If you’re on the M1 travelling south, you might be in a hurry to reach the lights of Sydney; going north, you might be off to the beaches of northern NSW. But to bypass the Central Coast is to risk missing out on its many delights. Even though I’ve been to the Central Coast many times in my life to visit family, I’m still discovering new areas – such was the case recently when we went back to celebrate Adam’s grandfather’s 98th birthday. (Such an amazing man!) I thought I’d write up a few places that I think are worth visiting. Pencil them in for the next time you’re passing through.

Australian Reptile Park

A trip to the Central Coast just isn’t complete without going to the Australian Reptile Park. Situated by the freeway, it certainly ranks among the chief places that are fighting the great animal conservation fight. Their amazing Devil Ark project is just one example. A family could spend the best part of the day wandering through the grounds, listening to the terrific live shows, feeding the kangaroos and even get up alongside the resident Galapagos Tortoise as it is taken for its regular walk. Another highlight is being able to watch the deadly spiders being milked to create precious anti-venom (I like spiders, what can I say).

A family of four pass costs $85.

Distillery Botanica

Hidden in the hills of Erina, many locals aren’t even aware that they have their very own spirit distillery nearby, but it is true. Open from 10am – 5pm, Wednesdays – Sundays, visitors may be offered a tour, followed by tastings of the award-winning gin, vodka, coffee liqueur, even absinthe, made right on the premises. Afterwards, take a stroll in their beautiful gardens, like we did (see above) and try to find to lemon myrtle trees – their leaves provide the flavour of, you guessed it, lemon myrtle liqueur. Tours and tastings are free!

If you need to fill your belly with some food after all your sampling, Terrigal is just down the road. Chic and trendy, you can grab an ice-cream by the beachside or if you’re after something healthier, head to the Bella Natural Food Co. They do a great green juice.

Norah Head Lighthouse

For twenty dollars, we were treated to a private tour of Norah Head Lighthouse. If you take the almost 100 steps to the top, you are rewarded with gorgeous views of the beautiful – and treacherous – coast and surrounding ocean. Even on blowy and rainy days – such as we had – it is still worth the trouble. The history of the place is fascinating – accommodation is even available at the old Lighthouse Keepers’ cottages. If you want to stick around a bit longer, there is a walk down to local rockpools that are said to be lovely (we didn’t go as it was too wet).

Newcastle Beach

A drawcard for surfers and beach-goers, Newcastle Beach is a lovely spot to spend some time. The kids have always loved poking around the rocks. Nearby is the lovely King Edward Park, a favoured place for a lazy picnic. Also, the groovy cafes of Watt Street are only a short walk away.

Beaumont Street, Hamilton

One of the thriving eatery and cultural spots of Newcastle, Beaumont Street is alone worth a visit to visit Maclean’s Booksellers, known for its many events and support of the local writing community. And literally right around the corner is The Paleo Café – opened just at the beginning this year, its popularity among the healthy-set sees long lines at lunchtime.

If you’re into Rocket Pear Beetroot Walnut Salad, Dukka Crusted Ocean Caught Fish for lunch or Paleo Bircher Muesli for breakfast, then this is the place for you.

I know I’ve left off heaps – what are your favourite places to visit on the Central Coast and Newcastle?

Australia Reptile Park image source: Wikipedia