The Central Coast is a vibrant sporting hub, offering both professional and community-level opportunities in a variety of sports. The region's largest venue, Central Coast Stadium in Gosford, serves as the home ground for the Central Coast Mariners, who represent the area in the A-League. The Mariners have claimed several major titles, including A-League championships in 2013, 2023, and 2024, as well as premiers in 2007–08 and 2011–12. The stadium, with a capacity of 20,059, is a central point for football fans on the Central Coast.

Rugby league also thrives here, with the Wyong Roos playing in the Intrust Super Premiership at Morry Breen Oval in Kanwal. The Roos are the feeder team for the Sydney Roosters NRL club and have a long-standing agreement to play one regular-season fixture annually at Central Coast Stadium. Additionally, the South Sydney Rabbitohs have participated in these local matches, drawing large crowds and growing interest in the region’s rugby scene.

Ice hockey enthusiasts had the Central Coast Rhinos representing the area in the Australian Ice Hockey League from 2006 to 2008, and in the Australian International Ice Hockey Cup from 2009 to 2012. The region’s only ice rink, the Erina Ice Arena, has been closed for renovations since 2019, but is set to reopen in early 2021.

Beyond the major teams, the Central Coast supports a variety of other sports, including elite basketball through the Central Coast Crusaders, and junior rugby league with the Central Coast Centurions. The region’s attempts to enter more national competitions have included the Central Coast Bears’ bid to join the NRL and the Central Coast Rays' brief stint in the Australian Rugby Championship.

For outdoor sports lovers, the Central Coast offers an abundance of facilities. Numerous sporting ovals, tennis courts, skate parks, and swimming pools are available to the public, as well as a velodrome in West Gosford. Water sports like sailing, rowing, and water skiing are particularly popular on the Central Coast's lakes. The region is also seeking to host professional golf events at the Magenta Shores resort, and efforts are underway to build more bicycle paths.

Additionally, the Central Coast is home to scenic national parks with a range of walking paths and mountain bike trails, adding to the area’s appeal for active outdoor recreation. The region’s diverse sporting infrastructure continues to grow, positioning the Central Coast as a key player in Australian sport.