Golden beaches, calm waters, scenic bushwalks, and a laid-back seaside village vibe. Ettalong Beach is the kind of summer holiday spot you’ll want to return to year after year. Just 90 minutes north of Sydney, it’s close enough for an easy escape but feels like you’ve travelled a world away. Whether you’re looking for a family getaway, a romantic escape, or simply a place to unwind, Ettalong has something for everyone.
Ettalong Beach by the Numbers
- 90 minutes from Sydney – Skip the airports, flights, and queues.
- 1.1km of golden sand – Calm, shallow waters perfect for kids and long beach days.
- 2 national parks nearby – Brisbane Water and Bouddi, both packed with trails, lookouts, and hidden beaches.
- Endless sunshine – On average, Ettalong enjoys over 250 sunny days a year.
1. Coastal Adventure
Ettalong’s stunning waterfront is more than just a place to admire the view — it’s the perfect base for a whole range of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re chasing a relaxed swim with the kids, a paddle to a hidden cove, or a day out exploring the waterways, this is a destination that brings the coast to life.
- Paddle & Kayak – Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore Brisbane Water or paddle over to Lobster Beach for a secluded picnic.
- Snorkel & Swim – The sheltered shallows of Ettalong Beach are ideal for families, while nearby Half Tide Rocks is a snorkelling favourite with fish and seagrass beds.
- On the Water – Book a fishing charter, take a scenic ferry to Palm Beach, or try paddleboard yoga for something different.
2. Bike and Hike
If you prefer to explore on two wheels or two feet, Ettalong is surrounded by some of the Central Coast’s most scenic tracks. From gentle seaside strolls to rugged bushwalks, there’s something here for every pace and fitness level.
- Ettalong to Umina Coastal Walk – A relaxed seaside path perfect for a morning walk or family bike ride. With beautiful ocean views and cafés along the way, it’s as much about the journey as the destination.
- Bouddi Coastal Walk – A must-do for hikers. This iconic trail weaves through Bouddi National Park, with rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and breathtaking lookouts like Gerrin Point — one of the best coastal views in NSW.
- Cycling Adventures – Hire bikes locally or bring your own for a ride along the esplanade. Families can enjoy a flat, easy circuit, while more adventurous riders can link into the wider network of trails through the national park.
3. Family Fun
Ettalong is a natural playground for kids and a stress-free spot for parents. The beach itself is calm and shallow, making it perfect for little swimmers or sandcastle builders. Beyond the water, the whole family will find plenty to do.
- Mini-Golf & More – Head to Ettalong Diggers Club for a round of mini-golf and some family-friendly entertainment.
- Picnics & Playgrounds – Anderson Park offers wide-open spaces for a picnic, playground equipment for the kids, and shaded areas where parents can relax.
- Carousel Rides – Don’t miss the Ettalong Beachside Carousel, a nostalgic favourite that delights children and parents alike.
- Moments for Two – When the kids are worn out, Ettalong also sets the scene for romance. Watch the sun melt into the bay, enjoy a hand-in-hand stroll along the esplanade, or book a seafood dinner at The Box on the Water for a night to remember.
4. An Affordable Alternative
Ettalong is proof that you don’t need to travel far—or spend a fortune—for a holiday that feels like a proper escape. Just 90 minutes north of Sydney, it saves you the hassle of airports and long drives while still offering a sense of being “a world away.”
- Coastal Beauty Without the Crowds – Enjoy the golden sands, calm waters, and endless bushland walks without the price tag or stress of busier destinations.
- Food, Culture & Relaxation – From waterfront dining to weekend markets, there’s plenty of character here, all at a pace (and price point) that suits families and couples alike.
- Value in Varierty – Whether you’re after a beachside unit, a spacious family home, or a touch of luxury, Ettalong offers stays that cater to every budget.
Our Favourites in Ettalong Beach
Forget long flights and stressful airport queues—Ettalong is the stress-free summer escape you’ve been craving. With its laid-back vibe, stunning coastline, vibrant food scene, and family-friendly activities, Ettalong offers all the ingredients for a summer holiday that won’t break the bank.
Quick Picks in Ettalong
- Best for Families: Ettalong Beachside Carousel & Anderson Park
- Best for Couples: Sunset dinner at The Box on the Water
- Best Outdoor Adventure: Bouddi Coastal Walk
- Best Local Flavours: Safran Turkish Restaurant
HolidayCo. Makes Ettalong Stays Easy
From coastal adventures and scenic hikes to family fun and relaxed dining, Ettalong has all the ingredients for an unforgettable summer holiday. And when it comes to finding the right place to stay, HolidayCo. takes care of it all.
We offer a curated range of holiday homes, apartments, and beachfront escapes in Ettalong Beach — each chosen for comfort, convenience, and that little bit of local charm. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic weekend, or a group getaway, our properties put you right where you want to be.
Skip the stress of searching and book direct with HolidayCo. With real-time availability, secure bookings, and friendly local teams on the ground, your Ettalong summer escape is just a few clicks away.
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Ettalong Beach is one of the Central Coast’s most loved seaside escapes — a place where calm waters meet a lively local culture, and relaxation blends seamlessly with adventure.
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Just a short drive from Sydney, Ettalong Beach is more than a beautiful coastal escape—it’s a destination leading the way in eco-tourism.
