The Entrance

On the edge of the sparkling Tuggerah Lakes, The Entrance is a classic NSW coastal escape where a permanent sandbar separates the lake from the ocean. The town revolves around its namesake channel, where pelicans gather daily for a free feeding ritual that's been a local institution for decades. With a long timber pier, family-friendly beaches, and a relaxed holiday-park vibe, it's the kind of place where you kick off your thongs and slow down to lake time.

Highlights & What to See

• Pelican Feeding – Every afternoon at 3:30pm, the resident pelicans are fed on the waterfront near the Memorial Park. Arrive early to grab a spot on the grass or the boardwalk.
• The Entrance Channel & Pier – Stroll the 350-metre pier for views across the lake to the ocean. On windy days, watch kitesurfers carve up the channel.
• Tuggerah Lake – Perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing. Hire a boat from the marina or launch your own.
• Long Jetty – A short drive north, this historic jetty stretches into the lake and offers iconic photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
• Memorial Park – The grassy foreshore park has a playground, picnic shelters, and a war memorial. It's the social heart of town.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day or an overnight stay. If you're driving the Central Coast, stop for a few hours to watch the pelican feeding, walk the pier, and grab fish and chips from the takeaway shops opposite the park. For a more relaxed pace, book a weekend to explore the lake by kayak and visit the nearby beaches of Shelly Beach and The Entrance North.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Norah Head – A dramatic headland with a historic lighthouse, rock pools, and coastal walks about 15 minutes north.
• Bouddi National Park – Superb coastal bushwalking and secluded beaches; the Bouddi Coastal Walk is a must-do.
• Avoca Beach – A classic surf beach with a lively café scene, 20 minutes south.
• Gosford – The gateway to the Central Coast, with the Australian Reptile Park and waterfront dining.
• Terrigal – A buzzy beach town with a beautiful surf beach, rockpool, and the Skillion lookout.

Please check official sources for current details.