Brisbane Waters

Step it up with these stunning walks navigating nearby waterways. From the tranquil Kincumber to Saratoga Boardwalk, where coastal mangroves and diverse flora thrive, to the Woy Woy Foreshore Walk offering stunning views and a flat coastal path. For those seeking a longer adventure, the Gosford to Woy Woy trail is a beloved choice, featuring scenic bliss along a relatively flat route. Lastly, the Gosford Foreshore walk provides a popular, leisurely stroll with views of Point Clare and an array of eateries to enjoy. Lace up your shoes and embark on these unforgettable wander through the natural wonders.

Kincumber to Saratoga Boardwalk

Difficulty ⭐ | Distance: 5.5 km | Time: 1 hour, 6 minutes.

Starting from Kincumber, this out-and-back trail is a haven for different flora and coastal mangroves. It’s almost completely separated from roadways so settle in and enjoy the tranquillity. Your dog will love it just as much as you, but don’t forget the leash.

Woy Woy Foreshore Walk

Difficulty: ⭐| Distance: 6.1km | Time: 1 hour, 17 minutes.

Stunning views and a nice, flat coastal walk? Perfect. This out-and-back track starts at the Woy Woy Lions Park along the east and north shorelines of the Woy Woy peninsula. There’s picnic facilities available so perhaps you can pack a little lunch.

Gosford to Woy Woy

Difficulty: ⭐ ⭐ | Distance: 19.2 km | Time: 4 hours

The trail is relatively flat so if you love a bit of distance without too many hills, this one fits the bill. It’s an out-and-back, much-loved track for walkers, runners and cyclists alike. Meet at the parking area on Yallambee Avenue and enjoy a few hours of scenic bliss.

Gosford Foreshore

Difficulty: ⭐ | Distance: 8.2 km | Time: 1 hour, 38 mins

A popular flat walk and cycling route through two parks, views to Point Clare and plenty of eateries on the way. Starting at Gosford Sailing Club, you can park your car, pack a picnic and make use of the children's playground at the start or end of your stroll.

You can help protect a newly discovered, rare soft coral

Researchers recently discovered a tall and rare soft coral, Dendronephthya australis, in the Brisbane Water estuary! The presence of the coral in the NSW Central Coast has surprised many, and scientists are only beginning to understand its significance and the species that depend on it. Previously believed to be limited to Port Stephens, Sydney and Jervis Bay, this pink-to-brown coral can grow up to 2 metres, and its height allows it to sway with the fast current. The precious coral requires soft sediment and high water flow to thrive, making the Brisbane Water estuary an ideal habitat. In Port Stephens, where this coral is in decline, it supports commercially important species like snapper and the endangered White's seahorse. Further decline could have detrimental effects on these populations. While the discovery brings hope for the coral's conservation it also highlights the need to mitigate stressors, particularly human activities (boats and anchors causing sand movement).