The Ultimate Summer Staycation
When you’re lucky enough to live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world, why not stay and enjoy it these holidays?
As the saying goes, ‘a change is as good as a holiday’, so treat your hometown like a getaway destination and get out and explore this summer.
Go on strike from your everyday routine with these tips from local blogger, Kirsty Hill from Travel with Meraki, to make the most of a summer staycation on the Coast.
Frazer Beach – Central Coast. Photo: Travel With Meraki
Explore a different beach
It’s easy to stick to your closest beach. Don’t limit your staycation to your local though. The Central Coast has so many beaches, inlets and bays, it’s hard to even find the true figure on the amount there is. We set ourselves a beachside challenge and even after being locals for over 20 years, we were surprised at how many beautiful beaches we had never seen or explored before.
A few of our favourites are Spoon Bay, Lobster Beach, and Frazer Beach.
Bouddi National Park. Photo: Travel With Meraki
Hike a new bush walk
A big part of going on holidays is exploring a new destination. Why not do the same at home and hit a new walking track? There are some stunning walks on the Central Coast including Bouddi Coastal Walk, Crackneck, Pearl Beach and Box Head. Even with younger children there are smaller walks such as Girrakool Loop, which can be enjoyed by all ages.
Stockton Beach sand dunes. Photo: Travel With Meraki
Go on a day trip
The Central Coast is within reach of some pretty amazing day trips. Head North to explore Sand Dunes at Stockton Beach or bike through a railway tunnel at Fernleigh Track. Or journey South to the beautiful Blue Mountains and Sydney. Some of our favourite day trips involve hopping on one of the local ferries and exploring Palm Beach or Dangar Island.
Dangar Island. Photo: Travel With Meraki
Set yourself a local challenge
This one can be lots of fun. Maybe you would like to visit every beach on the Coast like our challenge. Or how about checking out a local gallery like Ken Duncan Gallery or hiring a kayak and exploring a new spot on the water or perhaps check out a new cafe or restaurant? There are no limits – it’s all about seeing local places a little differently.
Wamberal Beach – Central Coast. Photo: Travel With Meraki
See a sunrise or sunset
A big part of going on holidays is taking the time to slow down and enjoy beautiful moments like a stunning sunset. Why not do that right here at home? Head down to the beach for a quiet sunrise somewhere like Wamberal or maybe catch a glowing sunset at Long Jetty.
Endota spa at Kooindah Waters
Treat yourself
A holiday isn’t complete without a little pampering and self care. Why not book in for a session at your local day spa, have a massage or go to some rejuvenating Yoga classes. If shopping is more your style, you could hit up the boutiques at Terrigal or check out the vintage stores at Long Jetty.
Somersby Falls. Photo: Travel With Meraki
Enjoy the water
There are so many water activities on the Coast to get you into holiday mode. Have a go on a stand up paddleboard with Aquafun Avoca Lake or Mana SUP at Umina Beach, try your hand at surfing with lessons from locals at Central Coast Surf School, drop in a line and hope for a catch at The Entrance or splash around at Somersby Falls for something a bit different.
Mojito at Avoca Surf House. Photo: Lisa Haymes
Have a cocktail… or two
There is something about having a little umbrella in your drink that makes you feel like you are on holiday, right? Luckily there are plenty of places to enjoy a holiday cocktail right here on the Coast. Imagine you’re anywhere in the world with the stunning views from Avoca Surf House, or try a Mexican Verano at Terrigal’s Pocket Bar. If you want a New Orleans flavour head to ReviveR at Gosford. For those that would prefer a craft beer, the Coast has you covered with local favourites like Six String Brewing Co.
Fishing at Ocean Beach. Photo: Travel With Meraki
Make it a true staycation
Why not make your staycation even more like a real holiday with a night or two at one of the great accommodation spots on the Central Coast. If you are looking for something super luxe you could spoil yourself at Pretty Beach House. If that’s a little out of your price range there is always Avoca Valley B&B, Kooindah Waters, Crowne Plaza Terrigal or even Norah Head Lighthouse. For more family friendly options think Toowoon Bay Holiday Park or Ocean Beach Holiday Resort.
Coastal Chic Tip: For more family inspo, check out the Travel with Meraki blog – Meraki is a Greek word that means to do something with heart and soul
