Brisbane Water is a sprawling estuary on the Central Coast of New South Wales, receiving significant attention for its superb natural beauty and suitability for paddling. It is a saltwater feature characterized by calm, shallow waters in many areas, making it particularly suitable for beginners and stand-up paddleboarding. The estuary stretches beyond Gosford, extending its fingers around the mangroves of Woy Woy and the shallows of Davistown. A notable access point is the Erina Creek Boat Ramp, located off the Central Coast Highway near the bridge over Erina Creek, which features a concrete ramp providing direct access to the creek and Brisbane Water. Other launch points include private jetties at waterfront properties in areas like Saratoga and Phegans Bay, and the foreshore at Ettalong Beach, which overlooks the estuary and offers mostly calm conditions. The water body is a hub for various activities including sailing, wakeboarding, and sightseeing, meaning paddlers should anticipate sharing the water with other boat traffic, particularly around marinas and moorings. Key sights from the water include views of Bouddi National Park, Lion Island, the Palm Beach Lighthouse, and the mangroves. The Pelican Island Nature Reserve is a specific feature that paddlers can skirt around, and routes can take you under structures like the Brisbane Water Drive Bridge. The Central Coast Council monitors water quality in Brisbane Water to ensure it can be enjoyed year-round, and local environmental initiatives like the Love Our Waterways project are active in the area. For those seeking guided experiences, free kayak tours and environmental education paddles are occasionally offered.