Ultimate Guide to Visiting The Entrance

The Entrance on the Central Coast has always been a favourite with both locals and tourists during the summer months.

There’s so many things to do, an ever-growing array of restaurants and cafes, and family-friendly accommodation.

Here’s your ultimate guide on getting the best our of your visit.

Eat & Drink

The Entrance Cafes

Usui Café

Found just opposite the Information Centre, Usui Café is one of our favourite cafes in the area due to its eye on high-quality local produce. It’s all super fresh here. Try the freshly-squeezed juices with y your breakfast.

RELATED: The Best Central Coast Accommodation Picked By A Local

The Coast Café

A breakfast served like a high tea? Yep, that’s what’s made The Coast Café  a name for itself. Think plate after plate loaded with eggs, mushrooms, bacon and, well, anything you want really. The staff are super accommodating and the coffee is standout as well.

Ken’s Humble Pies

Whatever you do, don’t leave The Entrance without visiting Ken’s Humble Pies. This is an award-winning pie shop and everything on offer here is unbelievably amazing. There’s a whole range of flavours everyday. And they also do profiteroles which are mind-blowing.

The Entrance Restaurants

Tango

Opening at the tail end of 2021, Tango is a tapas and pizza restaurant that has an undeniable Latin feel to it. You could be in South America. The owners have cut their teeth at some of the finest restaurants in our region, so each meal is a true culinary journey and the sangria will make you feel like summer has finally arrived.

Bistro Jinja

A bit of a hidden gem, found just under The Entrance bridge, Bistro Jinja is an outstanding lunch spot. Everything on the menu is super fresh and with Asian influence, with our favourite being the nasi goreng served with a crisp glass of sav. You also get views of the water from their outdoor seating.

The Entrance Lakehouse

When it comes to restaurants in the area, The Entrance Lakehouse is our leading choice. There’s an extensive menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with high tea also available. They do the most remarkable desserts, including a flourless chocolate decadence. Delicious!

Los Dos Hombres

This colourful Mexican restaurant comes alive in the evening, with Los Dos Hombres serving authentic Mexican eats and a fun atmosphere. The pork belly tacos are unforgettable. And there’s even a vegan menu for those looking for something delicious but plant based.

Ocean Restaurant, Blue Bay

When it comes to fine dining, there’s not many options in The Entrance itself but quick journey to neighbouring Blue Bay and you’ve Ocean Restaurant. Here you’ll find some of the best seafood in the region, if not in NSW itself. A true culinary star.

The Entrance: Things To Do

Pelican Feeding

Pelican feeding at The Entrance is right of passage for anyone living or visiting the Central Coast. The Pelican Feeding station is sign posted just as you soon hit The Entrance Bridge so you can’t miss it It was all started over 30 years ago by staff at the local fish shop, who would feed scraps to the pelicans every day.

Bike Ride

The Tuggerah Lakes Cycleway can be joined just under the bridge, running 12 kilometres to Chittaway Bay. It passes the incredible Tuggerah Lake with many picnic spots, toilets and playgrounds along the way. Finish off with a beer at the Chittaway Bay Tavern.

The Entrance Boat Shed

Hire a boat or kayak from The Entrance Boat Shed, found just under bridge. This boat-hiring business has been part of the scene here for over 20 years. They’ll give you advice on safe boating and then it’s out into the channel that connects the ocean with Tuggerah Lake.

Vera’s Water Garden

The most iconic thing to do when visiting the area is undoubtedly a play at Vera’s Water Garden. A mini-water park for kids of all ages, there’s shaded areas for picnic and even free WiFi here. A brilliant spot to let littlies run wild.

Sensory Gardens

Located at Terilbah Reserve, The Entrance North, these beautiful gardens are filled with native trees and plants. There’s also a viewing platform overlooking the beautiful Tuggerah Lakes with pathways that it is wheelchair and stroller-friendly.

The Entrance Baths

If doing laps at an ocean pool is your vibe then The Entrance Baths are calling you. It’s totally free and there’s even a toddler pool.

The Entrance Accommodation

Pullman Magenta Shores Resort

Looking for five-star luxury with golf course, incredible restaurant, and on-site spa? Then the outstanding Pullman Magenta Shores Resort is just north of The Entrance. Stays start at $250 a night and it’s worth every cent.

The Lakes Hotel

Found at the very centre of coastal town, The Lakes Hotelv isn’t just convenient it is also pretty reasonable with stays starting at $70 a night. And best of all, the bistro downstairs has a brilliant menu and a great atmosphere.

Oaks The Entrance Waterfront Suites

For those looking for self-catering apartments, the best of the bunch has to be Oaks The Entrance Waterfront Suites. Again, the location is incredible and right in the centre of The Entrance. Each room has a kitchen and balcony. And there’s a large swimming pool. Stays from $80 a night.

Did you know?

The Entrance derives its name from the narrow channel that divides the mainland and connects Tuggerah Lake to the ocean on the Central Coast of NSW

Getting About

There’s no nearby train station, with car the best way to travel around The Entrance. There’s not many options for taxis after hours either. So it’s important to pick accommodation that is in walking distance to attractions.

The Entrance Property Prices

In July 2021, Median property prices over the last year range from $690,000 for houses to $505,000 for units. And rent sat at $410 a week.