The Strand

Stretching along the foreshore of Tuggerah Lake in Long Jetty, The Strand is a relaxed waterfront strip that perfectly captures the Central Coast's laid-back appeal. With a row of colourful weatherboard shops, cafés spilling onto footpaths, and a long timber jetty reaching into the calm lake, it's a spot where you can easily while away an afternoon watching paddleboarders glide past or pelicans perch on pylons. The vibe is distinctly local — unhurried, friendly, and all about soaking up the lakeside atmosphere.

Highlights & What to See

• Long Jetty – This iconic 350-metre timber jetty is the centrepiece, offering a classic photo opportunity as it stretches across the lake. At sunset, the view across the water is pure gold.
• Lakeside cafés and eateries – Grab a coffee from one of the independent cafés and sit outside to watch the world drift by. Try the famous fish and chips from the takeaway shop for a true local lunch.
• Kayaking and paddleboarding – The calm, shallow waters of Tuggerah Lake are ideal for beginners. You can hire a kayak or SUP from the kiosk and explore the shoreline at your own pace.
• Pelican feeding – Daily at 3:30pm, pelicans gather near the jetty for a feeding session — a quirky, family-friendly spectacle that draws a small crowd.
• Boat Harbour – A short walk north along the lake edge, this small harbour is a peaceful spot to watch fishing boats come and go.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can comfortably enjoy The Strand in 1–2 hours — enough for a coffee and a stroll along the jetty. If you plan to hire a kayak or have a leisurely lunch, allow half a day. It works perfectly as a mid-morning stop or a sunset outing, and it's easy to pair with a visit to nearby beaches or national parks.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• The Entrance – Just a 10-minute drive south, this lively coastal town has a popular pelican feeding platform, a long surf beach, and a sheltered lake perfect for swimming.
• Bateau Bay – A quieter beach suburb with a lovely stretch of sand and rock pools to explore at low tide, 15 minutes south-east.
• Wyrrabalong National Park – A small coastal reserve with walking trails through littoral rainforest and lookout points over the ocean, less than 20 minutes away.
• Avoca Beach – A classic surf beach with a laid-back village feel, about 25 minutes south via the scenic coastal road.
• Gosford – The Central Coast's main hub, 20 minutes west, offers the Australian Reptile Park and waterfront dining on Brisbane Water.

Please check official sources for current details.