Last verified 09/26
Shelly Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the Central Coast NSW.
Located just south of The Entrance, it feels more natural, with wide sand backed by dunes rather than high-rise buildings.
If you want good waves for surfing, a safe swimming area for kids, or a long sandy stretch to walk the dog, Shelly Beach is a great place to spend the day.
Quick Facts – Shelly Beach
Local Highlights in Shelly Beach
If you’re visiting Shelly Beach, here are some places we like to explore.
- Shelly Beach – patrolled surf beach
- Dog-friendly beach – off-leash section to the north
- Shelly Beach Golf Club – oceanfront 18-hole course
- Wyrrabalong Coastal Walk – scenic clifftop walking track
- Blue Lagoon – calmer beach at the southern end
What Shelly Beach Is Like
Shelly Beach is a wide, open surf beach with big sand dunes behind it, so it feels more natural than some nearby beaches.
The main swimming spot is near the surf club, where you’ll find parking, toilets, and Munchas Cafe.
Lifeguards patrol the beach from the September school holidays until April. Remember to swim between the red and yellow flags.
The NSW Government Beachwatch program rates the water quality at Shelly Beach as “Good.”
Swimming and Surfing
Shelly Beach has lifeguards on duty and offers steady waves for surfers.
These conditions attract beginner and intermediate surfers. The flagged area near the surf club is safe for swimming when lifeguards are present.
Since Shelly Beach faces the open ocean, the conditions can change fast. Always check the water before you go in.
Local tip: Shelly Beach is even better if you add a longer walk to your visit, not just a quick swim. We enjoy swimming here and then walking along the coast to Crackneck Lookout for beautiful ocean views. Early morning or sunrise is a great time to go.
Shelly Beach Golf Club
Shelly Beach Golf Club sits on the headland overlooking the ocean.
The golf course is famous for its beautiful coastal views, with several holes right next to the shoreline. People visit not just for golf, but also to enjoy the lookout spots and ocean scenery.
The clubhouse has a dining area where you can enjoy meals with views of the coastline. You don’t have to be a member to eat at the clubhouse or take in the ocean views. Everyone is welcome.
Coastal Walks
You can start several scenic coastal walks from Shelly Beach.
If you walk south, you’ll reach the Wyrrabalong Coastal Walk toward Bateau Bay. The climb up to Crackneck Lookout is a bit steep, but the clifftop ocean views make it worthwhile, especially during whale watching season.
If you enjoy a longer coastal walk, it’s worth continuing past Crackneck Lookout toward Forresters Beach for the scenic views, although it does include more stairs and uphill sections.
If you prefer a flatter and more relaxed walk, head north along the sand at low tide. This easy stroll takes you past Toowoon Bay and all the way to The Entrance.
Dog Walking at Shelly Beach
Shelly Beach is a favourite spot for dog owners on the Central Coast.
Dogs can run off leash along the northern part of the beach, which stretches about 1.5 kilometres toward Toowoon Bay.
Cafés and Restaurants at Shelly Beach
There are a few cafés and places to eat near the beachfront at Shelly Beach. Many people enjoy grabbing breakfast, lunch, or a coffee after spending time at the beach.
Nearby options include:
- Munchas Café at the surfclub – casual meals and coffee near the beach.
- Upstairs at the surf club, The Balcony Restaurant & Bar offers meals and drinks with elevated views over the beach.
- Shelly Beach Golf Club dining – meals with ocean views
If you’re looking for more cafés or restaurants, you can head to Toowoon Bay, The Entrance, or Long Jetty nearby.
Nearby Beaches and Places to Explore
- Toowoon Bay – A calm bay ideal for swimming and families.
- Bateau Bay Beach – A sheltered bay and coastal walking area.
- Blue Bay – A small coastal suburb between Toowoon Bay and The Entrance.
- Long Jetty – Lakeside cafés, shops and a popular waterfront walking and cycling path
How to Get to Shelly Beach
Shelly Beach is on the Central Coast of NSW, about 1.5 hours north of Sydney via the M1 Motorway.
Exit at Tuggerah and follow local roads toward The Entrance and nearby beaches.
There’s a large car park next to the Surf Life Saving Club, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays, so it’s best to arrive early.
Explore More on the Central Coast
Central Coast Beaches
Discover the best beaches across the Central Coast.
Blue Bay
A quiet beach with calm water and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Bateau Bay
A scenic beach known for its coastal walks and ocean views.
Toowoon Bay
A sheltered beach popular with families and calm swimming.
Soldiers Beach
A wide surf beach known for its waves and natural scenery.
Long Jetty
A waterfront town known for its cafés, shops and long jetty.