Best Things to Do in Avoca Beach
Avoca Beach is a favourite beach destination on the Central Coast NSW.
The name Avoca was given by the first resident John Moore. It's Celtic for “great estuary” or “where the river meets the sea”.
Avoca Beach is located just of south of Terrigal – it's as beautiful and family-friendly as Terrigal, but quieter.
The beach is situated at the end of a long no-through road. There are many cafes and restaurants and quite a few things to do.
Attractions
The Beach
The beach is the biggest attraction here. Avoca Beach is located along the southern half of a 1.7 km long beach. (The northern half is North Avoca Beach.)
It’s a great place for the whole family.
There’s a fully fenced playground and a rockpool for young children. The beach is patrolled and there are great surfing spots.
Aquafun
Hire pedal-boats, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards at Aquafun and glide around Avoca Lake. You can swap boats as many times as you like – it’s great fun for kids. Aquafun is one of my daughter’s favourite things to do.
No need to book. Just turn up.
Avoca Beachside Markets
Visit Avoca Beachside Markets. They’re my favourite markets on the Central Coast.
There are over one hundred stalls. They sell quality things like wood sculpted craft and recycled wood furniture. You can also grab great food and drinks like freshly squeezed juices and Irish soda bread.
The vibe is great, too. Visitors like to chill out and listen to live music. There are fun things to do for kids and it’s dog-friendly.
Avoca Beach Picture Theatre
Watch an independent or foreign film at Avoca Beach Picture Theatre.
It’s a historic single-screen cinema right beside the beach. This cinema was nominated as one of the “ten most beautiful cinemas” in the world. They often offer special evenings such as French or Italian.
And you can enjoy a glass of wine with a movie.
Captain Cook Lookout
See panoramic views up and down the coast from Captain Cook Lookout.
You can see the Skillion in Terrigal to the left and Bouddi National Park to the right. It’s also a top spot for whale watching. The lookout is at the top of Del Monte Place at Copacabana Beach.
Bouddi National Park
Bouddi National Park is the best place to go for a bushwalk.
This small national park is situated on rugged cliffs and surrounded by water. So every walk has stunning views. The most popular walk is the Coastal Walk. And check out our top 10 walks here.
Terrigal
Terrigal is the most popular town/beach on the Central Coast.
It has a trendy cafe culture and several options for fine dining. All cafes, restaurants and shops are located metres from the beach.
The Skillion and Terrigal Haven are the best places to enjoy the outdoors at Terrigal. Small children like to swim in the calm water. You can also climb the popular Skillion to the lookout for panoramic views of the ocean.
It’s a great spot for a picnic as well. More on Terrigal...
Block 'N Tackle Brewery
Block ‘N Tackle Brewery is the place to go for a handcrafted beer. Grab a tasting paddle and tasty food. Block & Tackle is family-friendly.
Located unit 1, 11-13 Cochrone Street, Kincumber.
Check out their Facebook page.
LooLoo's Coffee Warehouse
If you’re after an excellent coffee, visit LooLoo's Coffee Warehouse in Kincumber.
The cafe is in a weird industrial spot, but it has a nice chilled out atmosphere. It’s always packed with visitors – the best sign of a quality hang-out.
Located unit 12, 11 - 13 Cochrane St, Kincumber..
Accommodation
For self-contained and spacious apartments, check out Avoca Palms Resort.
It’s located metres from the beach and cafes.
The best apartments offer ocean views and there are great facilities, like a swimming pool and games room.
Check photos and reviews on TripAdvisor OR check prices.
Restaurants
There are so many restaurants for such a small town. I counted 22 on the top of my head. Here are our best picks…
The two first restaurants on the list are our go-to places when eating out with the kids:
- Sunsets Bistro is the locals’ favourite restaurant for dinner. Older children can play on the beach or at the playground while you’re having a drink. It’s affordable and there’s a beautiful view of the ocean. Located 10 Vine Street, second floor of the surf club.
- Chijmes is a Singapore Malaysian restaurant with a little playground. Maybe not a romantic choice, but kid-friendly and delicious. Get kid-free meals on Friday dinner and Sunday lunch or dinner. And two meals for one on a Monday. (Outside public holidays.) Located at the Bowling Club, Avoca Dr & Townsend Ave.
- Avoca Beach Seafoods is very affordable and they make really good fish and chips. Plus it’s located right beside the beach. We often take a picnic rug on warm summer evenings. 1/85 Avoca Drive.
- Bombini is the finest restaurant in town. They serve delicious modern Italian food. The chef used to be the head chef at Bells at Killcare, an award-winning restaurant. 366 Avoca Drive.
- Mosaic Cafe is a new kid in town. I have heard great comments about it. They serve modern middle eastern inspired breakfast & lunch. 168A Avoca Drive.
For fine dining, there are several options in Terrigal, a 10-minute drive away.
Getting There
1 hr 30 min north of Sydney or 1 hr 35 min south of Newcastle via the M1 Freeway. Click on this link for directions on Google Map.
