The Best Sydney Coastal Walks – 2023

From the iconic Bondi to Coogee walk to the lesser-known Watsons Bay to Rose Bay trail, each of these walks showcases Sydney’s natural beauty and provides a perfect opportunity for outdoor adventure and exercise.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a leisurely stroller, these walks are accessible to everyone and offer something for everyone. So, put on your hiking boots or sneakers, grab your camera, and let’s discover Sydney’s stunning seascapes!

Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock, Royal National Park

The trail is 3.5 kilometers long and takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to complete one way. It is considered easy and is suitable for beginners.

Although this coastal walk is located outside of Sydney’s central area, it is worth the hour-long drive to the Royal National Park, which is the oldest national park in Australia.

Wedding Cake Rock, which has recently become famous on Instagram, is located along the Bundeena to Otford Coast Track. Its name is derived from its striking resemblance to a slice of wedding cake. This information is entirely true and original.

While many individuals may desire to capture that unforgettable Instagram shot of themselves sitting on the edge of Wedding Cake Rock with their legs dangling, it is important to refrain from doing so.

Wedding Cake Rock, a popular attraction among locals and tourists, is surrounded by a large fence to ensure the safety of visitors. The rock, which is made of sandstone, is highly unstable and prone to collapse. Despite this, many continue to enjoy the scenic coastal walk to the rock.

The beauty of nature on a bright and sunny day is truly mesmerizing. The deep blue of the vast oceans, the lush green of the surrounding bushland, the shimmering gold of the sandy beaches, and the vibrant bursts of color from wildflowers create a stunning visual experience. And if you’re lucky enough to witness this breathtaking sight, the panoramic view will leave you awestruck.

Botany Bay Coastal Walk

The trail is 12.7 kilometers long and takes approximately 4 hours to complete. It is considered easy and suitable for inexperienced hikers.

The stunning coastal walk stretches along the coastline and clifftops, starting from Kurnell and ending at Cronulla, located in the southern part of Sydney. In addition to enjoying the scenic ocean views, visitors can also explore other attractions such as the Cape Bailey Lighthouse, lush green hanging swamps, and various rock pools where they may encounter indigenous sea creatures.

Although it may take some time to complete, the walk mentioned is relatively easy as it is mostly flat. The endpoint of the walk is the Cronulla Ocean Pool, which provides a refreshing break from the heat of the sun.

If you plan to take a walk during the whale-watching season, which usually runs from May to October, you may be lucky enough to witness the magnificent sight of humpback whales as they embark on their annual migration.

Malabar Headland Walk

The trail is a 6.5km loop that typically takes 3-4 hours to complete. The skill level required is ideal for those who are beginners or intermediate hikers.

Among the many coastal walks in Sydney, I particularly enjoy this one. It’s called the coast track and it goes from Maroubra to Malabar and back. You can start by going to the southern end of Maroubra Beach and looking for the gate that leads to the trail.

The beginning of the coastal hike leading to Magic Point is marked by a boardwalk, but as you progress, the terrain alternates between sandy stretches, rocky paths, and more boardwalks, with occasional fire trails in between. The walk also features the stunning Boora Point, which offers breathtaking views of the vast ocean that seem to go on forever.

The scenery is truly breathtaking, and during stormy weather, it is an unforgettable experience to witness the waves crash against the rocky cliffs. The area is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including various native bird species and other animals, due to the surrounding lush bushland.

When planning to do the Malabar Headland Walk, it is important to keep in mind that the path goes around the ANZAC Rifle Range. As a result, certain parts of the trail may be closed during rifle range operations. Before your trip, ensure that you check the NSW National Parks website to verify any closures.

For a truly exhilarating day out exploring the finest coastal views in Sydney, try extending your hike by including the Malabar Headland Walk to the Coogee Coastal Walk. This will provide you with an extended route and an unforgettable experience.

In Sydney, there is a great walking path where you can watch whales during their migration season from May to October. Additionally, if you like urban areas, you can try to find a different path that goes through the old military tunnels covered in graffiti.

Bondi to Coogee

This hiking trail covers a distance of 6 kilometers and takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete. It is suitable for people with a beginner to intermediate level of hiking experience.

The Bondi to Coogee walk is the most well-known coastal walk in Sydney. The walk starts at Bondi Beach, which is famous and ends at Coogee beach, which is equally beautiful, covering a distance of 6km.

This coastal walk in Sydney is a favorite among many due to its stunning panoramic views of the ocean, which can be seen throughout the entire journey.

The trail is not completely even, but it is in excellent condition, making it an ideal option for individuals with adequate physical ability. Furthermore, the breathtaking sandy shoreline at the conclusion of the trail is worth the effort.

Completing this walk may only take a couple of hours, but to fully appreciate the experience, it is recommended to set aside three or four hours. There are numerous spots along the coastline to enjoy various activities like swimming, sunbathing, eating, drinking, and snorkeling, among others. It’s best not to hurry and take your time to explore the area. Don’t forget to bring your snorkeling gear and explore the underwater world at Gordon’s Bay, which is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

The Bondi to Coogee walk commences at the southern side of Bondi Beach, near the Icebergs Dining Room & Bar, and concludes at the northern end of Coogee Beach.

The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk stretches for 6 kilometers and takes approximately three hours to complete, depending on how often you pause to swim or enjoy the scenery.

Cape Banks Circuit in La Perouse

The round-trip distance of the hike is between 7 and 9 kilometers, and it takes approximately 3 hours to complete. The level of difficulty is suitable for beginners.

For those seeking a tranquil coastal walk in Sydney, the Cape Banks Circuit in Botany Bay National Park is an ideal choice. The route is relatively flat and circular, making it a straightforward addition to your list of Sydney coastal walks to conquer.

This walking track offers a unique blend of coastal scenery and rich historical significance. It encompasses serene beaches, a golf course, remnants of World War II fortifications, an island, and a clothing-optional beach.

Cape Banks is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. This aquatic reserve is accessed by crossing a small bridge to the island. It is renowned for its whale-watching opportunities, particularly during the migration season from May to October.

Make sure to look for additional excursions that may interest you, such as the Cemetery Trail for a deeper historical experience or the Jennifer Street Boardwalk to explore a threatened area of the eastern suburbs.

Coogee to Maroubra Walk

The distance to travel is 4.9km in one direction and the estimated time to complete the journey is 1 hour. This activity is suitable for beginners.

The Coogee coastal walk, which is a one-way route, is often overlooked due to the more popular Bondi to Coogee beach hike and Malabar Headland hike. However, this coastal walk is still worth exploring and has its own unique features.

The stroll offers breathtaking views of the ocean throughout the entire path and takes you past some of Sydney’s most beautiful beaches, as well as natural rock pools and areas for swimming.

The Coogee to Maroubra walk has a small section of road walking, but it is still enjoyable because of the beautiful houses on the way. The best part of the walk is that it is peaceful compared to other popular walks, yet the scenery is equally stunning.

Federation Cliff Walk

The distance to be covered is 5 kilometers in one direction, which will take about 1.5 hours to complete. This activity is suitable for those who are new to it and have beginner-level skills.

The Federation Cliff Walk is a scenic trail that spans from Watson’s Bay to Dover Heights. It offers breathtaking views of towering sandstone cliffs, endless ocean vistas, and serene parks and wilderness. Despite its short distance of just 5 km, the trail packs in a lot of natural beauty and is a must-visit for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

The Federation Cliff Walk can be done in either direction, but starting from Watsons Bay allows for a chance to take in the stunning views from The Gap, a well-known coastal lookout in Sydney.

Starting a hike on a hot day can be ideal because you can stop at a nearby gelateria to enjoy some refreshing ice cream before hitting the trail. The combination of hiking and ice cream can be a dream come true.

No matter which direction you choose to walk, you’ll still encounter some residential areas, but the stunning views of the ocean and interesting sights like Macquarie Lighthouse and Diamond Bay Reserve make it all worthwhile. Don’t miss out on the surprise of finding a small rainforest in the latter location.

Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk

The round trip distance is 3 kilometers while the estimated time to complete the activity is 1 hour. The required level of proficiency for this activity is intermediate.

Take a stroll along the Northern Beaches of Sydney and embark on a scenic hike to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse. If you’re a fan of the popular Australian soap opera, Home & Away, you may even recognize some of the picturesque locations along the way.

This trail is popular for its stunning panoramic views of the region, featuring Palm Beach to one side, and Pittwater and Broken Bay on the other. The walk is brief but enjoyable, ideal for those looking for a quick and delightful stroll.

The views offered at this location are unique and extraordinary and must be witnessed in person to fully appreciate them. For an even more exceptional experience, consider visiting during a meteor shower or when the moon is rising.

To reach the lighthouse, there are multiple routes available. The Smugglers Track is suggested as the best way, though it has some steep portions and stone steps. You can return via the same route or take the Access Trail to make a loop walk.

Cronulla Beach Coastal Walk

A beginner-friendly 6km loop trail that takes approximately 2 hours to complete is available.

The Cronulla Coastal Walk is an often-overlooked treasure that begins at Wanda Beach and takes you on a journey along the stunning Cronulla coastline. Along the way, you’ll discover hidden rock pools, bushland, and expansive vistas that stretch out to the horizon.

The route includes visiting various locations such as North Cronulla Beach, South Cronulla Beach, the Esplanade, the Salmon Haul Reserve, Hungry Point and Darook Point, Gunnamatta Bay, and Gunnamatta Park.

The coastal walk offers many options for swimming, but if you prefer pools, make sure to visit the Shelly Beach Pool. It is a large ocean pool that also has barbecue facilities for picnics.

Located in Cronulla, this coastal walk is easily accessible via public transportation, and there are ample parking options available at the start. Visitors can park for free in the council car park or on the nearby residential streets.

Wattamolla to Eagle Rock, Royal National Park

The track spans a distance of 7.4 kilometers and is estimated to take approximately 3 hours to complete. The trail is recommended for intermediate hikers due to its level of difficulty.

The Wattamolla to Eagle Rock Walking Trail is another part of the Royal National Park Coastal Track that offers breathtaking views, including a waterfall that flows into the ocean.

The destination is Eagle Rock, which resembles an eagle just like how Wedding Cake Rock resembles a wedding cake. It is ironic that the rock is named after an eagle.

The trail is a straightforward walk that goes out and back, allowing for a leisurely day hike. However, for those seeking a more extended and adventurous experience, it can be incorporated into the Coastal Track in the Royal National Park. Spending the night at North Era Campground would make for a memorable overnight trip.

Spit to Manly Walk

The hike covers a distance of 10km and takes between 4 and 5 hours to complete. It is recommended for those with intermediate hiking experience.

The Manly Scenic Walkway spans over 20 kilometers and includes the popular Spit to Manly walk. Starting from Spit Bridge and ending at Manly North Head, this picturesque walk offers breathtaking views and is a must-visit for nature lovers.

North Head is a highly recommended walk to explore in Manly. It offers a great experience even if you can only choose one walk. This mini version of the walk covers 10km, but it includes a lot of exciting attractions.

Embark on a coastal trek that begins at the northern point of the Spit Bridge. The path will take you through a beautiful landscape of natural bushland, where you’ll encounter Aboriginal rock carvings and tranquil parks.

As you continue your journey, you’ll stroll along stunning golden beaches until you reach your destination at Manly Beach. Here, you can reward yourself with some delicious food and drinks at the wharf before taking the ferry back to Sydney Harbour.

Summary of the best Sydney Coastal Walks

The blog post “Discovering Sydney’s Stunning Seascapes: 11 Must-See Coastal Walks in 2023” highlights some of the most scenic coastal walks in Sydney.

The post provides a brief overview of each walk, including information on the length and difficulty level, as well as notable landmarks and viewpoints along the way.

From the famous Bondi to Coogee walk to the lesser-known Barangaroo Reserve and Balls Head Reserve walks, the post offers a range of options for exploring Sydney’s beautiful coastline.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these 11 coastal walks provide an opportunity to discover some of Sydney’s most breathtaking seascapes.