Elwood, Victoria → Ettalong Beach, NSW – 7‑Day Road Trip

Day 1: Road Trip to Ettalong Beach

Morning: Depart Elwood early and cruise north on the Princes Freeway, enjoying scenic river views. Stop at Traralgon for a quick coffee and stretch.

Afternoon: Continue through the Gippsland countryside, with a scenic lunch break at Lakes Entrance overlooking the stunning lake‑coast. Cross the border into NSW via the Pacific Highway, admiring the coastal cliffs.

Evening: Arrive at Ettalong Beach, settle into your accommodation, and unwind with a sunset stroll along the Ettalong Beach promenade.

Day 2: Beach Relaxation & Local Exploration

Morning: Start with a leisurely walk on Ettalong Beach and a swim in the gentle surf. Grab a fresh pastry at the nearby Beachside Café.

Afternoon: Rent a kayak and paddle around the calm waters of Terrigal Bay, spotting dolphins and seabirds.

Evening: Dine at the waterfront Blue Oyster Bar and enjoy live acoustic music on the deck.

Day 3: The Entrance & Pelican Feeding

Morning: Take a short drive to The Entrance and watch the famous daily pelican feeding at the jetty.

Afternoon: Explore the Entrance Coastal Walk, offering panoramic ocean vistas and hidden coves.

Evening: Return to Ettalong for a relaxed dinner at Sea Breeze Bistro, sampling local seafood.

Day 4: Australian Reptile Park Adventure

Morning: Head to the Australian Reptile Park in Somersby for a guided wildlife tour.

Afternoon: Enjoy interactive shows, including the koala encounter and the thrilling spider‑cage walk.

Evening: Back in Ettalong, unwind with a movie night at your accommodation or a quiet beach walk.

Day 5: Central Coast Hinterland

Morning: Drive to the charming town of Avoca Beach for boutique shopping and a coffee at Humble Bean.

Afternoon: Visit the Avoca Beachside Markets (if open) for local crafts, then hike the nearby Bouddi National Park trails.

Evening: Return to Ettalong and savor a BBQ dinner at the Beachfront Picnic Area.

Day 6: Water Sports & Sunset Cruise

Morning: Join a guided stand‑up paddleboarding session on Terrigal Bay, suitable for all skill levels.

Afternoon: Relax on the beach or explore the local art gallery at Ettalong Community Centre.

Evening: End the day with a sunset cruise departing from The Entrance Marina, complete with refreshments and spectacular views.

Day 7: Departure

Morning: Pack up and enjoy a final sunrise walk on Ettalong Beach, taking memorable photos.

Afternoon: Begin the drive back to Elwood, stopping for lunch at Port Stephens to stretch your legs.

Evening: Arrive back in Elwood, concluding the road‑trip adventure.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Fuel (Elwood → Ettalong → Return): 8 hours total, approx. $120
• Accommodation (6 nights, mid‑range): 6 days, $150 per night, total $900
• Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner): 7 days, $35 per day, total $245
• Kayak rental (Day 2): 2 hours, $30
• Australian Reptile Park entry (Day 4): 4 hours, $38
• Stand‑up paddleboarding (Day 6): 2 hours, $25
• Sunset cruise (Day 6): 2 hours, $45
• Miscellaneous (snacks, parking, souvenirs): 7 days, $80
• Total Estimated Cost: $1,493

Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding a day to explore the Hunter Valley wine region north of Newcastle, or extend your beach stay for more relaxation. For a shorter trip, skip the Reptile Park and replace the sunset cruise with a simple beach picnic, which can reduce both time and expenses while still delivering a memorable experience.