Central Coast

Sydney’s Coastal Neighbour

40+ Australian Locations

Iconic cruises and water-based activities across the country

300+ Unique Cruises

Hand-picked & exceptional experiences

8+ Million Happy Customers

Who have toured on one of our listed cruises

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About Central Coast

The Central Coast, just 90 minutes north of Sydney, is the perfect coastal paradise fringed by 40+ beaches, lush wilderness and hazy mountains.

More than half of the region is surrounded by national parks and pristine waterways, ideal for exploration. Discover the Bouddi Coastal Walk, Somersby Falls, and the World Heritage Convict Trail. The famous Hawkesbury River is best explored on scenic Central Coast cruises. To be part of an age-old tradition, board the Riverboat Postman – the oldest mailboat delivery boat in Australia, delivering mail to river-access-only properties along the Hawkesbury River.

From May to November, Central Coast becomes a whale-watching hotspot. Central Coast boat tours are a great way to see these majestic creatures up close.

Explore the area’s rich indigenous heritage with Aboriginal-led tours featuring dreamtime stories, ancient rock art, and bush food knowledge. Whether it’s adventure or relaxation, a boat cruise on the Central Coast gives you a fresh perspective on this beautiful region.

Central Coast Cruise Experiences

Whale Watching Cruises

1 Cruise

Featured Cruises

1 Cruise

ACGHCM1106

2.5 Hour Fantasea Whale Watching Cruise Central Coast

Educational whale-watching adventure cruise departing Palm Beach Wharf, Central Coast during the school holiday season – perfect option for families.

Know Before You Go

Best Time To Visit

Though there’s no such thing as a bad time to visit the Central Coast, though February through May, and September through November are considered the best times. You’ll find mild sunny weather, bright blue skies, and moderate crowds. Plus, you get to watch the mighty Humpback whales in action!

Public Holidays

Monday, 1 January: New Year's Day
Friday, 26 January: Australia Day
Friday, 29 March: Good Friday
Saturday, 30 March: Easter Saturday
Sunday, 31 March: Easter Sunday
Monday, 1 April: Easter Monday
Thursday, 25 April: Anzac Day
Wednesday, 25 December: Christmas Day
Thursday, 26 December: Boxing Day

Other public holidays declared by the state and territory governments:

New South Wales
Monday, 10 June: King’s Birthday
Monday, 7 October: Labour Day

Events & Festivals

Lighthouse Festival
Held at the Norah Head, Lighthouse is a one-day gathering with good music, good food, and good company. Enjoy spectacular artists performing in an ocean-view setting. This year, expect a brand new food and wine experience.

Bouddi Coastal Run
Here’s your summer to-do list topper – the 14km or 21km trail runs in the iconic Bouddi National Park. Conquer varied terrains like smooth trails, rocky landscapes, sandy expanses and cliff tops – the best way to experience the outdoors!

Flavours By The Sea
Everyone can participate in this one! This event celebrates the region's coastal location and highlights its vibrant food scene. Featuring a diverse range of local vendors, restaurants, and food artisans, Flavours by the Sea offers a unique opportunity to indulge in the finest flavours the Central Coast has to offer. The event also features live music!

School Holidays

TERM 1 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2024
New South Wales: 15 April to 26 April

TERM 2 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2024
New South Wales: 8 July to 19 July

TERM 3 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2024
New South Wales: 30 September to 11 October

TERM 4 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2024 - 2025
New South Wales: 23 December 2024 to 6 February 2025

Accommodation

From backpackers hostels, motels, holiday houses, and camping packages to beachfront apartments, farm stays, nature retreats, and luxe lodges, the Central Coast offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Airbnb bookings are at an all-time high during the summer.

Dining

Food enthusiasts exploring the NSW Central Coast have plenty to get excited about. Whether you’re looking to indulge in the fresh catch of the day at the many waterfront restaurants or enjoy a locally-inspired menu at a chic cafe, there’s something here for every palate. Explore dessert bars, picnic spots in national parks, beachside cafes, as well as sophisticated cocktails at sunny rooftop bars!

Transport

Getting here from Sydney is pretty easy with trains running regularly every half hour from Sydney, and every hour from Newcastle – hop on a ferry from Palm Beach for an added experience!

A network of buses, and taxis can be easily used to navigate between railway stations and popular hubs like shopping centres and most beaches. Taxis, uber, ferries, and car hires are also available.

Central Coast Tourist Information

Shopping & Market Hours

Look out for artistic finds, quality organic produce, culinary treats, and beachy fashions on the Central Coast. The city is home to numerous beachside markets, galleries and boutique stores. Held on the fourth Sunday of every month, Avoca Beachside Markets welcomes over 100 unique stalls where you can find local artists, delicious food, live music, and workshops for the little ones. Pop in at Bouddi Gallery to find Aboriginal paintings, ceramics, glassware and weavings.

Medical Services

Gosford Hospital serves as the primary hospital for referrals and regional trauma cases on the Central Coast. Wyong Hospital is a significant metropolitan hospital, and sub-acute care is provided at Woy Woy Hospital and Long Jetty Healthcare Centre. Additionally, there are several community health centres and community based services.

For general aid (police, fire, ambulance) phone 000.