'Download the Central Coast section from the Pacific Coast Touring Route guide, or email: marketing@centralcoasttourism.com.au to request a copy of the entire guide.'

Just an hour north of Sydney, the Central Coast offers splendid beaches, national parks, waterfront dining and is bursting with typical Australian activities. Stop in at the Australian Reptile Park to see the country’s largest collection of reptiles, and meet the cute and cuddly native animals too.

Explore the wilderness on horseback or kayak along creeks at Glenworth Valley, Australia’s largest horse riding centre. Visit the Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park at Calga to gain an insight into Aboriginal heritage, join the bush food and bush medicine guided tours and discover sacred indigenous sites within the park, in amongst Australia’s native wildlife.

Go fishing or cruise on the vast waterways, learn to surf with a former world champion, take your pick of 18 hole championship grade golf courses and admire the Aboriginal rock carvings. Take a tour of the historic Norah Head Lighthouse to experience the breathtaking 360 degree coastal views, and don’t miss the daily Pelican feeding show at 3.30pm at The Entrance.

Choose from picturesque villages along the coastline such as Pearl Beach and Ettalong, or the trendy surf communities of Avoca Beach and Terrigal. Take the hinterland trail through the Yarramalong Valley and visit the lavender farm and swing through the trees at Treetop Adventure Park, visiting Mt Penang Gardens along the way to see all of Australia’s native flowers and plants in a contemporary garden setting.

A number of artists and photographers have been inspired by the scenic Central Coast and proudly call it home. Famous Australian photographer Ken Duncan has a stunning new gallery at Erina Heights, showcasing his work from all around the world and next door is Neale Joseph’s fine art gallery where you can watch Neale at work.