Ourimbah Creek

Ourimbah Creek is a serene, lush pocket of the NSW Central Coast, offering a tranquil escape into nature with its palm-fringed banks, clear swimming holes, and gentle walking trails. This is the kind of place where you can hear nothing but the rustle of leaves and the splash of water, making it a perfect stop for a peaceful afternoon away from the busier beachside spots. The creek is fed by the Ourimbah State Forest, ensuring cool, clean water even on hot days.

Highlights & What to See

• Swimming at the Weir: The main swimming hole at the weir is a local favourite — deep, clear, and shaded by overhanging trees. Bring a picnic and spend a lazy hour floating in the cool water.
• Ourimbah State Forest Walks: Several marked trails meander through the forest alongside the creek, offering glimpses of lyrebirds, wallabies, and towering eucalypts. The Burma Road loop is a gentle 3 km walk suitable for most fitness levels.
• Paddling and Canoeing: The creek’s calm, shallow sections are ideal for a quiet paddle. You can launch a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from the grassy banks near the picnic area.
• Picnic by the Creek: Scattered picnic tables and barbecues sit right by the water, making it an easy spot for a family lunch. The sound of the creek is the perfect soundtrack.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for water dragons basking on rocks, kingfishers darting over the water, and the occasional platypus at dawn or dusk.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can easily fill a half-day here — arrive mid-morning, swim and picnic for a couple of hours, then take a short forest walk before heading on. If you’re keen on a longer paddle or a more substantial hike, plan for a full day. The creek is best visited after a spell of dry weather when the water is clearest and the swimming safest.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gosford: The regional hub is just 15 minutes south, with its waterfront restaurants, the Gosford Regional Gallery, and the historic Henry Kendall Cottage.
• Brisbane Water National Park: A 20-minute drive east takes you to dramatic sandstone escarpments, Aboriginal rock art sites, and the popular Girrakool picnic area with its own swimming holes.
• Terrigal: Head 20 minutes east for the classic Central Coast beach experience — surf, cafés, and the buzzy Terrigal Haven.
• Avoca Beach: A quieter surf beach with a lovely rock pool and a relaxed village vibe, just a short drive from Terrigal.
• The Entrance: Famous for its daily pelican feeding, this lakeside town is about 25 minutes north and offers family-friendly attractions and a long ocean pier.

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