The Best Hunter Valley Cafes You Must Try For Breakfast

We’ve done the legwork for you to round up the best cafes that scream ‘breakfast Hunter Valley’.

The best Hunter Valey cafes are not just places to refuel between visits to the region’s best wineries. What we’re looking for is varied. Be it a shot of dark-roasted espresso brewed to order. A vego breakfast board. Or a decadent lunch designed to help you power through your epicurean itinerary. Here are 25 of the best cafes for breakfast and brunch in the Hunter Valley.

The shortlist

Best coffee: Greg’s Espresso Bar
Best pastries: The Icky Sticky Patisserie
Hidden gem: Magoony’s Coffee House
Family-friendly spot: The Deck Cafe
Best for brunch: The Rigby
Casual eats: Ronnie’s
Most Instagrammable: Kiosk at The Tennis Club
Best date spot: The Conservatory at voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley
Fine dining gem: Restaurant Cuvee @ Peterson House

1. Magoony’s Coffee House

a cup of coffee at Magoony’s Coffee House, Broke — Sip on your chosen brew at Magoony’s Coffee House.

Magoony’s Coffee House in Broke, housed within the old Broke service station, is more than just a place to refuel. Magoony’s is run by Melissa and Paul O’Toole, who have Motty’s Farm Cuisine, and son Ryan, who trained as a pastry chef at Margan Estate. Make a pit stop at the ramshackle-looking cafe for a cup of White Fox coffee, Reuben sandwiches and a slice of lemon meringue cheesecake before browsing the antique emporium next door. Fun fact: The name of the cafe is a nod to Ryan’s childhood nickname: Roony Magooney.

Cuisine: Elevated Aussie staples.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Rustic and retro.

Location:  19 Singleton Street, Broke

2. Meltdown

milk being poured into a cup of coffee at Meltdown, Braxton — Factor in a visit to this cool Branxton cafe for a coffee. (Image: Meltdown)

The staff at Meltdown do everything in their power to avoid hangry meltdowns. Bring your designated driver to the cafe before buckling up and exploring Hunter Valley Wine Country. The cool-as cafe has plugged a gap in the market. Check Meltdown’s socials and you will see that one minute it is serving Floozy coffee and banana cake to a local crowd. Next minute it’s having a Mexican Meltdown or Caribbean Cook-up. Veg-loving locals also come here to lunch on healthful salads and pickled veg baguettes.

Cuisine: The menu has many moods with themed pop-ups.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Fun and playful.

Location:  5 Winepress Road, Branxton

3. Kiosk at The Tennis Club

inside the Kiosk at the Tennis Club, Cessnock — Sit down for coffee after a game of tennis.

Wear your tennis whites to the Kiosk at The Tennis Club in Cessnock so you can chase the ball around the net. The kiosk has become the de facto lounge for those who enjoy a game of tennis and boosted the number of games being played on the Cessnock courts. Chances are the place will be packed on a Saturday morning, as lessons are underway. The cafe is adjacent to a court where kids can run around and have a hit, while the parents enjoy a bit of quiet over a coffee. It’s housed in a cute little clubhouse with white-on-white interiors and rustic furniture making it feel like you’re at your mate’s backyard barbie.

Cuisine: Aussie takes on American-style classics.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Rustic and retro.

Location: 49b Abadare Road, Cessnock

4. Jimmy Joans

breakfast at Jimmy Joans, Hunter Valley — Lovedale locals flock to Jimmy Joans for a hearty all-day brekkie. (Image: MJK Creative)

Owners Eliza and Thom Boyd staked out some territory in Lovedale to appeal to those looking for a casual all-day diner. And with their artisanal fare and carefully curated aesthetic, Jimmy Joans has grabbed the attention of Lovedale locals as well as the many travellers who visit NSW Wine Country every year. The couple are in partnership with hoteliers Mick and Kim Starkey (of Stag & Hunter in nearby Newcastle). The name of the venue honours Jim and Joan Moyle, Kim’s grandparents.

Cuisine: Light breakfast far and substantial share-style mains with Mod Oz accents.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Rustic and retro.

Location:  84 Wilderness Road, NSW

5. Maitland Street Collective

a tranquil and leafy seating area at Maitland Street Collective, Branxton — The ground-floor cafe spills into a leafy courtyard.

Want to mingle and meet with locals? Then you’re the type of clientele that will feel right at home at Maitland Street Collective. The cafe is housed in the old Commercial Hotel, which traded as a pub for more than 100 years. In addition to the ground-floor cafe, which spills into a leafy courtyard, the cellar has been transformed into an art gallery within the pub turned hub. Swap stories with locals while enjoying a menu led by hyperlocal ingredients such as the meat from Hungerford Meat Co next door, cheese from Binnorie Dairy and eggs from SoH Farmlet.

Cuisine:  Delicious wholefoods

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere:  Cosy courtyard cafevibes

Location:  45 Maitland St, Branxton

6. Arthur’s

a breakfast plate at Arthur’s, Hunter Valley — Indulge in elevated brekkie staples at Arthur’s.

The menu at Arthur’s is anchored to the seasons. And brunch in the minimalist space is as clean, bright and lively as the fit-out. It might start with nasi goreng or a ham and cheddar croquette. But it should always finish with a cold-pressed orange, carrot, pineapple and ginger juice. It’s a compelling crescendo. The narrow dining room is a cosy, convivial corridor and eating here is a relaxed, informal experience.

Cuisine: Classic Aussie cafe fare

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Scandi-chic

Location: 1E Cooper Street, Cessnock

7. Greg’s Espresso Bar

an external view of Greg’s Espresso Bar, Hunter Valley — Grab a takeaway brew from Greg’s Espresso Bar.

Don’t let the friendly, relaxed staff fool you; this is a slick operation run by a team who care about the outcomes. Greg’s Espresso Bar has outlets in both Pokolbin and Cessnock.

Sit on the deck of the Pokolbin Village Estate cafe, which is saturated in sunshine, and start with a cup of coffee made from Fish River Roasters’ beans. Order the Celine Dion toastie, which is enough to inspire a ballad for its contents: caramelised onion, cheddar and maple-cured bacon.

Cuisine:  Toasties and casual eats. Food to replenish the soul.

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: The epitome of country cool.

Location:  10/2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin; 1h Cooper St, Cessnock.

8. The Bikesmith Espresso Bar

two people sitting outside The Bikesmith Espresso Bar, Maitland — Get your caffeine fix at The Bikesmith Espresso Bar. (Image: Destination NSW)

You will find a motley crew of MAMILs (Middle-aged men in Lycra) ogling the bike accessories over countless rounds of espresso at Bikesmith Espresso Bar . Coffee-loving bikepackers are also catered for with merch including everything from mini espresso machines and compact coffee grinders to grab-and-go cold brews. This bicycle shop and cafe is the absolute bomb for those who are passionate about indulging their love for both pursuits. Put some air in your tyres with a few sweet treats.

Cuisine: The espresso bar serves as a pit stop with a concise menu of filling fare.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: An itty bit gritty.

Location:  326 High Street, Maitland

9. Lovedale Smokehouse Cafe

al fresco tables at Lovedale Smokehouse Cafe, Hunter Valley — Nab a table in the relaxed al fresco spot. (Image: Lovedale Smokehouse Cafe)

The family-owned Lovedale Smokehouse Cafe is perhaps the most pet-friendly cafe in the Hunter Valley. So much so it even has a dedicated menu for dogs. If you’re looking for a casual feed, the menu at the Lovedale Smokehouse features meats cooked low and slow over fire such as ribs, brisket and burgers. The casual venue is one of the most convivial places to eat and drink in the Hunter Valley thanks to the friendly crowds who roll in for house-made charcuterie.

Cuisine: Expect a lot of smokey flavours.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Smart and casual

Location:  64 Majors Lane, Lovedale

10. Common Grounds

coffee at Common Grounds, Hunter Valley — Common Grounds serves up great coffee in the historic town of Morpeth.

This cute little cafe on the main street of Morpeth is a must-stop. Located alongside the Hunter River, the cafe has literally got The Goods (a blend by Glee Coffee Roasters), which is served alongside daily specials such as sweet fruit-filled muffins and a knock-your-socks-off housemade mixed berry cheesecake waffle. Weighing in on the best breakfast in the Hunter Valley debate is fraught; but we stand by Common Grounds as a worthy addition to your list. Book accommodation in the Hunter Valley, which makes a mooch back to Morpeth a cinch.

Cuisine: Contemporary cafe fare.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: This charming light-filled cafe has dreamy riverfront views.

Location:  4/142 Swan St, Morpeth

11. Ronnie’s

a relaxed cafe interior at Ronnie’s, Pokolbin — Find a tranquil spot at Ronnie’s to enjoy your breakfast. (Image: Muse Photography)

Short on time while road-tripping around the Hunter Valley? Combine your visit to Hunter Valley Gardens with breakfast at Ronnie’s. The breakfast menu is expansive: think smashed avocado with whipped feta, heirloom tomatoes and pickled beetroot, or the corn and halloumi fritters that deserve their cult following. Squidgy rolls are used for my personal favourite – the Hoki fish burger.

Cuisine: Filling, comforting, cafe fare.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Hip and happening Hunter Valley vibes.

Location:  15/2090 Broke Road, Pokolbin

12. Acacia Dining

diners at Acacia Dining, Hunter Valley — Settle into Acacia Dining for a taste of their contemporary take on comfort food. (Image: Megann Evans Photography)

This pretty riverfront eatery is one of the most talked-about venues in the Hunter Valley. Acacia Dining is open for breakfast, brunch and lunch from Sunday to Thursday and dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. What matters here is the ever-changing menu, which relies on honest ingredients that speak for themselves. The eatery at the iconic Riverlink building is led by ex-Masterchef contestant Reece Hignell and chef Tori Tokpah who share a keep-it-simple philosophy.

Cuisine: Contemporary takes on classic country comfort fare.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Sophisticated, chic. Maitland meets Manhattan.

Location:  396 High Street, Maitland

13. Cafe Enzo

the external view of Cafe Enzo, Hunter Valley — The al fresco dining area is the perfect spot to devour a decadent cheese platter. (Image: Destination NSW)

Cafe Enzo has long been one of the best Hunter Valley cafes for breakfast for a multitude of reasons. For starters, the romance of the region is keenly felt in the courtyard, which has a magical Midsummer Night’s Dream vibe. Furthermore, it’s located within the confines of the ultra-charming Peppers Creek Village. And it has the most Instagram-ready artfully presented breakfast board on offer. Pamper yourself and book a stay in Enzo Cottage so you can bookend your day with a beautifully styled cheese platter.

Cuisine:  Contemporary country classics

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere:  Off-the-charts charming

Location:  Broke and Ekerts roads, Hunter Valley

14. Wholefoods Market & Cafe

Balance out all those hedonistic Hunter experiences with breakfast at The Wholefoods Market & Cafe in Maitland, which has been a beacon for devotees of organic produce since it was established in 1997. There are endless diversions on offer here, from the fermentation classes at the Inner Health Centre to the display cabinet filled with biodynamic Urban Mill baked goods. Stay focused on your baked egg shakshuka and then fill your eco bag with organic produce and artisan goods such as a fresh-baked baguette and triple cream brie from Hunter Belle Dairy.

Cuisine: Organic and biodynamic

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: It’s giving hippie-chic general store vibes

Location:  10-12 William St, East Maitland

15. The Breakfast Room at The Mill

the dining room at The Breakfast Room, The Mill — Dine on an English-style brekkie with a view at The Breakfast Room.

Why visit Hunter Valley wine country for just one day when you can spend a few nights? You can eat and sleep at Estate Tuscany or just belly up off your own bat to The Breakfast Room at The Mill Restaurant, where executive chef William Townsend has curated a menu designed to make that first meal of the day a special one. Go the whole hog and order the Tuscan breakfast, the ingredients for which are sourced locally.

Cuisine: Trad English-style full breakfast and continental.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Tuscan

Location:  Cnr Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin

16. The Deck Cafe

a small dam with fountain fronting The Deck Cafe in Lovedale — Enjoy seasonal delicacies against a bushland backdrop. (Image: The Deck Cafe)

Locavores love The Deck Cafe , tucked away amid a tangled knot of forest bushland overlooking a dinky little dam in Lovedale. Expect to find seasonal delicacies on the breakfast menu here alongside Piazza D’oro coffee. Half the fun of an early morning visit here is watching the sun rake through the trees and listening to the birdsong. The success of this cafe has a lot to do with chef Matt Dillow’s attention to sourcing quality ingredients. Keep it simple and order French toast with fresh strawberries and Chantilly cream or the B&E roll on offer all day.

Cuisine: Everything from power plates for breakfast to tapas and high tea

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Undiluted water views give The Deck a hideaway intimacy

Location:  701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

17. Worn Out Wares

the entrance to Worn Out Wares, Singleton — Worn Out Wares is the go-to place for flowers, food and homewares. (Image: Nikki To)

Worn Out Wares is a colourful blend of flowers, coffee, food and homewares to suit everyone from budding botanists to caff fiends and those in need of some serious retail therapy. Enjoy coffee and cake before browsing the carefully curated range of bags, baskets, books, candles and bespoke bundles for everyone from bubs to blokes. Worn Out Wares is the place to go to ooh and ahh. Despite being a stalwart in Singleton for almost two decades, the menu has evolved to include up-to-the-minute almond milk turmeric lattes and crumpets with passionfruit curd.

Cuisine: Homestyle nourishing favourites.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Flower-filled vases and whimsical wares make for a serene setting.

Location:  41-43 George Street, Singleton

18. Mr O Wholefoods

Mr O is the go for coffee by Glee Coffee Roasters and all-day breakfast options like loaded bagels with peanut butter and banana or a Hungerford ham toastie. Have you been knocking on too many cellar doors? Balance the books with the guilt-free brekkie bowl. You will find local creatives consorting in the cafe, which has played a central role in the invigoration of Cessnock’s Eat Street. The latte art is next level, as is the fact you can pick up some healthy organic snacks for the drive back home. Closed on weekends.

Cuisine: Nourishing feel-good cafefare

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Friendly, welcoming

Location:  41 Vincent St, Cessnock

19. The Icky Sticky Patisserie

a picnic with pastries from The Icky Sticky Patisserie, Hunter Valley — Enjoy a picnic of indulgent pastries. (Image: Maitland City Council)

We will never reach peak profiterole, which the pâtissiers at The Icky Sticky Patisserie are all too aware of. This lovely Lorn patisserie draws crowds on their way to the Hunter Valley for signature baked treats such as the pistachio tarts loaded with raspberries and white chocolate. The counter at this popular patisserie is filled with pastries that have been laminated into crisp, pastry treats that are puffed in the oven and glazed until golden. The patisserie is only open Monday to Friday between 7.30am and 2pm.

Cuisine: Innovative baked treats from pizza croissants to lemon and blueberry brioche

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: A fun-filled family friendly atmosphere.

Location: 2/27 Belmore Rd, Lorn

20. The Conservatory at voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley

a dining area with floral arrangement at The Conservatory at voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley — The floral arrangement sets the romantic scene.

The joy of settling in for a long, lazy breakfast at The Conservatory at voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley cannot be underestimated. The light-filled dining room uses the bounty of its surrounds to inform the menu with ingredients sourced within a 50-kilometre radius. The breakfast buffet here is a civilised affair: sit at a table indoors to enjoy the best of the hot and cold options. Or sit outside for views of the rose garden and craggy spine of the Broken Back Range.

Cuisine: Elevated and innovative breakfast fare

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Romantic and beautifully styled

Location: 336 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

21. The Rigby

The Rigby is one of many cool places to eat and drink in Maitland, a history city on the banks of the Hunter River. The Rigby also mirrors the makeover that Maitland has undergone. Housed in a former high-end drapery store, The Rigby is all exposed bricks, Chesterfield couches, mood lighting and pops of hot pink. The family-owned bar and bistro morphs from Maitland cafe by day to bar and bistro by night. Flip a coin to see who’s going to be the designated driver and order boozy jam crumpets and a poached pear mimosa.

Cuisine: Contemporary Aussie classics.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere:  Heritage charm and vintage vibes.

Location: 307 High Street, Maitland

22. Garden Terrace Cafe at Hunter Valley Gardens

the Garden Terrace Cafe at Hunter Valley Gardens — Admire the manicured gardens while sipping on your morning tea.

The Hunter Valley Gardens has been used as a muse for the casual Garden Terrace Cafe . The cafe has a leafy outlook over the Oriental Garden, one of the prettiest pockets within the 14-hectare grounds. Feast on the sensuous pleasures of the manicured Hunter Valley Gardens, which continue to capture the imagination of landscapers and green thumbs from around the land. The Garden Terrace Cafe is a top spot for morning tea or lunch in Hunter Valley Wine Country.

Cuisine:  CWA-inspired classics like lamingtons and sausage rolls.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Not your average garden-variety cafe

Location:  336 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin

23. Cocoa Nib

artisan chocolates at Cocoa Nib, Hunter Valley — Get a bonbon box of colourful artisan chocolates. (Image: Cocoa Nib)

Cocoa Nib is, hands down, one of the best places for a cup of tea or coffee in the Hunter Valley. This is in part due to the fact you can pair a hot beverage with award-winning hand-crafted chocolates. The coffee blend of choice here is one sourced from Silverskins Coffee, a micro roastery based in nearby Newcastle. Order a cappuccino at Cocoa Nib and it will arrive showered with shavings of 60 per cent dark chocolate made from renowned French chocolate Weiss. The hot chocolates here are next level, obviously. There is also an outlet at Keith Tulloch Winery in Pokolbin.

Cuisine: Delightfully creative hand-crafted chocolates and cakes

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Pure joy

Location: 989 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

24. Restaurant Cuvee @ Peterson House

friends enjoying al fresco drinks at Restaurant Cuvee, Peterson House, Pokolbin — This sunny Pokolbin cafe has a breezy terrace where you can enjoy a Bubbly Breakfast. (Image: Guy Dixon Photography)

Find a tranquil spot on the sun-splashed terrace at Restaurant Cuvee at Peterson House to enjoy a Bubbly Breakfast after a hot-air balloon ride. It’s one of the best things to do in the Hunter Valley. This top Hunter Valley cafe is always buzzing with visitors who are about to launch into their day. Drift into the air above the Pokolbin cafe at sunrise with Balloon Aloft while looking out over the vineyard. Then come back down to earth for pancakes with berry compote, honeycomb and Chantilly cream and a glass of bubbles.

Cuisine: Classic Aussie staples with a twist like avocado scrambled eggs and corn fritters.

Average price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Romantic

Location:  Corner Broke Road and Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin

25. The Whistler

the dining interior of The Whistler, Maitland — The Whistler is a popular spot for coffee and cocktails. (Image: Raina Thomson)

A road trip to the Hunter Valley is not just about tasting great wines. These days, it’s about the promise of adventure. Savour the laid-back spirit of The Whistler which you can work into an ale trail around the Hunter Valley. You can have a hair of the dog here just after daybreak with the brekkie roll golden with fresh egg yolk, laden with bacon, rocket and relish. Or put a bit of wellness back into your weekend with a freshly squeezed juice or kombucha instead.

Cuisine: From classics like eggs Benny to trad pub grub

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Cosy and contemporary

Location:  436 High St, Maitland

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .

25 Hunter Valley cafes you absolutely must try

We’ve done the legwork for you to round up the best cafes that scream ‘breakfast Hunter Valley’.

The shortlist

1. Magoony’s Coffee House

2. Meltdown

3. Kiosk at The Tennis Club

4. Jimmy Joans

5. Maitland Street Collective

6. Arthur’s

7. Greg’s Espresso Bar

8. The Bikesmith Espresso Bar

9. Lovedale Smokehouse Cafe

10. Common Grounds

11. Ronnie’s

12. Acacia Dining

13. Cafe Enzo

14. Wholefoods Market & Cafe

15. The Breakfast Room at The Mill

16. The Deck Cafe

17. Worn Out Wares

18. Mr O Wholefoods

19. The Icky Sticky Patisserie

20. The Conservatory at voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley

21. The Rigby

22. Garden Terrace Cafe at Hunter Valley Gardens

23. Cocoa Nib

24. Restaurant Cuvee @ Peterson House

25. The Whistler

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Your guide to what’s new and exciting this summer on the Central Coast

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

1. Gosford’s glow up

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

3. New Central Coast experiences

4. Central Coast accommodation

5. Shopping on the Central Coast