Start your day at the crack of dawn with a beach sunrise followed by an incredible breakfast at Cue & Crew in The Entrance North, serving from 6am. Located on a suburban street corner just minutes from the beach, this is the Coast's answer to slow-smoked American BBQ meats and their morning menu won't disappoint! Mental note: trek back for their weekend evening meat feasts.

Nearby your morning cafe you'll find a beach path - follow it to take a long, scenic walk along The Entrance North Beach. This lovely golden stretch hooks around where the ocean meets the channel feeding into Tuggerah Lakes, with brilliant views across to The Entrance townscape. Plus it's a dog friendly beach so you'll see plenty of happy pups playing in the waves.

Call in and meet the friendly staff and volunteers at the Central Coast Visitor Information Centre.  The Team will be happy to assist you with information on the vibrant region suggesting things to do, places to eat, where to stay and share some local secrets or less known places to add to your trip to the coast. You can also pick up a souvenir or choose from locally made products and artwork. Don't forget to the Scavenger Hunt activity for the kids!

​​​​​​Grab one of the local takeaway staples for lunch and enjoy it in Memorial Park with accessible and shaded picnic tables available. Order fresh fish & chips from Jimbo's Quality Seafoods, or a gourmet pie from Ken’s Humble Pie Shop. For authentic Banh Mi Asian-style BBQ pork rolls, Chi Cong Bakery is the real deal.

Hire a boat or fishing rod from The Entrance Boatshed located right by The Entrance Bridge. Hiring all kinds of watercraft out to locals and visitors since the 1920s, this is the best place to embrace the beautiful surrounds of Tuggerah Lake and fish, prawn, or simply have fun in the sun. Choose from motorboats, stand-up paddle-boards, canoes and kayaks.

Treat yourself to dinner by the scenic boardwalk at the local eateries, such as Mi Cantina, the lively Arabian Lounge with a view of that east coast sunset. Alternatively head to Mrs May's Bistro and Bar at The Entrance Social Club with its fresh neutral tones and luxurious textures and a bar that flows outside into a dog friendly courtyard. A great place to dance the night away and indulge in some delicious food! 

If you love sport, Taffy’s Sports-bar is your new home ground. And if you don't love sport? Taffy's is still a vibing new venue for an evening session with atmosphere, as part of The Entrance Social Club, also serving a colourful cocktail menu.

Kick start today with breakfast and a tasty brew by the lake at Albie's Coffee Bar with top views from Picnic Point.  Or try relaxed Usui Cafe & Gallery, serving legendary local sourdough from La Tartine bakery with their walls adorned by the purchasable work of Central Coast artists.

Right on the lake edge sits a lovely green space known as Picnic Point Reserve, featuring a skate park, boat ramp, fishing spot and playground, linked by a shared walking and cycle friendly pathway - The Coast to Lake Walk - touring you along the foreshore. It's the perfect starting point to stroll off breakfast and soak up the Tuggerah Lakes scenery.

A dedicated gluten free restaurant where food never tasted so good. With the success of the sister restaurant in Newcastle, the slick looking Meantime on The Entrance has everything from pasta , pizza, mains and desserts making it a great place to have a worry free meal for Coeliacs and those on a gluten free diet!

The Entrance Historic Carousel has proudly sat on the water’s edge of The Entrance since the 1930s, originating from Germany in the 1800s. It's now recognised by the National Trust as one of the oldest carousels in Australia - and yes, you may totally have a go on it.

Clear your mind with a cleansing swim in the outdoor ocean pools. Follow the Coast to Lake Walk to The Grant McBride Baths, featuring a 50-metre lap pool, 20 metre smaller pool, and a wading pool located by the Heritage listed Surf Life Saving Club at the southern end of The Entrance beach. There's free entry all year round and brilliant coastal views while you paddle.

Grabbing an ice cream is a rite of passage when visiting The Entrance, and you're spoilt for choice! There's The Great Australian Icecreamery with its nice sense of nostalgia, or proper gelato fans can venture to Ciao Bella Gelato on Coral Street or Licks Icecream at the Waterfront Plaza. Sweet tooth? Don't miss browsing the Coast's biggest lolly shop since 1990 at The Lolly Barn!

Enjoy an exceptionally fresh seafood dinner at the Ocean Restaurant, located in neighbouring Blue Bay and offering expansive coastal views with the chance to spot dolphins at dusk while sipping boutique wine. This fine dining experience is the perfect way to round out your day by the seaside, and it's just a short walk along the Coast to Lake path back to the town centre.

Serving night caps since the 1940s, The Lakes Hotel is an essential local pub stop that offers a lively atmosphere, especially when there's live music on the weekends. Find a nook in one of their two bar-lounges, or head to the rooftop terrace for a cocktail or cold schooner on the top of the town. 

Source breakfast at the historic Wyong Milk Factory precinct. Established in 1906, this wonderfully restored industrial building has a great family-friendly café offering yummy breakfast options and a sunny outdoor deck. 

Shop some amazing local food producers at Wyong Milk Factory including Daily Dough Co, Little Creek Cheese and Luka Chocolates, all crafting and perfecting their famous foodie treats right here in Wyong, on the doorstep to the hinterland.

Take a leisurely drive to the hinterland just a few minutes west of Wyong. Stop for lunch at Angel Sussurri Restaurant and Manor House in Yarramalong. Next, visit Regans Fine Foods, an old-school butcher and purveyor of local produce and farm goods. They have a great range of homemade ready-to-go meals and treats perfect for a picnic.

​​​​​​Head back to Wyong Milk Factory precinct where you can hire a kayak from All Sorts Fitness and paddle down the serene water of Wyong Creek. Keep a keen eye out for wild platypus, which are extremely elusive but live locally in this important waterway.

Head back to treat yourself to a delicious dinner in Wyong’s town centre at one of its leading restaurants. There's modern Middle-Eastern available at Motel Mezza based in a stylishly revived old bank or nearby Osteria a Mano for authentic Italian feast.

Enjoy a second night in the soft comforts of Kooindah Waters Hotel. Each spacious room features a private terrace for enjoying a sunset cocktail, nightcap, or quiet morning coffee. Soak up another evening of ultimate zen ahead of a day of amazement tomorrow.

Wake up to an amazing brew thanks to Glee Coffee, this local coffee roaster has a few key spots located across the Central Coast, and today you're visiting the historic Chapman Building cafe in the heart of Wyong. This venue is stylishly revamped from its hey-day with a spacious, industrial feel and delicious menu to peruse. If it's a beautiful day, enjoy your coffee in their sunny outdoor terrace.

Once you're fuelled with local coffee, explore Wyong's historic township. Take the free, self-guided Wyong Heritage Walk with signposted stops to help you step back into the shoes of locals 100 years ago. Start at Railway Square and follow the signs. To access an audio tour simply scan the QR code on each sign, or click here to access the 'Wyong Heritage Walk' audio tour on Whooshkaa.

Shop the fashion and lifestyle boutiques based in the historic Chapman Building and the Gallery Precincts of Wyong, including Scout and Trader, House of Ellery and Lovinn' Lime Accessories and Ivy & Rose Homewares.

Indulge in awesomely fresh burgers, handmade loaded pies or Korean fried chicken for lunch from either Eva's Corner, Woodblock Bar & Grill or Chick'n.  If you have capacity, grab some sweet treats at Pretty Sweet Bakes. 

Take a seat in Wyong’s speakeasy bar. Set inside the historic Chapman Building, Jerry Sent Me is a beautifully renovated venue with vintage feels. Have an afternoon chic cocktail while nibbling on a share platter or admire the beautifully crafted antique bar from the comfort of huge leather armchairs positioned under the subtle lighting while sipping on a single malt whiskey.

Experience the thrill of a live show at the Art House Wyong, with seasonal performances throughout the year, a rotating art gallery exhibition in its foyer, and a lovely garden terrace and bar out the back for relaxing with good company.

Nestled in the heart of Wyong, the boutique Grand Hotel is the perfect stay for a romantic retreat, family getaway or business trip. A stone’s throw away from the bustling town centres café’s, restaurants and bars, this hotel is ideally located within five minutes walking distance from the Art House Theatre.

Arise bright and early with a stroll along the waterfront soaking up the view with a seat at Tommy's Cafe. Located right across from the bay, this is an ideal place to fuel up with pancakes, mushrooms on toast, avo smash, fresh juices and more, served in the leafy surrounds of their outdoor terrace.

Dive into outdoor swimming for a refreshing start to your morning. This 50m Olympic sized pool is heated and open as early as 5am weekdays and 7-8am on weekends. If you're travelling as a group, there's plenty of room to chill and watch from the grandstands, cheering on the keen members your "team" as they try to perfect their breaststroke.

Once you've showered off from your laps, venture just outside Gosford Swimming Pool to find Eat Street Cafe, a local staple for grabbing an easy lunch by Gosford waterfront. Whether you crave sweet or savoury, this spot will cater to it with hotdogs, pizza, pies, gourmet doughnuts, icecream and much more. Enjoy as an al fresco picnic by the waterside.

With one of the best locations on the waterfront, the Gosford Sailing Club is the place to be to observe sailors taking an afternoon jaunt on the water each Wednesday. During daylight savings, catch this picturesque event from 5:30pm, which starts and finishes in front of the Club. During summertime, yacht racing is also held on the first and third Tuesdays of the month in Dragon Force 65 boats. Find a spot on the sunny deck with a drink and enjoy!

Get ready for a colourful evening of fun and belly aching laughs at Gosford's FunHaus Factory. Enjoy an immersive and live cabaret act with a vibrancy and wit, that will excite your senses while you feast on freshly made burgers from Beau's Burgers. Stay for a drink and meet the locals afterwards. 

It has to be seen to be believed that the high tea at Kew Dining is truly art on a plate. What's more Instagram-worthy than delicate China plates adorned with cream-filled tea cakes and English scones topped with edible flowers and dried rose petals? Upon arrival, you'll also receive a glass of sparkling wine that goes down a treat with your savoury delights and sweet indulgences. This high tea experience emanates sophistication, deserving a spot right on your Instagram feed. 

Hum along if you know the theme tune! Crazy Shakes are a Central Coast classic, so a pit-stop to see the menu is essential for foodie tourists. The flavours and colourful shakes live up to their name, enjoyed in the 1890s heritage listed building. Don't miss their loaded waffles, which are out of this world.

This cosy corner Long Jetty cafe pulls out all the stops to create moreish brekkie dishes that are a feast for the taste buds and the eyes. From bright smoothies to rainbow-hued salads and brekkie burgers, every one of their dishes and drinks is packed with flavour and colours of the rainbow. Snap a photo of your dish in front of the vibrant Long Jetty mural to add an extra 'pop' of colour to your Insta feed.

Rolling out of a mobile food truck, The Banger Rebellion are bringing more than just gourmet hot dogs. Their "OB" Original Banger is doused with beef and pork longonisa sausage, the Chilli Uprising brings a Mexican fusion and their Die Bestenwurst, translating to 'The Best Sausage' is just the start of their endless menu bringing mouth-watering delights to the locals of Ettalong Beach.

Serving up fine and fresh seafood, Woy Woy Fishermen's Wharf is a must-visit spot if you're looking for a waterfront seafood dining experience. Not only are their platters carefully curated into a masterpiece to celebrate the essence of the sea, but the view looking out to Empire Bay is spectacular. 

Bringing the South American flavour and the Mexican vibes, Hernandos Birria tacos deserve a spot on your feed and in your tummy. Take the freshly made crispy soft tortilla filled to the brim with slow cooked brisket and dip it in their homemade consommé.

Experience the Willy Wonka-esque vibes of Bouffant in one of Gosford city’s heritage listed buildings. This place has lines of fresh pastries for days and the pinkest pastel walls, making a perfect backdrop to savour the the sweetest of moments. Go for the signature 'bouffant' namesake. Find Bouffant bakeries across the Central Coast at Gosford, Terrigal, Umina and East Gosford.

Indulge in the delicious goods that come out of Ministry Cafe, an artisan patisserie bringing a range of gourmet tarts, entremet's, flaky pastries and more to the town of Wyoming. Ministry Cafe also provide a range of gluten-free desserts to pick from, so make sure to come hungry and bring your camera! 

A visit to the seaside suburb of Terrigal is not complete without an obligatory rooftop cocktail on the Mumbo Jumbos balcony. Snap the tropical island vibes under your own umbrella with their island-style decor and the sandy shore in the background.

Working on the Central Coast, Sydney and Newcastle, Xanthe Highfield is a design and interiors creator. As a designer and stylist for over a decade, Xanthe's passion is to create functional, inspired spaces that bring people together - and then transport them somewhere else entirely! As a local creator, she's helping bring to life many exciting new spaces across the region, which you can experience on this designer trail.

Owners of both Sounds on West at Ettalong and Erina's tap room Six Strings Brewing wanted to extend their range of locally brewed beers into a restaurant space focused on smoked meats. Sounds on West is masculine in design, with an intimate warmth for evening sessions. The bar is handmade from hardwood timber, a vintage-industrial theme continued through distressed brickwork, low lighting, and brown leather upholstery. 

Xanthe designed the modern-look Woy Woy Fishermen's Wharf in collaboration with the Cregan Clayton family, owners since 1974. The design links to the natural waterways and mangroves, creating a fresh, simple interior. Check out the floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Brisbane Waters, and the custom-made, four metre-long traditional Indigenous fishing trap suspended from the restaurant ceiling.

Your visit to the south end of Gosford should include a stop at this fresh social haunt hiding among pristine, new office blocks and a Heritage-listed building. Built as part of a new development in Gosford CBD, South End Social was designed with the themes of the Australian coast meets the Amalfi coast. Featuring soft, modern finishes in a lush, contemporary setting, this diner and bar is a perfect addition to the burgeoning Central Coast food and drink scene.

Set in a quaint garden mud hut on the grounds of Erina's Distillery Botanica, this dreamy space is the brainchild of Dan and Julia from Mr Goaty Gelato. The gelato counter is designed to fit as an organic shape, seamlessly integrating into the curved building. Using natural materials and neutral tones, the goal was to reflect the delicious garden-to-plate menu, making visitors feel at one with nature.

An edgy, fun fit-out in a new development project at Wamberal. Glow Beauty Space is all about 'welcoming luxury', with haircuts, beauty treatments, pampering and even goodies from the nearby cafe. The design heroes warm, pastel pink tones set against brushed brass and Tasmanian oak. The custom-built counter is made by locals Loughlin Furniture, with salon artworks by Vicky Lee, both highlights of this luxe space.

Designed in collaboration with Always Studio and Trent Whitehead, Terrigal's Bellyfish Cafe offers the perfect moment of escapism. Located on a prominent beachside strip, this is the place to enjoy early morning ocean breezes with coffee. The space captures a unique street vibe with a coastal context, with these incredibly quirky murals, this is a place to have fun. 

Motel Mezza, in historic Wyong (Previously Common Ground Wyong), is the sister venue of Pinocchio’s Wine Bar in Gosford. Based in a historic bank built in the 1920s, when dairy was a king industry here, the design includes wealthy status symbols such as brass, dark timber and marble finishes. The regal space harks back to patrons of yesteryear while offering new visitors that signature feeling of quality with a modern decor. 

Early birds can head to this pretty as a picture seaside cafe on Ocean View Road, open early every day of the week. Serving all your coffee, cake or avo smash needs, there's plenty of tables inside and out in their garden terrace, with a menu boasting specialities such as lemon French toast and salty coast fries. Grab a sweet takeaway treat for your onward journey.

Head just down the street from your morning cafe, toward Booker Bay, to find Anderson's Boatshed, a local favourite for hiring watercrafts. Choose your adventure on Brisbane Water: explore on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or book a BBQ Boat and drop anchor in a local bay to enjoy the serenity of being surrounded by crystal clear water you can dive into.

Treat yourself to a wholesome lunch to make you feel good inside and out at Inner Glow Kiosk. Designed as a walk-in juice bar meets cafe, this charming little foodie stop is just the ticket for eating fresh fruit, juice, yoghurt or salad and will set a positively good tone for your afternoon ahead.

Choose an entry point into the Galleria Ettalong, a Mediterranean-inspired collection of shops, markets, bars and restaurants. There's even a quaint arthouse cinema tucked inside this fascinating complex. Wander through its eclectic shops and vintage bookstores, or venture to neighbouring home and fashion boutiques Salmon & Co. and Amour Loves Fashion.

For a Peninsula dinner to remember - dine at Safran, within the Galleria. Headed up by seasoned chef Sulo, who brings colourful culinary flavours from his home by the Black Sea, you will experience exceptional contemporary Turkish cuisine at one of the Central Coast's hatted restaurants. There are set menus available with wine pairings and the presentation is a photographer's delight.

Time to chill with a bar-side bite. The vibe at Bar Toto is lively and the cocktail menu is exciting. From an Oscar's Wild to a Cherry Poppins, the creative influence goes far beyond the glass! Choose your poison and pair it with one of their delicious antipasti, which includes cured meats, cheeses and some of the Coast's most popular arancini balls.

Stay in little Italy, also known as the Galleria at Ettalong Beach. Surrounded by Roman-esque courtyards, sculptures and dramatic oil paintings, you experience all the ambience of a Mediterranean village in a beautiful, boutique room just two minutes walk from the ocean, with Ettalong's most popular shops, cafes and restaurants on your doorstep.

Kick start your day with an exceptional morning brew at punk-pink cafe Lords of Pour, right next door to The Galleria market precinct. Any little ones present will love their delicious smoothies or cold-pressed juices, while seasoned brunchers can enjoy their classy breakfast roll selections or fresh pastries and whopper slices of homemade cake.

The best way to explore Ettalong's foreshore is by bike. Hire one easily with Boomerang Bikes of Ettalong and peddle along The Esplanade as far as neighbouring Umina Beach. You will find bikes ready for hire on the corner of Beach Street and The Esplanade, opposite The Box on the Water café, just behind Ettalong Diggers (with handy locks and helmets available at their reception).  

Within The Galleria precinct at Ettalong, follow your nose to find scrumptious baked goods at RISE Artisan Bakery. With every pastry treat baked fresh in the morning, you will feel like you're strolling a European city, and can even grab some exceptionally handmade sourdough to take home with you.

What is a seaside escape without a day spa experience weaved in? Within the large resort building of Ettalong Diggers, you'll find Mantra - Ettalong’s Advanced Skin Spa. The therapists offer a variety of facial, body and massage treatments including the popular Slow Flow Massage, that chimes perfectly with the calming vibes of this town.

Arguably in one of the best waterfront spots on the Peninsula, The Box on the Water is part daytime beach kiosk cafe and part evening restaurant with smart-casual dining. From local tap beers and refreshing afternoon Aperols alongside modern Australian cuisine, this is a fine spot to enjoy a sundowner in style peering across Broken Bay.

You can't get much more convenient than landing a room at modern accommodation right opposite the beach. Mantra Ettalong Beach combines Broken Bay views with the relaxed atmosphere of this friendly seaside village. There's even a pool that looks out onto the ocean, and rooms are available with spa baths to complete your luxury experience.

Start your day with a smile at this friendly, peek-a-boo roadside café. Rise Mofo delivers a fresh, simple menu with a chance to grab an Instagram-worthy photo in front of their stunning colourful wall mural.  

A short distance from the main street of Toukley, over the bridge in Gorokan, you'll find Wallarah Point Peace Park on the edge of Tuggerah Lake. Peaceful, scenic and shady, it's perfect for picnics, pelican spotting - and for the little ones there's unlimited rides down the colourful double storey rainbow slide!

No visit to the Central Coast is complete without browsing some modern coastal home interior boutiques. In this northern reach of the region you'll find Coastal Road, a light and airy shopfront by the lake with a range of curated wares celebrating all that is charming about life by the sea. Pick up a souvenir to bring your holiday home with you.

The food scene continues to heat up in Toukley, with the addition of this authentic Mexican cantina, inspired by the vibrancy of eateries in the Baja Peninsula region. Located right in the centre of town, Mexicoast makes for a colourful lunch stop, serving jalapeno poppers, charred corn on the cob, street quesadillas and caramel-filled churros.

Toukley Village Green is now home to the Gallery Container which houses local artist in residence display their stunning artwork. Pop in and browse the exhibition space, immerse yourself in the installations, chat to the artist and stay for an engaging workshop or talk. The artists rotate every 3 months, so there is always something new and creative to discover.

Work up your appetite by fishing, water-skiing, wind-surfing, SUPing, canoeing or kayaking on the lake, or simply exploring the picturesque foreshore on foot. Refuel for the evening at Hart & Soul Bar and Grill and sip on delightful cocktails. A perfect location to relax, have fun and eat delicious fresh food. 

Canton Beach Holiday Park is the perfect, family-friendly place to rest your head for the evening. Just a few streets from Toukley's Main Road you'lll find the modest suburb of Canton Beach, with your accommodation surrounded by a vast array of native flora and fauna thanks to the wetland waterways and Wyrrabalong National Park just around the corner.