This spring, the Central Coast is calling, and we've got your itinerary sorted

From vintage cars and rockabilly tunes to cabaret and wooden boats
A ferris wheel and classic car
Photograph: Supplied | Central Coast
By Olivia Hart for Time Out in association with Destination Central Coast
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There’s something special about NSW’s Central Coast. Golden beaches, a laid-back energy, ever-developing food scene, hot live music offerings and the fact that it’s just a breezy 90-minute drive north of Sydney. And spring is the perfect time to pack the car and head up the M1 (or take the train). With a stacked calendar of events – many of them free – and a coastline in all its springtime glory, there’s never been a better excuse for a weekend escape. Think markets, outdoor gigs, delicious food and plenty of spots to soak up the sunshine.

So, whether you’re fresh off a whirlwind Euro trip and feeling the post-holiday blues, or keen for an affordable local getaway before the silly season kicks off, grab your sunnies, queue up your road trip playlist, and roll those windows down. Here’s your guide to the best things to do on the Central Coast this spring:

3 things to do on the Central Coast

Slip into your finest vintage attire and get ready to celebrate the charm of yesteryear at ChromeFest, a three-day tribute to classic cars, retro fashion and rock ’n’ roll. Now in its 17th year, The Entrance transforms into a nostalgic wonderland, showcasing over 450 vintage vehicles – many dating back to pre-1979 – including iconic American classics and hot rods.

Immerse yourself in the sounds of rock ’n’ roll and rockabilly across five waterfront stages, browse retro market stalls, catch dance demonstrations, and enjoy the spectacle of vintage fashion at the PinUp Pageant. Don’t miss the popular street cruise and Chrome After Dark, a free evening concert featuring The Flattrackers, The Cattrakkers, and The Hellcat III.

ChromeFest runs from October 24-26  at The Entrance. Entry is free. For full event details, visit the Love Central Coast website.

If you’ve been caught in the Sydney bubble, it’s time to head north, because the Central Coast’s live music scene is thriving. In fact, it’s giving Sydney a run for its money. And Gossy Weekender is your chance to experience it all, with three days of non-stop music celebrating the region’s homegrown talent.

Gosford town centre will come alive with performances from more than 40 artists across 20-plus venues. Whether you're into country, Afrobeats, indie folk rock, folktronica, dub-rocker or acoustic sets, there’s something for every musical taste.

Gossy Weekender runs from October 31 to November 2 in Gosford. Entry is free. For more information and to book tickets, visit the Love Central Coast website.

Coasties love their boats. And what better way to bring boat-lovers together than with a family-friendly waterfront celebration of beautifully crafted vessels? The Davistown Putt Putt Regatta and Wooden Boat Festival is your chance to admire a stunning fleet, cheer on the putt putt challenge along Cockle Channel, and enjoy the spectacle of the grand parade.

Beyond the boats, there’s plenty more to explore, like market stalls, food trucks, live entertainment, a kids’ play area, and marine and motor vehicle displays.

The Davistown Putt Putt Regatta & Wooden Boat Festival takes place on October 19 at Davistown Waterfront. Entry is free. For more details, visit the Love Central Coast website.

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