The Entrance
Pelicans, play & waterfront dining — the buzzing tourist hub just 3km from Bateau Bay
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Pelicans, play & waterfront dining — the buzzing tourist hub just 3km from Bateau Bay
Just 3km north of Bateau Bay, The Entrance straddles the narrow channel between the Pacific Ocean and Tuggerah Lake — the largest coastal lake system in New South Wales. This vibrant foreshore precinct is the Central Coast's most visited tourist destination, drawing families, foodies and nature lovers year-round with its unique mix of wildlife encounters, waterfront dining and lakeside recreation.
The Entrance's most iconic experience is Pelican Time — a free 15-minute educational wildlife encounter at Pelican Plaza on the waterfront. Run by Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast for over 30 years, this beloved tradition draws hundreds of visitors to learn about the Australian pelican and local marine ecology.
Pelican Time is purely educational — there is no feeding involved. Volunteers share fascinating insights into pelican behaviour, conservation efforts and the ecology of Tuggerah Lake while dozens of pelicans gather naturally along the foreshore.
The Entrance foreshore is packed with free and affordable attractions that keep kids entertained for hours while parents soak up the waterfront atmosphere.
Family Favourite
A free aquatic splash park right on the foreshore, perfect for children on warm days. Interactive water jets, spray arches and shallow pools provide hours of fun in a safe, supervised setting with plenty of seating for parents nearby.
Classic
A beautifully maintained traditional carousel on the waterfront that delights children and adults alike. Take a spin on hand-painted horses with the sparkling lake as your backdrop — a timeless Central Coast experience.
Seasonal
A seasonal Ferris wheel offering elevated views over the channel, Tuggerah Lake and the Pacific Ocean. Operating during school holidays and peak periods, it is a must-ride for panoramic vistas of The Entrance precinct.
Free
Multiple well-equipped playgrounds are scattered along the foreshore promenade, catering to toddlers through to older kids. Shaded seating, BBQ facilities and grassy picnic areas make this an ideal spot for a family afternoon out.
Popular
Safe, sheltered saltwater swimming right on the ocean side of The Entrance. The ocean baths are perfect for families and lap swimmers who prefer the security of a netted pool with fresh ocean water flowing in with each tide.
The Coast to Lake Walk is a scenic 7.6km loop that connects Tuggerah Lake to the Pacific Ocean via a network of foreshore paths, boardwalks and coastal tracks. The route takes in the best of The Entrance — passing the ocean baths, foreshore parks, elevated lookouts and sheltered picnic spots along the way.
Mostly flat and well-paved, this walk is suitable for all fitness levels, prams and wheelchairs for most sections. Allow 2–3 hours at a leisurely pace with stops to enjoy the views and grab a coffee along the way.
For cyclists and active families, the Tuggerah Lake Cycleway offers over 12km of dedicated shared pathway tracing the shores of Tuggerah Lake. The flat, sealed path winds through parklands and foreshore reserves, providing beautiful lake views the entire way.
The cycleway connects The Entrance with neighbouring suburbs including Long Jetty, Toowoon Bay and Chittaway Bay. Bikes can be hired from The Entrance Boat Shed if you don't have your own. It is an ideal morning ride or family outing, with plenty of spots to stop for a swim or picnic along the route.
The Entrance's esplanade is lined with restaurants, cafes and takeaway shops — all with views over the channel and Tuggerah Lake. Whether you're after a proper sit-down meal or fish and chips on the foreshore, you'll find it here.
Recommended
A standout on The Entrance dining scene, La Costa is widely praised for its authentic Italian dishes and excellent coffee. With waterfront seating and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it is the ideal spot for a long lunch or leisurely morning brew.
No trip to The Entrance is complete without a serve of fresh fish and chips eaten on the foreshore. Several takeaway shops along the esplanade serve crispy battered fish, calamari and chunky chips — perfect fuel for pelican watching.
Cool off with a scoop (or three) from the ice cream parlours dotted along the esplanade. Casual eateries serving burgers, wraps, acai bowls and smoothies round out the options for a relaxed waterfront meal.
Get out on the water and explore Tuggerah Lake at your own pace. The Entrance Boat Shed hires out kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), tinnies (small aluminium boats) and BBQ boats — ideal for a morning paddle, a fishing trip or a floating barbecue with friends and family.
No experience is necessary for most hire options, and the calm, sheltered waters of Tuggerah Lake make it safe for beginners and families with children. BBQ boats are especially popular for birthday celebrations and group outings.
A short coastal path south from The Entrance leads to Blue Bay Beach — a sheltered, family-friendly cove with calm waters and soft sand. At the southern end of the beach you'll find The Grant McBride Baths, a well-maintained ocean pool perfect for safe swimming in a natural rock setting.
The walk between The Entrance and Blue Bay is a lovely 15–20 minute stroll along the coast, connecting two of the Central Coast's most popular swimming spots. It makes for a great morning combining ocean baths, beach time and a coffee stop on The Entrance esplanade.