The Top 10 Central Coast Walks For a Nature Hit

Long, short, nature or beachy. There are so many Central Coast walks to pick from, isn’t there? But if you’re looking for walks that are plunged into nature, surrounded by beautiful bush or beach, then these are the top ten for you.

1. The Coast Walking Track (Wyrrabalong National Park) 

3km, 1.5 hrs

Running through a scenic strip of coastal bushland in between Foresters and Bateau Bay beaches, this beautiful Central Coast walk offers the lot with a dedicated picnic area and the opportunity to stop at Crackneck Lookout on the way. It is moderate track great for walkers of all capabilities wanting to enjoy a fantastic winter hike. 

Crackneck Lookout. Image by @mitchellblewitt

2. Bouddi Coastal Walk 

8.5km, 3.5 – 4.5 hrs

This is one of the most popular Central Coast walks that 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, and you can even take a dip at Maitland Bay if you’re brave. Stretching 8.5km, the walk should take you about four hours to complete and is suitable for most ages and fitness levels with occasional steps. 

3. 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. 

4. 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.

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

Central Coast Walks in the Bush

5. Strickland Forest Loop 

6.5km, 1 – 2 hrs

Adventure into the serenity of the Strickland State Forest and loop around some of the most tranquil trails that makes this Central Coast walk so special. Home to a handful of native plants and animals, this track will lead you to a bunch of unique nooks of the forest that are bursting with life. You can’t beat the scenery with this one.  And best of all, it’s dog-friendly. 

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. Kincumber to Davistown

2.7km, 35 mins

This is the perfect stroller-friendly walk 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. 

8. 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 the chance to go mid-week then it is probably the most quiet 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.   

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 also perfect for a winter wander with remarkable views over Broken Bay, Umina and Pearl beaches. Soak it 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). 

KEEP READING: What’s on This Winter. The Full List of Things to do on the Central Coast.

RELATED: The Full List Central Coast Pubs and Cafes With Playgrounds