The Best Kid Friendly Beaches on the Central Coast

The Coast’s Best Beaches for Kids

From sandcastle-designing and rock-pool hopping to having fun on the foamies and whipping out the fishing gear, our Central Coast beaches are perfect for a day out with the kiddos. We’ve tested the waters from Budgewoi to Patonga to short list our favourite kid-friendly beaches and we think you’ll agree that they’re all winners.

But – safety first! Whilst many of these beaches are patrolled, some are not. In these cases, make sure to check the tides before packing your trunks, and brush up on your skills in spotting rips. Then enjoy the adventure!

1. Toowoon Bay

This is a favourite with locals and visitors alike and we can see why. Located between North Shelly and Blue Bay, this beach is easily accessible for everyone. It is also patrolled and is home to the Village Kiosk, located under the Surf Club. Parking can often be tough in the busy months, but once you find one you can hang for hours. Spending time exploring the sheltered rockpools on the right of the SLSC, or walking the funky-shaped beach strip to the left is always a lot of fun – otherwise we definitely recommend checking out the beautiful grassy reserve above the beach equipped with BBQ’s, picnic tables and a great park for the kids.

2. Norah Head Rockpool

The perfect location for kids to splash and play in beautiful, sheltered waters. Norah Head Rockpool is located in Cabbage Tree Harbour. On low tide, be sure to peep into some of the smaller surrounding rockpools to look for some of the local sea life. There are amenities nearby but this beach is not patrolled by lifeguards.

Family-Friendly Beaches on the Central Coast

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3. Ettalong Beach

Waters here are mostly calm and shallow, making it great for little kids; but with surfboards and SUPs for hire, there’s something for the big kids too. The foreshore boasts a wide walking track suitable for prams, a playground, café and toilets so you’re set for the day! Ettalong Beach is not patrolled by lifeguards.

4. Avoca Beach

Reigning Central Coast SLSC heavyweights, this tried and tested favourite is an activity hub for kids of all ages. At the southern end, the rockpool is perfect for toddlers to splash and play while further north at the lagoon, bigger kids can hire SUPs, kayaks and pedal boats at rates that won’t break the budget. There’s also some fantastic Surf Schools that operate on the beach itself, for those looking to try their hand on Avoca’s wavy shores. Just for good measure, there’s a beachside playground, plenty of cafes and great fish ‘n’ chips. Avoca Beach is patrolled by lifeguards every day over summer.

5. Bateau Bay

With nearby BBQ’s on hand, crazy rockpools to explore snorkelling, and a great connection to some of the Coast’s best walking trails in Wyrrabalong National Park – including a stopover at Crackneck lookout –  Bateau Bay beach and picnic area offers an endless range of activities perfect for a family outing. It’s also a great spot for whale watching and fishing. Whilst taking a fresh dip on this picturesque strip between two headlands however, please note that this beach is not patrolled and inform yourself of conditions beforehand.

6. Pearl Beach

Tucked down at the southern end of the Coast, this little gem boasts calm waters and an ocean pool so you can take your pick! But be sure to pack a beach umbrella or pop-up shelter as there’s not a whole lot of shade. There’s great food and coffee from nearby Pearly’s and a cute playground on the sand. This beach is not patrolled by lifeguards.

More ways to keep the kids busy these holidays. Keep reading;

Here’s Five Free Ways to Entertain the Kids These School Holidays on the Central Coast

Six Fancy Kid-Friendly Coast Restaurants That Aren’t the RSL