Central Coast

Beaches on the Central Coast

From Broken Bay at the mouth of the Hawkesbury River to south of Newcastle, the Central Coast is famous for its surf beaches, lakes and national parks. Just one hour’s drive north of Sydney, the region's laid-back atmosphere, offers a number of great options for swimming, surfing or sailing. You'll find plenty of opportunities to learn to surf at accredited surf schools on the Central Coast.

Some of the best surfing beaches are at Terrigal. If you’re looking for amazing surf, head to Soldiers Beach at Norah Head. North Avoca Beach is a relaxed 2km stretch that offers fantastic fishing, surfing, boat, kayak and surf ski hire, protected rock pools to explore, excellent conditions with a northeasterly swell.

The Entrance Beach is a great spot for families, with surfing beaches and a lagoon. It is also a good spot for taking the boat out but don’t forget to catch the daily pelican feeding in Memorial Park at 3.30pm!  Toowoon Bay and Ocean Beach at Umina are also family-friendly beaches. If you enjoy surfing and swimming in unspoilt surrounds, head to McMasters Beach, Wamberal Beach or Bouddi National Park which has several stunning beaches to explore.

Throw on the dive gear and explore the Ex-HMAS Adelaide Dive Site at Avoca Beach. The first of its kind in New South Wales, the HMAS Adelaide was sunk to create an artificial dive site and is now home to an array of fascinating marine life. Take a tour or head out on your own, but bear in mind you will need to obtain a dive permit before you dive.