Toukley

With no shortage of enclosed bays, beaches and coastal adventure alongside great shopping and lively bars and restaurants. Base yourself in Toukley and be rewarded with some of this region’s best right on your doorstep.

Surrounded by glittering ocean and expansive waterways, Toukley’s beaches range from tranquil lakeside getaways to ocean-front surf. Situated on Tuggerah Lake, Canton Beach is a great spot for kids to paddle and play, with a nearby playground. A little further north, Lakes Beach is another popular beach that is patrolled in the summer.


Several minutes drive south from Toukley on Norah Head, Soldiers Beach is a gorgeous, white sandy beach popular with surfers. Patrolled from September to April, this coastal gem is near a grassy headland that offers great views. The historic Norah Head Lighthouse is a local landmark open to visitors and guided tours.


Only a few minutes further down the Central Coast Highway, you’ll find the stunning Wyrrabalong National Park. Home to rainforest, wetlands and towering red gum forest, you can also The Coast walking track and enjoy spectacular ocean views along the clifftop. Crackneck Point Lookout is ideal for whale watching from May to November, with spectacular views over The Entrance and Shelly Beach.

A great way to relax and explore the area with the family is on the Tuggerah Lakes Cycleway. This 12km shared pathway follows the lakeshore from The Entrance around to Chittaway Bay. Stop along the way and take a stroll along the century-old Long Jetty. Stretching into the lake, this 351m jetty is NSW’s longest.


You can also enjoy the water by getting right up close.  Spend some time with the family by hiring a kayak, stand-up paddleboard or motor boar at The Entrance Boatshed - no license is required. You’ll also be able to try your hand at fishing by grabbing some tackle and bait.


Enjoy the relaxed delights of the town by taking a swing at Toukley Golf Club. This 18-hole championship course overlooks scenic Budgewoi Lake. Shoppers will find plenty of fashion accessories at Mairzy Doats and Chikita Boutique, and at the end of the day you can also savour a memorable Mexican meal at local favourite Mexicoast Cantina.


Known as ‘The Beachie’ by the locals, the iconic Beachcomber Bar and Restaurant is home to  bars, restaurants and family-friendly eateries. Enjoy a sparkling view with everything from a rotisserie area to wood-fired pizza and a dedicated taco bar.

Just over an hour’s drive and around 100km from Sydney and Newcastle, Toukley is easy to get to on the M1. You can also catch regular train services from Sydney to Wyong Station, followed by regular buses from Lake Haven Centre. There are also bus services which leave from Gosford.