The Entrance

Straddling the narrow channel where the Tuggerah Lakes meet the Pacific Ocean, The Entrance is a classic Central Coast seaside escape that feels both relaxed and full of life. The star attraction is the daily pelican feeding at Memorial Park – a spectacle that draws crowds to the waterfront boardwalk. Beyond the birds, this is a place for lazy beach days, lake-side picnics, and evening walks along the pier as the sun sinks into the ocean. Its easygoing pace makes it an ideal stop on a road trip between Sydney and Newcastle, or a base for exploring the broader Central Coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Pelican Feeding at Memorial Park – Watch the daily ritual (3:30 pm) as dozens of pelicans jostle for fish scraps, with a ranger sharing local conservation stories.
• The Entrance Ocean Baths – A protected tidal pool carved into the rock platform, perfect for a safe saltwater dip with views of the surf.
• Toowoon Bay – A sheltered, family-friendly beach just south of the channel, with calm waters and a grassy reserve ideal for barbecues.
• Long Jetty – Three historic timber jetties jutting into Tuggerah Lake; arrive at sunrise or sunset for iconic reflections and a serene stroll.
• Norah Head Lighthouse – A 1903 lighthouse offering guided tours and panoramic coastal views; nearby rock pools are great for exploring at low tide.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can experience The Entrance’s main draws in a half-day – morning at the beach, lunch at a waterfront café, and the 3:30 pm pelican feeding. For a more relaxed trip, stay overnight: spend the afternoon at Toowoon Bay, watch sunset from Long Jetty, and explore Norah Head the next morning. It also works well as a lunch stop on a Sydney–Newcastle drive.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gosford – The Central Coast’s hub, with the Australian Reptile Park and scenic waterfront dining.
• Bouddi National Park – Coastal walks, hidden beaches, and Aboriginal rock engravings a short drive south.
• Terrigal – A lively beach town with surf breaks, the Skillion lookout, and a buzzing café scene.
• Avoca Beach – A classic surf beach with a rock pool, cinema, and relaxed village vibe.
• Lake Macquarie – Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake, perfect for kayaking, sailing, and waterside dining – just north.

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