Cycling routes safe for families and beginners expand across the Central Coast

Central Coast Council added 8 kilometres of separated cycling lanes along the eastern shore of Tuggerah Lake in late 2025, giving families and beginners a flat, traffic-free option that runs from Chittaway Point to The Entrance.

Interest in these routes has grown since the start of 2026 as residents look for low-cost outdoor activities that require minimal equipment beyond a helmet and a basic bicycle. Local health workers report more parents asking about safe places to ride with children under 12, especially after school holidays when screen time often rises.

The 4.2-kilometre shared path that follows the Gosford waterfront from Leagues Club Park to Point Clare station now connects directly to quieter streets leading toward Narara. Riders can also reach the northern section of the Gosford to Terrigal beach path via the new underpass at Erina Creek, opened in April 2025. Both corridors are patrolled by volunteers from the Central Coast Bicycle User Group on weekend mornings.

Routes that suit different skill levels

Tuggerah Lake offers the gentlest introduction. The path is 3 metres wide in most sections, with regular rest stops and drinking fountains installed last year. Beginners can start at the picnic area near Tuggerah railway station and ride 2 kilometres north before turning back. The Gosford foreshore route includes a short hill near the old hospital site but otherwise stays close to the water, with wide sight lines that help parents keep younger riders in view. A March 2026 traffic count by council staff recorded 1,140 cyclists on these two paths during a single Saturday, up from 780 the previous year.

Hire bikes are available at The Entrance Boat Shed for $18 for two hours or $30 for a full day, with child seats and helmets included. No bookings are required on weekdays.

Practical steps before heading out

Check the Central Coast Council website for any temporary closures after heavy rain, particularly on the low-lying sections near Berkeley Vale. Riders should carry water and a basic repair kit, and plan to finish before dusk because lighting along the lake path remains limited. Families new to cycling can join the free Saturday morning skills session run by the bicycle user group at 9 am from the Gosford waterfront car park, which covers basic road rules and group riding. Always consult a local medical professional before starting any new exercise routine.