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The Best Central Coast Walks with Stunning Views
Get your activewear on and head straight to the coast to explore the best walks the Central Coast has to offer.
The sunny Central Coast is one of NSW’s best kept secrets for hikers, and once you’ve explored it, you’ll understand why. The Central Coast’s best walks span sheltered coves and steep clifftops within an hour of Sydney. Maitland Bay Track in Bouddi National Park descends to a secluded swimming beach, The Skillion in Terrigal rewards a short, steep climb with sweeping Pacific views, and Kariong Brook Falls in Brisbane Water National Park hides an emerald swimming hole at the end of a bush trail.
Whether you’re after a breezy family-friendly stroll or a full-day coastal challenge, the best Central Coast walks deliver scenery that more than earns the effort. If you’ve already conquered the best walking tracks Sydney has to offer, it’s time to head north. Read on for our top picks.
In This Guide:
- Best Easy and Family-Friendly Walks on the Central Coast
- Best Waterfall Walks on the Central Coast
- Best Coastal Walks on the Central Coast
- Best Walks for Sweeping Views on the Central Coast
- Best Multi-Day and Challenging Walks on the Central Coast
- Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Central Coast Walks
Best Easy and Family-Friendly Walks on the Central Coast
Somersby Falls Walking Track, Brisbane Water National Park
Don’t let the short distance fool you — the Somersby Falls Walking Track packs a serious punch. One of the most popular picnic spots on the Central Coast, the steep trail drops from the picnic area down to the base of a stunning waterfall, where you can dip your toes in and keep an eye out for goannas and water dragons sunning themselves on the rocks. Visit after heavy rain for the full dramatic effect.
Distance: 200m return
Time: 15 – 20 minutes
Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Families, Nature lovers, Outdoor, Weekend plans
Need To Know: Short but steep trail from the picnic area down to the falls.
Girrakool Loop Track
If you’re looking for a scenic meander that’s not too strenuous, the Girrakool Loop is for you. The route may be short but it packs a punch with lookouts, waterfalls, Aboriginal engravings and creeks.
Sitchu Tip: This is a great walk during late winter and early spring for vibrant wildflowers.
Distance: 2km
Time: 30 mins to 1 hour
Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Nature lovers, Families, Outdoor, Weekend plans
Box Head Track
For an easygoing introduction to Central Coast hiking trails, Box Head Track is a great place to start. At just over three kilometres, the relaxed walk is less about endurance and more about Bouddi National Park’s natural landscape. From breathtaking views of the Tasman Sea to the abundance of native birdlife and mountainous outlooks, Box Head Track is a great excursion for all fitness levels.
Distance: 3.1km return
Time: 1 hour
Where: Bouddi National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Families, Nature lovers, Outdoor, Weekend plans
Hawkesbury River Walk
A new boardwalk has opened just in time for spring. If you’re looking for a low-impact stroll to escape the city, head an hour north of Sydney CBD to the Hawkesbury River region where you’ll find the newly installed Kangaroo Boardwalk. This foreshore path follows a route from Kangaroo Point to Seymours Creek in Brooklyn offering pedestrians a picturesque stroll through untouched bushland and mangroves. It’s only 1km in length and it’s wheelchair-accessible.
Distance: 2km return
Time: 30 minutes
Where: Brooklyn
Cost: Free
Best For: Families, Outdoor, Locals, Weekend plans
Need To Know: Wheelchair-accessible.
Best Waterfall Walks on the Central Coast
Mooney Mooney Nature Walk
Another sublime walking track that takes in the magnificence of the Brisbane Water National Park, the eight-kilometre track navigates an abundance of diverse landscapes including rocky escarpments, lush rainforests, waterfalls and native bushland. Beginning at the Girrakool Picnic Area, you’ll follow the deep gorge at Piles Creek up to the iconic suspension bridge.
Distance: 4.2km one way
Time: 2.5-3.5 hours
Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Nature lovers, Adventure, Outdoor
Kariong Brook Falls, Brisbane Water National Park
Tucked away in Brisbane Water National Park, the trail to Kariong Brook Falls is a classic Central Coast adventure that feels far more remote than it actually is. The out-and-back track winds through lush bushland before descending into a secluded sandstone amphitheatre, where an emerald-green pool sits beneath the falls. Bring your swimmers — this one’s too good not to jump in.
Distance: 4km return
Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Adventure, Nature lovers, Couples, Outdoor
Need To Know: Bring swimmers — there’s a pool at the base of the falls.
Hominy Creek Walking Track
A refreshing dip in the Emerald Pool awaits you at the end of Hominy Creek Walking Track. Shaded by eucalyptus trees and with views of Popran National Park, the five-kilometre circuit is a tranquil escape. Push yourself a little further and continue on to the 248 Trail to reach the Mount Olive Lookout and reward yourself with magnificent views of Popran Valley.
Distance: 5km return
Time: 2.5-3.5 hours
Where: Popran National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Nature lovers, Adventure, Outdoor
Best Coastal Walks on the Central Coast
Bouddi National Park Coastal Walk
Stretching across eight kilometres of rugged coastline from Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach, the Bouddi Coastal Walk is the perfect snapshot of the scenic Central Coast. Traversing beaches, boardwalks, rainforests, and secluded bays, the moderate hike is known as one of the best coastal walks in Australia. Don’t miss a spectacular photo opportunity at Gerrin Point Lookout for the chance to spot some migrating whales and sweeping ocean views.
Distance: 8.5km one way
Time: 3.5-4.5 hours
Where: Bouddi National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Adventure, Nature lovers, Outdoor, Unique experiences
Need To Know: One-way walk — arrange transport back or return the same way.
Bouddi National Park’s Flannel Flower Walking Track
For a springtime meander packed with native Australian blossoms, head to Bouddi National Park. The Flannel Flower Walking Track is a 2.9km return walk boasting blankets of this special flower around every corner. You’ll also get to wander through a towering angophora forest and gaze out across the scenic Lobster Beach lookout.
Distance: 2.9km return
Time: 1 hour
Where: Bouddi National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Nature lovers, Families, Outdoor, Weekend plans
Maitland Bay Track, Bouddi National Park
Short but spectacular, the Maitland Bay Track is one of those walks that rewards big for relatively little effort. The 2km return trail descends steeply via a long stairway through coastal bush to one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on the Central Coast. Maitland Bay itself is sheltered, calm and utterly gorgeous — pack your swimmers and make a day of it.
Distance: 2km return
Time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Where: Bouddi National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Couples, Nature lovers, Outdoor, Special occasion
Need To Know: Steep stairway descent to the beach.
Wyrrabalong Coastal Walk
Make your way up to Bateau Bay’s Crackneck Lookout and watch the whales cruise by during the winter months and enjoy the stunning views across Shelly Beach and The Entrance. From the lookout, you can head out along the three-kilometre Wyrrabalong Coastal Walk – either head north to Bateau Bay Beach through subtropical fauna-scape, or south to Forresters Beach with the scenic walk coasting the headline through Wyrrabalong Coastal Walk.
Distance: 3.8km
Time: 1.5 hours
Wyrrabalong Coastal Walk
Where: Wyrrabalong National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Nature lovers, Outdoor, Locals, Weekend plans
Norah Head Nature Trail
Take a walk along the Norah Head Nature Trail to check out the Norah Head Lighthouse. This 2.2-kilometre walk takes in some of the area’s beautiful native flora and fauna. You can head back via the nature trail or, alternatively, if the tide is low, you can make your way down the stairs in front of the lighthouse and turn left. Take in the secluded beauty of Nimbin and Lighthouse Beaches before reaching The Rockpool Norah Head, from here you can make your way up the stairs which will take you back to the reserve.
Distance: 2.2km return
Time: 1 hour
Where: Norah Head
Cost: Free
Best For: Nature lovers, Couples, Outdoor, Locals
Need To Know: Return via the beach stairs is only possible at low tide.
Best Walks for Sweeping Views on the Central Coast
Patonga to Pearl Beach
Beginning near Patonga boat ramp, the moderately challenging Patonga to Peal Beach hike is three kilometres one way and takes you on a scenic climb through Brisbane Water National Park. Warrah Lookout is a great place to stop for breathtaking views of Broken Bay and the Hawkesbury River. The refreshing turquoise waters of Pearl Beach signal the end of the trail and an opportunity to stop off for a swim and squeeze in some beach walking.
Distance: 3km one way
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Adventure, Nature lovers, Outdoor, Couples
Need To Know: One-way walk — arrange transport back or return the same way.
Piles Creek Loop
If you’re after a short work with plenty of different landscapes to traverse, Piles Creek Loop is it. You’ll hike through eucalypt rainforests, past waterfalls and even over a suspension bridge. We recommend packing a picnic and settling in at the Girrakool picnic area for a post-hike feast.
Distance: 4km
Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Nature lovers, Families, Outdoor, Weekend plans
The Skillion, Terrigal
One of the Central Coast’s most iconic landmarks, The Skillion is a dramatic rocky headland rising sharply above Terrigal Haven. The climb is short but steep, and the views from the top — sweeping across the Haven, the beach and out to the Pacific — are absolutely worth the burn. A must-do for first-timers and a classic for locals. Go at golden hour if you can.
Distance: 1km return
Time: 30 minutes
Where: Terrigal
Cost: Free
Best For: Couples, Outdoor, Locals, Weekend plans
Need To Know: Short, steep climb to the lookout.
Kincumba Mountain to Terrigal Walk
For something a little more off the beaten track, the Kincumba Mountain to Terrigal walk is a gem. Winding through Kincumba Mountain Regional Reserve, the trail takes in ancient Aboriginal rock art etched into cave walls, rugged forest tracks, soaring grass trees and rewarding clifftop views. It’s a varied and characterful walk that ends — very satisfyingly — in Terrigal, where a well-earned coffee or swim awaits.
Distance: 7km one way
Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Where: Kincumba Mountain Regional Reserve to Terrigal
Cost: Free
Best For: Adventure, Couples, Outdoor, Unique experiences
Need To Know: One-way walk — arrange transport back or return the same way.
Coast to Lake Walk
Taking in the beautiful sights of the coast, the lake and everything in between, this self-guided walk highlights the Central Coast’s natural beauty. The 7.6km Coast to Lake walk covers The Entrance’s main attractions and landmarks (great for day-trippers), while also providing exercise-lovers a solid sweat session with a view.
Distance: 3 hours
Time: 1.5-3 hours
Where: The Entrance
Cost: Free
Best For: Outdoor, Locals, Visitors, Weekend plans
Best Multi-Day and Challenging Walks on the Central Coast
Great North Walk
Iconic, yet gruelling, the Great North Walk is not for the faint-hearted. Stretching for an impressive 250 kilometres from the Sydney CBD to Newcastle, the extensive track covers several national parks including Brisbane Water National Park. The Central Coast portion of the track runs for 38 kilometres and is characterised by rocky landscapes, rainforest canopies, native wildlife, and impressive water vistas.
Distance: 38km one way
Time: 1-3 days
Where: Brisbane Water National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Adventure, Outdoor, Unique experiences
Need To Know: Multi-day walk — plan accommodation and supplies accordingly.
The Coast Walking Track
Meandering through Wyrrabalong National Park, this coastal track is one of the most scenic on the coast. Taking in sweeping views along the clifftops between Foresters and Bateau Bay Beaches, you’ll also pass wildflowers in spring, whale spotting lookouts in winter and birdlife all year round.
Distance: 3km one way
Time: 1.5 hours
Where: Wyrrabalong National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Nature lovers, Outdoor, Locals, Weekend plans
Devines Hill Loop
An ambitious 28-kilometre track near Wiseman’s Ferry, the Devines Hill Loop is a Heritage-listed walk that covers Old Great North Road, Thomas James Bridge, Hangmans Rock, Devines Hill and other historical remnants from the 1800s convict era. Located in Dharug National Park, the strenuous track is a popular venture for experienced hikers and mountain bikers.
Distance: 28km return
Time: 6 hours
Where: Dharug National Park
Cost: Free
Best For: Adventure, Unique experiences, Outdoor
Need To Know: Strenuous, heritage-listed track — popular with experienced hikers and mountain bikers.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Central Coast Walks
Somersby Falls Walking Track is one of the shortest and most accessible options, at just 200 metres return and 15 to 20 minutes. It drops from the picnic area at Brisbane Water National Park down to the base of a waterfall, where goannas and water dragons are often seen sunning themselves on the rocks. The Girrakool Loop Track and Box Head Track are also good choices for walkers wanting scenery without a strenuous climb, both under an hour and suited to a range of fitness levels.
Yes. Kariong Brook Falls in Brisbane Water National Park leads to a secluded sandstone amphitheatre with a swimming pool beneath the falls, a 4-kilometre return walk taking 1.5 to 2 hours. Somersby Falls Walking Track is a much shorter option at 200 metres return, dropping from a popular picnic area to the base of the falls. Hominy Creek Walking Track also ends at a swimming spot, the Emerald Pool, on a 5-kilometre return circuit through Popran National Park.
The Bouddi National Park Coastal Walk is the standout, stretching 8.5 kilometres one way from Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach and taking in beaches, boardwalks, rainforest, and secluded bays. Gerrin Point Lookout along the route is a good spot for whale watching during migration season. For something shorter, the Wyrrabalong Coastal Walk runs 3.8 kilometres from Bateau Bay’s Crackneck Lookout, with views across Shelly Beach and The Entrance.
The Great North Walk stretches 250 kilometres from Sydney to Newcastle in total, but the Central Coast section covers 38 kilometres one way and typically takes one to three days to complete. It passes through several national parks including Brisbane Water National Park and is characterised by rocky terrain, rainforest, and coastal views, making it a serious undertaking best suited to experienced multi-day hikers.
The Skillion in Terrigal is one of the most direct options, a short, steep 1-kilometre return climb rewarded with sweeping views across Terrigal Haven and out to the Pacific. Kincumba Mountain to Terrigal (7km one way) and Piles Creek Loop (4km) both combine forest and lookout scenery. For coastal views over a longer distance, the Bouddi National Park Coastal Walk and Coast to Lake Walk both take in extended stretches of the Central Coast’s beaches and headlands.
Loving our round-up of the best Central Coast walks and looking for more adventures in the area? Catch our guide to the best Central Coast beaches here and our local secrets guide here.
