ENJOY OUR BUSH TRACKS

Meandering along our wonderful bush tracks is a great way to spark your little ones’ sense of adventure. If you’re looking for a beginner track, why not head to Bouddi National Park where you can take on the short 600 m walk down to Lobster Beach (suitable for all ages, with a helping hand along the way) or the Flannel Flower walking track, which is about 2.5 km return (good for 4 +). 

For those aged around seven and up, Kariong Brook Falls at Kariong is perfect. They will enjoy the 6 km trail and be treated to a stunning waterfall at the end of the trek (weather-dependent).

We haven’t forgotten those with prams. While not technically bushwalks, some of our favourite walking tracks wind along our waterways and through tree-canopied stretches of footpath. Our picks are Buff Point and Budgewoi Lake Foreshore walk, the Kincumber to Davistown loop or the Long Jetty Foreshore Reserve walk. 

You could also visit Brisbane Water National Park and see the stunning Bulgandry Art Site Aboriginal Place. A flat 10-minute walk, that is both pram- and wheelchair-friendly, takes you through the National Park to the site of ancient Aboriginal rock art, something the whole family is bound to enjo 

FULL CIRCLE FARM TOURS

There are some great options for families to get onto a working farm and Full Circle Farm is among the top of our list. 

Based at Kanwal, near Jilliby, it allows visitors to come and experience a working regenerative farm. There are plenty of animals for the young ones to get up close and personal with, while also being provided with incredible insights into different farming approaches. 

They have cattle, pigs, and a few thousand poultry on the farm that are all protected by their good-natured guardian dogs.

Open tours are run once a month with dates varying depending on the weather and farm work constraints. Keep an eye on their socials or get in touch to hear more about dates and to book. 

fullcirclefarm.com.au

SMALL BEACHES FOR SAFE SWIMS

Finding a calm and safe place for the kids to roam and enjoy the water is a must for any summer adventure. The Haven at Terrigal is a top spot for families looking to let their kids roam free in safe surroundings, not to mention there are great lunch and coffee spots right there. 

Ettalong Beach is another great pick with its calm waters, and long stretch of sand ready and waiting for families to laze the day away. 

Putty Beach, however, is one of our favourite picks, tucked away in the National Park, it feels like you’re stranded on a desert island, with vast views out of the bay and along its sandy banks. Check out the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website for more information on secluded spots like Putty Beach. 

nationalparks.nsw.gov.au 

BMX TRACKS

Getting out into nature means different things to different people, while a bush walk works for some, if you’re after something more active, then a BMX track might be better suited to you and the kids. 

We have four BMX tracks across the Central Coast at San Remo, Umina, Long Jetty and Terrigal. Terrigal’s track was redeveloped in 2021 and is now not only safe and functional but also meets Australian competitive standards. 

So whether you’re looking for a new hobby for your little ones to take up that builds their self-confidence, or simply looking to wear the kids out on an afternoon, BMX might be the sport you’re looking for.

ON THE WATER AT AVOCA LAKE

Getting out on the water is an iconic Australian summer pastime. Not only is it the perfect spot to be when you’re looking to escape the heat, but it’s also great fun. 

Aquafun at Avoca Beach has been operating in the area for more than 20 years and offers a fun day out for family members of all ages – and it has Advanced Ecotourism Certification. Take along a picnic and make a day of it, while also having access to modern human-powered pedalboats, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. 

There are also plenty of food and drink options nearby in the Avoca Beach village, and after you’ve tired everyone out with your lake fun, you have the option of beach or lake swimming to cool off in the heat. 

aquafun.net.au

WORDS BY JULIE WRIGHT