The Hotel: Mantra Ettalong Beach

Mantra Ettalong Beach overlooks the entrance to Brisbane Waters and further out to the glittering Broken Bay. A large pool hugged by sun lounges and shady palms makes up the centre of the resort, providing a place for holidaymakers to relax and lap up the sun. During the stay, guests may enjoy the fully-equipped gym to give bodies a workout. 

Groupies set themselves up in a One-Bedroom Suite Hinterland Views, admiring the scenery from the private balcony and later slipping into the deep spa bath for a chill out session. Kitchenette and laundry facilities provide some of the conveniences of home, with television and in-house movies provide entertainment for those who just want to stay in. The neutral-toned dwellings are spacious, light-filled and airy, with clean lines and crisp linen to complete the picture. On the final morning, savour one final dip in the pool before checking out at 10am.

Room Details

One-Bedroom Suite Hinterland Views

• Bed size/type: one king zip or twin beds 
• Standard occupancy: Two people
• This Suite offers a spa, sitting area, kitchenette, washer and dryer facilities, and television with Foxtel

The Area: Central Coast, NSW

Set between Sydney and Newcastle, the New South Wales Central Coast is famed for its golden beaches, quaint waterside towns, and ample national parkland. Surfers zip along crashing waves, bargain hunters haggle at weekend markets and locals catch up for coffee in one of many beachfront cafés in the laidback areas of the region. Nestled near the entrance of Brisbane Waters lies Ettalong Beach – a coastal suburb with a stretch of sand that serves as a destination for city slickers to recharge their batteries.

The scenic surrounding area of the Ettalong area makes for relaxing beach walks, coastal hikes and refreshing dips in the Tasman Sea. In the town centre are no less than 10 restaurants and five cafés for peeps to fill tummies in any way they choose, be it a plate of Spanish paella or afternoon coffee and cake. A highlight of Ettalong is the Cinema Paradiso, an old-world theatre where guests can watch the latest Hollywood blockbusters with a side of buttered popcorn.

Travellers of all ages will have a ball at the Australian Reptile Park where they can watch a crocodile feeding, see giant tarantulas or learn about the Tasmanian devil conservation program. On the weekend, shoppers can get their fix at the Ettalong Markets, where a jumble of clothing, craft, décor and fresh produce stalls all vie for attention. Palm Beach, the site of Home and Away’s fictional Summer Bay, is also close to Ettalong and can be reached by ferry, making for a fun day trip and maybe even some celebrity spotting.