The seaside town of Terrigal, on the NSW Central Coast, has long been a favourite holiday destination for city-dwellers and country folk alike. It's only an hour or so’s drive north of Sydney and is a popular day or weekend escape.
The name Terrigal comes from the Aboriginal name for the area which means 'place of little birds'. Terrigal is renowned for its excellent surfing and family-friendly beach and lagoon. The town has a growing reputation for good shopping and fine dining at the many local restaurants and cafes. Climb to the top of the Skillion, the oddly shaped cliff that dominates the southern end of the town, for great ocean views.
The fishing is generally rewarding - from the local beaches and in nearby lakes and waterways, especially Tuggerah Lake, Lake Munmorah and Brisbane Waters.
The award-winning Australian Reptile Park is a short drive to the south west of Terrigal. The park has one of the largest collections of reptiles in the country, as well as native mammals, birds, amphibians and spiders. There are various shows throughout the day, but don't miss the spider-milking show!
South of Terrigal, Bouddi National Park has secluded beaches, steep cliffs and walking tracks through coastal vegetation including remnant rainforest.
Things to do:
- Visitors Centre - Terrigal Drive
- Surfing
- Swimming - In the surf or in the lagoon at the northern end of the beach
- Fishing - offshore, surf or lake, there's plenty of choices
- The Skillion - walk to the top and be rewarded with great ocean views
In the area:
- Australian Reptile Park - close encounters with the animal kingdom
- Bouddi National Park - beaches, cliffs, walks, views
