Hi, I’m Nathan. I’m a landscape photographer, born and raised on the Central Coast of New South Wales. Growing up in such a beautiful area, I have had many opportunities to capture magnificent landscapes along the coast. Below, I have chosen 10 of my personal favourite locations on the Central Coast, which hopefully inspires you to explore them too. There are many more locations I love to visit which I could not fit on the list, some of which you can find on my Instagram, @nathanjayke.
10. NORAH HEAD LIGHTHOUSE
Built in 1903, Norah Head Lighthouse takes in magnificent ocean views, and is one of the Central Coasts most spectacular icons. A short distance from the carpark, you will find a walking track which goes along the side of the lighthouse, leading to stairs that take you down to a rock platform below, and to Lighthouse Beach. There are accommodation options if you wanted to have the full experience, and spend a night in the Lighthouse Keepers Quarters.
9. THE ENTRANCE
Where Tuggerah Lake meets the Pacific Ocean. The Entrance is a top tourism destination on the Central Coast. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants, with a 12km path that will take you along the lake, with spectacular views. There are many lookouts along the path, where you will find an abundance of wildlife, including the daily pelican feeding show.
8. CRACKNECK LOOKOUT
One of the best vantage points on the Central Coast. You will find Crackneck Lookout in Bateau Bay, which offers views of Shelly Beach, Norah Head, Tuggerah Lake and The Entrance. If you find yourself here between May and August, you will more than likely find whales swimming past on their northern migration. As well as the lookout, you will also find The Coast Walking Track, a short 2km walk to Bateau Bay Beach.
7. WYRRABALONG NATIONAL PARK
Wyrrabalong National Park conserves the last patch of coastal rain-forest on the Central Coast. The perfect spot for a surf, swim or fish, along a beautiful coastline met by a red gum forest. Here, you will also find diverse wildlife, and rich Aboriginal heritage. You can find walking tracks including the Red Gum trail and the Lillypilly Loop trail.
6. MUNMORAH STATE CONVERSATION AREA
Located in the suburb of Lake Munmorah, this National Park has much to offer. Here you will find pristine beaches, stunning picnic and camping spots, first class fishing, hiking tracks and overall grand views. The park is quite large, but easily accessible. If you get a chance to visit, make sure you go to Frazer Beach, Tea Tree Lookout, and Snapper Point.
5. LONG JETTY
One of the Central Coasts most iconic landmarks, Long Jetty is famous for its, aptly names, Long Jetty. There are 3 jetties here, with the longest reaching 351 meters into the shallow waters of Tuggerah Lake. All three are believed to be the longest jetties in NSW. The jetties were built back in 1915, and are a very popular spot with photographers.
4. TOOWOON BAY
A perfect holiday destination. Toowoon Bay Beach is popular for swimming, surfing, snorkelling and fishing. At each end of the 700 meter curved beach, there are rocky reefs which house a wide range of marine life, perfect for exploring on a warm summers day. You will find a range of accommodation types, from camping, to more luxurious options.
3. BOUDDI NATIONAL PARK
Located near Gosford on the Central Coast, Bouddi National Park is one of the most beautiful natural landscapes on the Coast. You will find many great walking tracks, camping locations, as well as lovely spots for swimming and fishing. The best way to take in this majestic location, is by walking the Bouddi Coastal Walk. The 8.5km one way walk will take you on a journey up the coastline, with breathtaking views along the way.
2. CATHERINE HILL BAY
A small seaside suburb, Catherine Hill bay is on the outskirts of the Central Coast, but is one of the most interesting locations you will find. Most notably known for its coal loading jetty which extends quite a distance out to sea. Catherine Hill Bay beach has twice been named in the top 101 Beaches in Australia, proving a hit to photographers, surfers, tourists and locals.
1. TERRIGAL
One of the most popular beach holiday destinations on the coast, Terrigal is a must visit if you find yourself nearby. The magnificent Terrigal Beach is lined with Norfolk Pines along the Esplanade. Here you will find many restaurants, cafes and shops. If you fancy some exploration, you can walk to the top of the Skillion, a local headland which offers stunning views of the area.
