Morning: Depart Elwood early and cruise along the scenic Mornington Peninsula, stopping for coffee and a quick stroll at Sorrento. Enjoy coastal views as you head onto the M1.
Afternoon: Continue the drive, breaking for lunch in Albury with a riverside view of the Murray River. After refueling, push onward toward the NSW border.
Evening: Arrive at Mantra Ettalong Beach and check in. Unwind with a beachfront walk and dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.
Find HotelsMorning: Start the day with a sunrise swim at Ettalong Beach followed by a leisurely breakfast on the terrace.
Afternoon: Explore the Ettalong Markets (if open) and enjoy a casual stroll along the coastal promenade, stopping at the local art galleries.
Evening: Dine at the nearby The Beach House and savor fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the water.
Find HotelsMorning: Walk to the iconic Penguin Parade viewing platform at The Entrance and watch the daily pelican feeding ceremony.
Afternoon: Rent a kayak and paddle around the Lake Munmorah system, spotting native birdlife and enjoying tranquil waters.
Evening: Return to Ettalong for a relaxed dinner at Harborview Café, sampling local wines.
Find HotelsMorning: Drive to the renowned Australian Reptile Park in Somersby for a hands‑on wildlife experience.
Afternoon: Attend the kangaroo feeding, watch the snake show, and explore the butterfly sanctuary.
Evening: Head back to Ettalong and enjoy a casual pizza night at Pizza 4U on the beachfront.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a short drive to Terrigal and hike the Terrigal Rock Pool trail for panoramic ocean views.
Afternoon: Spend time lounging on Terrigal Beach, trying surf lessons, and exploring the boutique shops.
Evening: Dine at Terrigal Boathouse with a focus on modern Australian cuisine.
Find HotelsMorning: Venture into Brisbane Water National Park for a guided bushwalk, spotting koalas and native flora.
Afternoon: Picnic by the Stony Creek and try a short mountain‑bike loop on the park’s trails.
Evening: Return to the hotel for a relaxing spa treatment and a light dinner at the lobby bar.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the historic Gosford Regional Gallery and enjoy a coffee at a nearby café.
Afternoon: Take a scenic drive along the Coastal Highway, stopping at lookouts such as Terrigal Lookout and Avoca Beach.
Evening: Celebrate the final night with a beachfront BBQ organized by the hotel, featuring live acoustic music.
Find HotelsMorning: Pack belongings and enjoy a final walk on Ettalong Beach while watching the sunrise.
Afternoon: Check out of Mantra Ettalong Beach and begin the drive back to Elwood, stopping for lunch in Wollongong.
Evening: Arrive back in Elwood, reflecting on a memorable coastal adventure.
Find HotelsIf you have extra days, consider extending your stay to explore the nearby Hunter Valley wine region or taking a day trip to Port Stephens for dolphin watching. To shorten the trip, skip the longer drives to Albury and Wollongong, focusing instead on the Central Coast highlights, which can comfortably fit into a 5‑day itinerary.