7 Best Places to Kayak on the Central Coast, NSW

From the peaceful Wyong River to the family-friendly Tuggerah Lake, Explorer Katie’s got you covered with the best places to kayak on the NSW Central Coast. Beginners and seasoned paddlers welcome.

We Are Explorers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Countries on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

I’ve always loved being in or around our waterways, so the first time I tried kayaking, you could say I took to it like a fish to, well, a kayak. Years ago, when one of my best mates moved up to the Central Coast, we started exploring its biodiverse estuaries, coastal lagoons, and hiking trails, just a short drive from my base in Northern Sydney.

Lost among mangroves, with the only sounds coming from birdsong and rustling leaves, kayaking on the Central Coast feels like a complete escape from civilisation. It’s ideal for solace seekers, birders, or anyone who wants a bit of vigorous exercise out in the clean, fresh air. 

The calm, flat waters of the Central Coast make it ideal for beginner kayakers too. A result of many weekends of testing the water, here are the places to find the best kayaking Central Coast has to offer.

Best Places to Kayak on the Central Coast

1. Wyong River

Location: Wyong
Time from Gosford: 30 minutes
Highlight: Chance to see a platypus!

The serene Wyong River runs for over 67km, with launch points from Tacoma Boat Ramp, Wyong River Weir, or the quirky Wyong Milk Factory (a great place to grab a bite to eat after a paddle).

I normally set off from the Milk Factory for an easy afternoon kayak, although low water levels and fallen trees may impact how far you’ll get. One of the neatest things about paddling here — the Wyong River is known for its platypus. They aren’t easy to spot, but keep your eyes peeled if you’re paddling in the late afternoon or early evening, as that’s when these nocturnal, egg-laying mammals start moving around.

It’s pretty nice at most times of the day, just make sure you slip, slop, slap

2. Tuggerah Lake

Location: The Entrance
Time from Gosford: 35 minutes
Highlight: Kid-friendly

If you’re heading to the popular tourist town of The Entrance, definitely make time for a paddle on Tuggerah Lake. The calm, shallow waters of the lake are separated from the ocean, so currents and tides are never a problem — making kayaking here easy for kids and beginners.

This area is also a top spot to observe little endangered terns, who like to nest in coastal areas. As you paddle near the shore, check out the lake’s unique salt marsh ecosystem.

Once you pick your amazed jaw up from the bank, you can get to paddling this pristine lake | Photo via Destination NSW

3. Patonga Creek

Location: Patonga
Time from Gosford: 35 minutes
Highlight: Opportunity for an overnight kayaking trip

Patonga Creek is one of my favourite places to kayak because the landscape is so beautiful. As you paddle across the large, flat lake, you’ll see oyster farms, both grey and river mangroves, and plenty of birdlife, including White-bellied sea eagles. We were also lucky enough to see lots of stingrays below us in the clear water – keep them in mind if you decide to cool off in the creek after your paddle!

This gorgeous coastal area is a great place to base yourself for a few days, with Patonga Caravan and Camping Area just steps from both the creek and the beach.

Read more: Beginner’s Guide to Paddle-In Camping

There’s a little less serenity when kayaking with a buddy, but the games of I-Spy are markedly better

4. Mooney Mooney Creek

Location: Mooney Mooney Creek
Time from Gosford: 20 minutes
Highlight: Great scenery for photographers, plenty of birds for twitchers, and serenity on tap

Launching from the Karool Road Boat Ramp, Mooney Mooney Creek is a stunning spot that doesn’t usually attract many kayakers, ideal for anyone seeking solitude. We were lucky enough to observe several White-bellied sea eagles here, including a juvenile, with this quiet location great for birders. 

Not sure if you’re a bird nerd? Explorer Eva detailed the tell-tale signs to look out for

You can also kayak under the Mooney Mooney Bridge here, which is a lot of fun for photography. A soaring twin cantilever bridge over the Pacific Motorway, nothing will make you feel quite as small as staring up at this impressive feat of engineering.

If you forgot to look in the mirror before you set out you can just about use the creek instead

5. Narara Creek

Location: Gosford
Time from Gosford: 5 minutes
Highlight: Quiet and you can choose your own distance

This is another easy and accessible paddle. Set off from the Gosford Waterfront and head to the mouth of Narara Creek. With wide, flat waters, you can paddle as far up the creek as you like before turning back.

Although you’re just minutes from all the activity of Gosford, Narara Creek still feels quiet and is home to a wide range of birds, including bellbirds, pelicans, and ibis, so look for nesting wildlife along the banks.

These bad boys were spotted at nearby Patonga

6. Glenworth Valley

Location: Glenworth Valley
Time from Gosford: 30 minutes
Highlight: Opportunity for a guided kayaking trip

Glenworth Valley is home to Popran Creek, a tributary of the Hawkesbury River known for its clear water. This is an ideal choice for anyone not keen on kayaking alone, as Glenworth Valley Wilderness Adventures offers daily guided kayak trips, designed for beginners.

There are benefits to going with a guide, even if you’re experienced, as you’ll learn more about the diverse ecosystem and the convict history of the area.

Kayak hire is available if you’d rather explore without a group. If you’re camping here or partaking in a Glenworth Valley Wilderness Adventure activity like horseback riding, you’re welcome to bring your own kayak to save on hire fees.

Anyone for some synchronised paddling practice? | Photo via Destination NSW

7. Terrigal Lagoon

Location: Terrigal
Time from Gosford: 20 minutes
Highlight: Kid-friendly, great for a picnic

The flat waters of Terrigal Lagoon are completely separate from the open ocean, creating calm kayaking conditions for kids and families. Bring your own kayak and launch from the Terrigal Lagoon Reserve, or rent one locally and pop into the water for as long or as little as you like. 

Once you’re ready for a break, the wide sandy beaches of the lagoon are the perfect spot for a rest. 

A popular weekender town, Terrigal is booming in the summer months, so this is definitely a place where the early bird kayaker gets the worm (or, at least the parking).

Say hello to the locals as you push off from Terrigal Beach | Photo via Destination NSW

Essential Gear for Kayaking the Central Coast

• Kayak
• Paddle
• Personal flotation device
• Weather-appropriate and sun-safe clothing that you don’t mind getting wet
• Sunscreen
• Water and food
• Shoes you don’t mind getting wet
• Dry bag
• Waterproof case for your phone

If you’re not yet in possession of a floating vessel, I recommend Kayak Central Coast in West Gosford. They can help with items like kayaks and personal floatation devices. 

For overnight trips, check out our guide to taking the right kayaking gear.

Friends are good to bring too | Photo via Destination NSW

Tips For Kayaking the Central Coast NSW

• The rivers and estuaries of the Central Coast come alive at dusk and dawn – ideal times for spotting platypus, gliders, and birds
• Many waterways in this region are within national parks, so be mindful where you’re paddling as you might need to leave your four-legged friend at home
• Like many Aussie waterways, leeches may be present after heavy rain, so you may want to bring along some eucalyptus oil or insect repellent

Read more: Leeches: How To Remove, Avoid, and Appreciate Them

If you’re bringing your phone to snap moments like this, pack it in a waterproof case and secure it around your wrist or to the kayak to prevent dropping it in the water

FAQs Kayaking Central Coast NSW

Where can I kayak around the NSW Central Coast?

The Central Coast has so many waterways where you can kayak. Take your pick of lakes, rivers, head out into the ocean, or explore Brisbane Waters National Park from the water.

Where can I hire kayaks around Gosford and the Central Coast?

Depending on where you plan to kayak, you can find plenty of boat rental options, including the Wyong Milk Factory, The Entrance Boat Shed, and Boat, Bike, Paddle Hire Central Coast.

Are there any guided paddling experiences on the Central Coast?

If you prefer the safety and expertise of a group tour, locally-owned Out and About Adventures regularly offers both day and overnight paddle excursions throughout the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie regions.

Is it safe to kayak on the Central Coast?

Yes, it’s safe to go kayaking on the Central Coast. There are lots of very calm rivers, creeks, and lakes to enjoy in your kayak, so you’re spoiled for choice! Always ensure you know where you’re going, let a mate know your plans, and seek advice from someone local if you’re unsure about the route or current conditions.

What are the best kayaking locations for kids and families on the Central Coast?

Terrigal Lagoon and Tuggerah Lake are fantastic places to take kiddos kayaking. Also consider doing a guided kayak adventure in Glenworth Valley if the whole family needs some guidance, or you want to build up your confidence on the water together.

Keep the Paddle Party Going

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