The Best Beaches on the Central Coast

Aug 13, 2025

Your guide to sun, sand and standout coastal spots

From Norah Head to Pearl Beach, the Central Coast delivers raw beauty and relaxed charm— where unspoilt beaches meet local favourites. With HolidayCo. stays in many of the seaside suburbs, you’re never far from the coast.

The Central Coast is home to some of NSW’s most iconic beaches— each with its own character, from calm swimming spots and surf breaks to hidden coves and dog-friendly stretches. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer coastal stay, there's a beach here for every kind of traveller.

At HolidayCo. many of our short-term rentals are just moments from the sand or tucked into beachside suburbs— so whether you're here on holiday or working remotely, you’ll have the coast at your doorstep. From sunrise swims to sunset strolls, our stays make it easy to live the beach life every day.

Here’s our pick of the best beaches across the Central Coast, grouped by local favourites and the kind of experience you’re after.

For Family-Friendly Swimming Beaches

Terrigal Beach

Patrolled, easy to access, and buzzing with cafés, Terrigal is a top pick for families. The lagoon is great for little ones, while the main beach offers safe swimming and plenty of space to spread out.

Umina Beach

Backed by a huge park and playground, Umina is ideal for young families. The beach has gentle waves, patrolled zones, and local shops just a short walk away.

Toowoon Bay

Calm, protected and clean—Toowoon Bay is popular with locals who know its reputation for safe swimming and peaceful surrounds.

For Surfing and Water Sports on the Central Coast

Avoca Beach

A favourite among surfers and paddleboarders, Avoca is also home to a rock pool and lake—perfect if your group has mixed interests. There’s a strong local surf culture and a market on the weekends.

Copa (Copacabana Beach)

Less crowded than some of its neighbours, Copa has consistent waves and a laid-back vibe. Grab a coffee from the local cafés and watch the surfers do their thing.

Macmasters Beach

A classic local break, Macmasters is great for more experienced surfers. It’s also a quieter beach for those wanting to avoid the crowds.

For Scenic Seclusion

Little Beach (Bouddi National Park)

This one’s a short walk in, but you’ll be rewarded with a pristine cove surrounded by bushland. No facilities, no shops—just you, the waves, and a peaceful patch of sand.

Putty Beach

Also tucked into Bouddi National Park, Putty Beach is great for a peaceful day with a picnic. It’s accessible via car with walking tracks nearby, making it a favourite for bush-to-beach day trips.

Tallow Beach

A true escape, Tallow Beach is only accessible by hiking through the Bouddi Coastal Walk—making it one of the most secluded stretches on the Coast.

A Note on Secluded Beaches

Some of the Central Coast’s most beautiful beaches—like Pearl Beach, Frazer Beach and Maitland Bay—sit in national parks or remote pockets with limited mobile reception. While perfect for a quiet swim or bush-to-beach walk, they’re also unpatrolled and can be unpredictable.

If you’re heading to one of these spots, take a moment to pause before diving in:

  • Stop and check the conditions carefully—rushing in can be risky.
  • Scan for rips, rocks, and sudden drop-offs.
  • Be prepared—know your exit points and have a plan if something goes wrong.

Wherever possible, swim at patrolled beaches and stay between the red and yellow flags.

For Dog Lovers – Dog Friendly Beaches

North Shelly Beach (north of the surf club)

Off-leash fun with plenty of space to run and swim. It’s a great spot for early morning walks and social pups.

Wamberal Lagoon / North Wamberal

This stretch connects to Terrigal Beach and is another dog-friendly option with fewer crowds and wide open sand.

Honourable Mentions

  • Pearl Beach – Stylish, serene, and backed by the national park. A local gem.
  • Killcare Beach – Raw beauty and a surf club at the southern end. Great for ocean swims and coastal walks.
  • The Entrance – Iconic for families with its nearby playgrounds, pelican feeding and calmer waters at the channel.

Where to Swim Safely: Patrolled Beaches on the Central Coast

Looking for a beach with lifeguard patrols? These Central Coast beaches are patrolled daily from the October school holidays through to Anzac Day. During the peak Christmas and New Year period, Budgewoi Beach is also added to the list.

Here are the patrolled beaches, listed from south to north:

  • Killcare Beach
  • Macmasters Beach
  • Copacabana Beach
  • Avoca Beach
  • North Avoca Beach
  • Terrigal Beach
  • Wamberal Beach
  • North Entrance Beach
  • The Entrance Beach
  • Toowoon Bay Beach
  • Shelly Beach
  • The Lakes Beach
  • Soldiers Beach
  • Budgewoi Beach (seasonal patrols)
  • Ocean Beach
  • Umina Beach

For more details on surf safety and patrol times, check out the Central Coast Council’s beach safety information.

Planning a Beach Getaway?

Explore HolidayCo’s range of Central Coast accommodation— from beachfront homes and bush retreats to pet-friendly stays that make it easy to travel with the whole family.

No matter your beach of choice, HolidayCo. connects you to the best local stays to match your ideal coastal experience.

View Properties