The Central Coast and South Coast of New South Wales are both a captivating combination of luminous waterways, sandy beaches, surf breaks and peaceful bush trails.
Surprisingly close to metropolitan Sydney, both the Central Coast and South Coast still harbour pockets of unspoilt natural treasures. The Central Coast nestles between Sydney and Newcastle, while the stunning South Coast runs from the state capital’s southern boundary to the Victorian border. The Central Coast’s Bouddi Peninsula contains some of the region’s last remaining stands of temperate rainforest as well as countless significant Aboriginal sites, whilst the South Coast is dotted with charming rural towns and home to the magnificent Shoalhaven region, where the wonderful White Sands Walk can be found.
With so many attractions scattered throughout them, the two regions are best explored by car. Roads in New South Wales are narrow but in good condition, and the route to the Central Coast’s Bouddi Peninsula takes you past sheltered bays and the majestic Brisbane Water National Park. Worthwhile stops along the South Coast include the Southern hemisphere’s largest Buddhist temple in Wollongong, the Kiama blowhole, and of course, the chain of blinding white sand beaches that ring Jervis Bay.
Central and South Coast New South Wales holidays can be easily be incorporated into many Australian holiday itineraries.
Enjoy pristine beach-and-bush landscapes; many of the national parks found along the Central Coast and South Coast are criss-crossed by scenic walking trails. Water-based activities abound from fishing to kayaking, swimming and stand-up paddle boarding.
Wildlife is ubiquitous, from the hundreds of pelicans who assemble for feeding at The Entrance’s Memorial Park each day, to surf-loving mobs of kangaroo who frequent Pebbly Beach. Seasonal land-based whale-watching is possible at Eden, while boats frequently depart from Jervis Bay in search of fur seals and dolphins, with migrating humpbacks observed from May to November.
- Unspoilt beach and bush landscapes just outside Sydney
- A wealth of nature reserves including Bouddi National Park
- Seasonal whale watching
- Abundant land-based wildlife including surf-loving kangaroos
- Rich marine life such as dolphins and seals
- Outstanding white sand beaches around Jervis Bay
- Quaint rural towns such as Kiama and The Entrance
- Water-based activities such as swimming and boating
- World-class golf courses
- Endless opportunities for outdoor activity
- Stand up paddle-boarding
Self-driving is the best way to explore the inspiring coastlines surrounding Sydney. Located immediately north of the city, the Central Coast can also easily be reached by regular ferry services running between glitzy Palm Beach and the beautiful bays and beaches of the Brisbane Water estuary. The picturesque South Coast offers access by rail, originating from Sydney’s Central Station and terminating at Bomaderry in Nowra, with many stops along the way.
The nearest city to both the Central Coast and South Coast is Sydney, a vibrant waterfront city worthy of a few days’ discovery. If driving north, Brisbane and the Gold Coast are both within easy reach once you cross state lines. If travelling to the South Coast, why not go all the way to cosmopolitan Melbourne? To extend your stay in New South Wales, consider heading inland to the Blue Mountains and Hunter Valley regions, both attractive destinations in their own right.
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Central & South Coast NSW Itineraries
Sydney & Lord Howe Island
Lord Howe Island - SydneyHidden 700km kilometres north-east of Sydney, discover the jewel that is the World Heritage listed Lord Howe Island.
Mountains, Wildlife & Vineyards
Blue Mountains - Hunter Valley - SydneyThis classic New South Wales getaway combines a short stay in downtown Sydney with two of the states best regions for wine and wildlife.
Accommodation in the Central & South Coast NSW
Paperbark Camp
Conceived on a safari holiday in Africa, Paperbark Camp is a family-run luxury bush camp close to Jervis Bay, often said to have the whitest sands in the world.
