Image via Bec Lawrence 

For a honeymoon or a summer getaway with that special someone, what is better than basking in the sun by the beach? Rumour has it Australia does have the best beaches, so why not enjoy our very own backyard. Visit the NSW Central Coast for the summer and escape the city life.

What to do:

Patonga 

Disconnect from the world and head down to Patonga where you won’t find mobile reception but you will find calm waters and woodland hillsides. Stop by the beach front cafe for a milkshake and watch a pelican feeding and information demonstration by the locals.

Images via Bec Lawrence

Later grab a kayak and paddle around the mangroves, see if you can spot a sea eagle.

Ettalong 

Take in the magnificent ocean from above and walk to the Mount Ettalong Lookout. It’s a short 1.4km return and the view will leave you breathless!

Image via Bec Lawrence 

In the mood for some shopping? The Ettalong Markets are the largest undercover market on the central coast and are worth checking out! Pick up some beachy nicknacks or some art to take home.

Avoca Beach 

Visit the vintage cinemas at Avoca Beach. The picture theatre has been in business for over 50 years and though it has been updated it still has it’s original charm.

Image via Avoca Beach Picture Theatre 

For the adventure driven, grab out your diving gear and visit the ex-HMAS Adelaide dive site. This artificial reef sits in 32 meters of water and can be found 1.8km away from Avoca Beach.

Where to stay:

Ettalong Beach Apartments

Stay in the heart of all the action at Ettalong Beach Apartments. You’ll have all that you could need in either a one bedroom or a studio apartment that is only a short walk from the city centre. Enjoy the views of Broken Bay, Palm Beach and the Tasman Sea.

Image via Ettalong Beach Apartments 

Star of the Sea Terrigal

You wont even want to leave the comfort of your room at the Star of the Sea in Terrigal. If luxury accomodation is what you’re after then ponder this: heated indoor pool, two outdoor pools, swim-up cafe, spa, tennis court, squash court, gym, steam room and library. There are a range of different accommodation types to suit your needs from 3 to 5 bedroom apartments.

Image via Star of the Sea Terrigal 

Where to eat:

Safran

For contemporary turkish cuisine that will leave you feeling full and satisfied visit Safran in Ettalong Beach. This is the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two where you can share a meal or opt for one of the larger main courses.

Reef Restaurant

Reef Restaurant in Terrigal boasts views of the clear blue water and market fresh produce that you wouldn’t want to miss. If you’re not yet up to the honeymoon stage this beautiful resturant could be used as a wedding venue catering up to 160 guests.

Image via Reef Restaurant 

With so much to see and the beautiful landscape at your fingertips, the New South Wales Central Coast is the perfect place for you to unwind and relax.

Ms Zigzag says: With plenty of holidays to set your sights on over the course of your newly married life, you could certainly park an overseas trip and go with something within Australia instead, like the beautiful NSW Central Coast. 

About Bec Lawrence: I’m a journalist with a passion for all things travel. On weekends you’ll find me with a camera in my hand, at the markets or on the top of a mountain after a hike.