Mermaid magic

With family ties to both Newcastle and Sydney, leisurely weekends cruising the cafés, beaches and markets of the Central Coast has been a part of life since I can remember. Positioned between the two cities, there’s so much here for families to explore and makes for a perfect mini getaway. The Central Coast is home to some of the best waterways in Australia and there is a beach, lake, cove and pool to suit any family. Toowoon Bay is perfect for families with little ones, thanks to the sheltered beach which is perfect for non- confident swimmers and tots who are just starting to learn.

More capable swimmers might like to try Shelly Beach, where kids can body surf in the moderate swell, while more serious grommets can head to the northern end to catch some of the best waves in the area. Norah Head is another great spot for water- confident families where you will find interesting rock formations and pools filled with marine life to explore.

Other water-fun options include Vera’s Water Garden, found among the restaurants and cafes in The Entrance. A 20-minute stroll from the fountain, down the coast, and you will also find The Entrance Ocean Baths, which is another excellent spot for families to keep cool.

Explore the shore

There is no shortage of adventure to be had on solid ground. If you fancy a spot of shopping,