An easy gourmet escape an hour from Sydney — Brisbane Water oysters, boutique cellar doors, craft distilleries, farm gates and waterfront cafes.
Just an hour north of Sydney, the Central Coast is an easy and underrated food trail that mixes the coast and the hinterland. Brisbane Water and the Hawkesbury produce fresh oysters and seafood; the green valleys around Wyong and Peats Ridge hold boutique cellar doors, craft distilleries and farm gates; and the waterfront towns from Ettalong to Terrigal are full of good cafes, providores and restaurants.
What to taste
Buy oysters and seafood from the co-ops around Woy Woy and Brisbane Water, follow the boutique wineries and distilleries of the hinterland, and graze the weekend farmers markets and providores. It’s the perfect gourmet day trip or relaxed weekend.
How to do the trail
Base yourself around Terrigal, Avoca or the Woy Woy peninsula and explore by car. It’s about 90 minutes from Sydney (and reachable by train). Combine with Central Coast beaches and hidden places.
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Facilities
Seafood co-ops, cellar doors, distilleries, markets, cafes and accommodation
Insider Tips
Buy oysters and prawns from the co-ops around Brisbane Water, then head into the hinterland for cellar doors and distilleries. Great as a day trip from Sydney.
Getting There
About 90 minutes’ drive north of Sydney via the M1, or by train to Gosford/Woy Woy. Explore by car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Central Coast?
On the NSW coast between Sydney and Newcastle, about 90 minutes’ drive north of Sydney and reachable by train.
What food is the Central Coast known for?
Fresh oysters and seafood from Brisbane Water and the Hawkesbury, plus boutique wines, craft spirits and farm-gate produce from the hinterland.
Can you visit the Central Coast as a day trip?
Yes — it is close enough for an easy day trip from Sydney, though a weekend lets you enjoy the beaches and hinterland too.
Where can you buy fresh oysters on the Central Coast?
From the seafood co-ops and outlets around Woy Woy and Brisbane Water, where local oysters and seafood are sold fresh.
