Entrance Lake

Entrance Lake is a serene coastal lagoon on the New South Wales Central Coast, just a stone's throw from The Entrance town centre. This tranquil waterway is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching, with the iconic Entrance Bridge spanning its connection to the ocean. The lake's calm waters and scenic foreshore parks make it a favourite for family picnics and sunset strolls.

Highlights & What to See

• Pelican Feeding at Memorial Park – Watch the daily pelican feeding, a beloved local ritual that draws crowds to the lake's edge.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding – Hire a kayak or SUP and explore the lake's quiet inlets, mangroves, and birdlife.
• Entrance Bridge Views – Walk or cycle across the bridge for panoramic vistas of the lake meeting the Tasman Sea.
• Foreshore Walking Track – A paved path winds along the lakefront, ideal for a relaxed stroll or jog with water views.
• Birdwatching at Pelican Island – Spot pelicans, black swans, and migratory shorebirds from the lookout near the bridge.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is ample to soak up Entrance Lake's atmosphere. Arrive mid-morning to paddle or walk the foreshore, then catch the 3:30pm pelican feeding. If you're staying in the area, an evening visit for a sunset picnic is equally rewarding. Combine with a morning at nearby Shelly Beach or a lunch at The Entrance's cafés.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• The Entrance – The lively town centre with shops, restaurants, and the popular waterfront park.
• Shelly Beach – A patrolled surf beach just south, great for swimming and coastal walks.
• Tuggerah Lake – A larger lake system to the west, offering more paddling and fishing spots.
• Bouddi National Park – A short drive south, with dramatic coastal cliffs, bushwalks, and hidden beaches.
• Norah Head Lighthouse – A historic lighthouse with tours and stunning ocean views, north of the lake.

Please check official sources for current details.