Written by Chloe Debono
Want to escape uni for the weekend and explore somewhere new? Check out the Central Coast! It offers scenic hikes, beautiful beaches, good food, and plenty of shops to explore!
The Piles Creek Loop Track is located just off the freeway, so if you’re just looking to do a day trip, this one is perfect! The track is located within a national park, which has an $8 vehicle entry fee, but the scenery makes it worth it! The loop is approximately 4km and takes around 3 hours to complete.
Another hike I would definitely recommend is Kariong Brook Falls. The track takes you through fire trails before heading down a steep descent towards the falls. It is approximately 7km and took us around 2 hours to complete (including a nice stop at the falls).
Staples Lookout is also worth checking out. It is located near the start of the Kariong Brook Falls track and offers beautiful views of the Central Coast. It is a great spot to stop and take in the scenery.
One hike that I didn’t have time to complete (and was recommended by a local) was the Bouddi Coastal Walk. It is quite a long walk, approximately 8.5km each way, but is a perfect track if you want to combine scenic views of the coast and the rainforest. If you are limited on time, you can turn around prior to the endpoint!
If you want to spend some time by the ocean, head to Terrigal. It has beautiful beaches and restaurants overlooking the water. It’s the perfect place to grab something to eat, have a swim and go shopping.
Whether you are looking for an active weekend filled with hiking or simply want to enjoy the beach, food and scenery, the Central Coast has plenty to offer.
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