Central
Coast
Features the areas of Bateau Bay, Budgewoi,
Forresters Beach, Gosford, Ourimbah, Peats Ridge, Terrigal, The
Entrance, Toowoon Bay, Tuggerah, Woy Woy.
One hours
drive north from Sydney, the Central Coast offers families a chance
to unwind, experiencing the vast waterways of Brisbane Waters
and Tuggerah Lakes, national parks, state forests and, of course,
beautiful sandy beaches.
For the adventurous
family a holiday on the Central Coast offers endless possibilities
- abseiling, horse riding, surfing, scuba diving or just relaxing
with a good adventure book. Even if you only stay for the weekend,
you won't be in a hurry to head home.
Some of the
best-known family attractions and destinations include:
Forest of Tranquillity, Ourimbah - An untamed rainforest
which is home to over 100 bird species including red and green
king parrots, green catbirds and bower birds. Take the easy nature
walks ranging from 10 minutes to an hour and a half. Children
can play in the open valley with Wally Wallaby and her friends.
Picnic areas and gas barbecues are provided as well a light refreshments.
Pelican Feeding at Memorial Park, The Entrance - Don't
miss the famous daily feeding of the pelicans at this picturesque
town overlooking both Tuggerah Lake and the ocean. There lots
of other things for families to do here.
Australian Reptile Park, Somersby - An award winning attraction
renowned for Australia's largest collection of reptiles. From
pythons and crocodiles, to platypus and cuddly koalas, a family
day here is guaranteed to intrigue and excite. Don't miss enormous
Eric, Australia's most loved crocodile, who lunges for lunch every
Sunday to please the crowd. Watch Australia's deadliest snakes
get milked of their venom and learn about snake safety. You can
even have your picture taken with a cuddly Burmese python wrapped
around you!
Old Sydney Town, Somersby - This is where the early days
of Sydney come to life - a living modern history lesson for the
whole family. The town is inhabited by costumed characters (soldiers,
convicts, wenches) going about the lives they would have 200 years
ago. Live performances happen throughout the day, including floggings,
pistol duels, a colonial court case and convict weddings. Demonstrations
of old crafts and Aboriginal cultural performances (most days)
are also fun and educational for the whole family. Full range
of food facilities available.
Glenworth Valley, Peats Ridge, is the place to go for horse
riding. There's free range riding, escorted or social rides as
well as riding lessons. The trails cover rainforest, natural swimming
pools, and winding creeks. Light refreshments are provided.
Muirs Lookout, Watagan Mountains, via Wyong. This high
lookout provides panoramic views of the coast from Lake Macquarie
to Tuggerah Lakes. Fireplaces, firewood, tables, water and toilets
are provided Access is via Dooralong Valley, behind Wyong. A forestry
map showing all roads and other stunning attractions is available
at Central Coast Tourism Visitor Centres in Gosford, The Entrance
and Terrigal.
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