Discover Ettalong & Booker Bay – Your Central Coast Getaway

Situated on the southern end of the spectacular Central Coast of NSW, Ettalong and neighbouring town of Booker Bay community are vibrant, family-friendly coastal destinations just 90 minutes from Sydney.

These buzzing beachfront suburbs are perfect for a relaxed yet fun-filled escape, with golden beaches, scenic coastal walks, a wide selection of cafés, restaurants, bars, boutique shops, and artisan bakeries all within easy reach.

Whether you’re planning a family beach holiday, a weekend getaway with friends, or a peaceful retreat by the sea, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable Central Coast stay right on your doorstep.

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TOP THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND ETTALONG & BOOKER BAY

BEACH AND BUSH

With world-class surf beaches, sheltered waterways, and stunning national parks right on your doorstep, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Whether you’re chasing waves, exploring scenic bush trails, kayaking through calm bays, or enjoying a beach picnic, the Central Coast offers something for everyone.

Here are some of our top activity picks to help you get started on your next unforgettable escape.

Whether you’re into water sports, nature walks, fishing, or coastal dining, the southern end of the NSW Central Coast offers endless experiences right outside your holiday retreat. Here are some of our favourite activities near Ettalong Beach, and Booker Bay:

* Hire a BBQ Boat or Kayak – Explore Brisbane Water

For a fun day on the water, hire a BBQ boat, kayak or tinnie from Andersons Boatshed in Booker Bay. Great for fishing, sightseeing, or simply cruising the calm waters of Brisbane Water with the family.

* Learn to Surf at Umina Beach

Take a lesson with Central Coast Surf School or Sal’s Surf School at nearby Umina Beach. Perfect for both beginners and groms, with private and group surf classes available all year round.

* Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP)

Explore the calm waterways of Booker Bay, Ettalong, and Daleys Point by stand-up paddle board. Hire equipment or take a lesson with Bombora Ettalong Beach SUP — no experience needed!

* Deep Sea & Sport Fishing Charters

Keen angler? Head to Terrigal, just a short drive from Ettalong, and join a trip with Reef & Game Fishing Charters. They specialise in deep sea fishing, reef fishing, and game fishing adventures on the NSW Central Coast.

* Whale Watching Tours & Scenic Cruises

Book a whale watching tour with Terrigal Ocean Tours, departing from Terrigal or Hardys Bay, for an up-close look at the annual humpback migration.
Or take the Palm Beach Ferry from Ettalong to Palm Beach, enjoy lunch at Barrenjoey House and walk to the iconic Barrenjoey Lighthouse, a top spot for land-based whale watching. During the season, Palm Beach Ferries also offer dedicated whale watching cruises.

* Bush Walks & Aboriginal Cultural Experiences

• Walk the Daleys Point Aboriginal Site track (access via 94 Daley Ave, Daleys Point), rich with rock engravings and cultural significance
• Join an Aboriginal cultural walk with Girra Girra Experiences
• Explore the spectacular Bouddi Coastal Walk from Putty Beach, with breathtaking ocean views and seasonal whale sightings or Mount Ettalong lookout which provides great views over Umina Beach, Brisbane Water, Bouddi National Park, Pearl Beach and out to the ocean.

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EAT & DRINK IN ETTALONG–

The area is packed with excellent cafés, restaurants, wine bars, and cocktail lounges. From beachside brunch to cosy tapas, there’s something for every palate and budget, perfect for foodies, families, and couples alike.

Best Coffee in Ettalong

For some of the best coffee on the Central Coast, head to Lords of Pour in Ettalong. Known for its killer brews and creative bites, this café is a local favourite with consistently great coffee, friendly service, pet friendly and a relaxed coastal vibe.

Top Ettalong Restaurants

The Box on the Water – Enjoy modern Australian cuisine with stunning waterfront views. A must for lunch or sunset dinner by the bay.
Amalfi Italian Ettalong – Delicious modern Italian food and wine, just a short stroll from the beach.

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More Casual Dining Options

• Chilli’s Deli – Italian-style deli, eatery, and gelateria located in the Galleria Ettalong
• Bar Toto – Stylish cocktail bar and tapas spot, perfect for pre-dinner drinks
• Chica Chica – Vibrant South American restaurant serving up flavour packed dishes and standout cocktails
• Yusu Japanese – Traditional Japanese cuisine with fresh sushi, sashimi, and BYO
• La Fiamma – Authentic woodfired Italian pizza and the best tiramisu in town, located inside the Galleria
• Sulo’s Shish & Pide – Charcoal-cooked Turkish kebabs, pide, mezze platters, house-made dips, and fresh Turkish bread

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Wine, Beer & Spirit Tastings in Ettalong

Explore Upstairs Wines Bottle Shop in Ettalong for curated wine, craft beer, and spirit tastings.
You can join an in-store masterclass, or book a private tasting experience hosted right at your holiday home, complete with grazing boards. Sessions typically run for 2 hours and are a fun way to connect, sip, and unwind during your stay.

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CULTURE, WELLNESS & SHOPPING

Need a break from the beach? Treat yourself to some pampering, local art, and boutique shopping in and around Ettalong and Booker Bay.
You’ll find day spas, yoga studios, homewares stores, handmade jewellery, and more tucked among the laneways and arcades.

From beachside bites to sunset sips and spa days, Ettalong has everything you need for a well rounded coastal escape.

Ettalong Fresh Food Market

Held every Saturday morning at Ettalong Scout Hall, this vibrant local food market is a great place to stock up on fresh produce, gourmet treats, and artisan goods. Follow them on Facebook for updates.

Massage & Beauty Services

• Ettalong Massage – Head in for a relaxing massage close to the beach.
• Lavida Beauty – Enjoy a treatment in the comfort of your holiday rental. Perfect for a girls’ weekend or solo recharge.
• Central Coast Float, Umina – Just 5 minutes away, this wellness center offers sauna, massage, and floatation therapy for total relaxation.

Fitness & Pilates

Belle Movement and Ettalong Yoga, based in Ettalong, offers personal training, Pilates/ Yoga classes, and private sessions, ideal for fitness lovers who want to stay active while away.

Retail Therapy

For a relaxed afternoon of browsing, head to The Galleria at Ettalong. This indoor arcade is home to unique boutique stores, market-style stalls, homewares, fashion, and handmade goods.

KID FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES ON THE CENTRAL COAST

Travelling with kids? The Central Coast is full of family-friendly activities beyond the beach and bushwalks. Here are a few ideas to keep the little ones smiling:

Umina Recreation Precinct – Family Fun & Action-Packed Activities

The newly upgraded Umina Skate Park and Recreation Precinct is one of the Central Coast’s top outdoor activity hubs, designed for all ages and skill levels.

🛹 Umina Skate Park – A regional-level skate facility featuring a deep advanced bowl, beginner bowl, and street-style elements, perfect for skateboards, scooters, and BMX. Suitable for beginners through to competition level riders.

🚴 New BMX Track – With a high-quality asphalt surface, the track caters to all riding abilities and wheeled sports.

🏀 Basketball & Futsal Courts – Enjoy a full-size basketball court with floodlights and a brand new futsal court at Umina Tennis Centre.

🧗 Adventure Play Area – Kids will love the colourful bouldering climbing units and open playspace.

🌳 Modern Amenities & Facilities – Includes shaded seating, park furniture, water refill stations, new sportsground amenities for rugby, soccer and cricket, improved pathways, and accessible parking.

This vibrant recreational area is perfect for families, active teens, and sports lovers looking for things to do in Umina Beach and the Central Coast.

Also for the Kids: Explore the Best of the Central Coast for Families

• Paddle on Calm Waters at Ettalong Beach– Safe, shallow waters make Ettalong Beach ideal for kids to try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply splashing about.
• Explore Nature Trails and National Parks– Venture out on one of the many family-friendly walking tracks in Bouddi National Park or around Daleys Point for fresh air and wildlife spotting.
• Visit Local Playgrounds and Hidden Rock Pools-Let the kids run free at the Ettalong Foreshore playground, then cool off exploring nearby rock pools at low tide.
• Take a Ferry Ride to Palm Beach -Hop on the Palm Beach Ferry from Ettalong for a scenic ride across the water, then enjoy lunch or explore the lighthouse and beach at Palm Beach.
• Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures @ Peats Ridge– Enjoy horse riding, kayaking, quad biking and laser skirmish at this popular outdoor adventure park for all ages.
• TreeTops Adventure Park & NetWorld @ Ourimbah State Forest -A high ropes course and net playground suspended in the trees — great for climbing, bouncing, and building confidence.
• Australian Reptile Park @ Somersby– Get up close with koalas, kangaroos, snakes and crocodiles at this iconic Central Coast wildlife attraction.
• Flip Out @ Gosford -An indoor trampoline park perfect for rainy days, with foam pits, ninja courses and bounce zones.
• Laser Tag & Arcade Games @ Gosford RSL & Wyoming– Adrenaline-filled fun with laser tag, arcade games and indoor entertainment for tweens and teens.
• Zone Bowling @ Wyoming -Classic ten pin bowling, arcade games and party packages, great for family-friendly fun.
• Cinema Paradiso Ettalong Beach– Watch the latest family-friendly films at this charming local cinema — just minutes from cafés and the beach.
• Erina Ice Arena @ Erina Fair– Year-round indoor ice skating rink with family sessions, skating aids, and classes for beginners.

CAN I TAKE MY DOG TO ETTALONG BEACH?

Absolutely! The Central Coast of NSW is a fantastic destination for a dog-friendly holiday, with plenty of beaches, parks, and walking tracks that welcome pets.

Ettalong Beach and the surrounding areas offer a mix of on-leash and off-leash zones, making it easy to include your four-legged friend in your coastal adventures. From beach strolls to café visits, there’s plenty for both pets and people to enjoy.

Planning a trip with your dog? Be sure to explore our range of pet-friendly holiday rentals near Ettalong, Booker Bay, and Pearl Beach — perfect for the whole family, paws and all!

For Ettalong and Booker Bay we suggest:

• Umina Beach for Walkies
• The Box on The Water  or Coast 175 for food and drinks

WHERE TO STAY IN ETTALONG BEACH/ BOOKER BAY?

Holiday Homes for Every Kind of Getaway

Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a family escape, or a group getaway, we offer self-contained holiday rentals to suit everyone:

• Beachfront houses
• Secluded bush retreats
• Homes with pools, spas, and fireplaces
• Pet-friendly accommodation
• Properties for couples, families, or large groups

All our properties are available on Airbnb, Booking.com and Stayz, but you’ll always get the best deal when you book direct through us.

Looking for something specific? We’re always happy to help curate your perfect coastal stay, reach out anytime to plan your next Beach Retreat.