The Top 10 Central Coast Walks For a Nature Hit

Long, short, nature or beachy… the Central Coast is packed with walks that deliver the goods. We’ve got so many to choose from! No matter what you’re after, there’s a local trail with your name on it.

So if you’re looking for walks that are plunged into nature, surrounded by beautiful bush, beach, and views that’ll stop you mid-step, then these are the top ten Central Coast walks for you.

NSW Central Coast Walks You’ll Love

1. The Coast Walking Track (Wyrrabalong National Park)

3km, 1.5 hrs

Running through a scenic strip of coastal bushland between Forresters and Bateau Bay beaches, this beautiful walk offers the lot. We love it as it can be done in sections, depending on who’s walking and their stamina levels. No matter which end you kick off at, the recently upgraded picnic area offers the opportunity to stop halfway and refuel as you take in the serene view at Crackneck Lookout.

2. Bouddi Coastal Walk

8.5km, 3.5 – 4.5 hrs

This is one of the most popular Central Coast walks that we think every Coastie must try. It is a partially boarded hike that follows the turquoise coastline from Putty Beach to Macmasters Beach with a handful of picnic spots to take in the stunning views. From late May to early August, it’s perfect for whale watching. As the weather warms a dip at Maitland Bay is non negotiable.

Stretching 8.5km, the full walk should take you about four hours to complete and is suitable for most ages and fitness levels with occasional steps. You can also break it up and tackle one section at a time.

RELATED: Learn the True Cultural History of Bouddi National Park on This Tour

3. Strickland State Forest Loops

Varying distances

Wander into pure serenity as you take on one or many of the loops in Strickland. With tranquil trails that are home to stunning native plants, you can explore the nooks of the forest while feeling a million miles from the bustle of everyday life. If you have time, exploring the suspension bridge on the Arboretum Trail and the Strickland Falls are always crowd-pleasers. Oh, and best of all, it’s dog-friendly!

Central Coast Bushwalks

4. Daleys Ridge Circuit

6.8km, 2 – 3 hrs

A combination of the Daleys Point and Rocky Point trails makes this Central Coast walk a relatively easy to moderate trek for avid bushwalkers. It provides access to the Allen Strom Lookout and Daley Point Aboriginal Site where you will see a large range of spectacular and unique indigenous engravings.

5. Little Beach Trail

600m, 30 mins

Tucked away behind shrub on Graham Drive in Macmasters Beach, this short trail will lead you to a gorgeous, peaceful secluded cove. There is also a fun rockpool area for little kids or big kids. The path is narrow at some points, but there aren’t any steps, meaning it is suitable for all fitness levels.  A great track for smaller kids just getting their bush legs. This is an unpatrolled beach though so be careful if going for a swim.

6. Pearl Beach to Patonga

3km, 1.5 – 2 hrs

The track from Pearl Beach to Patonga is for those who are really looking for a challenge. This track is 3km long and will take about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete but there are some steep, rough patches and it will be a bit more than a leisurely stroll. If you reach the halfway point, enjoy the breathtaking lookout over the Hawkesbury. And then, as a reward, it’s breakfast or lunch at the incredible Boathouse Hotel Patonga. 
 

Central Coast Walks With Stunning Water Views

7. Norah Head Lighthouse Loop

2.5km, 1 hr

Okay, we’ll admit that on the weekend this walk can get a little busy – but if you’ve got the chance to go mid-week then it is probably the quietest on this list. Meander through the natural forestry to discover the history of the merchant navy memorial before heading to the Norah Head Lighthouse where you can explore the rock shelf below. It’s a relatively quick 1-hour loop that brings you back via the shoreline. Bushwalking experience is recommended as some parts of the walk have uneven surfaces.

8. Kincumber to Davistown

2.7km, 35 mins

Taking out top spot at the most pram-friendly walk on the Central Coast, this is perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels. Take a casual promenade beside the waters’ edge and pause at the Broadwater park playground with the kids. There’s plenty of wildlife to be spotted also, with a vast array of Fairy Wren found in the trees that line the track. Be mindful that this path is shared with cyclists. 
 

9. Coast to Lake Walk (The Entrance)

7.6km, 1.5 – 3 hrs

When it comes to Central Coast walks, this one is for the keen explorers and is home to the best bits of The Entrance, Tuggerah Lake, Long Jetty and Toowoon Bay. Passing through some pristine beaches with an outdoor fitness station on the way, this track normally takes up to 3 hours at an easy pace but can easily be done in 1.5 hours if you’re speedy. 

10. Flannel Flower Walking Track

2.9km (return), 45 – 1.15 hr

Best known for the bloom of flannel flowers in spring, this unique trail is gorgeous all year round with remarkable views over Broken Bay, Umina and Pearl beaches. Soak up the picturesque landscape at Lobster Beach lookout or branch off down the Box Head and Tallow Beach trails. All ages and fitness levels can enjoy this track with some steps along the way. 

Local’s tip: for a quick way to Lobster Beach, park near the corner of High View Rd and Venice Rd in Wagstaffe. There you will see a set of stairs that will take you over the hill and onto Lobster Beach in about 15 to 20 minutes (less than 1km return). 

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