Avoca Beach

Home to a long strip of golden sand that’s book-ended by two spectacular headlands, it’s easy to see why Avoca Beach is a paradise for lovers of sand, sun and surf. You’ll find plenty of adventure in this beachside town on the Central Coast of NSW, as well as colourful markets, a charming cinema and thriving cafe culture.

Water adventures

Explore the pretty rock pool at the southern end of the 1.7km Avoca Beach or learn to surf with the Central Coast Surf Academy. Experienced divers can take a diving tour to the artificial reef created by Ex-HMAS Adelaide. The scuttled warship was sunk in 2011 and rests 32m below the surface, 1.8km from shore.

Adjacent to the beach is Avoca Lake. Hire a kayak, pedal boat or stand up paddle board from Aquafun Avoca Lake and explore the coastal wetlands or paddle to the large island in the middle of the tranquil lagoon. This sparkling waterway is also great for swimming and fishing, with catches including bream and whiting.

Food & events

The village of Avoca is full of cafes, restaurants and boutiques. Enjoy a meal at The Point Café, a casual beachside eatery; or Shady Palms, an eclectic surf shack serving woodfired pizzas in Kincumber. Try a beer tasting paddle at nearby Block ‘n Tackle Brewery. Then catch a movie at the beachside Avoca Beach Theatre, which opened in 1948.

The bustling Avoca Beachside Markets, held on the fourth Sunday of the month, is a must for any foodie. Another great local event is the Five Lands Walk, a walking and cultural festival that celebrates the passing of the winter solstice in June. The 10km track includes Captain Cook lookout, a top vantage point for whale watching.

Getting there & where to stay

Avoca Beach is a 90min drive north from Sydney or an 80min drive south from Newcastle. Alternatively, you can take a train from Central Station in Sydney to Gosford and alight for a bus to Avoca Beach – the travelling time is a little over two hours in total.

You will find a range of accommodation options in and around Avoca Beach, from secluded cabanas at The Palms at Avoca to luxury serviced apartments, holiday homes and glampsites hidden in the surrounding hillside. Avoca Beach Hotel is another popular option, located less than 2km from the beautiful Avoca Beach.