Tourist Drive 33 road trip guide

Want a scenic drive that takes you through the very best of the Central Coast hinterland? From farm-fresh produce and charming cafés to bushwalks, waterfalls and a few hidden gems – Tourist Drive 33 is the one you’ve been looking for.

This winding scenic route starts at Calga and stretches north through Mount White, Peats Ridge, Somersby, Glenworth Valley, Mangrove Mountain, Kulnura and Yarramalong – all the way up to the Hunter if you’re keen. But we reckon the Central Coast is where the real magic is. The roads are quiet, the views are wide, and you never know what you’ll find around the next bend.

Here’s how to explore it like a local.

Best Cafes, Walks & Attractions on Route 33 Tourist Drive Central Coast

Mount White

Your adventure begins at Mount White, a peaceful pocket of bushland just off the M1 (or F3 to the OGs), home to the bougie-meets-bush charm of Saddles Mount White – named one of the most beautiful restaurants in the world, this is a destination in itself. We know the sausage rolls and pies are what enticed you… but let’s be real, long lunching in front of a crackling fire (especially in winter) is also the bees knees. Don’t forget to check out the macaws before you leave – just follow the squawks! A little further on, you’ll find Artisan Estate, home to the makers where you can try your hand at blacksmithing (yep, seriously) or join in their seasonal pecan-picking sessions during Harvest Festival. You’ll leave feeling rugged, rustic and a little bit smug.

And if you’re chasing a postcard-perfect view? Take a short detour to Painters Rock Lookout. Panoramic views across the Hawkesbury River and out toward Spencer, this is the perfect spot for a photo stop (remember to tag @coastiesmag).

Peats Ridge

Cruisy and green, Peats Ridge feels like the hinterland’s best-kept secret. There’s not much traffic, but there is 47 Oaks Café, known for its great coffee, friendly locals and classic country vibe. Just up the road, Nannies Fruit Box is a classic roadside stall with whatever’s in season – grab a paper bag of mandarins and feel like a wholesome adult.

Need to zen out? The Aloka Meditation Centre is tucked away nearby. Open on weekends, this peaceful retreat welcomes visitors to join in their guided meditations or simply enjoy the tranquil space.

Want to get a bit fancy? Stop in at The Springs for modern country style with sweeping views, a stylish restaurant, and a championship golf course. It’s a great spot for a long lunch or sundowners on their sprawling balcony – complete with giant chess to keep the kids entertained, the perfect excuse to linger for just a little bit longer.

And for something truly special, time your visit to The Bloom Barn, a seasonal pick-your-own flower farm open to the public for a few days each year. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and very, very Instagrammable.

Somersby

This is where things start to feel a bit Jurassic (in the best way). First stop? Somersby Falls. This one’s a crowd-pleaser. Easy walk, rainforest vibes, and a great excuse to take your shoes off. Up for something longer? Piles Creek Loop is one of our faves – you’ve seen pics of the suspension bridges on your socials, but the rest of the walk is pretty epic too.

Nearby, Coachwood Nursery and The Wildflower Farm are well worth a stop. You can grab a new plant, join in on a workshop, or wander through and see what flowers are in season.

Hungry? Triple Two Café is tucked away in the industrial estate – sounds random, but it’s one of those “where has this been all my life” kind of cafés. Loaded toasties and an unexpected sunny little courtyard.

If you’re up for an adventure, try to track down the Mooney Mooney Mega Cave – it’s a bit of a bush bash, but you’ll be rewarded with a massive sandstone cave and Aboriginal carvings. Quiet, eerie and very cool.

RELATED: The perfect Central Coast Hinterland Escape

Central Coast NSW Scenic Drive

Glenworth Valley

Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures is what happens when nature and adrenaline have a baby. You can ride horses through the bush, kayak down the creek, or tear it up on a quad bike. It’s perfect for families, friends or those in desperate need of a tech detox. Feeling fancy? They’ve got glamping tents, too.

Mangrove Mountain

We’ve found the soul of the hinterland. Quiet roads, big skies, and friendly waves from passing utes. The Hub is your go-to for a bite – equal parts café, general store and unofficial community noticeboard. Stock up on pantry goodies, grab a coffee, and have a yarn. If your timing’s right, the Mangrove Mountain Country Markets are on the last Sunday of the month – we love the handmade soaps and bush honey. You won’t leave empty-handed!

Detour into Popran National Park next to find the Emerald Pool – a crystal-clear swimming hole surrounded by native bush. Bring your swimmers, wear grippy shoes, and don’t forget snacks.

WHILE YOU’RE HERE: Join us as we explore the Central Coast Makers Trail

Explore the Central Coast hinterland with Tourist Drive 33

Kulnura

Kulnura is peak orchard country – crisp air, valley views and fresh produce energy. At Eastcoast Beverages, you can visit the juice factory, book a tour, or swing by Bambinos, their cosy on-site café with views for days.

Meliora Farm offers seasonal farm events (have you even visited the hinterland if you haven’t picked your own oranges?), workshops and beautiful views over the rolling hills. Then there’s The Farm – not open to the public, but still worth a mention. Hidden behind gates, it’s a private estate with a Formula One-style racetrack. Built in the late ’90s, it’s the kind of place people whisper about. If you know, you know.

At the northern edge, Noonaweena delivers luxury eco-accommodation with valley views, wellness packages and stylish private villas. Here you’ll find the kind of quiet that instantly slows you down. Great for a weekend away, a sneaky midweek reset – or any excuse, really.

On the more accessible side of things, Mangrove Creek Dam is a peaceful picnic spot with BBQs, toilets and stunning views over the water. Always quiet, always a win. Load the kids up with snacks and we promise, it’s well worth the drive.

KEEP READING: Top 12 Lookouts on the Central Coast

Day trip from Sydney via Route 33

Yarramalong

We recommend taking a slight detour from route 33 so you can drive through the Yarramalong Valley. Winding roads, grazing paddocks and plenty of opportunities to shout “COWS!”.

Pull in at Angel Sussurri – a boutique restaurant and cafe with a community bookshelf, garden views, and plenty of hidey holes for the kids to explore. Beware of the gift shop that’s dangerously easy to buy from!

Mooney Mooney

Okay, so Mooney Mooney isn’t officially on Tourist Drive 33… but we reckon it should be. Hugging the edge of the Hawkesbury River, it’s home to some of the Central Coast’s best-kept secrets.

Start at Broken Bay Pearl Farm, where you can hop on a tour and learn how local pearls are grown and harvested. It’s surprisingly soothing. If slurping oysters in the river sounds like your idea of heaven, book into Sydney Oyster Farm Tours – you’ll wade out to a dining table in the river and eat them fresh!

Prefer something casual? Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed is the go – no fuss, all flavour, with picnic tables overlooking the water. Or park yourself on the deck at Mooney Mooney Club and stay for lunch with a view.

It might not be on the official map, but trust us – Mooney Mooney is the cherry on top of any Tourist Drive 33 adventure.

Planning your Central Coast hinterland road trip on Tourist Drive 33

With everything at your beck and call – lunch stops, waterfall dips and a slow scenic drive that clears your head – Tourist Drive 33 really does have you covered. Pack an esky, bring your sense of adventure, take your sweet time – and get ready to support the locals who make this part of the world so special.

Tag us @coastiesmag if you stumble onto something amazing… we’ve got a feeling you will.

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