It’s no secret that sustainability and eco-consciousness are increasingly becoming points of consideration when it comes to travelling. How can we act responsibly and minimise our carbon footprint?

Who, then, could pass up the opportunity to visit the Central Coast, recognised on World Environment Day earlier this year as an ECO-Destination by Ecotourism Australia, in partnership with the World Wildlife Fund!

With a total land area of almost 1700km2, the Central Coast is known for its stunning natural landscapes, national parks and state forests, beaches and waterways, and its countless nature-inspired experiences such as the Bouddi Coastal Walk, Somersby Falls, or the World Heritage Listed Convict Trail in Dharug National Park.

In 2022 the Central Coast was recognised as a world-class destination for environmentally-friendly, nature-based tourism. Demonstrating its dedication to sustainable practices providing opportunities for tourists and locals to engage with the region while complying with ECO-Destination Certification standards, as well as the international Green Destination Standard, to ensure natural environments can be enjoyed for years to come. 

So, what does this certification mean for you, as a local or a tourist?

It means you can immerse yourself in the area and all it has to offer, with the assurance that tourism providers are giving back to the local community, enriching the environment, and preserving Indigenous culture. Whilst visiting you’re invited to tread lightly, and consider how you might minimise your own environmental impact and preserve the region’s longevity.

Saturated in impressive nature-based experiences, the hardest part will be narrowing down your list of things to do. Thankfully the long list of options means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into luxe accommodation, scenic walks, or time spent by the water.

STAY

If staying somewhere glam (and not compromising on time spent in nature) is your thing, you can’t go past Noonaweena. Tucked into the Central Coast hinterland, the estate looks over Yengo National Park and has a range of accommodation options so you can pick an experience that truly speaks to you.

Why not give their newly-launched glamping a go? Book one of the stunning bell-tents to sleep up to 6 people, complete with all the essentials to make your stay a comfortable one!

Camp dinnerware, luxurious bedding, cushions, rugs, towels, lanterns, outdoor seating and lighting, and a glamper survival kit with mozzie spray, sunscreen and torches, are all included, and the sites boast easy access to a range of stunning bushwalking tracks and even a full-size night-lit tennis court! Your stay on the Central Coast is sure to be a memorable one at this ECO-certified destination!

Another eco-friendly accommodation option:
- Iris Lodge Alpacas, Jilliby 

ACTIVE

Home to  6 ECO Certified experiences and 6 ECO Certification businesses you are spoilt for choice when it comes to getting active in and around the Central Coast. From bouncing around in the tree-tops to horse riding, mountain biking or grabbing a paddle to explore the stunning waterways, you are spoilt for choice. 

Suggested activities 
- Aquafun, Avoca Lake
- TreeTops, Ourimbah State Forest
- Bombora Ettalong Beach SUP
- Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures
- Rocky Trail Entertainment
For more click here

NATURE

There are plenty of opportunities to get out and about, wandering through the region’s relaxed, coastal communities on one of the many waterside pathways through Ettalong, Umina, San Remo, Toukley, or Kincumber. For those looking for a more immersive experience, switch off and disconnect with the four-kilometre loop Ridge to Rainforest track in the Strickland State Forest.

Dry forest transitions to lush, green rainforest, offering opportunities for photographs every step of the way. Alternatively, check out the longer, more arduous (though incredibly worthwhile) Bouddi Coastal Walk, known for its sweeping views of the vast Pacific Ocean, stunning sections of shady bush, and rocky coastal lookouts.

Here are some activities to consider:
- Jake Cassar Bushcraft Tours 
- Sydney Oyster Farm Tours, Mooney Mooney
- Travel with heart: How to embrace cultural experiences respectfully
- Nature tours with a touch of luxury, hosted by Elixir Journeys
For more information click here.

OCEAN

Prefer waterside activities? You’re in the right place! Why not book a tour with ECO-Certified Terrigal Ocean Tours, either to spot whales from the comfort of their high-performance eco-vessel in the winter months or, to cruise amongst dolphin, seal and penguin populations in Broken Bay in summer?

If being in, not on, the water is more your style, absorb the serenity of Brisbane Waters, the Hawkesbury River, or Tuggerah Lakes from atop a kayak or stand-up paddle board! Or, alternatively, book in for a Sydney Oyster Tour in Mooney Mooney, where you’re invited to walk amongst oyster leases, opening your own fresh oysters from the river.

Some water based activities to consider;
- Explore the watery grave of the HMAS Adelaide

The Central Coast’s recognition as an ECO-Destination is a well-deserved win for its local communities and tourism-providers, as well as you, as a visitor! Most importantly, though, it’s a win for future generations who can look forward to enjoying the same pristine landscapes and activities the region is known and loved for today.

So start planning your next holiday on the Central Coast, and immerse yourself in the diversity of its natural environments, all while helping the region to flourish for years into the future. 

For all the details visit Ecotourism on the Central Coast