly aching laughs at Gosford's FunHaus Factory. Enjoy an immersive and live cabaret act with a vibrancy and wit, that will excite your senses while you feast on freshly made burgers from Beau's Burgers. Stay for a drink and meet the locals afterwards. 

This one is for the real hole food lovers! Explore their exquisitely sweet range of fresh doughies, from maple bacon donuts to crackable creme brulee donuts with a hard sugar top. You won't know where to point the camera at this much-loved foodie hot spot, so best to simply grab a box featuring one of everything.

Hum along if you know the theme tune! Crazy Shakes are a Central Coast classic, so a pit-stop to see the menu is essential for foodie tourists. The flavours and colourful shakes live up to their name, enjoyed in the 1890s heritage listed building. Don't miss their loaded waffles, which are out of this world.

Known for their woodfire pizza, which is as good as it is long! You might need more than one photo (or friend) to fit the whole pizza in shot, but this local gem in Wyong's charming gallery precinct is the only place on the Coast to experience an entire metre of delicious, authentic Italian pizza! Grab a pic to show you've conquered all 100cm.

Described as "some of the best gelato in NSW", this is handmade goodness at its finest. Served from a vintage ice cream truck or classic gelato bikes (totally photogenetic in their own rights), this luscious gelato is also a perfect wedding dessert making for Insta-worthy photos to treasure for years to come.

With over 100,000 servings sold of their famous Spaghetti Cacio E Pepe, you know you're onto a good thing at this pasta bar. Tucked in an ambient, dimly-lit Erina arcade, the ambience is very Italian-esque. Choose a bar seat to enjoy fresh olives and their house red while you chat to Remy for recommendations. 

This Terrigal mainstay is a must for any icecream enthusiast. Their photogenic 'Sink Challenge' is reserved for the brave (or hungry). Visit for a dose of nostalgia, and take away your choice of scoops, not forgetting to grab a photo of your colourful cone against the classic blue-white-striped wall from yesteryear.

Experience the Willy Wonka-esque vibes of Bouffant in one of Gosford city’s heritage listed buildings. This place has lines of fresh pastries for days and the pinkest pastel walls, making a perfect backdrop to savour the the sweetest of moments. Go for the signature 'bouffant' namesake. Find Bouffant bakeries across the Central Coast at Gosford, Terrigal, Umina and East Gosford.

Enhance your exotic experience with one of Bali’s most famous exports – the smoothie bowl – enjoyed at the Kincumber, Terrigal and Long Jetty. Deliciously healthy and totally photogenic plant-based smoothies and bowls in a beautiful coastal locale = paradise! 

A visit to the seaside suburb of Terrigal is not complete without an obligatory rooftop cocktail on the Mumbo Jumbos balcony. Snap the tropical island vibes under your own umbrella with their island-style decor and the sandy shore in the background.

Working on the Central Coast, Sydney and Newcastle, Xanthe Highfield is a design and interiors creator. As a designer and stylist for over a decade, Xanthe's passion is to create functional, inspired spaces that bring people together - and then transport them somewhere else entirely! As a local creator, she's helping bring to life many exciting new spaces across the region, which you can experience on this designer trail.

Owners of both Sounds on West at Ettalong and Erina's tap room Six Strings Brewing wanted to extend their range of locally brewed beers into a restaurant space focused on smoked meats. Sounds on West is masculine in design, with an intimate warmth for evening sessions. The bar is handmade from hardwood timber, a vintage-industrial theme continued through distressed brickwork, low lighting, and brown leather upholstery. 

Xanthe designed the modern-look Woy Woy Fishermen's Wharf in collaboration with the Cregan Clayton family, owners since 1974. The design links to the natural waterways and mangroves, creating a fresh, simple interior. Check out the floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Brisbane Waters, and the custom-made, four metre-long traditional Indigenous fishing trap suspended from the restaurant ceiling.

Your visit to the south end of Gosford should include a stop at this fresh social haunt hiding among pristine, new office blocks and a Heritage-listed building. Built as part of a new development in Gosford CBD, South End Social was designed with the themes of the Australian coast meets the Amalfi coast. Featuring soft, modern finishes in a lush, contemporary setting, this diner and bar is a perfect addition to the burgeoning Central Coast food and drink scene.

Set in a quaint garden mud hut on the grounds of Erina's Distillery Botanica, this dreamy space is the brainchild of Dan and Julia from Mr Goaty Gelato. The gelato counter is designed to fit as an organic shape, seamlessly integrating into the curved building. Using natural materials and neutral tones, the goal was to reflect the delicious garden-to-plate menu, making visitors feel at one with nature.

An edgy, fun fit-out in a new development project at Wamberal. Glow Beauty Space is all about 'welcoming luxury', with haircuts, beauty treatments, pampering and even goodies from the nearby cafe. The design heroes warm, pastel pink tones set against brushed brass and Tasmanian oak. The custom-built counter is made by locals Loughlin Furniture, with salon artworks by Vicky Lee, both highlights of this luxe space.

Designed in collaboration with Always Studio and Trent Whitehead, Terrigal's Bellyfish Cafe offers the perfect moment of escapism. Located on a prominent beachside strip, this is the place to enjoy early morning ocean breezes with coffee. The space captures a unique street vibe with a coastal context, with these incredibly quirky murals, this is a place to have fun. 

Motel Mezza, in historic Wyong (Previously Common Ground Wyong), is the sister venue of Pinocchio’s Wine Bar in Gosford. Based in a historic bank built in the 1920s, when dairy was a king industry here, the design includes wealthy status symbols such as brass, dark timber and marble finishes. The regal space harks back to patrons of yesteryear while offering new visitors that signature feeling of quality with a modern decor. 

Early birds can head to this pretty as a picture seaside cafe on Ocean View Road, open early every day of the week. Serving all your coffee, cake or avo smash needs, there's plenty of tables inside and out in their garden terrace, with a menu boasting specialities such as lemon French toast and salty coast fries. Grab a sweet takeaway treat for your onward journey.

Head just down the street from your morning cafe, toward Booker Bay, to find Anderson's Boatshed, a local favourite for hiring watercrafts. Choose your adventure on Brisbane Water: explore on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or book a BBQ Boat and drop anchor in a local bay to enjoy the serenity of being surrounded by crystal clear water you can dive into.

Treat yourself to a wholesome lunch to make you feel good inside and out at Inner Glow Kiosk. Designed as a walk-in juice bar meets cafe, this charming little foodie stop is just the ticket for eating fresh fruit, juice, yoghurt or salad and will set a positively good tone for your afternoon ahead.

Choose an entry point into the Galleria Ettalong, a Mediterranean-inspired collection of shops, markets, bars and restaurants. There's even a quaint arthouse cinema tucked inside this fascinating complex. Wander through its eclectic shops and vintage bookstores, or venture to neighbouring home and fashion boutiques Salmon & Co. and Amour Loves Fashion.

For a Peninsula dinner to remember - dine at Safran, within the Galleria. Headed up by seasoned chef Sulo, who brings colourful culinary flavours from his home by the Black Sea, you will experience exceptional contemporary Turkish cuisine at one of the Central Coast's hatted restaurants. There are set menus available with wine pairings and the presentation is a photographer's delight.

Time to chill with a bar-side bite. The vibe at Bar Toto is lively and the cocktail menu is exciting. From an Oscar's Wild to a Cherry Poppins, the creative influence goes far beyond the glass! Choose your poison and pair it with one of their delicious antipasti, which includes cured meats, cheeses and some of the Coast's most popular arancini balls.

Stay in little Italy, also known as the Galleria at Ettalong Beach. Surrounded by Roman-esque courtyards, sculptures and dramatic oil paintings, you experience all the ambience of a Mediterranean village in a beautiful, boutique room just two minutes walk from the ocean, with Ettalong's most popular shops, cafes and restaurants on your doorstep.

Kick start your day with an exceptional morning brew at punk-pink cafe Lords of Pour, right next door to The Galleria market precinct. Any little ones present will love their delicious smoothies or cold-pressed juices, while seasoned brunchers can enjoy their classy breakfast roll selections or fresh pastries and whopper slices of homemade cake.

The best way to explore Ettalong's foreshore is by bike. Hire one easily with Boomerang Bikes of Ettalong and peddle along The Esplanade as far as neighbouring Umina Beach. You will find bikes ready for hire on the corner of Beach Street and The Esplanade, opposite The Box on the Water café, just behind Ettalong Diggers (with handy locks and helmets available at their reception).  

Within The Galleria precinct at Ettalong, follow your nose to find scrumptious baked goods at RISE Artisan Bakery. With every pastry treat baked fresh in the morning, you will feel like you're strolling a European city, and can even grab some exceptionally handmade sourdough to take home with you.

What is a seaside escape without a day spa experience weaved in? Within the large resort building of Ettalong Diggers, you'll find Mantra - Ettalong’s Advanced Skin Spa. The therapists offer a variety of facial, body and massage treatments including the popular Slow Flow Massage, that chimes perfectly with the calming vibes of this town.

Arguably in one of the best waterfront spots on the Peninsula, The Box on the Water is part daytime beach kiosk cafe and part evening restaurant with smart-casual dining. From local tap beers and refreshing afternoon Aperols alongside modern Australian cuisine, this is a fine spot to enjoy a sundowner in style peering across Broken Bay.

You can't get much more convenient than landing a room at modern accommodation right opposite the beach. Mantra Ettalong Beach combines Broken Bay views with the relaxed atmosphere of this friendly seaside village. There's even a pool that looks out onto the ocean, and rooms are available with spa baths to complete your luxury experience.

Start your day with a smile at this friendly, peek-a-boo roadside café. Rise Mofo delivers a fresh, simple menu with a chance to grab an Instagram-worthy photo in front of their stunning colourful wall mural.  

A short distance from the main street of Toukley, over the bridge in Gorokan, you'll find Wallarah Point Peace Park on the edge of Tuggerah Lake. Peaceful, scenic and shady, it's perfect for picnics, pelican spotting - and for the little ones there's unlimited rides down the colourful double storey rainbow slide!

No visit to the Central Coast is complete without browsing some modern coastal home interior boutiques. In this northern reach of the region you'll find Coastal Road, a light and airy shopfront by the lake with a range of curated wares celebrating all that is charming about life by the sea. Pick up a souvenir to bring your holiday home with you.

The food scene continues to heat up in Toukley, with the addition of this authentic Mexican cantina, inspired by the vibrancy of eateries in the Baja Peninsula region. Located right in the centre of town, Mexicoast makes for a colourful lunch stop, serving jalapeno poppers, charred corn on the cob, street quesadillas and caramel-filled churros.

Toukley Village Green is now home to the Gallery Container which houses local artist in residence display their stunning artwork. Pop in and browse the exhibition space, immerse yourself in the installations, chat to the artist and stay for an engaging workshop or talk. The artists rotate every 3 months, so there is always something new and creative to discover.

Work up your appetite by fishing, water-skiing, wind-surfing, SUPing, canoeing or kayaking on the lake, or simply exploring the picturesque foreshore on foot. Refuel for the evening at Hart & Soul Bar and Grill and sip on delightful cocktails. A perfect location to relax, have fun and eat delicious fresh food. 

Canton Beach Holiday Park is the perfect, family-friendly place to rest your head for the evening. Just a few streets from Toukley's Main Road you'lll find the modest suburb of Canton Beach, with your accommodation surrounded by a vast array of native flora and fauna thanks to the wetland waterways and Wyrrabalong National Park just around the corner.

Your first stop for the day is to Island Café in Norah Head. Locally renowned for excellent coffee & food, it's the perfect place to start the day right by fuelling yourself up with a delicious breakfast. Enjoy the relaxed coastal vibes and treat yourself to zucchini fritters or a mouth-watering granola bowl. 

If you love discovering beachy boutiques full of quaint and unique clothing, accessories & homewares, this next stop is for you! Yasmin Starkey started Frankie Lifestyle in 2016, especially for the females who love a relaxed coastal lifestyle. From beautiful handcrafted jewellery to flowy beach dresses, Frankie Lifestyle showcases many unique Aussie brands allowing you to look fantastic while supporting the local economy! 

After shopping up a storm, it's time to explore the beautiful Norah Head scenery! The Norah Head Lighthouse walk showcases some of the most picturesque sights on the Coast. The whole walk will take you around one hour in total to complete and is a relatively easy walking track, so you won't require a high level of fitness. To begin the walk, park your car at Bush St Reserve (near the intersection with Young St) and look for the information board; this is where the track begins.

After soaking up the stunning scenery, you'll be ready for lunch, and your next stop certainly won't disappoint. Johnny Tapas is a fun and stylish space for you to enjoy delicious food, excellent cocktails and have a great time. From wood-fired pizzas and spicy margaritas to fried cauliflower, Johnny Tapas has an ever-changing menu full of exciting flavours and options that will blow your mind.

Your next stop will provide all the overseas holiday vibes without needing a passport. The Beachie is a slice of paradise located on beautiful Budgewoi Lake. Boasting a Hampton style ambience and situated right on the water, you'll feel instantly relaxed upon arrival. Check-in, order a cocktail from the luxurious poolside bar and enjoy the sunset. If you dine here, the Baja fish tacos are amazingly delicious!

One of the best ways to approach this town is by driving down the scenic Woy Woy Road and taking a worthy stop at Staples Lookout to see the Central Coast open up before you at sunrise. The name ‘woy woy’ originates from the Guringgai language, meaning ‘much water’ or ‘big lagoon’. Take a moment to stop at the nearby Bulgandry Aboriginal Engraving Site as well.

By now you’ve worked up an appetite and it’s time to feed your soul from a selection of fresh juices, smoothies and healthy brunch essentials at Gnostic Mana Café – home of the all-day breakfast. Enjoy certified organic coffee with milk chocolate and dried fruit notes, and colourful veggie, vegan and gluten free options that will leave you satisfied and ready to explore.

Shop the Gnostic Corner for all things health, wellness, fashion and homewares. This local co-operative has 9 unique shopfronts in the one spot that each sell fair-trade goodies, fresh flowers, crystals, ethical clothing and new age books. For something different - check out their weekly event calendar to try hypnotherapy, yoga or visit their apothecary.

Fishermen’s Wharf is an award-winning Central Coast icon perched on the picturesque Brisbane Water, run by the Cregan-Clayton family since the mid-1970s. Your lunch is some of the region's freshest seafood! Check their daily blackboard menu of classics, or choose from the market and they'll cook it up. 

Take a stroll along the scenic Woy Woy waterfront. The recently restored War Memorial is almost 100 years old and surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens. Your path follows the waterway offering a wave of old-world charm as you walk past people picnicking and fishing boats bobbing in the water. If you feel energetic, follow the path past the popular boat ramps and Lions Park around the point for a glimpse of the iconic Rip Bridge and Pelicans Spot nature reserve.

The Bayview – You’ll feel a sense of comfort as you walk through the door of this recently renovated family-owned and operated hotel with stylish accommodation options. Head for a sundowner session at Frankie's Rooftop with its Japanese-inspired menu and a colourful cocktail menu, or pop downstairs for traditional pub classics at the bistro.

After a peaceful night's rest in the tranquillity of bush-set Noonaweena, hit the road to continue your journey through the Central Coast. First stop for today is one of Australia's best-kept secrets. Saddles Restaurant is one of the most stunning venues you'll ever see with an incredible menu of breakfast classics with an innovative twist. Sit outside to soak up the lakeside views on the deck! And grab a photo barside on the bar saddle seats near the Piano Bar.

One of the best things about exploring the Central Coast is having direct access to some of the freshest farm produce in Australia. Grace Springs Farm has everything from pasteurised eggs to honey and fresh fruit & vegetables. Book in to do a farm tour to see exactly where your food comes from and how it's lovingly grown by the Grace Springs team. You'll experience live cow milking demonstrations, egg collecting, piglet feeding, and you might even score a cuddle from one of the chooks.

Get off the beaten track again to discover more fresh produce available on the Central Coast. Christine, Hannah & Tim are Mangrove Mountain locals using their 20+ years of farming experience to show visitors how to source and enjoy Mangrove Mountain's best with Mountain Goat Farm Trails. From working farm walks where you'll see what daily life working on a farm is like to the 'Hand-Picked Tours' where you'll learn about sustainable farming and enjoy a wine or two.

After a jam-packed day of exploring the Central Coast Hinterland, it's time for a well-deserved lunch at The Sitting Duck. An innovative paddock to plate dining experience, Chef Dan will serve you unique dishes featuring local produce and creative flavour combinations that will not disappoint. Make sure you stop by the Duck Inn and enjoy a bush inspired cocktail, locally brewed craft beer or local gin while soaking up the fantastic views of the hinterland.

All that's left to do now is to make your way back home to enjoy your full esky brimming with local treats! Thank you for adventuring with #EmptyEsky, and be sure to spread the word about all the local hidden gems you discovered on your road trip!

Remember to tag #LoveCentralCoast and #EmptyEsky so we can share your road trip with the rest of Australia.

Kick-start today with a delicious breakfast enjoyed with a front row view of the Avoca beachfront. Both The Point Cafe and Avoca Sands Cafe offer perfect spots to watch all the morning people as they take to the waves, jog along the coastline, or take a refreshing dip in the rockpool. You couldn't ask for a better coastal view, but you can ask for a second coffee.

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​​​​​​Enjoy the morning at Avoca Beach - why not give beginner's surf lessons a crack? You're in safe hands with Central Coast Surf Academy, founded by ex-World Tour Surfer Amee Donohoe. Classes are designed to help build your water confidence and beach awareness on the way to catching your first wave.

Opening in the craziness of 2020, Avoca's own specialty coffee curators, Social Junction, offer a great place for a pick me up. Grab a seat by their larger than life wall mural and choose from the classic eggs benny or B&E, to veggie stacks and summertime juices. And if you love your coffee, why not browse their beans for a take home souvenir.

Catch an arthouse film at Avoca Beach Picture Theatre, a local icon famous for its eclectic movie screenings since 1948. This old-school cinema is still run by the same family who arrived in Avoca in 1932! Voted a Top 20 Cinema of the World by the BBC, and Top 10 in the World by the New York Men’s Journal, they even offer a cafe-bar serving local craft beers and al fresco films.

Dine in at Avoca Beach House for sunset to fully appreciate the 180 degree vista at this seafront restaurant, freshly refurbed in 2021. They have a great choice of quality seafood, grill and share-style platters with a 5-star location. Enjoy a refreshing sundowner drink on their outdoor deck to soak up the action-packed day that's been.