From Bush to Beach: 12 of the Most Scenic Central Coast Walks

From bushwalks to coastal views and waterfalls, these Central Coast walks will deliver you to the region’s most scenic spots.

The Central Coast lays claim to pristine beaches, extensive coastal estuaries, lush hinterland and beautiful seaside villages – all of which are best explored on foot. From accessible strolls to day-long wilderness expeditions, here are our picks of the best walks and hikes on the Central Coast.

1. Bouddi Coastal Walk

Where: Bouddi National Park
Distance: 8.5 kilometres one way
Difficulty: Hard

Details: Sydney has the Bondi to Bronte, Melbourne has the Thousand Steps and the Central Coast has the Bouddi Coastal Walk . It is home to numerous Aboriginal sites, one of the country’s first protected marine areas, and plenty of ancient landscapes to marvel at.

View of tessellated pavement on the Bouddi National Park coastal walk on the Central Coast — Spot the Tessellated Pavement shortly after departing from Putty Beach. (Image: Katie Carlin)

The walk delivers sweeping ocean views, whale-spotting opportunities, and plenty of deserted beaches to stop at for a swim. Don’t miss the remains of the SS Maitland shipwreck at Bouddi Point.

Looking down from the trail along the Bouddi National Park Coastal Walk — Sweeping coastal views. (Image: Katie Carlin)

While the 17-kilometre round-trip can be done in a day, those who aim to complete the journey should note it can take up to eight hours. The track begins at Putty Beach picnic area and includes a mix of beach walking, steep stairs, formed tracks, and rocky platforms. It ends at Macmasters Beach, where walkers can exit the walk or opt to make the return journey.

Coastal walk in Bouddi National Park on the Central Coast — (Image: Nikki To)

You don’t need to tackle the entirety of the coastal walk in one day. Breaking it up into shorter distances is just as rewarding. For some shorter routes try:

Putty Beach to Maitland Bay (3 kilometres)
Maitland Bay to Little Beach (3.5 kilometres)
Little Beach to Macmasters Beach (1.7 kilometres)

Putty Beach is the start of the Bouddi National Park Coastal Walk — Walk the loop from Putty Beach (pictured) to Maitland Bay and back. (Image: Katie Carlin)

2. Girrakool Loop Track

Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Distance: Two-kilometre loop
Difficulty: Easy

Details: Traverse tranquil bushland past colourful wildflowers along the Girrakool Loop Track. This easy, signposted trail begins and ends at the Girrakool picnic area – it’s the ideal way to walk off lunch. There are two lookouts to pause at along the trail: the Andamira lookout for views of the tree-shrouded waterfall and the picturesque Illoura lookout. Don’t miss the Aboriginal rock engraving site at the start of the walk and take your time to breathe in the fresh air as you wind your way through the bush.

Waterfall, Girrakool Loop Track from Andamira Lookout — A tranquil waterfall along the Girrakool Loop Track from Andamira lookout. (Image: John Yurasek/DCCEEW)

3. The Ridge to Rainforest Track

Where: Strickland State Forest
Distance: 2.1 kilometres one way
Difficulty: Easy

Details: Strickland State Forest packs a punch when it comes to diverse walking tracks despite its modest five-square-kilometre size. One of the most popular options is the Ridge to Rainforest track . Begin the walk near the entry road to Banksia Picnic Area and follow the track lined with tall gum trees past mossy rocks and hoop pines along the ridge until you reach the gully of the rainforest. The Arboretum Track – which heads in the opposite direction from the picnic area – is popular for its suspension bridge.

Strickland State Forest was the site of the first government forest nursery (1886-1890) and the first national forestry training school (1920 – 1927). Aptly, remnants of native and exotic tree plantings are now among the oldest in Australia and can be admired as you walk along the trail.

4. Coast to Lake Walk

Where: The Entrance
Distance: 7.6-kilometre loop
Difficulty: Medium

Details: This self-guided walk takes in the best of The Entrance and surrounding areas. Get a first-hand look at the landmarks, attractions and scenery that this popular pocket on the Central Coast has to offer.

Begin your journey at Memorial Park and follow the boardwalk along the coastline to The Entrance Surf Life Saving Club. After picking up a kiosk coffee, continue past the Ocean Baths and Edith Ring Rest lookout onto Toowoon Bay Surf Club. Follow the shared pathway from Long Jetty to Memorial Park in the Entrance. As you pass through Picnic Point, make use of the skate park, fitness station, picnic shelters and BBQs.

Some sections of the walk are fully accessible to all abilities, prams and bicycles. Some sections require beach access and rock platform walking.

The Coast to Lake walk takes in the best of The Entrance and surrounding areas.

5. Patonga to Pearl Beach

Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Distance: 3 kilometres one way
Difficulty: Hard

Details: It may be shorter in distance than some of its local counterparts, but the Patonga to Pearl Beach hike trails through some rather challenging terrain.

Tessellated Rock Pavement between Patonga and Pearl Beach.

Follow the signs to the national park at the end of Patonga Beach to begin the walk. The steep trail will lead you through sandstone caves adorned with natural hanging ferns, past red gums and towering eucalypts.

Patonga to Pearl Beach Trail, trailhead and rainforest — One of many secluded spots to stop along the Patonga to Pearl Beach Trail. (Image: John Yurasek/DCCEEW)

Stop at the Warrah lookout for panoramic views of the Hawkesbury River and Pacific Ocean. Your exit will be marked at Crystal Avenue. From here you can follow the sounds of crashing waves to emerge from the bush onto Pearl Beach. Linger here for a well-earned swim before taking advantage of the cafes nearby.

Scenic aerials overlooking Pearl Beach on the Central Coast. — The beauty of Pearl Beach from above. (Image: Destination Central Coast)

6. 5 Lands Coastal Walk

Where: Macmasters Beach, Copacabana, Avoca Beach, North Avoca and Terrigal
Distance: 9 kilometres one way
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

Details: The 5 Lands Coastal Walk is so good that there is even a festival in its honour. It happens every year, just after the winter solstice toward the end of June. Thousands of people – young and old, fit and unfit – take part.

Sunny day at Macmasters Beach and ocean pool on the Central Coast. — The walk begins at Macmasters Beach. (Image: Destination Central Coast)

Stretching from Macmasters Beach to Terrigal, the trip gets its name from the stunning selection of suburbs it traverses, each possessing its own one-of-a-kind characteristics. From Macmasters Beach, Copacabana, Avoca Beach, North Avoca and Terrigal, soak up the atmosphere of each one.

The 5 lands Coastal Walk — The 5 Lands Coastal Walk is so good that there is even a festival in its honor.

Walking the full route will take from four to six hours, but allow plenty of time to enjoy the views, visit the exhibitions, witness the Aboriginal ceremonies and ethnic cultural displays and spot some whales if you’re lucky.

View of the coastline from the water at Terrigal Beach on the Central Coast — Terrigal Beach marks the end of the 5 Lands Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Kincumber to Terrigal (via Glasson’s Trl)

Where: Kincumba Mountain Regional Reserve

Distance: 4.5 kilometres one way

Difficulty: Moderate

Details: Enjoy a front-row seat to the beauty of Kincumba Mountain Regional Reserve.

Explore the diverse landscapes and natural attractions along the Kincumber to Terrigal trail. You’ll pass by cave walls etched with ancient rock art, trail through rugged forest tracks, constructed paths and some challenging steep sections that reward hikers with incredible clifftop views and a variety of flora and fauna – including seasonal wildflowers, soaring grass trees, a plethora of birds and wildlife.

Start at Glasson’s trail and head towards Honeman’s Rock, a large outcrop with a neighbouring picnic area. After a rest, navigate the inside of a large cave on Kanning Walk and continue to the views at Colin Watters Lookout. The journey ends at Terrigal’s Sandringham Close.

8. Somersby Falls

Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Distance: 800 metres
Difficulty: Moderate

View from above Somersby Falls on the Central Coast — The beautiful Somersby Falls from above. (Image: Katie Carlin)

Details: This might be a short walk, but it’s one of the most spectacular in the region for what you’ll find at the end. From Somersby Falls picnic area , this walking track winds steeply down three levels of the cascading Somersby Falls with lookouts at each of the three tiers. The bottom section is magical, particularly after heavy rains when the falls cascade down into deep emerald pools.

Woman sits under the waterfall at Somersby Falls on the Central Coast — Cool off under the waterfall or take a dip in the shallow pools. (Image: Katie Carlin)

The walk itself is steep and comprises many steps, which can be slippery in parts. Take your time and look around the hyper-green rainforest as you go, as you may spot the water dragons, frogs and goannas that call this place home.

9. The Coast Walking Track

Where: Wyrrabalong National Park
Distance: 6 kilometres return
Difficulty: Moderate – Difficult

Details: You can start this coastal walk from either the Bateau Bay picnic area or the gate at the top of Cromarty Hill Road in Forresters Beach.

The track traces clifftops, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and epic whale-watching vantage points. You’ll walk through native scrub, past blackbutts and under spotted gums, and during spring, the landscape is dotted with wildflowers, including flannel flowers and ground orchids. It’s a pretty walk that covers sandy ground, pathways and staircases, with some steep sections.

Along the way, Crackneck Lookout is a great place to take a break and enjoy a picnic. Keep your eye out for whales and dolphins and watch the paragliders take flight when conditions are right.

10. Terrigal Lagoon to Terrigal Haven

Where: Terrigal
Distance: 3 kilometres return
Difficulty: Easy

Details: This scenic loop begins at the edge of Terrigal Lagoon – on Pacific Street – and crosses the bridge over the lagoon into Terrigal. As you walk over the hill into town, you’ll have views of the lagoon and the beach, which is particularly beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

You’ll walk along the beach, past the surf club and cross Terrigal Boardwalk into the Haven. The boardwalk is built into rockpools, and you’ll often be able to see crabs as they dart about on the rocks below. During a big swell, you might get wet from the sea spray, which is welcome on hot days!

Families swimming in the rock pool at Terrigal Beach on the Central Coast — Kids are at play in the rock pool alongside the boardwalk connecting Terrigal Beach to the Haven. (Image: Katie Carlin)

The Haven comprises a small beach and a bay filled with fishing boats. Walk around the headland, which has sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and is home to a dog park where furry friends are allowed off-leash. Be sure to add the climb to the top of the Skillion for even more incredible views before looping back and returning the same way.

Friends walking to the lookout at the top of The Skillion inTerrigal. — Friends climb the Skillion with views of the Haven below. (Image: Destination NSW)

11. Ettalong Beach to Umina Beach

Where: Ettalong / Umina
Distance: 2.8 kilometres one-way
Difficulty: Easy

Start this walk at Ettalong waterfront, which is home to the BOX on the Water, a restaurant and kiosk, and a kids’ playground. Along the waterfront, there’s a shared pathway that stretches to the neighbouring suburb of Umina.

Sunrise at Lion Island, Broken Bay on the Central Coast — Soak up views of Broken Bay towards Lion Island along the trail. (Image: Destination NSW)

The path is flat the entire way, making it a great one to walk, scoot or ride bikes. Soak up views of Broken Bay towards Lion Island and the Pacific Ocean the entire way. You’ll pass both Ocean Beach and Umina Beach surf clubs along the way, both of which have kiosks for snacks and drinks.

The path ends at the Peninsula Recreation Precinct, an epic beachside playground and sporting area, where you’ll also find a café and the popular NRMA Ocean Beach caravan park.

Aerial view of the NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday resort in Central Coast, Australia — NRMA Ocean Beach caravan park is a popular spot come summer. (Image: Christopher Flaxman)

12. Norah Head Lighthouse Loop

Where: Norah Head
Distance: 2.2-kilometre loop
Difficulty: Easy – moderate

Views of the beach as the walk from Norah Head Lighthouse to Norah Head Beach — Begin or end your walk at Norah Head Lighthouse. (Image: Katie Carlin)

This walk starts at the car park at Bush Street Reserve in Norah Head, across from Norah Head Beach Haus, where you can grab a pre-walk coffee and post-walk lunch. The track winds through bush, past a small beach lookout and a mariners’ memorial, towards the 1903-built Norah Head Lighthouse. You can enjoy a historic tour of the working lighthouse (pre-book) and even stay in the heritage cottages.

Views of the rock platform and beach at Norah Head Lighthouse — Views of the rock platforms and beaches below the lighthouse. (Image: Katie Carlin)

From the lighthouse, there is a wooden staircase that leads down to the beach, where – depending on the tide – you can stroll along the sand and rocky platforms towards the rockpool at Cabbage Tree Harbour (kids will enjoy cooling off here on hot days). From here, follow the footpath and steps that head back up towards Bush Street Reserve.

The iconic Norah Head Lighthouse at sunset. (Image: Destination NSW)

For more nature experiences on the Central Coast, read our locals’ guide to the best beaches to visit.

Warmer days call for slowing down and relaxing in nature. Discover why The Tweed is the ultimate destination to do just that.

As the end of the year draws near, the need for rest and restoration grows ever more prominent. For many, that means heading into nature – and there’s plenty of science to back up the benefits of doing so. It quite literally makes us happier as it reduces stress hormones, lowers our blood pressure and more. And what better place to lean into this feel-good effect than during summer in The Tweed (in the Northern Rivers region of NSW)? Blending sparkling beaches, riverside towns and hinterland villages, this area has nature covered, while also offering top activities and dining options.

And of course, pack your SPF. We Are Feel Good Inc’s Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that keeps your skin hydrated and shielded, thanks to nourishing Coconut Oil and Vitamin E. But it’s also helping preserve the natural beauty around you on your Tweed vacation, thanks to 30 per cent ocean waste packaging.

Discover eight experiences that make The Tweed the perfect place for summer.

1. Underwater worlds

two people swimming after turtle on the tweed — Get a chance to swim with the locals.

There’s something about the ocean that calls to us as humans, and what’s below the surface is even more magical.

Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles (not to mention an abundance of other marine life) all use the protected waters around Cook Island, near Fingal Head, as their foraging ground, making it the perfect place to dive and snorkel to spot these adorable creatures.

Join Cooly Eco Adventures on a guided snorkelling tour that combines unforgettable turtle encounters with an inspiring look into marine conservation.

2. Farm-to-table dining

table spread at Potager restaurant — Treat your taste buds at Potager. (Image: Cara Sophie)

Respecting the land and nature also means appreciating its abundance of food. From farm-to-table cafes and boutique breweries to river cruises and restaurants championing local produce, dining around The Tweed often means engaging with the best local producers.

The award-winning Potager Restaurant , part of The Hinterland Collection , is the perfect example; beginning life as a kitchen garden, the passion to champion local producers is woven into every dish. Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked from the garden or sourced from other local producers, the seafood comes from the Northern Rivers, and meat is sourced from ethical local producers. Even the cocktail list features local distillers.

Extend your stay with a night (or several) at boutique on-site accommodation, Potager House . This French-inspired country four-bedroom retreat boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and nearby ocean, as well as a large pool, outdoor entertaining area and infrared sauna.

3. Water wellness

Waterguru Mindfulness in the Mangroves summer on the tweed — Find mindfulness in mangroves. (Image: Matt Johnson)

You’ll find mindfulness while floating around the mangroves of Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek at any time, but Watersports Guru offers an immersive experience to help guests do so with more intent. Join a 90-minute guided session on a stand-up paddleboard to reconnect with nature and relax through breathwork, gentle movement and sensory awareness.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Watersports Guru also offer Kayak fishing adventures or join a Sea Turtle Odyssey experience.

4. Restorative seaside stays

woman relaxing in spa at Halcyon Wellness, halcyon house — Unwind at Halcyon Wellness.

The Tweed encourages locals and visitors alike to slow down. To really indulge, a seaside stay is a must. Halcyon House has understood the assignment, blending a wellness philosophy centred on balance and self-discovery with luxurious surrounds. Stay in one of 22 rooms and suites (each individually designed by eclectic interior designer Anna Spiro) right on the beachfront. Book restorative treatments at the onsite spa, Halcyon Wellness, relax by the pool, dine at the hatted Paper Daisy restaurant and just let The Tweed work its magic.

While Blue Water Motel offers a relaxed coastal escape, just steps from Kingscliff Beach. Settle in stylish rooms, recently restyled by Jason Grant, nodding to the cool of Kingscliff with a fun retro vibe. Hire a bike from reception to explore the surrounding area.

5. Tasty drops

The owners at Husk Farm Distillery aren’t just about creating high-quality rum: they’re also farmers themselves. In fact, they create one of the world’s only single estate, farm-to-bottle spirits. Join a Farm to Bottle tour to discover the sustainable ‘full circle’ distilling practices used here, and even get hands-on with your own cane knife to help harvest and juice your own stalk of cane. And, of course, a welcome drink plus complimentary tastings along the way.

6. Rail trail adventures

Exploring the rolling green slopes and historic towns of the 24-kilometre Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the best ways to connect with the region’s lush hinterland and interesting heritage. In this section of the trail, discover the area’s railway history at heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, and traverse by 18 railway bridges and through two railway tunnels.

Linking vibrant towns and villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, this section of the trail is covered in asphalt or compacted gravel, making it accessible for all ages and abilities, from prams to adaptive bikes.

7. Linger longer

surfer at fingal heads the tweed — Enjoy beachside locations, like Fingal Heads.

Linger longer at one of the seven idyllic beach, river and creekside locations of Tweed Holiday Parks – including at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff Beach, Hastings Point and Pottsville South. All just steps from the water’s edge, they make the ideal base to unwind, or head out for exploration of The Tweed. Choose from luxury waterfront cabins, accessible cabins, surfari tents (yes, they are basically glamping tents) or spacious sites for caravans, motorhomes and campervans or tents.

Find your feel-good summer in The Tweed at visitthetweed.com.au .

12 scenic Central Coast walks to take you from the bush to the sand