Terrigal didn’t rate a mention on the list, which was headlined “10 of the best beaches on the Central Coast”.
However, the opening of the Terrigal walkway from the Haven to Town in April is sure to be the catalyst to it challenging Avoca in the next compilation by the industry leader.
There are 40 beaches in our 87km of Coast, arguably the best stretch of beaches anywhere in the world, stretching from Catherine Hill Bay to Patonga.
The magazine rated them on the best to suit beachgoers of all kinds – from water babies to grommets to sunbathers to accomplished surfers.
Avoca was named number one as “the hometown of many surfing greats including Wade Carmichael and Adrian Buchan, so it’s no wonder it is popular with those chasing waves.”
“This 2km stretch of golden sand appeals to all beach lovers with its shallow rockpool and lagoon or kids, a rocky platform for fishing and some grear beachside dining including chic bar and restaurants Avoca Surfhouse and Point Café located under the surf club.”
The rest of the list features:
2. Toowoon Bay: “A favorite with families, the 700m long curved beach boasts turquoise water and white sand, perfect for little ones to splash about in the pristine shallows.”
The magazine also mentioned snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and waves for novice surfers.
3. Soldiers Beach: “Increasingly popular for its pristine white sand, clear water and reliable waves.” The magazine mentioned Dunes at the surf club for its tapa style menu and “incredible view”. The popular kiosk next to the carpark also was mentioned.
4. Wamberal and Spoon Bay: “Wamberal is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor Terrigal but it has a wide expanse of golden sand that’s less crowded.”
“Spoon Bay has a calm bay for swimming and is a bit of a locals’ secret.”
5. Pelican Beach: “Pelos as the locals call it, is the true surfing nirvana for experienced board riders and due to its relative isolation, is usually uncrowded and feels a million miles away.”
6. Umina Beach: “Umina is home to two patrolled beaches and is a 2.8km stretch of golden sand in Broken Bay. Both beaches are relatively calm for swimming and usually offer small waves, perfect for kids and novices learning to surf.”
7. Frazer Beach: “Located in Lake Munmorah Conversation area, secluded Frazer Beach is fairly unknown. So you may have this patch of paradise to yourself. At 400m it may be small but it packs a punch with striking turquoise water and white sand, reliable surf, a calm lagoon and bushwalking.”
8. Shelly Beach: “A great patrolled allrounder beach, it attracts surfers for its consistent break and has a great grass area for picnics.” The surf club restaurant and café were recommended as well as the stunning Shelley Beach Golf Couse – “one of the most spectacular golf courses on the coast with its ocean views”.
9. Kilcare and Putty beaches: “Bordered by spectacular Bouddi National Park and Box Head, it has moderate waves for surfing and a pretty rockpool. Putty Beach is usually calmer and is the entry point for the spectacular Bouddi Coastal Walk”.
10. MacMasters: “An allrounder for families. Calmer conditions for young swimmers and those learning to surf, an ocean pool, great picnic spot and a fabulous kids’ playground”.
The list is sure to get tongues wagging but to be fair the magazine could only feature 10 beaches, with 40 to choose from.
