14 Best Things to Do in and Around Terrigal

Last verified 05/26

Terrigal never really slows down. Even on a cold morning in July, you’ll see swimmers doing laps and runners on The Skillion.

I’ve spent many days in Terrigal over the years. It’s the place I keep coming back to.

The beach curves around a sheltered bay. Behind it sits a strip of cafés, bars and restaurants. Everything is close, so you can park once and walk to it all.

Here are my favourite things to do in Terrigal.

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1. Climb The Skillion Lookout

The Skillion is the grassy headland at the southern end of the beach. A short and steep path leads to the top, where you get open views across Terrigal Beach and the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the most-visited lookouts on the Central Coast. The view north along the coast on a clear morning is hard to beat.

From May to November the headland is one of the best places on the Coast to watch humpback whales passing during their annual migration.

To get to The Skillion, walk south from Terrigal Beach along the waterfront boardwalk towards The Haven. The walk takes about 10–15 minutes. If you prefer to drive, parking is available right beside The Skillion at Terrigal Haven.

📖 Local Guide: The Skillion

2. Explore Terrigal Haven

Terrigal Haven is one of my favourite places in Terrigal. The sheltered bay feels very different from the surf beach just around the corner.

Walk along the boardwalk and watch the boats come and go. The calm water is popular for paddleboarding, snorkelling and swimming. Even on busy days, The Haven often feels quieter than the main beach.

📖 Local Guide: Terrigal Haven & Boardwalk

3. Walk Along the Boardwalk

The boardwalk is one of my favourite short walks in Terrigal. It links the main beach with Terrigal Haven and takes only a few minutes to walk.

You’ll pass the ocean pool, boats moored in The Haven and people fishing from the rocks. The views stretch across the bay and out to the Pacific Ocean.

Early morning is the best time to walk here. You’ll often see swimmers heading into the ocean and locals out for a walk before the day gets busy.

4. Relax at Terrigal Beach

Terrigal Beach is the heart of the town. Wide sand, Norfolk Pines and cafés sit side by side.

Lay out a towel and stay a while. Swim between the flags or simply watch the waves roll in. The beach is patrolled from the September school holidays through to April.

When you’ve had enough sun, walk straight off the sand and onto the Esplanade. Grab a coffee, lunch or an ice cream. That’s one of the best things about Terrigal. Everything is only a short walk away.

5. Splash in the Ocean Pool

Right beside the boardwalk sits the Terrigal Ocean Pool. It’s a great place to cool off when the surf is rough.

The shallow saltwater pool is popular with families and anyone looking for a calmer swim. You can relax in the water while enjoying views across Terrigal Beach and The Haven.

6. Browse the Terrigal Beach Markets

If you’re visiting on the first Saturday of the month, take a stroll through the Terrigal Beach Markets.

The markets sit beside the beach on the Terrigal Esplanade. More than 50 stalls sell clothing, homewares, artwork, jewellery, food and sweet treats. Local musicians often play during the day. Take your time browsing the stalls and enjoy the beach setting.

The markets run from 9am to 3pm and are easy to fit into a day in Terrigal.

7. Go Paddleboarding at Terrigal Lagoon

Terrigal Lagoon is one of the best places on the Central Coast to try stand-up paddleboarding. The calm water makes it a good place for beginners and families.

You can hire a paddleboard beside the lagoon or bring your own. Once you’re on the water, it’s easy to paddle at your own pace and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It’s an easy way to spend an hour or two on the water.

8. Learn to Surf

Terrigal is one of the best places on the Central Coast to learn to surf. The sheltered bay often has smaller waves than nearby beaches, making it a popular spot for beginners.

Several surf schools run lessons throughout the year for both children and adults. If you’re new to surfing, Terrigal is a great place to start.

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9. Whale Watching with Terrigal Ocean Tours

One of the most exciting things to do in Terrigal is join a whale watching tour with Terrigal Ocean Tours.

From May to November, thousands of humpback whales pass the Central Coast during their annual migration. The whales travel surprisingly close to shore, which makes Terrigal a top place to see them.

Tours depart from Terrigal Haven and take you straight to the migration route. You might see whales breaching, tail slapping or swimming with their calves.

10. Join a Fishing Charter

If you’ve never been fishing offshore, a charter is a fun way to give it a try. Most trips provide the fishing gear, bait and help you need, so it’s easy for beginners.

Boats leave from Terrigal Haven and head to fishing grounds just off the coast. Depending on the season, you might catch snapper, kingfish and other local species. Seeing Terrigal from the water gives you a whole new view of the coastline.

11. Stop for a Coffee or Lunch

After a morning at the beach, it’s the perfect time to stop for something to eat. The Esplanade and The Haven are lined with cafés and restaurants. Whether you feel like a quick coffee or a relaxed lunch, you’ll find plenty of choice within a short walk. Many places have outdoor seating, so you can enjoy the beach views while you eat.

📖 Local Guide: Terrigal’s best cafes and restaurants

12. Watch the Sunset at The Haven

The Haven is one of the best places in Terrigal to watch the sunset. As the sun goes down, the sky lights up behind the boats moored in the bay.

Grab a spot on the rocks or the grass and enjoy the view. I always try to finish my day here before heading home.

13. Walk the Bouddi Coastal Walk

If you enjoy coastal walks, Bouddi National Park is about a 20-minute drive from Terrigal. The highlight is the Bouddi Coastal Walk, one of the best walks on the Central Coast.

The track follows the coastline between Putty Beach and Macmasters Beach. Along the way you’ll pass beaches, bushland, cliffs and long boardwalks beside the ocean. Some beaches can only be reached on foot.

14. Visit the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre

The Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre is a family-friendly attraction beside Terrigal Lagoon. You can see local sea life, watch feeding sessions and try the virtual reality dive.

Children can use microscopes, complete quizzes and become a Junior Marine Scientist. There are also craft activities and school holiday programs.

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About the Author

Christine Lemieux is an independent digital publisher and the founder and editor of iCentralCoast, a local travel and lifestyle website covering the NSW Central Coast. She personally visits many of the places featured.