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Coastal camping and RV adventures with scenic views around every bend

Discover Coastal camping on the NSW Central Coast in an RV with the freedom to enjoy an unhurried adventure, taking in the diverse array of natural beauty en route.

Recognised by Ecotourism Australia as a certified ECO Destination, you can explore a range of unforgettable cultural and nature-based experiences following this 7-day RV coastal camping trip. This itinerary will get you close to nature, with the space to explore and connect.

Stay at camping and holiday parks alongside golden sandy beaches and luminous waterways, from Brisbane Water National Park in the south to the northern tip of the Coast at Norah Head Lighthouse and Munmorah State Conservation Area.

Whether you’re just planning a carefree escape, a Legendary Pacific Coast Drive, or full-circuit road trip of Australia, visit us on the NSW Central Coast to discover superbly untapped natural beauty. This itinerary uncovers our region's gems to give you more time to do what you love - connect, make memories and feel alive with life on the road.   

Photo opportunity: Sunset at Elephant Rock with scenic views of West Head and the Hawkesbury River. 

Keen to be featured in one of our Itineraries? We’d love to hear from you.

*This itinerary is intended as an inspirational guide only. We encourage you to check ahead of your visit that individual businesses are open, or book in advance to ensure the best experience.

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Itinerary Day
Day 1
Get close to nature

Unwind in the Central Coast hinterland with a loop around Brisbane Water National Park. Pull up in your RV to these stops. Take in breathtaking clifftop vistas. Dip into exhilarating waterfalls cascading through Girrakool and Somersby. See one of the oldest on-site arboretums (tree museums) in Strickland State Forest. Fill your fridge and baskets with fresh produce from a scenic 'shellar' door, market farm-gates and honesty boxes along Peats Ridge harvest trail. Camper trailers, caravans and motor homes are welcome at all stops. If you're only dreaming of a caravan holiday on the Central Coast because you don't own a van, why not rent one? Koora Van Hire have a range of classic caravans you can pick up from Brooklyn or arrange to be delivered onsite. 

Stop 1

Uncover hidden gems

Start this journey at NSW's only pearl farm! The Shellar Door of Broken Bay Pearl Farm grow two varieties of oysters on the waterways of Broken Bay and Brisbane Water. Taste their world-famous Sydney Rock Oysters, plus the locally and sustainably grown Akoya, which is not only tasty but produces among the finest quality pearls grown anywhere in the world.

 

 

Stop 2

Chase waterfalls

Now for an epic waterfall ride through the Central Coast's stunning natural cascades! There's the popular Somersby Falls, named one of the 7 best waterfalls in New South Wales, ideal for a swim in the heat of summer at its lower pool, with the water forming a stunning liquid curtain to shower beneath. Or just around the corner seek out Girrakool Falls on the Piles Creek Loop Track, a great lesser-known option with a diverse 4km bushwalk for the adventurous.

 

 

 

Stop 3

Tour a tree museum

An ecotourism gem of the Central Coast, Strickland State Forest is 100% free, family and dog-friendly, and filled with many amazing ways to enjoy nature - with its own waterfall too. Park at the Banksia Picnic Area, find the signs that lead to 'Strickland Falls' or the Arboretum Loop. There are several loop tracks in this forest, ranging from challenging hikes along rainforest ridges to simple tracks through the tree museum, one of the oldest arboretum's in Australia.

 

Stop 4

Stock up: the harvest trail

Hop on the Central Coast's harvest trail growing citrus, avocado, cucumbers, flowers, and more with a list of eco-conscious farm-gate experiences, markets, and honesty boxes. Follow scenic Peats Ridge Road that loops around Glenworth Valley to find your choice of quality produce. Check ahead to stock up at seasonal farms like S & S Peruch Avocado, Wavertree, Sparacino, Meliora Farm and Mangrove Mountain Country Markets on weekends.

 

 

Stop 5

Camp under the stars at Popran Creek

Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures offer a unique camping experience to take in the Coast’s hinterland scenery spanning 3,000 acres of wilderness. Arrive here in time for the ‘Man from Snowy River’ running of the horses around 4pm (dusk) daily. Settle in at your campsite beside Popran Creek under the stars with an open fire and the faint sound of 200 horses in the background.

 

 

Day 2
Connect with Country

Now you're relaxed, swap the hinterland's fresh country air with the salty scent of freedom that sprays coastal headlands. Today's stops explore sacred mountains with magnificent lookouts, Aboriginal rock engravings, axe grinding grooves, and rock art from thousands of years ago. Share in the origins and wisdom of the world's oldest living culture.

Stop 1

Bulgandry Aboriginal Place

See some of New South Wales' most incredible Aboriginal rock engravings, each thousands of years old telling stories about the creator spirit of the local land and the star world. Discover the ancestral Creation Dreaming story of God Creator, Baiyami, at this significant Central Coast Aboriginal Art Site. Learn his journey across the Mirrabooka (Milky Way) arriving at sacred Mount Yengo. Contact Darkinjung Cultural Tours or Girri Girra Aboriginal Experiences for a guided experience.

 

 

Stop 2

Ocean Beach Holiday Resort

Check in for the next few days at NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort, Umina Beach. Wake up to the sound of waves in Broken Bay, with hiking trails to Mt Ettalong Lookout, Pearl Beach Rockpool, Pearl Beach to Patonga trail, Warrah lookout, and Elephant Rock in Brisbane Water National Park. With direct beach access, this Park is within walking distance to Umina and Ettalong's restaurants via a coastal pathway.

 

 

Stop 3

Mount Ettalong Lookout

Take in the awe-inspiring Broken Bay in all its glory with a short hike to Mt Ettalong Lookout. Situated on a large sandstone boulder with great views along Umina Beach back to your campground, across to Box Head and the South Pacific Ocean, protected Lion Island, and Barrenjoey lighthouse through to Pittwater. An amazing spot to get your bearings - you'll be calling into these seaside villages over the next few days!

 

 

Stop 4

Pearl Beach café

With all your walking planned today, a local-inspired lunch at Pearly's is well-deserved with delicious meals designed by renowned Chef Pauly Mac, alongside Head Chef Cam. Grab a gelato to go in the general store and hit the southern beach for a dip in Pearl Beach's historic rockpool with spectacular ocean views.

 

 

Stop 5

Pearl Beach Rockpool

Take a refreshing dip with the locals in Pearl Beach Rockpool, with stunning views across Broken Bay. Situated just across the road from Pearl Beach Cafe you'll find there are important engraved notes by Captain Arthur Phillip and Lieutenant Bradley commemorating their first visit to Broken Bay in March 1788. 

 

 

 

Stop 6

Warrah Trig & Elephant Rock sunset

Warrah Lookout offers spectacular views across Broken Bay and the Hawkesbury River; a top spot to visit all year round. But the area is also known as Warratah Patch by locals as it's one of the best places in Brisbane Water National Park to see these fiery-red flowers. Don't miss their stunning late-winter bloom on display. Elephant Rock is the location to capture a winning sunset shot.

 

Day 3
Charming waterfront villages

After yesterday's scenic hike, today we're leaving the RV behind to spend time on the water. Immerse yourself in authentic villages of the Central Coast, travelling historic waterways by ferry, lunching at iconic seafood stop Woy Woy Fisherman's Wharf, collecting a selection of sweet treats from Woy Woy's artisan pastry producers, and ending the day in the affable seaside village of Ettalong. Visit the piazza to see Ettalong Galleria's prized restaurants.

Stop 1

Wake up to fresh coastal air

Nestled between mystical mountains and captivating waterways, wake up to a fragrant blend of blue gum eucalyptus trees and sea mist perfume from your national park surroundings. No wonder why the Aboriginal meaning for Umina is - place of sleep. Fall into the locals' laid back way of life. Learn to surf or SUP with Central Coast Surf School - the waters are calm and swells never get too large here. Or, opt for a stretch at Umina Beach Yoga.

 

 

 

Stop 2

Meander peaceful waters

Walk or cycle the shared pathway joining seaside villages, hugging the water's edge from Umina to Ocean Beach to Ettalong, and around to Woy Woy. Take your own bicycle, or rent one from Ride Ettalong. Stop off at The BOX on the Water's takeaway kiosk for a brekky wrap and coffee. A great spot for admiring the scenery, or people watching! Check the Central Coast Ferry timetable to plan Empire Bay to Woy Woy ferry times...

 

 

Stop 3

Cruise historic waterways

After a cycle around the most scenic pathways, board the local Central Coast Ferry to explore the historic waterways of Brisbane Waters' prolific shipbuilding history. Circle St Hubert's Island from Empire Bay, passing Kincumber, Davistown, Daley’s Point, and Blackwall. Arrive back at the town of Woy Woy with its fresh seafood market, endless waterway views and hidden foodie spots.

 

 

Stop 4

Eat at Woy Woy's iconic wharf

Woy Woy Fishermen's Wharf has been serving freshly caught seafood on the Central Coast for over 40 years. Pat Cregan started the business in Woy Woy in 1974 serving the best quality seafood as simply as possible. You won't argue with their ocean to plate menu! Sit above the piers, water lapping beneath you, and views across to Pelican Island (notice oyster leases farming the Akoya oyster pearls).

 

Stop 5

Collect handmade sweet treats

Before leaving Woy Woy, pop into see the husband and wife duo at Young Barons, an artisan Italian deli-pantry-pastry hub in the town centre. Curate some select sweet or savoury treats for back at the RV this evening. You may want to grab a freshly made pasta pack and bottle of vino from their thoughtful collection to enjoy as the sun goes down at your campsite.

 

Stop 6

Dine at the Galleria's prized dining

A unique dining precinct finds thousands of visitors returning each year, with a hard choice between hatted Turkish-inspired Safran Restaurant, or authentic La Fiamma Woodfired Pizzeria. Either way, enjoy the ambience of the Ettalong Galleria courtyard that feels more like a romantic getaway - piazza style - boasting humble Bologna or Naples vibes.

 

Day 4
Scenic sips and fossicking in rockpools

Today is filled with feel-good stops! Our coastal towns are famous for their freshly baked goods and brunch spots, plus visit an award-winning sipping trail, wander the beaches of Blue Lagoon's sheltered cove, and watch the sun glint in the sky with its tangerine tones while fossicking in rockpools... this is quintessentially beach time at Bateau Bay, Shelly Beach and Toowoon Bay.

Stop 1

Umina pie vibes

Check out of NRMA Holiday Park in Umina to re-locate closer to the Coast's iconic surf breaks. But first - award-winning local pies! Stop at Bremen Patisserie for freshly baked goods and patisserie treats, like German Rye bread, cakes, pastries, cream pastries, continental cakes, tortes and gateaux and good old Aussie meat pies! Also sausage rolls, pasties, quiches... they even offer coffee beans by the bag to brew on the road.

 

Stops 2, 3 and 4

Scenic Sips

Today we're going to indulge in the passion of three Central Coast makers of award winning sips who joined forces to create the Scenic Sips Trail. This self-drive scenic sipping trail starts in picturesque Holgate with botanical fruit wines at Firescreek. Loop back to the Erina for amplified ales at craft brewery Six Strings. Then visit the Fragrant Garden for Distillery Botanica's exceptional collection - all available to taste and take home.

  

Stop 5

Blue Lagoon rockpools

The rockpools at Blue Lagoon on low tide are magical at any time of day, especially a sunset drink exploring the ever-changing rockpools. Luckily, tonight's camping spot is right next door at Blue Lagoon Beach Resort right on the shores of Shelly Beach on the NSW Central Coast. The outdoor pool has a few spa areas that feel just like a resort at this five-star scenic location.

 

 

 

Day 5
Capture coastal gems

Start the day right with a walk in Wyrrabalong National Park to watch the sun tint the sea tangerine, through red gum forest until you reach the ultimate local sunrise spot at Crackneck Point lookout. Circle around the string of pearls pathway from The Entrance ocean baths, to the channel's bridge, and Tuggerah Lake to see local galleries, homewares, and stop off at the quirky lakeside town of Long Jetty. 

Stop 1

Wyrrabalong National Park

The early bird catches the worm! Dawn and dusk at Wyrrabalong National Park is a beautiful time to walk from Bateau Bay walking track connecting to Wyrrabalong coastal walk and timing your arrival at Crackneck Point lookout for the start of a new day. This national park importantly conserves the last patch of coastal littoral rainforest on the Central Coast.

 

Stop 2

Bateau Bay beach cafes

Bateau Bay local cafes offer a lovely place to end your Coast Walking Track in Wyrrabalong National Park. Locals head to the row of shops for Cafe Mocha. Or Bateau Beach Cafe for their coffee, with a real community vibe and fresh healthy dishes like poke bowls, Indian spiced scrambled eggs, and local favourite - their Nasi satay bowl.

 

Stop 3

Coast to Lake Walk

The Coast to Lake Walk is considered a 'string of pearls' - a great way to explore The Entrance channel, have a picnic lunch at Tuggerah Lake, and take a pic of your choice of historic jetties at Long Jetty foreshore. After checking out of Blue Lagoon arrive at Toowoon Bay Holiday Park for this evening's camping location. Next, head to the Entrance Memorial Park onto our next destination west of the bridge: local artist Grant Molony's gallery.

 

Stop 4

Grant Molony + Rowsie

It's always nice to purchase artwork to take home to a curated collection of travel memories and holiday feels. The Grant Molony + Rowsie gallery has a collection of art perfect for this or even featured in the RV! Grant's art consists of detailed ink and acrylic with hits of aerosol and local marine life, while his creative partner dreams up stylish floral collections, vases and more.

 

Stop 5

Long Jetty

After you've picked up a little memento of your Central Coast holiday, head back via Tuggerah Lakes Foreshore to Long Jetty. Along this pathway you'll walk past three jetties that inspired the town's namesake - Parry’s Jetty, Watkin’s Jetty, and of course The Long Jetty. There's also a quirky mix of boutique shops. Stop in for a drink at the old school pub Long Jetty Hotel, or see a flick with a bevvy at restored WWII cinema, The Savoy.

 

Stop 6

Toowoon Bay Holiday Park

This camping spot has plenty of nearby attractions to choose from, with beach access to popular surfing breaks at Shelly Beach, Toowoon Bay Beach (well-known by locals as SUPs paradise), and Shelly Beach golf course being in Australia's top 100 greens. 

 

Day 6
To the lighthouse

Bring on the ‘cool factor’ this morning with a SUP paddle at Toowoon Bay. Soak up the beauty around you and below the surface. Venture north to Munmorah State Conservation Park for world class nature without the crowds. Be entertained at Johnny Tapas with top cocktails and live comedy. Rendezvous at Norah Head's century-old lighthouse to feel life as a Lighthouse Keeper. Climb the 96 stair challenge to enjoy 360 degree views from the tower balcony. 

Stop 1

What SUP paradise

This morning we're beelining for Toowoon Bay for a stand-up paddle boarding session to bring the ‘cool factor’ to our morning on the water! This paddler's paradise provides a great vantage point for sightseeing, while getting a full body work out. Take in the beauty of the location around you, including below the surface (did you pack goggles in that RV?). Finish with brekky and coffee from The Village Kiosk. 

 

Stop 2

Explore Munmorah State Conservation Area

Munmorah State Conservation Area is a fun place to explore by RV, with hidden nooks and crannies leading to various walks, picnic areas, caves and glorious beaches. Start with Palms Circuit Track; an excellent way to escape the heat and wander below a canopy of cabbage tree palms, sunlight streaming through palm fronds. Bring along supplies to take advantage of the Palms picnic area, where the loop track begins.

 

Stop 3

Visit Frazer Beach

Time to take a look around Frazer Beach area, a great spot to camp - but only for tents and trailers - caravans and motorhomes are not permitted to stay here so note this is a pit-stop only. Well worth it though, this beach has world class nature minus the crowds, with so much to see, surf breaks, a lagoon, and the epic Snapper Point lookout. 

 

 

Stop 4

Norah Head Boat Ramp

Bringing a boat on tour? While much has been written about rock and beach fishing in the area, the near-shore boat fishing can also be truly rewarding. The nearest boat ramp is less than 500 metres away from the Tourist Park at Cabbage Tree Bay. On the briny the foremost obvious points are The Bull, a semi-submerged bombora east of the lighthouse, Bird Island north of the ramp, and Lakes Reef in front of the surf club.

 

Stop 5

Dinner with Johnny

Tonight be entertained at seaside eatery Johnny Tapas, where you'll find local craft beers on tap, an exceptional cocktail menu, all washed down with stand up comedy and live music on weekends. Spot Banksy-style work of local artist Grant Molony (with his gallery at The Entrance) who created intricate layers within Johnny Tapas street side art to the entry, that tells the story of the business owners. 

 

Stop 6

Norah Head Holiday Park

Norah Head is guarded by the century-old lighthouse, with tonight's camping spot nearby at Norah Head Holiday Park. Lighthouse tours are open every day to step back in time to feel what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper. Climb the 96 stairs to enjoy 360 degree views from Norah Head Lighthouse. Marvel at the optics prism and imagine polishing all 700 lenses of it. Hear stories of shipwrecks. Humbled by history, settle in for the evening. 

 

Day 7
Onwards and up

Following on from your tour of the stunning NSW Central Coast, one of the state's two ECO Destinations, join the Legendary Pacific Coast touring route. There's 8 must-see places stretching from Lake Macquarie's Catherine Hill Bay to Australia's most easterly point in Byron Bay. 

Stop 1

Rise and shine

After checking out of Norah Head Holiday Park, you're on the road again cruising on down the Main Road of Toukley. Stop at Rise Mofo for your last brekky on your RV adventure of the Central Coast! A loved local cafe, Rise Mofo offers quality brewed coffee and a fresh takeaway brunch menu - with a pop of colour! Swing by for feel-good food to set you up satisfied for your onward journey. 

 

Stop 2

Catherine Hill Bay

If you're planning to go further north, then join the Legendary Pacific Coast touring route starting at Lake Macquarie's Catherine Hill Bay. There's 8 must-see places on this journey including Newcastle, Port Stephens, Port Macquarie, South West Rocks, Coffs Harbour (also an Australian ECO Destination), Byron Bay, and Tweed Heads.

 

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Kulnura One-Stop Jerry's cafe

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Yarramalong Store Cafe

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Angel Sussurri Restaurant and Manor House

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Mangrove Mountain Memorial Golf Club

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Fanelli Organics

Sitting Duck
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