4 Fresh Finds: New things to try on the Coast

With the Central Coast's newly celebrated status as a certified ECO Destination with Ecotourism Australia, a second year running in the global Green Destinations Top 100 List, and recognition as an Outstanding Region in Australia's most prestigious food award... there's many exciting natural, culinary, creative and cultural experiences emerging across the region in 2022.

With more than 40 beaches to wade into, a network of wildlife-rich lakes, lagoons and waterways for the aqua-enthusiast, five national parks and five state forests with walking and cycle trails, seaside villages dotted with casually-cool dining and al fresco bars, a produce-rich hinterland and variety of accommodation styles from holiday properties, hotel resorts, tiny homes and boutique stays. There is just SO MUCH to choose from when exploring the Central Coast right now.

We've simplified your research and each month your planning can start with 4 fresh experiences. Take your pick of what’s new below to dot your December calendar with the best places to enjoy something different on the Central Coast.

To the north of the Central Coast, Tuggerah now has its own fermentery for locally made, organic kombucha on tap! It also doubles as a cold brew coffee taproom too. Born and bred on the Central Coast by Amy and Roger since 2016, the purpose-built micro-fermentary Zentient Culture produces a range of delicious kombucha flavours that you can stock up on in store, but now enjoy served fresher than ever in their cosy taproom space (check out 'The Nook') along with desserts and coffee. Popular flavours include Mojito, Heartbeet, and Roobi Peach.

Zentient Culture Kombucha is also available on tap across the region at various farmer's markets, plus Norah Head Beach Haus cafe, Modern Organic at Long Jetty, and the Green Street Grocer at Erina. Save money stocking up with recyclable bottles and save the planet while enjoying local, organic kombucha. So if you're sorting your shopping at nearby Westfield Tuggerah anytime Tuesday through to Saturday, this excellent hidden gem experience is just minutes away for a refreshing break.

Explore more things to do on the Central Coast here

Literally just relaunching its new look this week, this December and January rediscover a local landmark formerly known as “The Coast Hotel”, now a bright, freshly inspired venue, The Budgewoi Hotel. WIth new ownership and following a huge renovation by Sydney Restaurant Group (of Aqua Dining, Ormeggio at The Spit, Ripples, The Fenwick, Ventuno, and more!), the doors have officially opened to the newest venue in the Central Coast north.

Overlooking Budgewoi Lake at the top-end of the Coast, Budgewoi Hotel marks Sydney Restaurant Groups' first foray into hotels. With interior design by leading stylist Hannah Brady of the renowned Studio Brady, The Budgewoi Hotel concept and design takes inspiration from the local coastal lifestyle with fixtures and fittings intended to create a relaxed home for all to enjoy. With a range of newly designed spaces to cater for all; from the ground floor bistro with classic yet elevated pub dining, public bar, multi-faceted event spaces, state of the art sports bar, VIP room and sprawling beer garden - the standard is set high for food, beverage and entertainment on NSW’s Central Coast.

“We look forward to welcoming past regulars, newcomers and tourists alike to the new, elevated version of their beloved pub. We are pleased to be able to be injecting some fresh and unique spaces and offerings into the local area while retaining the hotels sense of community spirit.” - Sydney Restaurant Group Director, Daniel Drakopoulos

Whether it be sipping cocktails and beers in their beer garden during summer, or a night by the firepit with a glass of home-made mulled wine during winter, meeting up with mates to watch your favourite sport on giant screens or enjoying a feast at Lago Cucina restaurant (coming in early 2023), “The Budgie” can be your home away from home.

Explore more places to eat & drink across the Central Coast here

Our Maker & Creator community never ceases to amaze, and here we have locally made arancini balls popping up in Kibble Park! Introducing Arancini Au, and from December 16, every Tuesday through to Saturday from 4:30pm you can now indulge in some simple al fresco Italian dining, just minutes from Gosford Waterfront, with this ingenious foodie venture by Tara Senam, hospitality rockstar and owner and operator of some of the Central Coast’s favourites, Pinnochios Wine Bar, Motel Mezza, Little Miss Mezza (also a brand new venture!) and The Pantry cafe at The Quarters Forresters Beach.

The new Arancini Au pop-up menu travels beyond the famous mushroom and truffle arancini, featuring sweet and savoury Arancini flavours, scrumptious sides, Italian cocktails galore, tap beer and Italian wines. You'll be pleased to know this little local foodie enterprise also deliver their Arancini balls to at least 15 suburbs around the Central Coast, from Tuesday to Saturday. We're thinking this is a genuine #Amazeballs moment. 

Explore more makers & creators on the Central Coast here

Plan your escape to nature in one of NSW's certified ECO Destinations, the Central Coast, with some truly breathtaking coastal holiday homes available throughout the December to January period. For example, the newly listed Surfers Corner located at Wamberal Beach is perfect for two couples, offering sublime seafront views and garden to beach access. Within walking distance of both Wamberal shops (including delicious Lagune Pizza, SUQ restaurant and Sal & Co cafe), and Terrigal village, guests can embrace the beach by day and the local vibrant foodie culture and nightlife by sunset.

Featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms, this holiday stay is designed for couples who love the sandy-salty lifestyle, and possibly want to pack their board for the break, as Wamberal Beach is known for its waves.

Explore more places to stay on the Central Coast here