Joanna James
A stunningly natural water park of coastal lakes and ocean pools topped off with an intimately picturesque small-town feel, this NSW Central Coast gem offers diverse enticements for kids and adults alike. Here are some must-try pastimes for a memorable stay at The Entrance.
This quaint town dimpling the gleaming Pacific coast and serene Tuggerah Lake is perfect for a Sydney staycation, just a one and a half hour's drive from this bustling metropolis. While Sydney is the perfect blend of iconic architecture, decadent cuisine, European-themed neighbourhoods, and fast-paced city indulgences, The Entrance, with its relaxing and enriching lifestyle, serves as an old-world hub for more deeply connecting with nature and each other. This scenic coastal enclave boasts cosmopolitan comforts as well as heritage-listed attractions such as its uniquely engineered oceanic rock pools ingeniously constructed in the 20th century. Once you're done exploring the post-card perfect walkways, canoeing across the dreamy lake, or riding the surf at Shelly Beach, don't forget to unwind with a view in these calming waters.
For the perfect medley of exhilarating exercise and nature-kissed roaming, biking around this fascinating town is the perfect way to explore the wind-swept coasts, lush parklands, and photogenic boutiques, eateries, and market stalls that make up The Entrance. All you need to do is visit the nearest Bike Hire Station where you can effortlessly access a variety of top-notch cycles customisable for all ages and abilities, accompanied by free helmets, bike locks, and maps.
Your ramble along tranquil streets will inevitably lead you to The Entrance's irresistible hotspot; Memorial Park, with its colourful stalls, grassy oceanside walks, Ferris wheel, and enticing playgrounds for all those young at heart. The Saturday Food Markets caters to every craving imaginable, from multi-cuisine dishes and organic bakes to farm-fresh produce to take home with you. If you're on the lookout for avant-garde Central Coast hotels offering prime access to the city's diverse attractions, venture no further than Oaks The Entrance Waterfront Suites.
Regardless of whether you fancy walking over ocean waves into a blazing sunset, shopping at delightful vintage second-hand stores, sipping Campos coffee in trendy cafes like Common Ground, or feasting at hip restaurants like the Green Tangerine, the historic and Instagram-worthy neighbouring town of Long Jetty is an idyllic stop.
The Coast to Lake Walk is an iconic ramble that will guide you through the town's main attractions and fascinating landmarks, covering 7.6 km of verdant picnic spots, gorgeous coastline, picture-perfect lookouts, as well as chic galleries, cafes, and holistic lifestyle amenities. If you prefer a more forested hike, the mysteriously majestic Red Gum Trail will be a treat to your senses, offering glimpses of sandy coast, sparkling lake, springtime flower carpets amidst the elegantly imposing fortress of Sydney Red Gums.
For some exhilarating brain gymnastics, the Escape Rooms Central Coast will test your sleuthing skills and agility, arming you with high-tech gadgets to decipher intricate mysteries outdoors with a dash of augmented reality. The Central Coast Virtual Reality studio also offers superbly creative multi-dimensional experiences for adults, teens, and kids of seven and up.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
