Ettalong Beach

Ettalong Beach is a relaxed coastal escape on the shores of Brisbane Water, just a scenic drive north of Sydney. With its calm, protected waters and a laid-back village atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a family-friendly beach day, a seafood lunch, or a paddle on a stand-up board. The old-school charm of the waterfront, complete with a heritage cinema and fish-and-chip shops, gives Ettalong a nostalgic feel that international travellers will love.

Highlights & What to See

• Ettalong Beach – a wide, gentle beach ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with picnic tables and shady Norfolk pines lining the shore.
• Ettalong Beach Markets – held every Wednesday and weekend, these lively markets offer everything from fresh local produce and artisan cheeses to vintage clothing and handmade crafts.
• Ettalong Beach Heritage Cinema – one of Australia’s oldest continuously operating cinemas, screening new releases and classic films in a charming art-deco setting.
• Brisbane Water National Park – just a short drive away, explore walking trails through eucalypt forests, Aboriginal rock engravings at Kariong, and lookout points over the central coast.
• Box Head & Lobster Beach – a scenic coastal walk from Ettalong leads to these secluded, pristine beaches with panoramic views of the Hawkesbury River.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that a half-day to a full day at Ettalong Beach is enough to soak up the sun, browse the markets, and enjoy a relaxed fish-and-chip lunch by the water. If you’re combining it with a visit to the nearby national park or the town of Gosford, plan for a full day to avoid feeling rushed. The area is also a pleasant stopover on a road trip between Sydney and the Hunter Valley.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gosford – the regional hub, with the Australian Reptile Park, the Gosford Regional Gallery, and the historic Henry Kendall Cottage.
• Bouddi National Park – a stunning coastal park with dramatic sea cliffs, secluded beaches, and the Bouddi Coastal Walk.
• Terrigal – a vibrant beach town with surf breaks, a lively esplanade, and excellent cafés.
• Avoca Beach – a quieter surf beach with a rock pool and a picturesque headland walk.
• The Entrance – famous for the daily pelican feeding and a long, family-friendly ocean bath.

Please check official sources for current details.