Originally named after the infamous Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro’s Brazil, Copacabana is slowly yet surely becoming as popular as the Brazilian Beach itself.

Located just one hour outside of Sydney, Copacabana is a Central Coast suburb renowned for its laid-back lifestyle and relaxing beachside aesthetic.

Despite being renowned as one of the coast's most popular surfing spots, Copacabana also boasts a series of local attractions including whale watching, walking trails, kayaking and more.

1. Walk

Taking place annually in June, 5 Lands Walk is a popular event many Copacabana locals love to participate in. 

Starting at MacMasters Beach Surf Club, heading north to the surf clubs at Copacabana, Avoca Beach, North Avoca and Terrigal, 5 Lands Walk is a cultural walking event that takes place each year, bringing together aboriginal culture, food, music, dance, workshops and craft, with the wider public.

Taking an average an average 2 hours and 33 minutes to complete, this walking event has become a popular walking trail leading up to and after the event. 

With several lookout points, bathrooms and local cafes along the walking trail, it serves as a great weekend activity may you be planning to participate in the next 5 Lands Walk or not.  

2. Watch

Celebrated as one of the Central Coast’s best spots for whale watching, Copacabana’s Captain Cook Lookout is the ideal spot for soaking up the views whilst also spotting a Whale or two.

Located at the top of the hill along Del Monte Place, Captain Cook lookout features several viewing platforms where observers can spot Humpback Whales on their migratory routes between June-July and October-November.  Due to the northerly currents at these times of the year, the whales are prone to come quite close to the coastline.  

The lookout provides views of the NSW coastline with further views north to The Skillion at Terrigal and south beyond Macmasters Beach.

3. Relax

Run by Rachel Cutcliffe, Copa Yoga is a boutique yoga studio located at Copacabana. Designed to be just as relaxing as the small beachside suburb itself, Copa Yoga is a tranquil and unwinding space where all are welcome.

Striving to create a yoga community where people can de-stress, reconnect with themselves and make space amongst the busyness of their lives, Cutcliffe has built Copa Yoga to offer both group and private classes.

4. Eat and Drink

When it comes to where one should eat and drink in Copacabana, the small seaside town is known for its boutique bakeries, waterfront restaurants and popular ice-creameriers. 

Situated just across from Copacabana Beach, The Bees Knees Eatery is a small eatery serving locally fresh produce with seasonal flavour. Offering a variety of toasties, croissants and smoothies, the popular eatery has become a favoured spot amongst both locals and seasonal tourists.   

If you're looking to quench your thirst and dine in for an evening of unique cocktails and delish food, Copacabana’s Ocean Bar Cantina is one of the many restaurants highlighting the small town's seasonal produce.

Located on Del Monte Place, Ocean Bar Cantina servers everything from tapas to prawn twisters, octopus and salt and pepper squid.  With indoor and outdoor seating overlooking Copacabana Beach, Ocean Bar Cantina is ideal for all occasions, catering to both small and larger groups.

Or if you are craving Italian, look no further than Lady Copa Pizzeria de Birra for gourmet artisan woodfire pizza other tasty delights. 

5. Stay

Whether you are staying three nights or five, Copacabana’s The Lodge holiday home is ideal for larger groups of family or friends looking to stay together. 

With five bedrooms, three bathrooms, a private hot tub and a swimming pool, this is far from your average holiday home. Offering a dual living space, outside seating and two decks, The Lodge encourages guests to unwind and relax, all whilst entertaining and mingling with those they are staying with.

With the beach within walking distance of The Lodge’s doorsteps, going from the beach to the bar has never been easier.   

6. Play

Whether you're looking to have a quick afternoon dip or go Kayaking, Copacabana’s Cockrone Lagoon is the perfect spot for both.

If you are looking for a local water activity, water sports activities business, ECO certified Aquafun Avoca Lake offer several activities including stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and pedal boats. Located in Heazlett Park on the shore of Avoca Lake, Aquafun is only a short drive from Copacabana.

Situated on the Central Coast between Copacabana and MacMasters Beach, Cockrone Lagoon is also an off-leash “dog-friendly” area so owners can let their dogs run freely around the lagoon. 

With beachside neighbours Avoca Beach and Macmasters Beach only a small stroll away, guests visiting the small town are encouraged to venture further past Copacabana and experience what it’s popular neighbours have to offer. 

May you be indulging in a luxurious beachside dinner at Avoca Beach House or enjoying a relaxing breakfast and some live music at Macs Beach Cafe, the two nearby suburbs offer up a selection of activities and attractions for the whole family.

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This article was originally authored by Phoebe Blogg, as part of a Love Central Coast grant project brought to you by Destination Central Coast, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments under the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund. To maintain accuracy, some editorial changes may have been made since publication.

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