Best Coastal Walks In Sydney
The perfect way to start the day before indulging at your favourite seaside cafe
We’re treated with heaps of stunning coastal walks in our beautiful harbour city, along the calm waters of Sydney Harbour National Park and the rugged coastlines of Royal National Park.
And with the warm weather finally upon us, it’s time to don your favourite pair of walking shoes and soak in some sunshine!
Here are our top picks for the best coastal walks Sydney has to offer.
No Sydney coastal walks is more iconic than Bondi to Coogee. The track hugs the eastern suburbs' best beaches, from Bondi Icebergs to Tamarama, Bronte, Gordons Bay and Coogee. Catch sunrise at Bondi to beat the crowds, then reward yourself with a dip and pizza at Coogee Pavilion. Length: 6km one-way.
Soak in sparkling Sydney Harbour views on this easy bush track from Taronga Zoo to Chowder Bay. Expect postcard shots of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, boats bobbing below Bradleys Head Amphitheatre, military relics and ancient trees along the way. A gentle walk with big harbour payoff. Length: 4km one-way.
Perfect for a quick walk before brunch, this easy trail runs from Bayview Hill Road or Nielsen Park with stunning views to Shark Island and the Harbour Bridge. Stop for picnics along the way or head to The Nielsen for lunch overlooking the water. Length: 1.8km one-way.
Head to Palm Beach for this coastal climb to Barrenjoey Lighthouse, 91 metres above sea level. Take the longer, easier Access Trail or the steep, stepped Smugglers Track for a challenge. Either way you're rewarded with sweeping views over Palm Beach and the water below. Length: 3km return.
This northern beaches classic winds through bushland and along the harbour, past sculptural rocks, quiet beaches and plenty of picnic spots. Well signposted with water fountains, it takes under four hours, a great half day out. Pack your swimmers for tidal pools at Fairlight, Crater Cove and Reef Beach. Length: 10km one-way.
Not for the faint hearted, this epic two-day hike through Royal National Park from Bundeena to Otford, past clifftop lookouts, swim spots and whale watching in season. Book the North Era campground ahead, gear up properly and expect steep, rugged terrain best suited to experienced bushwalkers. Length: 27km one-way.
Head to Kurnell for a quiet cliff track along the coast of Kamay Botany Bay National Park with some of Sydney's best whale watching in season. Expect sandstone clifftops, sweeping ocean views and the historic Cape Baily Lighthouse. Pack water and sunscreen, as there's no shade or water along the way. Length: 8km one-way .
This easy loop walk from Watsons Bay wharf to Hornby Lighthouse is perfect when you're short on time. The path skirts Camp Cove and Lady Bay Beach before reaching the candy striped lighthouse on South Head. Allow about an hour, then reward yourself with fish and chips back at the wharf. Length: 1-3km return.
The Federation Cliff Walk runs from Raleigh Reserve in Dover Heights to Watsons Bay, taking in wild sandstone cliffs and timber boardwalk of Diamond Bay Reserve. Expect big ocean views, whale sightings in season and a relaxed grade with a few sets of stairs. Finish with a drink at Watsons Bay. Length: 5km one-way.