Sydney to Newcastle road trip: Distance, driving time & best stops

Sydney to Newcastle road trip: Central Coast attractions

If you’re thinking of some beach time, prepare to detour. The Sydney to Newcastle drive doesn’t go all that near the coastal sections of the Central Coast. The Pacific Motorway runs significantly west of the likes of Forresters Beach, Toowoon Bay and Wamberal.

That’s not to say there’s nothing to see on the Central Coast section of the drive, however. On the Hawkesbury at Mooney Mooney, the Broken Bay Pearl Farm runs a pearl farm tour which demonstrates how pearls are cultivated.

You can also spend time at the Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary, Australian Reptile Park and Girrakool Loop walking track near Gosford.

All-action types, meanwhile, may prefer abseiling, horse-riding and quad biking at Glenworth Valley near Popran National Park.

A little further north are Somersby Falls and Stickland Falls, then a series of attractions near Alison. Pick the Jilliby Lookout for views or Treetops Adventure Central Coast for action, while Amazement Farm and Fun Park provides mazes and cute animals.

Next section: Newcastle accommodation and tours.