Nestled between lush landscapes and pristine coastlines, the Central Coast of New South Wales (NSW) is not only a paradise for nature lovers but also offers a haven for book lovers.
From charming independent bookstores and hidden cozy nooks filled with literary treasures, to large corporate bookshops here’s a guide to the best bookshops on the central coast that you can’t afford to miss.
Umina Beach Book Nook

A completely unique space full of magic and loveliness. It’s cosy and cute and packed with the latest new releases, classic reads, great kids, travel, business, personal development, non-fiction, cooking books and more. A great kiddies corner packed with beautiful books as well as toys. It also stocks a huge range of jigsaws, gifts, cards and wrapping.
The super knowledgeable staff enhances the experience and they are always eager to share recommendations and literary stories.
The bookshop is known for its friendly community vibe, great literary events and also offers special orders for customers.
P.s. yes we might be a bit biased but we hope you agree 🙂
Umina Beach Book Nook, 9/327 West St, Umina Beach NSW 2257
https://uminabeachbooknook.com.au/
Coast Books & Records
A lovely shop packed with treasures and piled high with second-hand books, magazines, DVDs, CDs and videos. Super friendly customer service and heaps of choice.
Shop 10-13, 7/9 The Boulevarde, Woy Woy NSW 2256
No website
Rubys Café and books
With a wide assortment of second-hand books available, Ruby’s Cafe and Books offers a unique space to take some time out and enjoy their cafe menu and enjoy some seriously good coffee. P.s. The staff are LOVELY!
320 West Street, Umina Beach NSW, Australia
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rubys-Cafe-Books/178052565541896
BookFace Erina
Owned by Paul and Leo Berkelouw BookFace has a wide range of books and is known for its schmick store layout, large selection of titles and for supporting local authors.
KM 006, Terrigal Dr, Erina NSW 2250
https://www.bookfacestores.com.au/erina-fair
QBD Tuggerah
A super well-stocked bookshop with a great range of latest releases and old favourites. With fantastic specials arriving weekly and lots of bargain books.
Shop 1140/1, Westfield Tuggerah Corner Wyong Road and, Gavenlock Rd, Tuggerah NSW 2259
https://www.qbd.com.au/bookfest/tuggerah/
Explore the Central Coast’s bookshops is a fabulous day out – we’re only an hour from Sydney. Just hope off at Woy Woy station if you want to visit the Book Nook in Umina, there are regular buses (the number 50 and 55).
Or you can hop in a taxi for around $20 (Ubesr aren’t yet a thing on the coast).
If you want to grab a coffee before you come to the Nook we love Six Degrees cafe next door, ProJuice over the road and the coffee at Ruby’s mentions above.
These bookish retreats reflect the warmth and creativity of the region, inviting you to browse, read, and immerse yourself in the world of stories.
Thanks
Kate