If you're up for a relaxing day trip, Woy Woy might be the perfect spot. It's only an hour by train from Strathfield or 90 minutes from Central Station.
With today's beautiful weather, I decided not to waste the day indoors. I grabbed my bag and headed to the train station without a specific destination in mind. As I looked at the train map, I noticed a station near the beach not too far from Sydney. That’s how I ended up traveling to Woy Woy—and it turned out to be a perfect choice!
I did a quick Google search to check if Woy Woy was worth visiting. Several posts mentioned that it was a charming little town with pelican feeding at 3 pm, which sounded interesting. So, there I was, on the train to Woy Woy.
Nestled on the Central Coast of New South Wales, Woy Woy is a charming coastal town offering a serene escape with its picturesque waterfront and laid-back atmosphere.
Renowned for its superb seafood, visitors can indulge in fresh fish and chips while enjoying scenic views of Brisbane Water, where kayakers glide by and pelicans roam freely. The town's history as a tourist destination dates back to 1889, following the construction of the Hawkesbury River Railway Bridge, which made it accessible to holidaymakers.
Today, Woy Woy continues to attract visitors with its gateway to beautiful beaches, waterways, and national parks. The Woy Woy Fishermen’s Wharf is a highlight, offering not only a market for fresh seafood but also a dining experience with stunning water views.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Brisbane Water National Park provides ample opportunities for mountain biking and hiking, with tracks like Tommos Loop and Rocky Ponds Cycling Loop, and the Staples Lookout offering breathtaking views.
The town is also a convenient starting point for scenic ferry tours that showcase the pristine coastline and the Cockle Channel. With a rich history, including its role in the early timber industry and as a haven for small settlers, Woy Woy has evolved into a peaceful retreat that balances natural beauty with community spirit. Accessible by a short drive or train ride from Sydney, it presents an idyllic setting for both relaxation and exploration.
If you're taking the train, make sure to sit on the right side to enjoy the beautiful water views before arriving. On your way back to Sydney, sit on the left side for the same scenic experience.
A quick 5-minute walk from the station brings you to the well-known Fishermen's Wharf, where they also do the pelican feeding. I was lucky to arrive just before it started.
It was amusing to see all the pelicans gathering for their meal, reminding me of school days when we were never late for lunch, even if we didn't care about being on time for classes.
After the feeding, I took a stroll through the park and visited Woy Woy Memorial Park, which has a statue listing the names of veterans who sacrificed their lives in wars, including the Korean War.
I felt grateful for Australia's role in the war.
This spontaneous trip turned out to be perfect. A quick fish and chips meal at the Fishermen's Wharf, watching the pelican feeding, and a leisurely stroll along the waterfront made me feel content with my random choice.
On the train ride back, I made sure to sit on the left side to enjoy the water views again. This time, it was the sunset views, which were just as beautiful.
There are many more things to do in Woy Woy, like hiking trails, but it's a great place even if you're just looking for a quick picnic trip outside Sydney.
I hope this inspires you to visit this charming town at some point. Thank you for reading!