Located only 1 hour north of Sydney the Central Coast is known for its picturesque beaches, dramatic cliff faces, and its laid-back lifestyle. For those used to a busy life, the Central Coast offers a sense of relief to those looking for a slower lifestyle. Part of the charm of the area is the eco-friendly tourism which the Central Coast is incredibly proud to don. The Central Coast has many nature-based tourism options here, one of the main ones is the incredible lookouts we have scattered along the coast. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous hike or an accessible lookout the Central Coast offers it all. Here is your list of some of the best Central Coast lookouts which should be added to your weekend bucket list stat!
Before you start exploring, it could be worthwhile to see if you need to invest in a PBL for safety. Find out what it is and if you need one here.
The Skillion
Located in the Terrigal Haven The Skillion is an iconic local landmark. From the top of The Skillion, you’ll marvel at the views of Terrigal Beach, Avoca Beach, and the Pacific Ocean. Make sure you back your binoculars, during whale season (May-June & August-November) The Skillion is one of the best whale-watching locations on the Central Coast.
It is a short and steep hike to the top of The Skillion, however, the views from the top are worth the effort.
Crackneck Lookout
Located in the Wyarrabalong National Park, you’ll find this easily accessible lookout which you can drive right up to! This lookout is located in the middle of the popular Coast track which is an easy hike from Bateau Bay to Foresters Beach and dons amazing views of The Entrance. Not only does it provide great views it is also a popular point for paragliders to launch, so if you’re lucky you can watch the paragliders while also searching for whales during their migration!
Pelican Beach Lookout
Also in the Wyrrabalong National Park, you’ll find the picturesque Pelican Beach. This lookout is located only a short walk from the car park and offers views of the sapphire waters and almost white sand of Pelican Beach. From this Central Coast lookout, there is direct beach access where you’ll find km’s of untouched beaches and chances are you won’t see another soul.
This beach is popular for surfers and fishermen and is not patrolled by surf lifesaving so it is important to keep safety in mind while at this beach and lookout.
Snapper Point
Snapper Point is an iconic giant sea cave located in the Munmorah Conservation Area. This area is a popular location for rock fishermen and hones in on some of the most dramatic scenery on the Central Coast. This sea cave doubles as a blow hole during rough surf. You can take in the views from the carpark, or head down on the walking track along the rock shelves for a different view.
Please note that during rough seas this is a potentially dangerous location in all areas, apart from the designated lookout at the carpark
Wybung Head
Located just south of Snapper Point, you’ll find Wybung Head. This is another popular fishing point. However, it has some of the best views on the Central Coast. Looking south you’ll see dramatic cliff faces and all the way the Budgiewoi Beach and to the north you’ll see Snapper Point and Frazer Beach.
If you want to make the most of this location, come for the sunset and take in one of the best sunsets on the Central Coast.
Bullimah Spur
The Bullimah Spur is an easy/moderate hike in the Bouddi National Park. This Central Coast lookout offers some of the best views on the southern side of the Central Coast. The Bullimah Spur walking track is suitable for most fitness levels however it should be noted that there are steep inclines and the views points have zero railings.
On this walking track you’ll see spectacular views overlooking Putty Beach, Tallow Beach, and all the way out to Lion Island and even Sydney on a clear day.
Spion Kop
For the more adventurous souls, Spion Kop offers some of the best views of Woy Woy Bay. After a grueling 5km hike through the Brisbane Water National Park, you’ll be greeted by the ‘dragon head’ which looks over Woy Woy Bay. This is a Central Coast hidden gem, which receives little traffic compared to other lookouts which made this list, however with this being said, if you can muster the energy for this hike, it is a must-see location and one of the best hikes Central Coast has to offer.
You can find our hiking guide for Spion Kop here.
Mount Ettalong
Mount Ettalong is one of the easiest hikes on this list at only 1.7kms return and is merely an easy bush walk. However, don’t let this turn you off as it offers a unique perspective of the Central Coast and of Pearl Beach. Along the trail there are many unofficial lookouts along the way which do not have any railings, however at the official lookout there are railings to the edge for safety, so if you’re looking at taking children it is best to take them to the official lookout.
Pack a picnic and go at sunset to make the most of this lookout.
Warrah Lookout
Warrah Lookout is one of the more popular lookouts on the southern side of the Central Coast. Located in between Patonga and Pearl Beach is a small designated lookout that overlooks Lion Island and the Northern Beaches of Sydney. Along the trail to Warrah Lookout, there are many unofficial lookouts that offer different perspectives of the area, however only Warrah Lookout provides the safety railings.
There are many options to find this lookout, however, our favorite is from Patonga. You can grab our free hiking guide for the Warrah Lookout hike here.
Staples Lookout
Another great drive-up lookout is Staples Lookout located off Woy Woy Road. This large and easily accessible lookout offers amazing views in numerous different directions over the Brisbane Water National Park. Looking one way you’ll see Woy Woy Bay, and another will show you Mount Wondabyne which is the Central Coasts’ highest peak. The opportunities here are endless and pack your binoculars, as many animals and birds call this lookout home.
If you’re looking to find more views on the Central Coast, check out the newest hiking guidebook for the Central Coast! Inside are 42 hikes to lookouts, hidden gems, and wild swimming locations!