Wambina Nature Reserve: A Coastal Haven
Explore diverse habitats and spot unique wildlife in this tranquil Central Coast nature reserve. A haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Wambina Nature Reserve, near Matcham on the Central Coast of NSW, is a 59-hectare sanctuary protecting the headwaters of Erina Creek. It features diverse habitats from rainforest gullies to open forests, offering refuge for various native species and a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Wambina Nature Reserve
- Wambina, 410 Oak Rd, Matcham, New South Wales, 2250, AU
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear appropriate footwear as the management trail can be steep and slippery, especially after rain.
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching opportunities, as the reserve is home to a wide variety of bird species.
- Be mindful of leeches, especially in the rainforest gully areas, and consider wearing gaiters for protection.
Getting There
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Driving
Wambina Nature Reserve is accessible via car. From Gosford, take the Central Coast Highway and follow signs to Matcham. Continue onto Matcham Road. Limited parking is available near the management trail entrance at the end of Matcham Road. Be aware that Matcham Road is a residential area, so please drive and park respectfully. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
While public transport options directly to Wambina Nature Reserve are limited, you can take a bus to a nearby location like Matcham and then walk or take a short taxi ride to the reserve. From Gosford Station, take Bus 21, 22 or 23 towards Erina Fair. From Erina Fair, a taxi or ride-share service to the end of Matcham Road will cost approximately $20 - $30. Bus fare is around $2.80 - $4.00.
Discover more about Wambina Nature Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Long Jetty Foreshore Reserve
6.7 km
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Mount Penang Gardens, Event Park and Parklands
13.9 km
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Somersby Falls
16.2 km
Experience the breathtaking waterfalls and natural beauty at Somersby Falls, a must-visit scenic spot in New South Wales, Australia.
Staples Lookout
16.3 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Brisbane Waters at Staples Lookout, a serene escape in New South Wales perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Kariong Brook Falls
18.0 km
Experience the natural beauty of Kariong Brook Falls, a tranquil escape in New South Wales featuring stunning waterfalls and scenic walking trails.
Reflections Norah Head Lighthouse
18.2 km
Discover the historic Reflections Norah Head Lighthouse, a stunning coastal landmark in New South Wales, perfect for photography, exploration, and relaxation.
Brisbane Water National Park
18.6 km
Discover Brisbane Water National Park, a natural wonder in New South Wales, with stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures.
Warrah Lookout
22.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Warrah Lookout in New South Wales, a must-visit destination for all nature lovers.
The Basin track and Mackerel track
25.8 km
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Basin Boonga art site
26.0 km
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Basin Trail
26.0 km
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The Basin Wharf
26.5 km
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Pittwater
28.5 km
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Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
32.3 km
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Bobbin Head
38.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Wamberal Lagoon Nature Reserve
2.5 km
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Forresters Beach
2.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Forresters Beach in New South Wales, a hidden gem perfect for relaxation and adventure.
The Coast walking track
3.1 km
Experience the stunning beauty of The Coast Walking Track, a picturesque journey along New South Wales' breathtaking coastline, perfect for nature lovers.
Firescreek Botanical Winery
3.1 km
Discover the unique flavors of Firescreek Botanical Winery, where exquisite fruit wines meet breathtaking natural beauty in New South Wales.
Crackneck Point lookout
3.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Crackneck Point Lookout along the stunning Wyrrabalong Coastal Walk in New South Wales.
The Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre
4.4 km
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St John Lookout
4.8 km
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Katandra Reserve
4.9 km
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Saltwater Creek Park
5.0 km
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The Anchor
5.0 km
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Terrigal Beach
5.0 km
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Terrigal Point
5.1 km
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Distillery Botanica
5.1 km
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Terrigal Boardwalk
5.2 km
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Terrigal Ocean Tours
5.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Suq Restaurant
3.7 km
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Kew Dining
4.3 km
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L’isle de France Terrigal
4.7 km
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Swells Terrigal
4.9 km
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Yellowtail Restaurant
5.1 km
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The Cowrie Restaurant
5.6 km
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Il Toscano Pasta bar Long Jetty
6.0 km
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Table 92
6.9 km
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Diggers The Entrance
6.9 km
Experience vibrant dining at Diggers The Entrance - where great food meets lively entertainment in Long Jetty.
Avoca Beach House Restaurant & Bar
7.8 km
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Shady Palms
7.8 km
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Ocean Restaurant and Bar - Blue Bay
7.9 km
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La Costa Restaurant
8.3 km
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WatersEdge Seafood Restaurant
8.6 km
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Fedele’s East Gosford
9.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Haven At Home
4.0 km
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Bohemian Traders Erina Heights Boutique
4.0 km
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Blackbird
4.1 km
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WE LOVE...
5.1 km
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Life Emporium
5.2 km
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Plain Janes | Women's Clothing & Kid's Fashion Store
5.9 km
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Wildberry Boutique
6.0 km
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Myer Erina
6.1 km
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Erina Fair
6.2 km
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Sadie Lou Boutique
6.3 km
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Tiki La La Boutique | Long Jetty | Vintage | Lifestyle
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La Bohème lifestyle
6.4 km
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Trouvè Home & Lifestyle
6.8 km
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Montaze
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Weekends Store
7.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mumbo Jumbo's Beachhouse
5.0 km
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CoCo Bar and Dining Terrigal
5.1 km
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Pocket Bar Terrigal
5.1 km
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Lost Souls Bar Terrigal
5.1 km
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Void Bar
5.1 km
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Alexanders Cocktail Lounge
5.2 km
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Sirens The Nightclub
5.2 km
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Terrigal Beach House
5.2 km
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Six String Brewing Company
5.3 km
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The Savoy Long Jetty
6.3 km
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The Sunken Monkey Hotel
6.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of cuisine, drinks, and live entertainment at The Sunken Monkey Hotel in Erina, New South Wales.
Chittaway Bay Tavern
8.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Chittaway Bay Tavern, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and lively entertainment await in beautiful Chittaway Bay.
Tequila Lounge
8.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Tequila Lounge in The Entrance, New South Wales, a destination for nightlife lovers.
BIG LITTLE BREWING
9.3 km
Discover the unique flavors of craft beer at Big Little Brewing in Gosford, where every sip tells a story of local craftsmanship.
Railway Hotel Gosford Bar & Steakhouse
9.7 km
Indulge in exquisite steaks, vibrant live music, and a lively pub atmosphere at Railway Hotel Gosford, the ultimate destination for food lovers.
