Elephant Rock
This incredible hunk of rock sits high above Pentaloon Bay, near Patonga in Brisbane Water National Park. It's really, really big, with scenic, rolling rock hills and valleys to clamber over and explore. It's impressive enough on its own but once you add in the views, it's a not to be missed Central Coast natural gem.
Look around - to the south, you'll see the golden sands of Patonga Beach, to the east you can see Baranjoey Lighthouse and the Tasman Sea, and to the west and north the gentle hills of Brisbane Water National Park.
Take your time exploring but be warned - there are no fences and the drop off is a significant one at some points. This means it's not a walk suitable for little kids, particularly any who love to run and/or hide from mum and dad.
But older kids and adults will get so much out of a visit to Elephant Rock, including a sense of wonder and space that's hard to beat. And did you know that widening our eyes to gaze at a distant horizon (engaging our peripheral vision) can actually help our brain relax its stress response? Neurobiologist Andrew Huberman's research shows that widening our gaze is really good for us - and Elephant Rock is the perfect place to give it a go! So plant your feet on the rock, drink in the magical views, and take some deep breaths. Your nervous system will thank you!
Getting To: Elephant Rock, Patonga
Park on Patonga Drive, about 700m south of the Warrah Trig parking space. There's a small off road area where you can pull in. Vehicles tend to fly along this road, so take care, especially with kids exiting your car. Follow the narrow track uphill. It's short, only about 200m. At the end you'll find Elephant Rock to scramble up. Stay away from the edges and enjoy the sights!