Seaside Markets at Umina Beach
On the third Sunday of the month, the Peninsula Recreation Precinct at Umina Beach bursts into life with market stalls filling the grassy knoll from the surf club to the skate park.
After launching at the end of last year, the Umina Beach Markets are among the newest market offerings on the Coast but have very quickly become popular among the chic people of the Peninsula.
All streets leading to the beach park out early and if you want to get your hands on a Sunday treat, Sugar High Creations’ homemade doughnuts and macarons rarely last the day.
The markets are run by nouveau Coastie Ricky Simoes who moved to Umina from Sydney a couple of years ago.
As a lover of all things plant-based, he says the markets have a unique edge – they’re vegan-friendly.
Get your Sunday morning caffeine fix from East Coast Coffee Traders or the nearby Park Kiosk.
For a refreshing bevvy, try the Somersby orange juice. Chilled or slushed, it’ll hit the sweet spot.
It’s a shopper’s delight with everything from cheeseboards to cupcakes and cool threads on sale.
Get decked out in Drom clothing; float around the boho chic heaven that is Sea Vixen; and join the masses hunting and gathering at The Warehouse Clothing Co.
There’s plenty on offer for coastal chic homes at Land and Sea.
For the littlies, there’s tutus fit for any Princess at Love You Tutu, and Bubawear has baby threads so cute you’ll want to eat them.
Next to a second hand stall overflowing with records and toys we find a mish-mash of handmade cheeseboards and homegrown herbs, while nearby dreamcatchers float in the sea breeze.
Make sure you stop by Mala Moon for pretty prints including majestic polar bears and whales.
There are many stalls selling superb soy candles including Summarry’s Central Coast range featuring the Ocean Beach candle, a delectable combination of desert lime and sea parsley.
Lovelea’s cupcakes are almost too pretty to eat and lovers of jams and condiments are spoiled for choice at Jenn Jam’s and Soul Food.
When your bags are full from seaside shopping, take a moment to listen to the talented local musos who busk throughout the day.
While yogis can indulge in some free outdoor yoga, with two half hour sessions usually held in the morning.
Coastal Chic Tip: Avoid the parking craziness with a free shuttle bus from Woy Woy or Ettalong Wharfs or Ettalong Diggers.