Staples Lookout
A scenic lookout on the Central Coast offering coastal views, picnic spots, and access to hiking trails like Kariong Brook Falls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Softer light, fewer crowds
Staples Lookout
Best Time
Softer light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic lookout on the Central Coast offering coastal views, picnic spots, and access to hiking trails like Kariong Brook Falls.
"A comfortable stop with wheelchair access and picnic tables, perfect for a break with a view."
Pack a picnic lunch 🧺
Enjoy your meal with a view at the available picnic tables. No toilets on site, so plan accordingly.
Dress warmly for wind 💨
It gets very cold and windy here, so bring extra layers even on a mild day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coastal Views
Woy Woy Bay, NSW
Enjoy sweeping views of the coastline and surrounding areas. A great spot for a quick break and picnic.
Kariong Brook Falls Trail
Starting point from Staples Lookout
Embark on a 3km trail to discover the mesmerizing Kariong Brook Falls and its refreshing pool.
Love Locks on Railings
Iron railings
A charming spot for couples to leave love locks and make wishes, adding a romantic touch to the lookout.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Accessibility and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a picnic lunch 🧺
Enjoy your meal with a view at the available picnic tables. No toilets on site, so plan accordingly.
Dress warmly for wind 💨
It gets very cold and windy here, so bring extra layers even on a mild day.
Check trail conditions 🥾
If hiking to Kariong Brook Falls, be prepared for a 3km trail and potential for wet conditions.
Visit during daylight ☀️
Night views are described as 'okay' and the area is very dark, which can be unsettling.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a picnic lunch 🧺
Enjoy your meal with a view at the available picnic tables. No toilets on site, so plan accordingly.
Dress warmly for wind 💨
It gets very cold and windy here, so bring extra layers even on a mild day.
Check trail conditions 🥾
If hiking to Kariong Brook Falls, be prepared for a 3km trail and potential for wet conditions.
Visit during daylight ☀️
Night views are described as 'okay' and the area is very dark, which can be unsettling.
Bring binoculars 🔭
To get a clearer view of distant landmarks, especially if tree branches obstruct your sightline.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Staples Lookout offers a decent coastal view and is appreciated for its accessibility and picnic facilities. While some find the view obstructed by trees and not particularly breathtaking, it's a convenient and free spot for a break, especially for those exploring nearby trails like Kariong Brook Falls. The love locks add a romantic touch, but visitors should be prepared for wind and the lack of amenities.
"Located on woy woy road, nice view. Rest place. Parking avaliable, wheel chair access available. Benches also there if you want to have a meal. Branches of the trees are bit obstructing the view a bit. Other than that worth to visit."
Charuka Ashan
"It's very comfortable with the moon and stars. The night view is actually okay, nothing special. There are love locks on the iron railings, which are suitable for couples to make wishes hahahaha, but there are no night lights and it is very dark, so I was scared and didn't stay long."
L U
"The lookout was clean and tidy, had an interesting chart to tell you the distances of prominent landmarks from the lookout point.
The lookout itself was decent but honestly
nothing breathtaking and the water was quiet far away, difficult to make out much of the geography in the view unless looking through a lens."
Madison Kingsly
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Staples Lookout is located on Woy Woy Road in Kariong, NSW. It's accessible by car, with parking available on site.
Yes, Staples Lookout is noted to have wheelchair access, making it a convenient stop for all visitors.
Yes, you can start a 3km trail from Staples Lookout leading to Kariong Brook Falls. Other trails like Mount Wondabyne are also in the vicinity.
For photography, consider visiting during the golden hours (sunrise/sunset) for optimal lighting. The area is also great for capturing cloud formations.
Staples Lookout can be a good stop on a day trip to the Central Coast from Sydney, offering a scenic break along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Staples Lookout, suggesting it is a free public access point.
Staples Lookout is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times mentioned, but it's recommended to visit before dark.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary as Staples Lookout is a public viewpoint.
While possible, the night view is described as 'okay' and the area lacks lighting, making it dark and potentially unsettling.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but it's advisable to be mindful of the natural environment and any posted signage.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography. Winter mornings are also great for dramatic cloud formations.
You can capture panoramic coastal views, cloud formations, and romantic shots with the love locks. The trail to Kariong Brook Falls also offers scenic photo opportunities.
Some reviewers mention that tree branches can obstruct the view, so a good zoom lens or visiting during seasons with less foliage might be helpful.
It's considered a good spot for sunrise and sunset photos, especially for capturing cloud formations.
A wide-angle lens is useful for the panoramic views, and a telephoto lens can help overcome tree obstructions. A tripod is recommended for low-light photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities directly at Staples Lookout. It's a viewpoint with picnic tables.
Yes, Staples Lookout has picnic tables, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a packed meal with a view.
Bring your own food, drinks, and any necessary picnic supplies. Remember to take all your trash with you.
You can find food options in the nearby towns of Kariong or Woy Woy. It's best to pack your own food for a picnic at the lookout.
Given the darkness and lack of lighting, it's generally recommended to have meals during daylight hours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site. Dressing the kids in warm layers is also advisable, as the lookout can be quite windy and cold.
couples
Consider packing a romantic picnic to enjoy at one of the tables. While the night view is dark, the stars can be visible, offering a different kind of romantic experience, though some find it a bit eerie.
Budget Travelers
You can enjoy the views and the picnic facilities without any cost. For those looking for free activities, exploring the hiking trails around the lookout, such as the path to Kariong Brook Falls, offers further opportunities for adventure without spending money.
It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Central Coast on a budget.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails Around Staples Lookout
For those seeking more challenging hikes, the area around Staples Lookout also provides access to trails like Mount Wondabyne, offering different perspectives of the Central Coast landscape. When embarking on these trails, it's crucial to be prepared. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry sufficient water. The terrain can vary, and some paths might be slippery, especially after rain. Informing someone of your hiking plans is always a good safety practice, particularly if you're venturing out alone.
Beyond the immediate trails, the broader Central Coast region offers numerous lookouts and trails. Staples Lookout is often cited as a good starting point or a scenic stop within a larger exploration of the area's natural beauty.
Photography Tips for Staples Lookout
However, photographers should be aware of potential obstructions. Some visitors have noted that tree branches can partially block the view, making a telephoto lens or a camera with a good zoom function beneficial.
While the night view is described as 'okay,' it's very dark due to the lack of lighting, which might deter some photographers. If you do plan to shoot at night, ensure you have a tripod and are comfortable navigating in low-light conditions.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit