Accommodation
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Photo courtesy Tourism NSW

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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Photo courtesy Tourism NSWPhoto courtesy Tourism NSWPhoto courtesy Tourism NSWPhoto courtesy Tourism NSWPhoto courtesy Tourism NSWPhoto courtesy Tourism NSWPhoto courtesy Tourism NSWPhoto courtesy Tourism NSWPhoto courtesy Tourism NSW
Photo courtesy Tourism NSW