If you're craving a much-needed escape from the crowds of the city, look no further than Killcare. Tucked away on the Central Coast of New South Wales, this peaceful seaside town is a haven for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle.

With Bouddi National Park stretching out to one side and the rolling Pacific Ocean on the other, you'll find yourself surrounded by picturesque natural beauty no matter where you go. Whether you spend your days swimming in secluded beaches or hiking along breathtaking coastal trails, you'll have plenty of opportunities to reconnect with the local environment.

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Locay has handpicked a selection of quaint coastal accommodations and dining options just for you.

Come and discover the best accommodation and dining experiences for your local vacation to Killcare with Locay.

Escape to an idyllic world of washed-out blues, driftwood walls, and striped awnings at Bells at Killcare, a delightful boutique hotel on the stunning Bouddi Peninsula.

Drawing inspiration from the charming seaside cottages of the famous Hamptons, each of the exquisitely appointed cottages, suites, and villas offers a charming ambience that radiates the utmost sophistication. The attention to detail sets Bells at Killcare apart from many of the other local accommodation options, with every fixture and feature meticulously chosen for its unrivalled quality. Guests can expect designer Ralph Lauren furnishings, luxurious bathrooms, cutting-edge technology, and environmentally conscious electric vehicle chargers.

Surrounded by lushly manicured gardens, vacation cottages are the perfect retreat for two adults looking for a peaceful getaway.

For families seeking a slice of paradise, the two-bedroom cottages offer the perfect accommodation. With an open layout designed to maximise space and comfort, they can sleep up to four people, making them ideal for a summer beachside holiday or a nature-filled adventure. There are also two-bedroom family cottages on site, each hosting up to 12 people, perfect for making lasting memories with larger groups of loved ones.

The Wild Flower Bar & Dining

The Wild Flower Bar & Dining Restaurant is a dynamic culinary destination that showcases the very best of local and regional produce. With a commitment to sustainability, the restaurant sources its ingredients from nearby farms and its own 500 square-metre kitchen garden.

From fresh seafood harvested from Macmasters Beach to homegrown orchids, olive trees, and honey bee hives, diners can expect a menu that is both fresh and full of flavour. Sustainability is at the core of the restaurant, and its dedication to using locally grown produce ensures that its practices are sustainable across the entire operation. The restaurant's wine list is equally impressive, having been named "Best Regional Wine List" several times over, thanks to its collection of local and international, particularly Italian, wines. When you dine at Wild Flower, you are not only experiencing the essence of Mediterranean and Moroccan cuisine but also contributing to the local and regional economies and supporting sustainable practices.

Nestled in the heart of Bouddi National Park lies the stunning Pretty Beach House, a shining example of luxury and elegance in true Australian style.

The gorgeous lodge and restaurant have been designed in collaboration with local artisans and designers, including Christopher Boots and Kate Nixon, resulting in a breathtaking blend of new and repurposed materials that perfectly complement the natural surroundings.

The four unique pavillions—Treetops, Bayview, Hideaway, and The Retreat—all have stunning views and interiors that take inspiration from the bush landscape around them. With every detail carefully curated to provide a truly unforgettable stay, guests can relax and unwind in their own private haven.

And if that wasn't enough, the outdoor infinity pool is the perfect place to soak up the sun and take in the surroundings. With room for up to eight guests, Pretty Beach House is the ultimate luxury getaway for those seeking the ultimate in relaxation and sophistication.

Dining at the Pretty Beach Restaurant

At Pretty, Chef Dean Jones has masterfully intertwined simplicity and elegance into every dish. His experience at London’s River Café is evident in the locally sourced organic produce, freshly caught seafood, and Australian native ingredients used in every meal. The restaurant prides itself on being approachable, whether you’re seeking a sophisticated dining room experience or a more relaxed setting by the bar or al fresco.

The extensive range of premium wines, beers, and spirits on offer is hand-picked by the house sommelier to complement the daily menus. And for those seeking something even more unique, the Pretty Beach House wine cellar stocks rare old- and new-world wines. Oh, and don’t forget the pizza oven poolside—a perfect addition to any meal.

Found amidst the stunning Hawkesbury and Brisbane Waters National Parks, the Boathouse Hotel is the epitome of a vibrant local accommodation retreat. Just a short 1.5-hour drive and 30-minute ferry ride from Sydney's Central Business District, it offers crystal-clear waters and premium eating and drinking options. The hotel has three family-friendly apartments featuring private balconies and kitchen facilities, each offering breathtaking water views. If you're after something more spacious, the four-bedroom Patonga Cottage includes a private swimming pool.

Cool and stylish, the beautifully designed apartments and houses are sure to provide an unforgettable vacation experience. Sandy beaches and hiking trails through the lush national park will make your stay one to reminisce about.

Getting to Patonga has never been easier with the Boathouse Ferry Co. services between Newport, Palm Beach, and Patonga currently in operation. The Patonga Wharf, conveniently located opposite the hotel on Patonga Drive, serves as the hub for all water transport options in the area. However, if you're travelling by boat privately, tying up your vessel is simple and easy, with two nearby public wharves located within walking distance of the hotel. For those seeking a more local experience, water taxi options are available with Barrenjoey Water Taxi or Palm Beach Water Taxi companies.

The Boat House Patonga Restaurant

At The Boat House, quality is key. From sourcing local, sustainable ingredients to delivering each plate with care, this restaurant is truly dedicated to providing customers with the best possible dining experience. One standout aspect of the menu is the seafood, which is always fresh and expertly prepared. The restaurant's commitment to simplicity and freshness adds to the overall ambience and makes dining here an enjoyable experience.

If you're looking for a local and welcoming destination for your next beachfront escape, Kim's Beachside Retreat should be at the top of your list.

Located in Toowoon Bay on the Central Coast, this retreat offers the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life for city dwellers.

The lush forest surroundings create a warm and tropical atmosphere, complete with palm trees and greenery. With 34 bungalows, suites, and villas to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect space to relax and recharge.

The friendly staff are eager to make your stay as comfortable as possible and can help you arrange activities like windsurfing, paddleboarding, surfing, and fishing trips. There's truly nothing like starting your day with a sunrise stroll on the beach at Kim's.

Kim's Beachside Restaurant

After a long day of exploration, guests can indulge in a delectable feast at Kim's Restaurant. A crowd favourite is the fresh seafood platter featuring whole lobster, Moreton Bay Bugs, Sydney Rock Oysters, and Iluka King Prawns. Breakfast is also served each day, with dinner available Monday through Saturday.

Explore

Bouddi Coastal Walk
The Bouddi coastal walk is around 8 km and a beautiful and relatively easy hike. Starting from Putty Beach, you will enjoy picturesque views of beaches, rainforests, and bird life along the way before making it to MacMasters Beach.

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Bouddi Ridge Explorer
Bouddi Ridge Explorer is the longest mountain biking trail, featuring a 10 km loop. It offers a variety of terrain for riders of all levels to explore and enjoy spectacular views from the Allen Strom lookout.

Maitland Bay Track
Maitland Bay Track is a short and steep bush walk that leads down to beautiful Maitland Bay. As you make it down to the bay, it’s the perfect spot for swimming or a picnic. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to walk down hill and approximately 30 to 40 minutes to walk back up.

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Box Head Track
Follow the Box Head track through rugged bush land and windswept heath to take in breathtaking views of the Tasman Sea, Hawkesbury River, and Sydney's northern beaches. Only 3.1 km should take you between 45 min to an hour.