Less than an hour north of Sydney, the New South Wales Central Coast is a stark contrast to bustle of the State capital. The sleepy relaxed hamlets and coastal villages are surrounded by superb beaches, inland waterways and lush national parks. The coastal wilderness once provided a rich environment for it's Aboriginal inhabitants, and remnants of their habitation can be viewed in the various national parks. For a while, the more infamous history of European settlement was also on display through the conservation of historic buildings and the colonial theme park, Old Sydney Town, which unfortunately closed its doors a few years ago.

Time spent in the Central Coast can be busy or relaxed, the decision is up to you. Fishing and boating on the various waterways are popular activities, as are browsing through antique stores and lazing back on golden beaches. There's no shortage of excellent restaurants and cafes, many in scenic waterfront locations and the Coast's accommodation is of similar quality and abundance.

Gosford is a scenic town on the banks of the northern most tip of Brisbane Water. The Central Coast's largest centre, Gosford's main attractions include the Gosford City Arts Centre and Edogawa Commemorative Garden, both set in parklands by the waterway, as well as Henry Kendall's Cottage, a museum also set in parklands with picnic and barbecue facilities. The Gosford Arts Bazaar is held at the arts centre every November and The Gosford Country Show, a traditional Aussie rural exhibition, is held every May.

East of Gosford through the commercial shopping district of Erina, is the very fashionable coastal resort town of Terrigal. Aboriginal for "place of little birds", the trendy boutiques, restaurants, bars and cafes which line the seaside boulevard fringed by Norfolk pines, have been attracting visitors here for many years. It's beautiful location on Broken Head also attracts surfers to the excellent surf beach.

A few kilometres down the coast, Avoca Beach, is smaller and less well known resort. The superb beach has a sheltered rockpool section at the southern end and is a favourite with families. There are several cafes and restaurants offering a range of dining options.

North of Terrigal, by the beachside town of Bateau Bay is the southern slither of Wyrrabalong National Park. High coastal cliffs offer great whale spotting vantage points, while the large variety of fauna and flora found throughout the tall headlands and rock platforms make for some interesting and scenic bushwalks.

Further up the coast, located at the point where Tuggarah Lakes meets the ocean, The Entrance is a breathtaking holiday destination, famous for deep blue waters, wide beaches, great fishing, and pelicans. The pelican is the symbol of the Central Coast, and each day these enormous birds are fed in memorial park at 3:30pm. It's quite a spectacle!

Inland and near the eastern shores of Tuggerah Lake, the former logging town of Wyong is now surrounded by state forests. The Wyong District Museum, an old homestead within two hectares of parks and gardens, has changing displays of historic artefacts illustrating the lives and times of Wyong pioneers as well as barbeque and picnic areas. Close by there are two quality golf courses, as well as large stretches of calm water, ideal for recreational activities such as sailing, boating, and fishing.