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

Sydney to Nelson Bay road trip: Central Coast attractions

The Sydney to Nelson Bay drive doesn’t really go near the coastal sections of the Central Coast – the Pacific Motorway runs significantly west of Terrigal or The Entrance. But there are some attractions near the route.

On the Hawkesbury at Mooney Mooney, the Broken Bay Pearl Farm demonstrates how pearls are cultivated on its pearl farm tour.

Other stops include the Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary, Australian Reptile Park and Girrakool Loop walking track near Gosford. You can also try abseiling, horse-riding and quad biking at the Glenworth Valley activity centre near Popran National Park.

A little further north come Somersby Falls and Strickland Falls and a cluster of attractions near Alison. The Jilliby Lookout offers marvellous views, Treetops Adventure Central Coast should test your nerve and the Amazement Farm and Fun Park provides mazes and cute animals.

After passing between Morriset and Cooranbong, near the southern tip of Watagans National Park, the Sydney to Taree drive steers west of Newcastle.

Next section: Newcastle attractions.