Things to do in Terrigal, NSW: How to make your stay more fun

The best things to do in Terrigal on the NSW Central Coast include surfing lessons, climbing the Skillion and renting a paddle boat on the Terrigal lagoon.

The Central Coast, just north of Sydney in New South Wales, has a surprisingly strong array of sights once you head inland. You can learn how antivenom is produced at the Australian Reptile Park in Gosford, or explore one of five national parks on the Central Coast. Of these, the Brisbane Water National Park has the most cultural appeal due to the Bulgandry Aboriginal rock art site. And the best coastal walk is the Bouddi Coastal Walk to Macmasters Beach in the Bouddi National Park.

But let’s face it, the main reason anyone is coming to the Central Coast is the ‘coast’ part of the name. There are several fine Central Coast beaches to choose from, including Patonga Beach, Pearl Beach, Toowoon Bay, Wamberal Beach and Forresters Beach. But Terrigal is arguably the most appealing holiday spot.

Things to do in Terrigal, NSW: Beach and the Skillion

If you’re looking for things to do in Terrigal, you’re probably there for the wrong reasons. This is not a hive of big ticket attractions, and neither does it really want to be. Terrigal Beach is the main reason to visit Terrigal, and a couple of extra factors make it stand out. The first is the grassy, ramp-like headland known as the Skillion. Go for a wander up it, and you’ll get some nice views of the town and coast.

The Skillion in Terrigal on the Central Coast — Going to the top of the Skillion to enjoy the view is one of the best things to do in Terrigal on the New South Wales Central Coast. Photo by David Whitley/ Australia Travel Questions

The second aspect of Terrigal that makes it appealing is the lagoon behind the beach. This is great for safe paddling and swimming. There are also paddle boats for hire here. Terrigal Paddle Boats rents out boats on the Terrigal lagoon for $25 per half hour. Should you prefer a kayak, they cost $25 for half an hour and $40 for an hour.

The same company also offers stand-up paddle-boarding lessons on the lagoon for $45 an hour.

What to do in Terrigal, NSW: Terrigal Beach surfing lessons

It’s also possible to learn to surf at Terrigal. The Central Coast Surf School runs surfing lessons at Terrigal Beach, with group lessons costing from $50 for one hour. That’s often not quite long enough for complete beginners to get standing on the surfboard, however. You may need to book two lessons.

The other option for things to do in Terrigal is the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre. This is aimed at kids, and offers boxes of shells to rummage through plus the odd talk by a marine biologist. The fact it’s not brave enough to call itself an aquarium should tell you that it’s really not worth going out of your way to visit.

Terrigal accommodation is available at the Crowne Plaza Terrigal. The drive from Sydney to Terrigal takes around an hour and 25 minutes.