Explore Patonga

OVERVIEW

Situated on the southern end of the spectacular Central Coast, Pearl Beach and Patonga are relaxing and tranquil beachfront suburbs. With beaches, bushwalks, fine dining restaurants, cafes and the famous Patonga Hotel (Boat House Hotel) there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Just a short 90 minute drive from Sydney you’ll have everything you need on your doorstep for a fun filled beachside family holiday.

THINGS TO DO

BEACH AND BUSH

With pumping surf breaks, sheltered waterways and stunning national park, all in your back yard, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it’s comes to choosing an activity. Here are our top pick’s to get you started.

PEARL BEACH ROCKPOOL
This lovely rockpool is a great place for the kids to splash and play when the ocean is a little rough.

PEARL BEACH ARBORETUM
Experience quiet enjoyment, learn about native flora and fauna conservation, and explore the beautiful museum of living trees at Pearl Beach Arboretum.

BUSH WALKS
There are so many to choose from in the immediate area, but here are a few of our faves: 
Patonga to Pearl Beach Walking Track is one of the best walks on the Central Coast NSW. There are amazing views at the top of the cliff. You can eat and swim at both ends of the walk and it’s a short enough walk for kids to manage. 
Mt Ettalong Lookout for an easy walk with great views – another great one for the kids. 
Umina to Pearl Beach for a longer adventure so pack a water bottle and make sure everyone is feeling fit.
Woy Woy Waterfall for the hidden secret trough waterfall. There is a rock scramble involved so not for the faint hearted.

BROKEN BAY PEARL FARM
Situated on the edge of the stunning Lower Hawkesbury River is the Shellar Door at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. Visitors are welcome to come in and browse the selection of locally grown pearls, shells and jewellery, or enjoy some fresh local oysters at their outdoor seating alongside the river.  While you are there, why not join in on one of their guided tour experiences. Tours depart from Woy Woy or Killcare.

LEARN TO SURF
Learn to catch some waves with Central Coast Surf School or Sals Surf School at Umina– from adults to groms, private or group classes.

STAND UP PADDLE BOARD
Get lessons or hire a Stand up paddle Board from Bombora and explore the calm waterways around Umina and Ettalong
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BOAT HOUSE FERRY
Catch the ferry to Palm Beach – Palm Beach Ferries – enjoy a fabulous lunch at Barrenjoey House or a walk up to the lighthouse. Palm beach Ferries also operate seasonal whale watching tours.

EAT & DRINK

Pearl Bay and Patonga are tucked away but the tranquillity won’t leave you hungry or thirsty. Here are our favourite places to eat and drink.

BEST COFFEE:
Head over to Pearlys for your morning coffee. On Friday and Saturday nights they also serve pizza and tap beer.

RESTAURANTS:
For Italian food with a modern influence make a reservation at Amalfi – showcasing the best from the sea and land in an approachable, elegant and respectful environment. 

If you’re after a the best beer garden on the Coast then make sure you stop in to The Boat House at Patonga – it’s also dog friendly so Rover will enjoy it as much as you.  For cool cocktails, tacos and beachfront views head over to Margarita Daze at Umina
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WINE, BEER AND SPIRIT TASTINGS
If you’re partial to a tasting, be it wine, craft beer or top shelf spirits, then the team at Upstairs Wines Bottle Shop in Ettalong have you covered. Book in for one of their master classes in store OR book a private tasting hosted at your holiday home. Tasting are accompanied by grazing boards and last approximately 2 hours.

CULTURE, WELLNESS & SHOPPING

If you can peel yourself off the beach maybe it’s time for a touch of pampering and a spot of retail therapy.

FLOAT THERAPY UMINA
Floating at CryoPlus is a unique opportunity to completely relax your body and mind. You are invited to relax and recover in our purpose-built private Float Therapy Pod room located on the Central Coast. We are excited to welcome you to this new level of relaxation and discovery.

YOGA
Held at the local progress hall at Pearl Beach where you can limber up with the locals. Alternatively, head over to the community hall at Patonga for Saturday morning Vinyasa with Fit Life.

COCO MASSAGE AND BEAUTY

Indulge in total relaxation as you step inside and begin the sensory journey of your candlelit massage, or luxurious facial at Coco. Enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy with essential oils to calm your mind and body, hot towel compresses to soothe your muscles, and the healing touch of massage.
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POTTERY CLASSES
Centered Ceramics holds pottery classes and workshops in Umina Beach on the Central Coast of NSW. Whether you’re learning to “throw” on the wheel, or improving your hand building techniques, we give you a place to enjoy the magic of clay. Center yourself and surrender to the joyful mess of pottery!
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​UMINA BEACH MARKETS
Held every 3rd Sunday of the month you find an array of locally made arts, craft and jewellery as well as international food.

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GALLERIA
For an eclectic array for boutique shops, vintage cinema and market style stores head over to the Galleria at Ettalong.

KID FRIENDLY

​If you’re travelling with the kids then the Central Coast has much more than beaches and bushwalks to keep the littles ones entertained. Here are a few activities that will win you some brownie points! ​

  • ​​​Australian Reptile Park – If you’re not one for tramping the tracks then get your guaranteed wildlife fix at The Australian Reptile park where you can cuddle a Koala, pat a python or even book a private tour.
  • Glenworth Valley – If you’re little ones need a bit more adrenaline in their day then head out to Glenworth Valley for Quad Biking, Laser Skirmish, Horse Riding and Abseiling. 
  • Treetops Adventure Park – If you have a bunch of little monkeys in your tribe then you definitely need to head over to Tree Tops Adventure park where they can swing, leap and bounce the day away.
  • The Chocolate Factory – Explore an immersive world of chocolate, nougat and much, much more. Have a sneak peak of your beloved treats coming to life through the porthole windows, or take part in a guided tour of the factory floor, and learn how our products are made. You can even get hands on with a Junior Chocolatier Workshop!

DONT FORGET THE DOG

If you’re travelling with your four-legged friend then the Central Coast will be as fun for your fur babies and it is for the family.

The Central Coast has to be one of the most dog friendly places in NSW with heaps of pet friendly accommodation. With an long list of dog friendly beaches where Rover can and run and rumble with his buddies your fury friends won’t want to go home! After a long run at the beach, both doggo and owner will be hungry/thirsty so here’s a great list of Dog friendly watering holes. 

For Patonga and Pearl Beach we suggest:

WHERE TO STAY

Beach Retreats Central Coast have carefully selected a portfolio of beach abode accommodation either on the beach or within a stones throw to the beach.

We have self contained holiday properties for singles, couples or extended families. On the beachfront or in the trees, with pools, hot tubs, fireplaces or pet friendly properties. We are always happy to curate the perfect holiday for you so please reach out to us to arrange your next Beach Retreat. Yes our properties are also listed on AIRBNB and STAYZ but we will be able to provide the best deal when booking direct.

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