Choosing which Central Coast town to visit?
This guide covers coastal and waterside towns from Patonga in the south to Norah Head in the north. Each place offers a different kind of day out.
Choose Terrigal for cafés and activity. Visit The Entrance for family fun. Head to Pearl Beach or Killcare for a quieter escape.
The Entrance
Family-friendly, lake and beach
Ettalong Beach
Beach, ferry, markets and cafes
Woy Woy
Seafood, ferries and cycling paths
Umina Beach
Long beach, surf and parks
Terrigal
Beach, Skillion, Haven and cafés
North Avoca
Surf beach, rock pool and walks
Toowoon Bay
Calm bay, cafés and swimming
Bateau Bay
Rock pools, coastal walks and ocean views
Forresters Beach
Quiet surf beach, coastal walks
Avoca Beach
Patrolled beach, cafés and theatre
Copacabana Beach
Surf beach, cafés and walks
Macmasters Beach
Quiet beach, rock pool, walks
Norah Head
Lighthouse, views and coastal walks
Patonga
Calm bay, jetty and views
Pearl Beach
Quiet beach, rock pool, bushwalks
Killcare
Quiet beach, bushwalks, bay water
Canton Beach
Calm lake, foreshore walks and family swimming
Hardys Bay
Calm bay, waterfront dining and bushwalks
Popular Guides
Local, experience-based guides to help you choose the right beach town for your visit.
The Central Coast has a mix of busy beach towns and quieter coastal villages.
Places like Terrigal, The Entrance and Avoca Beach are popular with visitors. You’ll find beaches, cafés, restaurants and plenty to do nearby.
If you’re looking for somewhere quieter, consider places like Pearl Beach, Patonga or Killcare. These towns have a slower pace and easy access to nature.
Many towns on the Central Coast sit right beside the ocean. Others are located on Brisbane Water and offer calm bays, waterfront walks and ferry connections.
Each town has its own character. Use the guides above to find the best place for your next day trip, weekend getaway or beach holiday.