The Central Coast’s beach patrol season for 2026-27 officially commences on Saturday 26 September 2026, running through until Sunday 25 April 2027.
Throughout the patrol season, 15 Central Coast beaches will be patrolled daily, with Central Coast Council lifeguards on duty from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and Surf Life Saving volunteers patrolling on weekends and public holidays. Council lifeguards will also patrol the Grant McBride Baths daily, with The Entrance Channel patrolled on weekends throughout the school holidays.
Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the return of patrols is a timely reminder for everyone to stay safe when enjoying the Coast’s beaches and waterways this summer.
“The Central Coast is home to some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches and waterways, and we want everyone to enjoy them safely this season,” Mayor McKinna said.
“Our lifeguards and lifesavers do an incredible job keeping our community safe, but the best way to stay safe is to choose a patrolled beach and always swim between the red and yellow flags.”
“Whether you’re swimming, surfing, fishing, boating or jet skiing, take the time to understand the conditions, make smart decisions and look out for those around you.”
Council Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said Council’s lifeguards and Surf Life Saving volunteers work closely together to keep the community safe around the water.
“We’re fortunate to have a strong partnership with our local Surf Life Saving Clubs and a passionate team of Council lifeguards who work together every season to help keep our beaches safe,” Ms Smith said.
“Staying safe around the water is a shared responsibility. Choosing a patrolled beach, swimming between the red and yellow flags and following the advice of lifeguards and lifesavers are some of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe.”
“Council is also committed to accessible beach access providing beach wheelchairs and beach matting at selected locations across the Coast. Through our leisure centres, we also help build water confidence through learn-to-swim programs for children and adults.”
“We know our community is concerned about shark safety. While the NSW Government manages the Shark Management Program, Council supports the sharing of information and resources to help keep our community informed and SharkSmart.”
From north to south, the patrolled beaches on the Central Coast are:
- The Lakes Beach, Budgewoi
- Soldiers Beach
- North Entrance Beach
- The Entrance Beach
- Toowoon Bay Beach
- Shelly Beach
- Wamberal Beach
- Terrigal Beach
- North Avoca Beach
- Avoca Beach
- Copacabana Beach
- MacMasters Beach
- Killcare Beach
- Ocean Beach, Umina
- Umina Beach
For more information on beach safety and patrol locations, search ‘beach safety’ at Central Coast Council’s website, CentralCoast.nsw.gov.au.