Central Coast Beaches

With beautiful beaches, scenic bays and tranquil lakes, the NSW Central Coast is a water wonderland. From Ettalong Beach to The Entrance, you’ll find a multitude of coastal adventures. Sail through sparkling waterways, surf big breaks or embark on a coastal drive in search of the perfect spot for a beachside picnic.

Before heading to the beach, check Beachsafe for the latest updates.

Surfing & swimming

Some of the best surf on the NSW Central Coast can be found between MacMasters Beach and Box Head in Bouddi National Park, which is located in the southern Gosford area near Killcare, Avoca Beach and Terrigal. Great waves can also be discovered at Shelly Beach near Bateau Bay in the southern Wyong area or at reef breaks at Toowoon Bay and Soldiers Beach in Norah Head.

There are beaches to suit every mood along this stretch of coastline. Learn to surf at accredited surf schools, such as the Central Coast Surf Academy and Central Coast Surf School. There are plenty more aquatic adventures and tours to enjoy, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling, waterskiing and sailing.

Coastal walks & picnics

You can hire a bike and pedal along the pretty foreshore on shared bike paths such as the Tuggerah Lakes Cyclewayat The Entrance or the waterfront reserve at Ettalong Beach, which curves around the glittering Brisbane Water. There are also shared paths at Avoca Beach and Terrigal. Stop for a swim along way or enjoy fantastic cafés and restaurants.

Charming waterside reserves and parks with barbecue facilities include:

• Reserves at Pearl Beach, Umina Beach and Ettalong Beach
• Ross Park and Heazlett Park at Avoca Beach
• Terrigal Haven at Terrigal Beach's southern end
• Swadling Park at Toowoon Bay Beach
• Picnic Point, Long Jetty and Memorial Park at The Entrance

Fishing & cruises

The recreational fishing scene on the Central Coast is world-class. You can hire small boats for fishing around the Tuggerah Lake, Brisbane Water and Broken Bay waterways. Sit on the beach, by night or day, to catch whiting and bream from one of the national parks or Munmorah State Conservation Area.

Another great way to enjoy the Central Coast’s waterways is by ferry. The ferry commute from Sydney to the Central Coast doubles as a delightful day trip. Take a train to Woy Woy for Central Coast Ferries’ scenic round trip, or hop on a Palm Beach ferry in Sydney’s north for the half-hour journey to Ettalong Beach or Wagstaffe on the Bouddi Peninsula.