Discover the breathtaking beauty of Central Coast’s best lookouts. From towering cliffs to panoramic ocean vistas, prepare to be captivated by the natural wonders that await you.
Nestled between breathtaking landscapes and the calming embrace of nature, this coastal region offers an abundance of hidden gems. Amongst its countless attractions, the Central Coast is blessed with magnificent lookouts that showcase panoramic views of the surrounding beauty.
The Skillion
Terrigal
This natural landmark has captured the hearts and imaginations of locals and visitors alike. As a landmark that has stood the test of time, the Skillion boasts panoramic views of the coastline and ocean that are truly unparalleled.
Just a short 15-minute walk along the beach from the Hotel, the Skillion provides fantastic coast view, with Forresters Beach and The Entrance to the north, and Avoca Beach and Bouddi National Park to the south.
The Skillion at Terrigal truly stands out as the Central Coast’s best lookout spot. Its striking beauty and views of the coastline and ocean make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region. If you do make it up the steep climb to the top of the Skillion, keep an eye out for whales, seals and dolphins passing by.
Captain Cook Lookout
Copacabana
This lookout, which bears the name of the explorer Cook, offers a glimpse into the past when the British were mapping the region. The headland where the lookout is located is one of three significant vantage points along the region’s coastline.
Just a 20-minute drive from The Crowne Plaza, the lookout is notorious for passing by humpback whales as they migrate across each year.
With just a brief stroll to the cliff’s edge, you can behold breathtaking panoramic vistas of the eastern shoreline. If the weather permits, your gaze can stretch from Norah Head in the north, all the way to the towering skyscrapers of Sydney’s CBD in the south.
Norah Head Lighthouse
Norah Head
Built in 1903, The Norah Head Lighthouse boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and stands as one of the most magnificent landmarks on the Central Coast.
A short distance from the car park, 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.
Located in the Northen End of the Central Coast, and only about a 40-minute drive from Terrigal, why not make a day at the lighthouse and experience life as a Lighthouse Keeper with their tours. Climb the 96 stairs to the tower balcony for 360-degree views and marvel at the view from the top of the lighthouse while also discovering the duties of a Keeper and how the light used in the past versus today.
Maitland Bay
Bouddi National Park
This bay is a stunning arc of secluded coastline, is only accessible by a 15-minute bushwalk through the magnificent Maitland Bay Track. As you walk out onto Maitland Bay, if the tide is low, you may catch a glimpse of the PS Maitland, which was shipwrecked in 1898.
Maitland Bay is one of the sparkling gems of Bouddi National Park and is a fantastic spot to snorkel in the pristine waters in the undeveloped Haven on the Central Coast.
Marie Byles Lookout
Killcare Heights
Marie Byles Lookout, situated on the stunning Bouddi Peninsula in Killcare Heights, is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to the Central Coast. This lookout is named after the remarkable conservationist, explorer, and feminist, Marie Byles, who made a significant contribution to the preservation of the environment.
Accessible by car, the lookout is conveniently found along the Scenic Road, supplying an easy drive from the Hotel. Upon arrival, visitors will find a handful of car parking spaces right in front of the breathtaking view across the Pacific Ocean.
The views from Marie Byles Lookout are nothing short of spectacular, stretching as far as the Manly headland in Sydney. But that’s not all – closer to home, visitors can feast their eyes on the stunning Northern Beaches and Broken Bay, as well as the picturesque Lion Island and Putty Beach.
Crackneck Lookout
Bateau Bay
This lookout within the Wyarrabalong National Park is a hidden gem that offers awe-inspiring views of The Entrance and its surroundings. What’s more, it’s easily accessible by car! Situated along the well-trodden Coast track, this lookout is a convenient stop for hikers traveling from Bateau Bay to Foresters Beach. With its unforgettable vistas, it’s worth a visit.
Between May and August, if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of whales swimming by during their northern migration. The area is also a popular spot for hang gliding and surfing, so if you are up for a challenge or something different, you should check out Crackneck lookout.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you should check out The Coastal walking track. The track extends for around 2 kilometers to the north, leading to the Bateau Bay Beach picnic area, or towards the south, stretching approximately 1.5 kilometers to reach Forresters Beach.
Pelican Beach Lookout
Pelican Beach
Also located within the Wyarrabalong National Park, is the scenic Pelican Beach. Only a short walk from the car park, this lookout point provides breathtaking views of the glistening sapphire waters and the powdery, nearly white sand of Pelican Beach.
From the lookout, there is kilometers of untouched beaches and you most likely won’t see anyone else. The beach is most popular for fishermen and surfers, so bring your fishing rod and surfboard along for the ride.