Sydney is best explored on foot, particularly along its iconic coastal walks that offer breathtaking harbour views, secluded coves, wild bushland, and historical landmarks, and none are more emblematic of these features than the Bondi to Coogee walk. One of the few urban coastal trails in the world, the walk meanders past some of Sydney’s most popular beaches, seriously impressive vistas, and charming cafes along the way. While the world-famous walk often dominates the conversation when it comes to coastal trails, many other walks in Sydney boast equally spectacular scenery and plenty of recreational activities that leave you with a glowing impression of what the city has to offer. Immerse yourself in Sydney’s coastal beauty and check out these nine remarkable coastal walks that are arguably as good as Bondi to Coogee.
1. Hermitage Foreshore Walk
The Hermitage Foreshore Walk is about as picturesque as they come. Although short, the entire trail is rife with stunning views boasting turquoise-tinted waters, native bushland and hidden beaches. Begin your walk at Bayview Hill Road or Nielsen Park and take in lovely views of Shark Island, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the picturesque grounds of Strickland House along the route. You’ll find many grassy spots ideal for spreading out a picnic and basking in the sun. This is one of Sydney’s finest short coastal walks and perfect for those short on time. Find the full route here.
Distance: 3.5km
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty level: Easy and generally suitable for all fitness levels
2. Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk
If you’re a fan of Aussie soap opera Home and Away, you may recognise some highlights along the walk. Located in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the popular Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk is a short yet rewarding trek up to Barranejoey Lighthouse with plenty of variety on the way including 360-degree views over Palm Beach, Pittwater and Broken Bay. It’s also a prime spot for whale watching enthusiasts in Sydney. The walk begins and ends at the Governor Phillip Park car park. This is another excellent short walk that delivers plenty of experience in a short amount of time. Read more about it on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Distance: 3km return
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty level: Intermediate with some steep sections
3. Bradley’s Head to Chowder Bay
The Bradley’s Head Walk is surprisingly among the lesser highlighted coastal walks in Sydney which is surprising considering it encompasses some of the city’s very best in one short trail. Complimented by unrivaled views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and the city, the walks winds past Taronga Zoo continuing on to Bradleys Head and Chowder Bay flanked by native wildlife, ancient trees and glorious views. Catch the Taronga Zoo ferry from Circular Quay to make the most of your experience and give yourself some time to explore Chowder Bay. Start planning your walk here.
Distance: 8km return
Time: 2.5 hours
Difficulty level: Medium, suitable for most ages and fitness levels
4. Cremorne Point Walk
The Cremorne Point Walk is debatably the best short walk in Sydney and a personal favourite. Winding past Mosman Bay Wharf around Cremorne Point to Mosman Bay, with remarkable harbour views, hidden coves, a popular light house and quaint gardens, this coastal walk is ripe with photogenic landscapes. The circuit trail is also relatively flat, perfect for beginner friendly strolls. Starting from Cremorne ferry wharf, the walk ascends to Robertsons Point and lighthouse, with some truly beautiful houses and architectural gems to admire along the way. This is a perfect option for those seeking a less strenous walk.
Distance: 8km return
Time: 2.5 hours
Difficulty level: Easy and suitable for most ages and fitness levels
5. Wattamolla to Eagle Rock
If you’re looking to tackle a longer trail, the Wattamolla to Eagle Rock walk is easily one of the best routes in the Royal National Park. On offer are rugged coastal vistas, a magnificent waterfall that drops into the ocean and lush bushland. It ends at Eagle Rock, a huge sandstone overhang at the national park that looks like an eagle. Very fitting. The waterfall is lovely especially after a day of rain with not one but three cascades to admire. Stay a while and marvel at the sunset views, you won’t be disappointed. This is also a popular hiking route so expect crowds. Find the full Royal Coast Track here.
Distance: 7.4km return
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
6. Federation Cliff Walk
You can’t beat the Federation Cliff Walk for strikingly blue ocean views. Starting from Raleigh Reserve in Dover Heights, the trail offers five kilometres of picture-perfect lookouts from start to finish, with awe-inspiring views out to the Pacific Ocean all the way to Watsons Bay. The walk ends at Watsons Bay but if you continue on for another two kilometres you’ll find Australia’s oldest lighthouse perched by the ocean, views of The Gap, a popular coastal lookout in Sydney and Diamond Bay Reserve, a beautiful clifftop reserve with even more ocean views.
Distance: 5km
Time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty level: Beginner friendly
7. Malabar Headland Walk
The Malabar Headland Walk follows the coastline between Maroubra beach and Malabar beach with fabulous clifftop views. This is another fabulous spot for whale watching. Start your adventure at the southern end of Maroubra Beach, where a metal gate marks the entry to the trail. The walk features a mix of landscapes, including sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, and lush bushland so there is plenty to admire along the way. You can also easily access the nearby beaches if you’re keen for a post-walk swim. This is also the best walk to opt for if you want to avoid the crowds. Find more info about the walk on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Distance: 6.5km loop
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate
8. Spit to Manly
The Spit to Manly walk is regarded as one of the world’s top natural attractions and it’s easy to see why. The brilliant bushwalk packs a punch with secret beaches, native wildlife, dramatic cliffs and unspoiled views of the harbour. The walk begins at The Spit where you’ll find some charming eateries like Plonk Beach Cafe, for a bite and a cup of coffee, winds past the lovely Clontarf Beach, through to Dobroyd Head and the historic Grotto Point Lighthouse. This is another classic coastal walk which is a quintessential Sydney experience you shouldn’t miss. Find the full route here.
Distance: 10km one way
Time: 3.5-4 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate, suitable for most fitness levels
9. South Head Heritage Trail
The South Head Heritage Trail offers a blend of harbour views and lovely beaches with a side of Australia’s military history. The trail leads to the iconic, red and white striped Hornby Lighthouse, passing by historical military cannons, gun emplacements, and lightkeeper cottages along the way. Throughout the route, you’ll be enveloped in views of the Pacific Ocean and the Sydney Harbour. This mini-walk is excellent if you’re after something less time consuming but equally fulfilling. Find more info here.
Distance: 1.7km loop
Time: 30 minutes to an hour
Difficulty level: East, suitable for all fitness levels