Detectives are also appealing for any relevant information from the public relating to the incident that occurred about 8.30am on Wednesday, November 10, at the Beach Drive Hotel on the corner of Beach Road and Pacific Street.

According to NSW Police, a man armed with a weapon entered the reception office of the motel and threatened the 55-year-old male employee before destroying a desk phone, stealing cash, and fleeing the scene.

The unknown man was last seen running west along Beach Road a short time after the incident - the employee of the hotel was not physically injured.

The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 20 and 30 years of age, and was wearing a black coloured jumper, cap, pants, and a balaclava at the time. He also had a distinctive Australian accent.

Detective Sergeant Lee Brown, officer in charge of the investigation, said police believe someone in the area will recognise the man from the CCTV footage.

"Police conducted extensive patrols of the area immediately after the incident but were unsuccessful in locating the person responsible for this brazen crime," he said.

"We're asking the community to look closely at the CCTV and the person depicted in the dark clothing. We believe someone knows this person and may be able to assist us with our investigation.

"Local businesses up and down the state's coast have been subject to immense financial pressures from COVID-19. The callous disregard for others, their property and their safety will not be tolerated. I urge anyone with information to come forward."

If you recognise the man from the footage, or have any other relevant information, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.