A Guide to the Central Coast Markets

Whether it’s fresh food or a handmade gift you’re after, these Central Coast markets will have you covered.

The Central Coast has some excellent places to eat and some incredible boutique stores, but buying from a local market is feel-good and fun. Whether it be browsing bric-a-brac, picking up handmade pieces for the home, scouring for vintage items or stocking up on fresh local produce from the farmers themselves, you’re sure to find it at one of these Central Coast markets.

Two people purchasing produce at the Mountain Grower's Market Harvest Festival in Central Coast, Australia — Markets just have something special about them—the food, the friendly stallholders, the whole vibe just contributes to a unique experience.

Farmers’ markets

Long Jetty Farmers Markets

When: Tuesdays, fortnightly, 3pm – 6pm
Address: 204 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty

With a focus on regenerative farming practices and sustainability, the produce at the new Long Jetty Farmers Market is not only good for your health but also the planet. There’s also a strong community vibe and kids’ activities to keep the little ones happy while you shop. Pick up meat, eggs, dairy, veggies, honey and more straight from the farmers and artisans.

The Long Jetty Farmers Markets champions regenerative farming practices and sustainability. (Image: @longjettyfarmersmarket)

Gosford City Market

When: Every Sunday, 7am – 1pm
Address: Showground Road, Gosford

The long-running Gosford City Market at Gosford Showground has a large selection of produce and products to stock up the pantry. Meet the farmers and makers, such as the people behind Hunter Valley Pasta Co. who handmake pasta, Bills Organic Bakery who bake sourdough, and Mill Creek Vineyard who make boutique wine. There are also meats and charcuterie, fruit and veggies, cheeses, baked goods – the list goes on.

fresh tomatoes at the Johnson's Farmgate stall in Gosford City Market — Buy freshly picked tomatoes at the Gosford City Market.

Ettalong Fresh Food Market

When: Every Saturday, from 7:30am
Where: Broken Bay Scout Hall, Ettalong

This little market is the place to come with the whole family (including your four-legged friend) to stock up on fresh food and locally made goods. You’ll find eggs from Mountain Pride Farm, mushrooms by Margin Mushrooms, meat from Grace Springs Farm, sourdough by Tinapay Sourdough, pastries by Rise Bakery Ettalong – you name it. Ettalong Fresh Food Market promises a wide variety and good vibes. Grab a coffee and a bite to eat after your shopping list is done.

Mangrove Mountain Growers and Artisans Market

When: First Sunday of every month, 9am – 2pm
Where: Mangrove Mountain Hall, 2 Waratah Road, Mangrove Mountain

Go for a drive in Central Coast’s hinterland and stop by this charming market held at the historic Mangrove Mountain Hall . More than 40 stalls showcase local farmers and artisans, touting freshly picked fruit and veggies, gourmet goodies and handmade arts and crafts. There is always live music and food vendors to enjoy while relaxing under the gum trees.

Visitors at the Mangrove Mountain Growers and Artisanal Market on the Central Coast — Mangrove Mountain Growers and Artisans Market is hidden in the hinterland.

Saturday Markets

Terrigal Beach Markets

When: First Saturday of every month, 9am – 3pm
Address: The Esplanade, Terrigal

The Terrigal Beach Markets come with oceanfront views, set up along Terrigal esplanade. Here you’ll find fashion from local boutiques Sukisu and Iland and Co; homewares such as incredible sculptural mugs and vases by Menom; and botanical arrangements and art by Janzan Living Art. You can also grab a bite to eat and enjoy on the steps of Terrigal Beach.

A woman shops for a hat at Terrigal Beach Markets on the Central Coast — Shop for a range of hand-crafted goods at the Terrigal Beach Markets.

Long Jetty Markets

When: Last Saturday of every month, 9am – 2pm
Address: Tuggerah Parade Foreshore, Long Jetty

Located at the Long Jetty Foreshore, The Long Jetty Markets brings together more than 100 stallholders, selling everything from beautifully made quilts from India at Spice Road and cool and quirky Lvly Earrings to locally made honey. There are also local artists and face painting for the kids, with playgrounds nearby and a walking/cycling track along Tuggerah Lake that leads to The Entrance.

A crowd of people at the Long Jetty Markets in Central Coast, Australia — With over 100 stallholders, you’ll find anything and everything in the Long Jetty Markets.

The Entrance Markets

When: Third Saturday of every month, 8am – 1pm
Where: Memorial Park, The Entrance

From fresh produce to handcrafted treasures – such as locally made and inspired scented candles or preserved floral arrangements for the home – The Entrance Markets offers a variety of stalls set against the background of The Entrance Waterfront. Browse the goods, grab a bite to eat, listen to live music and go for a wander along the waterfront pathway – a Saturday well spent.

Stalls set up along the waterfront at The Entrance Markets on the Central Coast — The Entrance Markets are held the third Saturday of every month.

Betty’s Flea Market

When: Last Saturday of every month, 10am – 2pm
Address: 407 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty

Grab a drink from the bar and go thrift shopping at Long Jetty Hotel. Located in the Central Coast’s vintage hotspot, you could find anything from vinyl records to 1970s tableware to classic Doc Martins at Betty’s Flea Market. There are also new handmade items, such as macrame hangings, exotic homewares and original art.

Old clothes at a flea market — Go thrift shopping at Betty’s Flea Market. (Image: Getty)

Galleria Ettalong Beach

When: Every Saturday and Sunday, 9am – 4pm
Address: Corner of Ocean View Drive and Schnapper Road, Ettalong

Formerly known as Ettalong Markets, the Galleria Ettalong Beach has been operating since 1979 and is a large undercover marketplace with boutique stores selling all kinds of wares and services. Browse fine silver jewellery, purchase some oceanic art for your home, let the kids paint some plasters, and then catch a film at Cinema Paradiso.

fruits and vegetables displayed at Galleria Ettalong Beach — Stop by the food market every weekend at Galleria Ettalong Beach.

Sunday Markets

Avoca Beachside Markets

When: Last Sunday of every month, 9am – 2pm
Address: Heazlett Park Foreshore, Avoca

The happening Avoca Beachside Markets comprises 90-plus stalls on the shores of Avoca Lake, where you can pick up quality goods such as beautifully crafted leather products by Bella Rosa Mexico, sustainably created by Mayan communities, and handmade children’s clothing and toys by Mop and Dolly, as well produce and fresh food. There’s always live music, food trucks and in summer they hold a special nightly market.

The main path at the Avoca Beach Markets in Central Coast, Australia — The 90-plus stalls stand on the open and airy shores of Avoca Lake.

Umina Beach Markets

When: Third Sunday of every month, 9am – 2pm
Address: Sydney Ave, Umina

Stalls set up at Umina Markets on the Central Coast — Umina Beach Markets are held at the Peninsula Recreation Precinct.

Held to showcase the creativity in the local community, the Umina Beach Markets features handmade products such as glassware and décor by David Hislop Glass, cute and quirky earrings by Bubble and Mouse and delicious jams and relishes by Jenns Jam. It’s held at Peninsula Recreation Precinct, just a stone’s throw from Umina Beach, and there’s a free shuttle from Woy Woy Wharf, Ettalong Wharf, Ettalong Diggers and Bunnings in Umina.

summer dresses for kids at Umina Beach Market — Shop for beautiful summer dresses at Umina Beach Market.

Woy Woy Waterfront Markets

When: Second Saturday of every month, 9am – 2pm
Address: Brick Wharf Road, Woy Woy

Next to Woy Woy Memorial Park under large shady trees, the Woy Woy Waterfront Markets focuses on local makers such as hand-crafted wooden products from Ronnie Lynch Crafts, beautiful ceramics from the Bare Stone Studio and soaps and beauty products by Carmen’s Handmade, as well as locally made honey, liquors and baked goods.

lip calm gift boxes available at Woy Woy Waterfront Markets — These creative lip calm boxes are perfect gifts for your loved ones.

Night Markets

Gosford Night Markets

When: First Friday of every month, 5pm – 10pm
Address: 4 Racecourse Road, Gosford

It’s about flavoursome street food at the Gosford Night Markets, held at Gosford Showground. There’s even a dedicated dessert section! Appetites aside, there are also stalls with local and regional businesses, live music and kids’ rides, jumping castles and games.

A woman eating street food at a night market in Central Coast, Australia — It’s all about flavoursome street food at the Gosford Night Markets. (Image: Getty)

Occasional Markets

Central Coast Vintage and Collectables Fair

When: Four times per year; check the website for dates
Address: 8 Russell Drysdale Street, East Gosford

Come to the Central Coast Vintage and Collectables Fair to find one-of-a-kind pieces such as fine china, antique jewellery, vintage clothing and more. It’s held over two days at the Lions Community Hall in East Gosford.

Check out some retro collectibles at Terrigal Antique & Vintage Fair.

French Country Market

When: Twice a year
Address: Check the website as the location can change.

Francophiles unite at the French Country Market for their fill of crepes, eclairs, bread as well as décor, vintage wares and all other manners of things from France including themed live music and entertainment.

French pastries on display — Get your fill of French bread and pastries at the French Country Market. (Image: Getty)

Central Coast Christmas Fair

When: Check the website for dates
Address: Kangoo Road, Kariong

For 15 years, the Central Coast Christmas Fair has been held at Mt Penang Parklands. It hosts 160-plus stalls, has live music, kids’ entertainment, food trucks and stalls, and is the perfect enjoyable way to browse for gifts for your nearest and dearest. There will be Christmas decorations, Christmas treats and Santa, his Elf, and even the Grinch turned up last year to say hi.

Central Coast Christmas Fair in Australia — The Central Coast Christmas Fair is the perfect enjoyable way to browse for gifts for your nearest and dearest. (Image: Central Coast Australia)

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

The Central Coast markets you need on your radar