From Australia’s tallest mountain to mystical waterfalls, historic sites, and lush forests, national parks in NSW are a treasure trove of natural wonders. There are over 240 parks around NSW but you only need to look in your own backyard to find one of the most visited national parks in the state. The Sydney Harbour National Park is a historic destination right in the heart of Sydney that is made up of tranquil harbour islands, beaches, lookouts, a beloved local lighthouse and some of the best views of the Sydney Harbour. There is plenty to see and do in the 392-hectare space, here’s everything you need to know before visiting.
Sydney Harbour National Park
There’s a reason the Sydney Harbour National Park is one of the most popular in NSW. Brimming with walking trails, Aboriginal carvings, sandstone cliffs, birdwatching opportunities and swimming spots galore, the park offers the best of Sydney’s natural beauty to visitors and there is zero chance you’ll tire of the breathtaking views.
How to get there
The Sydney Harbour National Park has five entry points: Bradleys Head Road, Camp Cove carpark, Dobroyd Head, Middle Head carpark and Nielsen Park carpark. The park is easily accessible by various public transport options including ferries, buses and trains. It’s located approximately 40 minutes from the CBD by car. Plan your travel on Transport for NSW.
Is it free to visit?
While many of the top attractions and activities at Sydney Harbour National Park are free, there are entry fees for parking. At Bradleys Head, it’s $8 per vehicle per day; at North Head, $5 per vehicle per day; and at Chowder Bay, the fees are $3 per hour (up to $16 per day) Monday to Friday, and $4 per hour (up to $20 per day) on weekends and public holidays.
Highlights of Sydney Harbour National Park
The sprawling national park covers a vast area around the harbour and is home to everything from beaches to bushwalking and coastal trails, historical sites, swimming spots, and Aboriginal rock engravings. Since its establishment in 1975, the park has protected a range of islands, headlands, and foreshore areas, serving as a refuge for local flora and fauna.
There’s a lot to see and do here for everyone’s tastes and interests. For a leisurely picnic in the sun, surrounded by views of the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Harbour, make your way to the historic Clarke Island or head to the 1.5-hectare Shark Island that offers serene grassy areas, a spacious gazebo and picnic areas.
Coastal walks can be found in abundance here. Some standout options include the South Head Heritage Trail which leads to the iconic, Hornby Lighthouse with its famous red and white stripes passing by historical military cannons, and charming lightkeeper cottages along the way. The lighthouse offers lovely water views and excellent whale-watching opportunities in the winter months. Other notable walking tracks include the Manly Scenic Walkway, also known as the Spit to Manly Walk, with sandy beaches and gorgeous lookouts. The short and easy 1km Fairfax Walk is perfect for kids and families, while the extensive Harbour Bridge to The Spit Bridge is a far more challenging 16.5km route, taking hikers past Taronga Zoo, rainforests, wild bushland, and federation-style homes.
Beach lovers can make a beeline to the stunning little Lady Bay Beach, a short walk from Camp Cove and enjoy a picnic in the sun or a refreshing dip in the clear blue-green waters. Reef Beach, located at Dobroyd Head near Manly, is rich with Aboriginal and historic significance within the park. Cobblers Beach and Chowder Bay are other excellent swimming spots but our favourite is Collins Flat Beach, a hidden gem with a tropical island feel and a tiny waterfall of its own.
Find more highlights of the park on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
The best time to visit
The Sydney Harbour National Park is a year-round destination. Autumn and winter are ideal for long hikes in the sun, while spring brings vibrant blooms and a chance to spot migrating whales, summer is the perfect time for water activities like swimming, kayaking, and snorkelling. Sydney Harbour National Park is open every day from sunrise to sunset, though it may close temporarily in the event of poor weather or fire danger.