Best Indoor Activities for Kids on the Central Coast

Gosford Regional Gallery is one of my picks for a quieter outing with the kids. There’s no need to make it a long visit: you can wander through the exhibitions together and see which artworks catch their eye. General entry is free, although some exhibitions and workshops have a separate charge.

36 Webb Street, East Gosford · Open daily 9:30am–4pm, with holiday closures.

A library visit is a lovely way to spend an hour together without spending much. At Erina, you can browse the children’s books and find a story to share, then take a few favourites home. It’s at The Hive in Erina Fair, so it’s handy if you have a few errands to do as well. Storytime and other children’s sessions run through Council’s library program.

The Hive, Erina Fair, Erina · Some special activities may have a fee.

If your little one loves a story, Gosford Regional Library is worth keeping in mind for a rainy day. You can drop in to explore the children’s books together, or plan around one of the Babytime, Toddlertime or Storytime sessions. There are also changing school holiday activities, so have a look at the program to see what might suit.

Gosford · Check the library’s current program for session details and any activity fees.

My little one could happily spend hours in the indoor playground at Gosford RSL. She loves it, and it’s become one of my favourite options when we need to get out of the house on a wet day. The climbing, sliding and exploring keep her busy, and the playground itself is free to use.

West Gosford · The playground is free to use; food and drinks cost extra. Club entry conditions apply, and children need adult supervision.

I have such a soft spot for this little cinema in Ettalong. It’s a lovely place to watch a film with the kids, and I’ve found the tickets affordable too. When there’s something on that my daughter wants to see, it’s an easy rainy-day plan we can both look forward to.

Ettalong Beach · Check current films, age classifications, session times and ticket prices before visiting.

Monkey Mania came recommended by a friend, and I can see the appeal when the kids have plenty of energy to burn. Inside Central Coast Leagues Club, there’s a three-level play structure with slides, a separate toddler area and a café. Bring socks for everyone, including the grown-ups; the venue doesn’t allow grip socks, and adults need to stay with their children.

Central Coast Leagues Club, 1 Dane Drive, Gosford · Child entry: $14.50 members / $17.50 non-members. Adults: $4.50, including a selected drink. Check current entry conditions.

A friend also pointed me towards Clip ’N Climb for kids who love a challenge. There are 26 themed climbing walls to try, with the equipment provided. It sounds like a fun option for an active afternoon, especially with older kids. Check the participation requirements before booking to make sure it suits your child.

Level 1, Central Coast Leagues Club, 1 Dane Drive, Gosford · General entry: $30 per climber. Session bookings apply; check current offers.

A rainy day doesn’t have to rule out a swim. Peninsula Leisure Centre in Woy Woy is one of my picks, with heated indoor pools and a leisure pool where you can enjoy a splash together. It’s a handy alternative when the beach is off the cards; just pack the swimmers and towels and check pool availability before leaving home.

243 Blackwall Road, Woy Woy · Check current casual entry prices, pool access and child supervision requirements.

This one is on our wish list. I’ve been showing my daughter Peekaboo’s promo reels and she’s already very taken with the idea of going. We haven’t made it there yet, but I’m looking forward to trying it with her and sharing what we think.

Erina · Check current opening details, entry prices and suitable ages before planning a visit.