After a peaceful night's rest in the tranquillity of bush-set Noonaweena, hit the road to continue your journey through the Central Coast. First stop for today is one of Australia's best-kept secrets. Saddles Restaurant is one of the most stunning venues you'll ever see with an incredible menu of breakfast classics with an innovative twist. Sit outside to soak up the lakeside views on the deck! And grab a photo barside on the bar saddle seats near the Piano Bar.

One of the best things about exploring the Central Coast is having direct access to some of the freshest farm produce in Australia. Grace Springs Farm has everything from pasteurised eggs to honey and fresh fruit & vegetables. Book in to do a farm tour to see exactly where your food comes from and how it's lovingly grown by the Grace Springs team. You'll experience live cow milking demonstrations, egg collecting, piglet feeding, and you might even score a cuddle from one of the chooks.

Get off the beaten track again to discover more fresh produce available on the Central Coast. Christine, Hannah & Tim are Mangrove Mountain locals using their 20+ years of farming experience to show visitors how to source and enjoy Mangrove Mountain's best with Mountain Goat Farm Trails. From working farm walks where you'll see what daily life working on a farm is like to the 'Hand-Picked Tours' where you'll learn about sustainable farming and enjoy a wine or two.

After a jam-packed day of exploring the Central Coast Hinterland, it's time for a well-deserved lunch at The Sitting Duck. An innovative paddock to plate dining experience, Chef Dan will serve you unique dishes featuring local produce and creative flavour combinations that will not disappoint. Make sure you stop by the Duck Inn and enjoy a bush inspired cocktail, locally brewed craft beer or local gin while soaking up the fantastic views of the hinterland.

All that's left to do now is to make your way back home to enjoy your full esky brimming with local treats! Thank you for adventuring with #EmptyEsky, and be sure to spread the word about all the local hidden gems you discovered on your road trip!

Remember to tag #LoveCentralCoast and #EmptyEsky so we can share your road trip with the rest of Australia.

Kick-start today with a delicious breakfast enjoyed with a front row view of the Avoca beachfront. Both The Point Cafe and Avoca Sands Cafe offer perfect spots to watch all the morning people as they take to the waves, jog along the coastline, or take a refreshing dip in the rockpool. You couldn't ask for a better coastal view, but you can ask for a second coffee.

 _{Image: @pointcafe_avoca}

​​​​​​Enjoy the morning at Avoca Beach - why not give beginner's surf lessons a crack? You're in safe hands with Central Coast Surf Academy, founded by ex-World Tour Surfer Amee Donohoe. Classes are designed to help build your water confidence and beach awareness on the way to catching your first wave.

Opening in the craziness of 2020, Avoca's own specialty coffee curators, Social Junction, offer a great place for a pick me up. Grab a seat by their larger than life wall mural and choose from the classic eggs benny or B&E, to veggie stacks and summertime juices. And if you love your coffee, why not browse their beans for a take home souvenir.

Catch an arthouse film at Avoca Beach Picture Theatre, a local icon famous for its eclectic movie screenings since 1948. This old-school cinema is still run by the same family who arrived in Avoca in 1932! Voted a Top 20 Cinema of the World by the BBC, and Top 10 in the World by the New York Men’s Journal, they even offer a cafe-bar serving local craft beers and al fresco films.

Dine in at Avoca Beach House for sunset to fully appreciate the 180 degree vista at this seafront restaurant, freshly refurbed in 2021. They have a great choice of quality seafood, grill and share-style platters with a 5-star location. Enjoy a refreshing sundowner drink on their outdoor deck to soak up the action-packed day that's been. 

A quaint way to kickstart your day exploring the surrounds of Toukley is breakfast at the Village Cafe in the cosy community of Noraville. Travel along the Main Road in the direction of the beach and you'll spot this local gem on the corner of Pandora Parade, ready to prep you a hot breakfast.

Make your way to the south side of Norah Head's headland. Considered one of the best beaches for catching a break on the Central Coast, Soldiers Beach does not disappoint when it comes to weekend adventures, whether you're surfing, paddling or walking. Steep sandy paths lead down the surrounding dunes to the shore, with an on-site kiosk for refreshments.

A day on the waves deserves a generous lunch with a top class view. Visit beachside cafe, The Kraken Kiosk, perched atop the stairs to Soldiers Beach. Serving simple takeaway bacon & egg rolls, wraps of the day, chips with the special "Kraken" salt blend or the epic 'Kraken Burger' - devoured with a view down to the dunes of course.

_{Image: @JudyFuller}

One of the hidden gems of the Central Coast's north is Canton Beach Paddle Shack. It's impressive location right on the edge of the lake is equalled by its large range of watercrafts ready to hire. Simply choose your stand-up paddleboard or kayak and take to the lake for some adventure! If you've brought your furry pet on holiday, they are welcome on the water too.

Located on the upper floor of Soldiers Beach Surf Club, offering panoramic coastal views, you will find Dunes by Dish. This tapas bar and oceanfront restaurant is kid-friendly and a popular spot for spending an evening after a day at the beach, when everyone’s appetites are sky high.

Stay in a coastal lighthouse for something magnificently different. Perfectly positioned to take in the pristine coastal vista with access to the local rockpool and beaches, there are two heritage listed Light Keeper’s Quarters available. Both are fully fenced with generous living areas, well equipped kitchens and laundries. This is the best spot to enjoy privacy, peace - and an unforgettable sunrise.

A growing number of coffee houses and casually cool cafes are popping up in Gosford, but for freshly roasted coffee enjoyed next to the brewers themselves, head to Legend Coffee & Culture at West Gosford. Coffee lovers are spoilt for choice with both filter and espresso blends available daily alongside jam-packed toasties, fresh pastries, and themed bags of quality beans roasted by the Legend crew.

Taste-test your way through a behind the scenes tour of The Factory at West Gosford, or let the kids indulge in a Junior Chocolatier Workshop so they can become the next Willy Wonka! The Factory creates their own gourmet chocolate and nougat with a wide range of delectable treats and gifts available in their sweet shop. There's even an on-site cafe for a hot cuppa to ebb that feeling of sugary indulgence.

With its designer interior, brunch and long lunches are best enjoyed in the filtered sun of South End Social, or in a cosy booth. Try their carefully curated wine or local beers, hand-crafted cocktails and a menu inspired by the lifestyle and flavours of the Mediterranean.

Learn about the Aboriginal heritage of Gosford's story with a stroll through the accessible Leagues Club Park on the edge of the beautiful Brisbane Water. The Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council played an integral part in the park's new design. Check out the innovative ‘tidal terrace’ - as the tide rises and falls sandstone animal 'islands' are revealed, each inspired by the nearby Bulgandry Aboriginal Rock Engraving Site.

Enjoy a craft beer at Bay Road Brewing, a microbrewery in the heart of Gosford making waves since its opening in late 2019. Housed in a light, bright and airy warehouse space, the philosophy is all about crafting delicious beer for the community to enjoy as it's proudly made by locals. Check out what's on tap and spot the giant wall mural octopus painted by beloved community artist, Grant Molony.

Hotel Gosford is a classic 1920s pub on the corner of Gosford's high street. Its social bar and restaurant are stylishly reimagined with a nod to the past. Enjoy Earl's Kitchen cuisine crafted by Chef Mark Wisemen among the contemporary dining space and sleek, open air appeal.

See a show at the region's popular performing arts venue, Laycock Street Community Theatre. Browse their annual season of hand-picked, international shows and touring productions, including everything from orchestras, bands, schools, concerts, comedies and the Gosford Musical Society, who have called Laycock home for 30 years. And yes, there's a fully licensed bar too.

Head to the Peninsula Recreation Precinct where there’s ample parking, plenty of green space, shade, a fenced play area, public amenities, BBQ areas, and most importantly - quality on-site cafe, Jasmine Greens Kiosk. Serving many veggie, vegan and gluten-free options, this leafy spot for breakfast is ideal for families or beachgoers, as it's perched beside the main entrance to the patrolled Umina Beach.

A quick stop at the viewing platform in front of the Umina Beach Surf Life Saving Club will reveal a cheeky sign, reading 'The Deck of Excuses'. Whether you judge the waves, the water or where to put your towel, this spot is great for taking a panoramic photo of Broken Bay. The idea is to stop thinking of venturing onto the beach and just do it!

Venture to the Coast's 'ceramic cafe' located on West Street for a chance to get your hands dirty while playing with clay and find your sense of calm. Open early mornings until lunchtime, drop in to browse their wares and grab a good coffee, or book ahead for their workshops where you can create your own mug, succulent vase or learn how to "throw" on the wheel. 

There is no finer spot in Umina to enjoy lunch with a sea view than Margarita Daze, perched literally on the edge of the sand with an outdoor deck and large glass windows to appreciate the view from indoors too. The bright, airy venue serves fresh pub classics alongside pizza, seafood and light bites. 

Whether you're a seasoned stand-up paddle boarder, or this is your first time balancing on the water, local Umina Beach business MANASUP is an accredited stand up paddle school ready to fill your day with fun. Open every weekend for hires, be sure to book your board ahead.

Sounds on West is the evolution of Six-String Brewing Company, their love of craft beer, smoking meat and BBQ. Think sticky cubes of slow cooked smoked pork belly coated in tasty Cuban-style BBQ sauce and topped with sesame seeds, served with a fresh local beer in the intimate warmth of their designer interior. The perfect spot for an evening session.

Start your second day exploring Umina with a classic beachside breakfast at Umina Beach Cafe, located beneath the Surf Life Saving Club. You will soon notice the exceptional views you can enjoy alongside your equally exceptional bacon and egg roll, known as one of the best cafe locations on the Central Coast.

Located on Umina's main street you will find the humble Bremen's Patisserie, serving award-winning pies and many other baked treats. Your mission is to choose one for your onward journey, sweet or savoury, and whether you save it for a mid-bushwalk snack or enjoy on the spot is totally up to you. If you like it spicy, try the famous Flaming Ron.

Venture to Umina's neighbouring seaside town to explore the flora and fauna sanctuary Crommelin Native Arboretum (also known as Pearl Beach Arboretum). This hidden gem is 5.5 hectares of curated native bushland - a "museum" of eucalypt trees playing an increasingly vital role in NSW koala conservation projects. Choose one of the meandering, accessible trails and follow the signage - keep an eye out for resident Swamp Wallabies!

Ensure your bag is packed with water and snacks (if not, head to Pearl Beach Cafe takeaway shop first) and start your scenic bushwalk along the Pearl Beach to Patonga Fire Trail route. Passing through the Pearl Caves the track heads up to Warrah Lookout - one of the most breathtaking viewpoints on the Central Coast. It's the perfect spot for a picnic lunch before returning down to Pearl Beach.

Take a well deserved dip in Pearl Beach Rock Pool, located at the southern end of Pearl Beach. This is a natural ocean pool, so embrace the freedom of swimming in nature with the waves lapping at its edge. There's public amenities nearby, a park, and an amazing view across to Umina and Ocean Beach, where your adventure began earlier today.

There is nothing finer than ending an adventurous day that started in Umina with a sunset dinner by the beach. Book a table at Pearls on the Beach, the town's long-standing hatted fine dining restaurant with a classy curated wine list and seasonal menu. The airy, modern space looks out across the ocean and the whole experience will make you fall in love with the Central Coast.

For breakfast, you're spoilt for choice today! Take your pick from the many brunch spots within minutes of the waves. Island Time Espresso will serve up smoothie bowls and holiday vibes, while The Cheeky 3 is great for the whole family. You’ll love the front row ocean views from Bellyfish, one of Terrigal's longest running spots to grab an espresso on The Esplanade, with a menu inspired by seasonal produce from local farms.

​​​​​​Venture with your pre-packed beach bag onto the golden sand of Terrigal Beach and lay your towel down for a morning of relaxation. The beach is superbly located for public amenities, refreshments and even has a shady cafe below the Surf Life Saving Club. When you fancy a dip, the waves are welcoming and calm, while the view across the Pacific is simply amazing. Little kiddies can enjoy a paddle in the accessible Terrigal Rockpool, by the Boardwalk at the southern end of the beach.

Grab a casual lunch on the outdoor terrace of Terrigal Beach House, a stylish coastal hangout fondly known to locals as 'The Beery'. The food is wonderfully simple here - expect woodfired pizzas, fresh fish tacos and local beer on tap. Catch live music in their beachside beer garden to fully embrace the atmosphere of Terrigal on the weekend, with bands playing most Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoon and evenings.

After lunch it's time to soak up the beautiful surrounds of your day spent by the seaside. No need to hop in the car - simply head on foot to the new Terrigal Boardwalk, installed in 2021 to connect the Promenade to The Haven. This architectural marvel is fully accessible and provides a stunning tour of the ocean below and beyond. With seating to admire the view, this is the perfect afternoon spot for family photos and dolphin watching.

No visit to Terrigal is complete without indulging in a gourmet dining experience. Reserve the best seat in the house at The Cowrie, Yellowtail, Seasalt, Merribella or Arc Est, each with their own transformative menu of tantalising modern Australian cuisine. Inspired by a paddock to plate philosophy with local produce, head chefs gracefully mix in influences from the Middle East, the Mediterranean and Asia. Seaside dining has never felt so fine.

Tap into the vibrant nightlife of the seaside town of Terrigal with a session at one of its lively bars. Along the main Esplanade find the atmospheric Pocket Bar and try to snag a couch spot, or climb the stairs to Maew Maew, a late night restaurant and bar overlooking the ocean. For rooftop action try laid back Italian pizza and pasta at Rhonda’s rooftop bar, or head up to Caribbean rum shack Mumbo Jumbo's. 

One of the grandest places to stay in a room with a view is the Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific. This deluxe, beachside accommodation features welcoming guest rooms and suites with furnished balconies, plus a pool and panoramic ocean vistas. If you're in the mood, the Lord Ashley Bar on site will sort you out with the perfect night cap.

Minutes from the beach, you can’t miss the bright yellow, floral mural signalling Like Minds, Avoca's friendly community café. With its fresh, sustainable menu and zero waste ethos, soak up the good vibes at this great little spot complete with a gorgeous outdoor herb garden to sit in. Must-try is the Surfer Toast and Swedish-inspired pastries.

If your visit is timed for a Sunday market day, the weekend journey continues as you head to Heazlett Park Foreshore. Explore a spectrum of stalls showcasing local produce, wares and art at Avoca Beachside Markets, held on the fourth Sunday of every month. Everyone is welcome at this inclusive, accessible, community event. Even doggos on a leash can enjoy the festivities!

Refreshed by your morning exploring local produce, head to the top of the beach (by sand or drive the scenic road) for a colourful lunch at stylish modern cafe, The Boy & The Rose. Nestled in North Avoca, you can fuel up with locally roasted coffee and nutritious brunchy food. Grab yours to go and find a spot of sand to enjoy while you watch the waves.

One of the most beautiful ways to explore Avoca's waterways is with Aquafun Avoca's eco-experiences on the lake. Not only will you burn off brunch, but this family-run ECO Certified business will set you up for a safe and scenic water adventure. Hire pedal boats, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, or book a lesson or guided kayak eco-tour.

Perched in the leafy outskirts of Avoca you'll find swanky eatery Shady Palms, the Central Coast's own slice of California with a touch of Hawaii. Pick a spot in the lush garden by the oyster and champagne 'shack', by the outdoor undercover woodfire pizza oven, or in the cottage for a more classic dining experience. There's a rainbow of cocktails and the vibes here are lively, especially on live music weekends.

The Anchor Coffee House is a local fave for a morning kickstart in Budgewoi. Seek out this cafe at the end of Ocean Street to enjoy a delicious range of brekky options including 'The Big Anchor'. This dog-friendly cafe also serves fresh smoothie bowls and barista coffee, meaning plenty of opportunities to meet the four-legged locals before you head out for the day.

Budgewoi Beach is patrolled by lifeguards in the peak summer season, and an absolute treat all year round for luxuriously long, secluded walks your dog will love in the Off-Leash Area. If you're a surfer, some great sets roll through here in autumn and winter. Try the Weemala Wetlands beach access route for some wild scenery and an epic lookout across the ocean to the protected Bird Island and beyond.

Whether you choose to order lunch from the award-winning Ocean Blues Seafood or Riverside Seafood in its long-standing spot by the bridge, the fresh options available in this little nook of Budgewoi are top-notch. Take away your choice of freshly cooked prawns, oysters, whole fish, fish fillets, lobsters, crabs, squid and more - best enjoyed relaxing by the wharf. 

Work off that fish & chippie lunch and wander to ​​​the iconic Budgewoi Footbridge at Mackenzie Reserve. Soak in the beauty of Budgewoi Lake. If you're feeling energetic, walk the shared pathway foreshore to Buff Point, or peddle the Darren Smith Memorial Cycleway toward Lakes Beach Cafe for a cold drink.

Whether you cycle here on the shared pathway, walk via the scenic beach, or drive to save time, this little hub tucked off the main road at Lakes Beach is a great stop for an afternoon refresher - cold can, ice cream or otherwise! If it's a hot day, this is the perfect chance for a paddle to work up that evening appetite.

Upstairs in Budgewoi Hotel is Lago Cucina, a contemporary Italian trattoria wanting to transport you to Italy. Enjoy bold flavours of Italian inspired dishes as you dine with glimpses over the lake capturing the essence of the Italian coastline.

Enjoy an early morning yoga class (available 7 days a week), followed by breakfast in the sunny courtyard of the Coast's soulful cafe, Modern Organic. With its healthy, vegan menu options, lunching at this zen spot makes healthy eating simple and delicious. Their sustainable, organic menu is designed to help you maintain a happy body, mind and soul.

Shop the high street for bespoke handmade items and vintage goods. Great shops to stop at include Sorry Grandma, Tiki La La, and Webster’s for superb vintage, Shadow Bang Apothecary for dried flowers and homewares, The Sound Exchange for its epic vinyl collection, and Tiny Folk Co for fashionable kids, and Plain Janes for women's clothing and kid's fashion store.

Grab lunch at the Green Tangerine cafe and bakery, serving some fresh brunch options alongside a 'make your own mix' where you can craft your own dish of sourdough, eggs, bacon, avo, herby potatoes, greens, tomatoes and more. Don’t forget to grab an iconic photo in front of the famous ‘Welcome to Long Jetty’ mural on the side street of this vibing cafe.

Tour some amazing local art showcased at Long Jetty's streetside galleries where you may meet the artists at work. Start with a visit to the Glenn Mckimmin Gallery, a Central Coast landscape photographer making waves with his atmospheric captures and selling prints for the home. Next stop by the Grant Molony Gallery, for a peek at the artist's studio space and latest work inspired by nature, culture and connection.

Hiding on Long Jetty's high street you'll find the entrance to The Savoy, a wonderfully restored 1950s cinema now open for dinner and drinks. Catch a classic film with pizza served to your seat, or simply kick back at the contemporary bar with good company to soak up this vibrant social hub.

This private beachside villa is an Air B &B hosted by TV personalities and design duo Kyal & Kara with its own private access and deck space to relax in, and features a hot outdoor shower. Fitted out with quality furnishings and fixtures and is equipped with everything you need!