Markets. They are a melting pot of the good things in life. A wonderful fusion of colour, creativity, clothes, food, coffee, music and smiles. Set among the golden beaches and alluring lakes of our region, the best of the Central Coast markets showcase the talents of our people and their passions. They are a celebration of our community and doing what you love. Hitting the markets is the perfect family fun-day, an essential pick-me-up after a big night out, a great place to score a bargain, and the best opportunity to meet the local creatives behind some truly unique creations. There’s something about a Central Coast market that makes you feel like you’re on holiday. And with at least one held in the north, south or the centre of the region every weekend, a day out at the markets can make even a local feel like there on a mini-break. So whether enjoying a weekend getaway on the Central Coast or are simply a Coastie with a yearning for some market goodness, here’s the low-down on 9 of the coolest Central Coast markets.
#1 AVOCA BEACHSIDE MARKET
In need of some Byron Bay vibes? The Central Coast market with this on offer is Avoca Beachside Markets. Held in a gorgeous waterfront location in the quiet seaside village of Avoca Beach, this multiple award-winning market has it going on. It is the premier arts and musician’s regular market on the Central Coast, and understandably so.
Imagine yourself floating between the stalls beneath the trees – long flowing skirt, boho hat, fresh juice in hand. With live folk music and the scent of international foods in the air, and over 110 stalls from local artisans and creatives to drool over, you’ll want to make sure you get there early in the morning to make the most of the day.These guys have thought of everything! Expect good vibes, vibrant colour, amazingly crafted jewellery, clothing, homewares, story-telling, roving children’s entertainment, buskers, healing areas and organic foods. There’s space for the kids to run, kick a ball and have a picnic. You can even take the family on a water adventure with Aquafun water rides right at the edge of the market. Not only do they create an awesome festive feel, caring for mother earth by reducing waste is big on their agenda too. So if you forget to bring your own bags for your market goodies, you can always buy a screen printed Avoca Markets Bag on the day from the Site Office for $2 or ask for a Boomerang Bag. It’s family-friendly, foodie-friendly and even dog-friendly – and it’s likely you’ll see every man, woman, child and their dog, loving every minute!
When: 4th Sunday of the Month, 9 am to 2 pm
Where: Heazlett Park, Avoca Drive, Avoca Beach
Parking: There are always plenty of people heading to this Central Coast market, so parking can be tight. It is also policed heavily on market day and hefty fines can and do occur. Do yourself a favour, and avoid parking illegally, in driveways, or on the grass near the beach toilets. A safer and stress-free option is to park at Avoca Hotel and jump on a free shuttle that will drop you straight at the market. The shuttle starts at 9 am and drops off every 15 minutes. Or, if you’re feeling energetic, you can also park the car at Hunter Park and walk along the beach, ride your bike or take the bus.
Distance from Mingara: 19km
#2 THE ENTRANCE MARKET
Set against the blue lagoon backdrop of ‘The Pelican Capital of Australia’, this little gem of a Central Coast market promises to deliver fresh food and flowers, as well as arts and craft stalls every week. The Entrance Waterfront has long flat footpaths perfect for babes in prams and it’s jam-packed with play areas and activities for the kids, which means you have everything you need for a perfect family day out. Grab your market haul, roll out your picnic blanket and enjoy the fresh sea breezes rolling off the lagoon. Then take the kids to Vera’s Watergarden for some watery fun. Or stick around until 3.30pm to watch the famous pelican feeding at Pelican Plaza nearby. These lucky birds get fed whole fish 365 days a year – no wonder they come back every day to create such a spectacle.
When: Every Saturday, 9 am to 2 pm
Where: 4 Marine Parade, The Entrance NSW 2261
Parking: There’s free ocean-side parking at Memorial Park.
Distance from Mingara: Just over 8 km
#3 KIBBLE MARKETS
So, you work in Gosford. You’ve made it through hump day (just) but there are still two whole days until the weekend. You’re longing for some sunshine on your skin, a casual stroll through your favourite Central Coast market, maybe a chat with a local grower or two before you take home some fresh produce for dinner. Sunday can’t come quick enough. But then you remember, the Kibble Markets! The newest community-focused event right in the heart of Gosford will give you those weekend feels to get you through the daily grind. Oh yeah!
Leave the office and traipse through Kibble Park dripping with local honey, fruit and veg, yummy cakes and treats from Good Bits and Soul Food, jewellery and aromatherapy. There are some fantastic local cafes to grab your coffee or lunch from before chilling in the park while the buskers work their magic making Thursday feel like Sunday.
Week saved – thank you Kibble Markets.
When: 1st Thursday of the month, 8 am to 2 pm
Where: Kibble Park, Gosford CBD
Parking: If you work in Gosford you’ve probably already parked your car and can simply walk on down to Kibble Park from the office. But if you’re coming in just for the markets, there’s plenty of free parking in Gosford Town Centre Carpark off Albany Street North. The Imperial Centre Carpark has space for customers only.
Distance from Mingara: 20 km
#4 GOSFORD FARMERS MARKET
If there is ever a day to rise and shine like a farmer, it’s Sunday. Like the early bird that catches the worm, the keenest market goers know it pays to make a beeline to Gosford City Farmers Market as soon as it opens. You’ll be treated with hessian bag lined stalls bursting with local seasonal fruit and vegetables straight from the farm-gate, freshly baked bread, grass-fed poultry and meats. It’s a sight that will make even a full tummy hungry. Get ready to experience why they tote handmade and home-grown as best! Dig your teeth into crisper, juicier, more alive produce delivered straight from the farm to your eagerly waiting hands. Savour the smells and the crunch of delicious freshly baked breads and artisan products, and take them home to add some zest to your week’s meal plan. What do we love about these markets? Buying direct from the grower and hearing first-hand some great stories about the food that end up on our table, plus those warm fuzzies that come from knowing we’ve helped to strengthen our community by investing close to home. Gosford City Farmers Market is bound to inspire your inner MasterChef, so head along, buy direct from the farmer and get cooking.
When: Every Sunday, 8 am to 1 pm
Where: The Entertainment Grounds, Racecourse Road Gosford
Distance from Mingara: 21 kms
Parking: There is ample free parking available onsite at The Entertainment Grounds.
#5 GREEDY GUTS MARKETS
Foodies, it is time to get Greedy! Farewell the work week and head to Terrigal for a taste of the world in a cracking venue. Come with an insatiable hunger for out of this world flavours and you will not leave disappointed. Eat your fill of Vietnamese, Sri Lankan, Chinese, American, Venezuelan, Vegan Thai, and wash it down with some quality crafted beer, churros or gelato. Mmmm…you’re salivating right now aren’t you? More of a festival than a market, you’ll be snapping food pics and sharing on Instagram before you can say food, GLORIOUS FOOD! But did we mention the sweet, sweet vibes and funky tunes? Just make sure you put down the beef brisket and Chinese dumplings before pulling out your best dance moves. It’s on rain, hail or shine so mark it in your diary, and gather your tribe for an epic night out.
When: 2nd Friday of the month from 5.30 pm
Where: Florida Beach Bar at Crowne Plaza Terrigal
Parking: Parking in Terrigal can be a challenge, but if you can’t get a spot on the streets, try the newly upgraded Wilson Road Carpark. That said, if you plan on sinking a few craft beers while you’re there, plan ahead and organise a lift, car pool with a designated drive or book an uber.
Distance from Mingara: 12 km
#6 SHELLEY BEACH MARKETS
Oozing cool with an indie vibe, Shelley Beach Markets are right in the heart of the Coast. Bent on raising the profile of talented creators and brands right here on the Coast, the markets bring together over 100 emerging artists, indie designers, vintage collectors and foodie enthusiasts to show and sell their jewellery and accessories, home decor, apothecary, clothing, ceramics, vintage and produce. It is one big beautiful masterpiece set to the tunes of some pretty ace musos. So get to it.
When: Last Saturday of the month, 9 am to 2 pm
Where: Tuggerah Lakes Secondary College, The Entrance Campus
Parking: Parking is a breeze with a huge car park directly across from the market entrance. If you arrive at a particularly busy time, you can also opt for street parking.
Distance from Mingara: 4.4 km
#7 WYEE MARKETS
There’s plenty to love about this community market. Wyee Markets are a quintessential Aussie market held in the grounds of the Wyee Community Hall and never fails to give up an eclectic mix bric-a-brac, homemade soaps, yummy produce, new and used clothing, tools and homewares. You never know what treasure you’ll find, so keep your eyes peeled. The kids will love the pony rides, jumping castle, face painting and of course ice-creams. What’s a market without ice-cream?
When: 2nd Saturday of the month, 8.30 am – 1 pm
Where: Wyee Community Hall grounds
Parking: Wyee Community Hall is next to a public reserve, so there is heaps of on-street parking available.
Distance from Mingara: 28 km
#8 THE MARKET TERRIGAL
This boutique market hit the scene a couple of years back with an inspired collection of pre-loved clothing and accessories. It’s quaint and on-trend and an awesome opportunity to pick up a bargain to update your wardrobe. Grab a coffee, dance to the music, and delve into the treasures on offer. Keep your eyes peeled for some local insta-celebs selling their pre-loved clothes – if you’re quick and lucky you’ll get some prime pieces of designer clothing for an amazing price!
When: 2nd Sunday of every month, 9 am to 2 pm
Where: Terrigal Scout Hall
Parking: There’s some parking opposite the Scout Hall, otherwise it is street parking all the way.
Distance from Mingara: 4.4 km
#9 TERRIGAL BEACH MARKETS
Shop. Beach. Eat. Repeat. Their tagline speaks for itself.
Local makers, craftsmen, artists and designers are front and centre on Terrigal foreshore once a month, letting you indulge your inner nature lover, shopping addict, coffee connoisseur and cocktail sipper all in the one day. Did someone say one stop shop? Enough said.
When: 1st Saturday of every month, 9 am to 2 pm
Where: Terrigal Foreshore
Parking: Your best bet is Wilson Road Carpark.
Distance from Mingara: 4.4 km
What next?
When the last of the Central Coast market stalls are packed down and the smell of market food no longer lingers, the good life on the Coast continues. Gather your tribe for a soulful farm-style breakfast and out of this world coffee at The Roasted Berry before heading out to explore the stunning beaches and bushland of the region. Later in the day, head to Indigo – Eats, Treats & Bar for a seriously delicious lunch or dinner crafted from regional produce, local suppliers and herbs from Indigo’s own terrace kitchen garden. And don’t forget to check out Mingara’s What’s On for your guide to current exhibitions, trivia nights, live shows and more.