Terrigal? Yes! It is not only a small seaside village with a stunning 4km beach, a great place for a weekend away, but also it is a fabulous destination for a day trip.
It was the end of summer. No more fun days at the beach. Our kids were hyperactive. This often happens when it is windy or it might rain. So, my husband and I decided to go somewhere that they could burn some energy.
At Terrigal, there is lots of space for running and exploring. We walked a fair a bit that day!
A Family Trip To Terrigal
by Mireia Garriga Seguranyes
Visitors Information Centre, Rotary Park Terrigal Drive NSW 2260
Telephone: 1300 132 975
Terrigal Beach
First, my daughters played and ran along the beach, then, we stopped to have a look at the amazing rock formations. The beach is patrolled and also has a small rock pool. In general, it is a very safe beach, very family orientated.
The Haven
From there, we headed towards the Haven and The Skillion.
The Haven is very picturesque. With little boats like the ones that you might find in a cove from the Mediterranean Sea, it is a great spot for having a picnic.
Also, there is a shop where you can buy fish and chips and a café. For a romantic dinner or function, there are a couple of prestigious restaurants, too, in this beautiful cove.
The Skillion
The Skillion is a must-see. The climb of the Skillion on Broken Head is not very difficult. There is a path with some steps.
Once you reach the top of the hill, there is a lookout with rewarding panoramic views of the coastline. We love lookouts. And the Skillion is one of the best.
On the way to the car park, we could listen to music from Peppers at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The beer garden looks a fantastic place to hang out, with views over the beach.
Then, once in the car, we saw lots of people going to Terrigal Pub. We felt like, maybe, we should stay longer…Only the little voices from our children reminded us that it was ok to go back home. Everybody was happy and tired. We had a fantastic day!
Parking: Parking can be a nightmare in summer. But, we have good news!! The Council is extending the car park of Wilson Road. From Wilson Road car park, it is only a short stroll to Terrigal Esplande.
The Wilson Road Car Park is run by the City Council and it is free. According to the Tourist Information Centre of Gosford, the old car park is still open despite the construction of the new one.
Toilets/Baby change: Yes, next to the beach. For baby changing facilities, try Seasalt Restaurant of Crown Plaza Terrigal Hotel.
Nearest takeaway coffee: Yes, across the road from the beach
Playground: The closest playground is Rotary Park, Terrigal Drive.
Mum’s report: We tend to think that beachside destinations are only for summer days. Go to Terrigal in autumn or spring, pack the scoters in the car, let your children explore the rock formations.
Enjoy the scenic views from the Skillion and then enjoy the many cafes and restaurants to choose along the Esplanade.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN TERRIGAL
For the little ones:
- Visit Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre (open on Saturday and Sunday, and during School Holidays)
- Read our Top 10 Things To Do on The Central Coast post here.
For older children and adults:
- Learn to dive at the Haven.
- Hire paddleboats or do stand-up paddle surfboard at the Lagoon, contact Terrigal Paddle Boats
- Visit Ken Duncan Gallery or Neale Joseph Fine Art Gallery
For all the family:
- Walk towards Terrigal Lagoon and Wamberal Beach (opposite direction to Terrigal Haven). The Lagoon has calm waters.
- Whale watching cruises
- Terrigal Beach Markets, first Saturday every month.
Check out great places to eat in Terrigal on this post by Kelana by Kayla!
Come by public transport: Gosford Train Station. From there, you will need to take a bus (Routes 67 and 68, check details on https://www.busways.com.au
Terrigal Map
Thank you Mireia for sharing the story of your trip to Terrigal with your girls!
Our family has stayed at Terrigal in the past, and I’ve been checking out with friends and other travel writers where are the good places to stay if you fancy a weekend break, or longer getaway.
Here are the Hello Sydney Kids recommendations:
Where To Stay In and Around Terrigal
To view a list and prices for all the hotels in and around Terrigal, click here.
Friends of ours have highly recommended these two hotels:
I can recommend highly a golf resorta holiday park further up the coast and our family had a great time at both places:
Can you add any top tips for a visit to Terrigal?
Or other top spots on the Central Coast?
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