Whale breach. Photo courtesy Terrigal Ocean Tours.
Terrigal is a 90min drive from both Sydney and Newcastle. You can also catch the train to Gosford and board a connecting bus to Terrigal. There’s a wide range of accommodation in Terrigal, from luxury waterfront resorts like the Crowne Plaza and serviced apartments to holiday houses and campgrounds.
Terrigal Beach is at the southern end of a long stretch of idyllic golden sand, which curls northwards past Terrigal Lagoon. Follow the coast along scenic walking and cycling paths that loop around Terrigal. You’ll find Wamberal Beach at the northern end and magnificent national parks just a short drive away. The pretty rockpool at the southern end of Terrigal Beach is popular with families. Children will love learning about sea creatures at the informative Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre.
Enjoy a coffee overlooking the ocean at one of the trendy cafes or restaurants along the vibrant Esplanade strip and sip cocktails with sunset views or enjoy the atmosphere of a live band.
Soak up panoramic views from The Skillion lookout, an easy walk southeast from Terrigal Beach to Broken Head. You might even spot humpback whales during their annual migration between May and November. The annual Humpback Whale migration is one of the most exhilarating wildlife encounters that you can experience in Australia. It is estimated that more than 35,000 Humpback Whales migrate up our East Coast and they put on an incredible show of breaching and tail slapping. Terrigal has proven to be a great spot for whale watching as the whales pass close to the coast and often pull in to the bay to rest or play. Just off the coast in 32m of water is the Ex-HMAS Adelaide, an old warship scuttled to create an artificial reef that’s popular with divers.
The waters off Terrigal are teeming with fish, perfect for recreational fishing. Beach fishing is a favourite pastime. For the thrilling experience of trying to hook a marlin, join a Central Coast Reef and Game Fishing Charter, which leaves from Terrigal Haven, a great spot for swimming and snorkelling.
