Some Secrets Cannot be Kept!

The beans have been spilled, the cat's out of the bag and the veil can now be lifted on the '52 Local Secrets' of the Central Coast.

Central Coast Tourism in conjunction with our promotional partner, local radio station, Star 104.5 FM, ran a promotional campaign throughout June and July 2012 to encourage locals (past, present and future) to divulge the experiences they brag about the most to visitors that are found in the backyard they call the Central Coast.

Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Philpot, Central Coast Tourism was delighted in the response to the campaign.  'The campaign concept grew out of one of the priority projects detailed in the Central Coast Destination Management Plan 2010-2013 - to build local pride.

'The objective of the campaign was not just to develop a list of things to do but give locals a voice and voiced they did, 900 experiential nominations were received. The nominations were then narrowed down to the most nominated experiences which made up the 100 Final Vote list.'

Central Coast Tourism is delighted to present, on behalf of all 'Coasties', the 52 Local Secrets of the Central Coast:

Scenic Spots:
1. Hardy's Bay
Meeting friends and enjoying a catch up while sitting under the shade of the iconic Yum Yum trees. Location: Hardy's Bay

2. Crackneck Point

Sharing rug space with friends or family nibbling on cheese and crackers while watching the last of the sunlight slowly disappear from another beautiful day or catching the sight of a whale during the migration seasons. Location: Wyrrabalong National Park, Bateau Bay

3. Norah Head Lighthouse

Witnessing the spectacular sunrise of a new day dawning on the grounds of the lighthouse. Location: Bush Street, Norah Head

4. Patonga Public Wharf

Sitting on the wharf absorbing the serenity before the ruckus sets in of the kid's first catch of the day. Location: Patonga

5. The Skillion

Enjoying the short walk to the top of the local landmark to take in the 180 degree views of the Pacific Ocean. Kids of all ages love the exhilaration of rolling down the grassy slope afterwards! Location: Terrigal Haven

6. Somersby Falls

Listening to the tranquil sounds of water tumbling over the rock formation while setting up a camera to capture this natural beauty. Location: Brisbane Water National Park, Somersby

National Parks & Walks:

7. 5 Lands Coastal Walkway

Getting out and enjoying the fresh coastal air on the spectacular coastline hugging trail.
Length: Approx 9 km one-way Start: MacMasters Beach; End: Terrigal (or vv)

8. Bouddi Coastal Walk

The alluring beauty of the glistening coastline draws walkers along the track time and time again. Length: Approx 8 km one-way; Start: Putty Beach; End: Little Beach (or vv) Location:  Bouddi National Park

9. Kincumba Mt Reserve

Stopping for a breath and to take in the elevated valley and ocean views while traversing the meandering network of walking trails. Length: Various Location: Kincumber

10. Patonga to Pearl Beach

Experiencing a piece of history as you walk a small section of the Great North Walk through the Brisbane Waters National Park with wildflowers ablaze in springtime. Length: Approx 4.5 km Start: Patonga; End: Pearl Beach (or vv)

11. Pearl Beach Rock Pool & rock walk

Taking a refreshing dip in the rock pool followed by an ambling walk along the rocks in search of shells and sea creatures. Length: Short Location: Pearl Beach

Cycleways & Paths:

12. Brisbane Water - Gosford to Woy Woy

The family friendly, practically level pathway, is worth the energy for a walk or ride. Start: Waterfront, Gosford; End: Fishermans Wharf Woy Woy

13. Kincumber to Davistown

Enjoying a reenergising walk or ride around the new Kincumber to Davistown shared pathway after uncovering local historical facts at Illoura Reserve. Length: Approx 5 km; Start: Illoura Reserve, Kincumber; End: Davistown

14. Ourimbah State Forest

Enjoying the thrills and spills hitting the off road trails through the forest on a mountain bike. Location: Yarramalong Valley

15. Tuggerah Lake - Chittaway Point to The Entrance

Enjoy a brisk early morning leisurely ride around the lake in the crisp morning air. Start: Chittaway Point; End: The Entrance

Markets:

16. Avoca Beachside Markets

Soaking up the sunshine, creative vibes, friendly smiles and tasty treats found at the colourful markets on a lazy Sunday. When: 4th Sunday of the month Location: Avoca Beach

17. Ettalong Beach Markets

Enjoying the thrill of finding a bargain or two in the coast's largest undercover markets. When: Every weekend Location: Ocean View Road, Ettalong Beach

18. The Entrance Farmers Markets

Gathering from the markets fresh, local seasonal produce to take home to make my next 'masterchef' quality dish. When: 1st & 3rd Saturday of the Month Location: Memorial Park, The Entrance

Culture:

19. 5 Lands Art Trail

Engaging local artists in a chinwag at their studio to discover their inspiration. When: 3rd weekend of each month. Location: Various

20. Avoca Beach Picture Theatre

Love the retro ambience and variety of films showcased at our very own historic movie theatre. Location: Avoca Beach

21. Cinema Paradiso

Discovering the architecture and sculptures reminiscent of Italy before taking a seat in the cinema for the next screening. Location: Ettalong Beach

22. Gosford Regional Art Gallery & Edogawa Commemorative Gardens

Feeding the fish in the Japanese garden followed by soaking up the artwork of the latest exhibition but always making time to eat some cake! Location: East Gosford

23. Ken Duncan Gallery & Sanctuary Cafe

Taking refuge from daily life to admire inspirational photography of the Central Coast and beyond. Location: Erina Heights

24. Laycock Street Theatre

Sitting in the intimate theatre waiting in anticipation for the curtain to rise on the next enthralling performance - local amateur or touring professional - you just can't go wrong. Location: North Gosford

25. Lizottes Live n' Cookin

Hearing an upcoming or well known musician/s, up-close and personal, while savouring the flavours of this unique hot spot.  Location: Kincumber

Attractions:

26. Amazement, Yarramalong

Listening to the melodious laughter of children as they make their way round the maze. Location: Yarramalong Valley

27. Australian Reptile Park

Watching the kids faces light up as they walk alongside the giant Galapagos tortoise, Hugo, during his daily walk. Location: Somersby

28. Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park

Stumbling on the ancient aboriginal sandstone carvings as you explore the grounds of the wildlife park. Location: Calga

29. Mt Penang Gardens

Admiring the seasonal beauty of Australia's native flora during a meandering wander through the gardens. Location: Mt Penang Parklands, Kariong

30. Pelican Feeding, The Entrance

Watching the natural comical frenzy of the daily pelican feeding at The Entrance. When: Daily, 3.30 pm Location: Memorial Park, The Entrance

Activities:

31. Aqua Fun

Splashing about on a paddle boat as you navigate your way around the lake. Location: Avoca Beach

32. Bluetongue Stadium

Watching and admiring world class talent take the field at Australia's most picturesque stadium. Location: Gosford

33. Central Coast Ferries

Trading the car in to explore the scenic waterways on the local ferry service. Location: Woy Woy Wharf

34. Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures

Cantering on a horse through the gorgeous valley with sounds of thundering hooves, rush of wind passing your ears and bell birds chiming in the distance. Location: Peats Ridge

35. Norah Head Lighthouse

Uncovering the nautical history of the NSW's last manned lighthouse while admiring the tower top ocean views. Location: Bush Road, Norah Head

36. Palm Beach to Ettalong Ferry Ride

Enjoying the ferry ride on one of the most scenic waterways in the world. Location: Ettalong Beach

37. Rhythm Hut

Allowing the rhythm to consume your body as you tap along to the culturally diverse beats. Location: Gosford

38. Treetop Adventure Park

Enjoy the thrill of launching off a platform to fly through the air on one of the flying fox experiences.
Location: Ourimbah State Forest, Wyong Creek

Indulgence:

39. Bamboo Buddha

Devouring the aptly name vegetarian Buddha Burger in the tranquil garden setting. Location:  Holgate

40. Bells at Killcare Restaurant (Manfredi at Bells)

Indulging in the signature dish at the coast's only hatted restaurant - locally raised roasted duck breast with aged balsamic vinegar. Location: Killcare

41. Fisherman's Wharf

Savouring long lazy lunch with great view, great seafood and a great selection of boutique beers! Location: Woy Woy

42. Gnostic Organics

Enjoying a visit to pick up fresh organic produce and a chat with the friendly, helpful staff.

Location: Woy Woy

43. Kincumber Hotel

Anyone up for a good pub burger?  Drop on a Sunday afternoon and you will also enjoy some lively music.Location: Kincumber

44. Little Creek Cheese Factory

Scoffing a cheese platter on the banks of the river hoping to catch a glimpse of a platypus. Location: Wyong

45. Point Cafe

Just try to resist the aromas flowing out of the cafe as you pass by, if that doesn't get you in, the ocean views from the tables surely will. Location: Avoca Beach

Picnic Spot/Fish & Chip Locations:

The last seven positions on the list are spectacular locations complete with sparkling water views where you can enjoy a picnic or devour a serve or two of local fish and chips:

Avoca Beach

46. Avoca Beach

47. Gosford Waterfront

48. Hardy's Bay

49. Patonga Beach

50. Terrigal Haven

51. The Entrance

52. Woy Woy

Fore information:  www.visitcentralcoast.com.au  

NOTE:

- The numbering of the above list is in no particular order.

- Approprite licences are required to activities such as fishing and boating. Please always enquire before commencing such activity.

- National Park entry fees may apply. Always obey entry signage.