Pristine Beaches & Vast Waterways - Unspoilt beaches, rugged cliff faces, rock platforms and secluded bays. Delight in our lake systems where you can fish, sail, swim, kayak, cruise and enjoy water sports. Family Fun - Enjoy entertainment, attractions and aquatic activities at The Entrance and Ettalong. Sophistication - Experience al fresco cafes, boutiques, markets and galleries at Terrigal and Avoca.
Nature's Backyard - Explore wildlife parks, scenic lookouts, Aboriginal sites and National Parks. Undiscovered Hinterland - Discover historic towns like the Yarramalong and Dooralong valleys. Take a day trip and drive throught the magnificent Hunter Valley vineyards. Whatever your interests, the Central Coast can deliver!
We recommend you visit beautiful Spoon Bay - a great look-out and secluded beach (five minutes drive), the Fragrant Garden, the Yarramalong Valley, Orimbah Nursery, Ken Duncan Galleries. Eat breakfast at the Skillion, have a meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants in Terrigal, enjoy fish'n chips at Budgewoi on the river, or have a Thai meal at the local Wamberal shops. And don't miss feeding the pelicans at the Entrance (daily at 3pm).
Eat, Drink and Be Merry on Australia’s Central Coast
Spanning an area from Broken Bay to Newcastle, New South Wales’ Central Coast is a popular tourist hub. With so many things to see and do, flexible accommodation options plus an almost endless stream of exciting events, the Central Coast has plenty to offer all types of visitors.
The area is particularly popular as a spin off location for those visiting Sydney due to the contrast with the cityscape which it provides. Cruise ship on-shore excursions often take time to explore the Central Coast as part of a wider itinerary across the country. With the main focus on the area’s pristine beaches, pretty lakes and luscious greenery, one sector which is sometimes overlooked is the top quality food and beverage offering available in this go-to destination. Just as with all aspects of the Central Coast, when it comes to eating and drinking choices, there really is something for everyone. Virtually every type of cuisine is available, from fish to French, from sushi to succulent steaks. Eateries are professional in their approach and there is a strong emphasis on freshly prepared locally sourced produce, with a number of food outlets in the vicinity having received recognition in the hotly contested Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide.
So to whet your appetite here is a snapshot of some of the wining and dining options available.
Glasshouse Bar and Restaurant, Avoca
With inspirational views of Avoca Beach, the Glasshouse enjoys the perfect position for a relaxing dining experience. Chef Micheal Bell’s menu contains a veritable smorgasbord of fresh, mouth watering options with a particular emphasis on fish dishes. The famous seafood platters offer an impressive array of oysters, mussels, crab, calamari and of course lobster. Diners also relish the indulgent range of desserts on the menu, so best to leave some room for afters!
Cheeky Charlie’s, Erina
If you prefer a more casual, family friendly eatery, then the ideal choice is Cheeky Charlie’s in nearby Erina. This relaxed venue offers traditional Australian café fare and a special children’s’ menu that the kids will lap up. Breakfasts are a speciality of the house – check out their breakfast bruschettas. Coffee and cake is available throughout the day and gets consistently high reviews on ratings sites such as Trip advisor.
While you’re there, why not make time to pick up some bargains at the nearby Erina Fair Shopping Centre?
Mt Penang Parklands, Kariong
If the great outdoors is your thing, why not combine a trip to this scenic paradise with an open air picnic? Work up an appetite with a bracing walk (or meandering stroll) around the extensive gardens. If you prefer a less energetic approach hop on the ‘Moment in Time’ historical bus tour or take part in the fully escorted Segway ride around the parklands.
If a picnic isn’t your thing, secure some sustenance at the popular Waterfall Café. Located adjacent to the gardens, this tranquil retreat is the perfect place to unwind over a mouth-watering meal.
Six String Brewery, Erina
Need something to wash down all that food? For the perfect pint, take a trip to the Six Strings Brewing Company. They produce a great range of high quality, handcrafted ales free from additives and preservatives. Tasting sessions are available at the bar and you can take your favourite refreshment home. Food is also served from Wednesday to Sunday at what Trip advisor users have voted the best eatery in Erina.
Fires creek Fruit Wines, Holgate
If wine is more your tipple, then the Fires creek Winery will be right up your street. Specialising in boutique fruit flower and herb wines, this popular spot offers open tastings from Wednesday to Sunday. Described as bold in flavour and taste, the fruit wines vary in complexity just like grape wines. Fires creek wines have won successive awards at shows across the country since the cellar doors first opened in December 2003.
Time to put your feet up
After all that eating and drinking, Wamberal Cottage is the perfect place to get your breath back. Located near Terrigal, Wamberal is ideally positioned for easy access to all that the Central Coast has to offer. Five separate studio apartments are available, which can be rented individually or collectively booked for larger groups. Each apartment has its own private ensuite and balcony access.
A shared recreation room with full kitchen and dining facilities provides extra space to spread out. Outdoors the swimming pool, barbeque and beautiful gardens combine to deliver a well-equipped, relaxing space to unwind. Wamberal Cottage is an idyllic place where you can get away from it all but still have everything you need within easy reach – seems like the perfect combination for the perfect holiday.
Contributor, Susie Lovel
