{"id":165775,"date":"2023-05-31T10:35:02","date_gmt":"2023-05-31T00:35:02","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/?p=165775"},"modified":"2023-05-31T16:25:30","modified_gmt":"2023-05-31T06:25:30","slug":"sydney-coastal-walks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/nsw\/sydney\/sydney-coastal-walks\/","title":{"rendered":"The most magical bush and coastal walks in Sydney"},"content":{"rendered":"
There\u2019s plenty more to hiking Sydney than the Coogee to Bondi trail with breathtaking bush and coastal walks dotting the entire city.<\/h5>\n

It\u2019s renowned for its iconic coastal trails but searching \u2018bush walks near me\u2019 from anywhere in Sydney<\/a> will unearth magnificent water-gawking treks complemented by further natural wonders. From walks that encircle the very best whale-watching vantage points to trails that lead to the city\u2019s most secret swimming spots<\/a>, action-packed inland paths lie far and wide.<\/p>\n

Easy hikes<\/h2>\n

America Bay Walking Track, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park<\/h3>\n

One of Sydney\u2019s ultimate picnic spots lies at the end of the America Bay Walking Track<\/a> underneath a cascading waterfall surrounded by dense bush. The track follows a sandstone ridge, sitting beneath a canopy of lush gum trees. Look closely and you\u2019ll find watering holes hidden between red rocks that are filled with yabbies and tadpoles.<\/p>\n

Getting there:<\/strong> America Bay is in the West Head precinct of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Driving here is the best option, however, the track is also accessible from the waterfront if you\u2019re lucky enough to have access to a boat (or tinnie).<\/p>\n

Distance:<\/strong>\u00a01.8 kilometres return<\/p>\n

Level:<\/strong>\u00a0Medium<\/p>\n

\"Friends

America Bay Walking Track follows a sandstone ridge, sitting beneath a canopy of lush gum trees. (Image: Destination NSW)<\/p><\/div>\n

The Sanctuary Loop, North Head Sanctuary, Manly<\/h3>\n

Gaze out over a sweeping view of Sydney Harbour and the bustling CBD from North Head Sanctuary. Its Sanctuary Loop walk<\/a> goes past Sydney\u2019s former Army School of Artillery, as well as the Third Quarantine Cemetery which was built in 1881 and offers a prime example of how our quarantine processes evolved over time.<\/p>\n

\"a

Marvel at The Sanctuary, Q Station North Head Sydney Harbour National Park. (Image: John Yurasek\/DPE)<\/p><\/div>\n

Hanging swamps and banksia scrub make up some of the unique vegetation along the track. Stop and cool off at one of the cute little beaches along the way, and finish with a coffee at Bella Vista Cafe up on the headland.<\/p>\n

\"a

Admire the scenic landscape at North Head Sydney Harbour National Park. (Image: Katherine Ashley-DPE)<\/p><\/div>\n

Getting there:<\/strong>\u00a0A bus to North Head Sanctuary from Manly Wharf runs regularly. There\u2019s also a bike path running all the way from the Wharf to North Head Sanctuary.<\/p>\n

Distance:<\/strong>\u00a0Two-hour loop<\/p>\n

Level:<\/strong>\u00a0Easy<\/p>\n

Harold Reid Foreshore Track, Castlecrag<\/h3>\n

Combining the best of the bush with the best of the ocean, the Harold Reid Foreshore Track<\/a> covers Middle Harbour and much of its staggering beauty. Highlights include the Harold Reid Headland, also referred to as Sugarloaf, a sandstone structure that dramatically looms above sea level for your viewing pleasure. Featuring slippery surfaces and rocky terrain at times, the track is suitable for families but just make sure everyone\u2019s got the right footwear. You\u2019ll spy an array of birdlife including Grey Fantails, Kookaburras and Superb Fairy-wrens, plus views out to Castlecrag\u2019s stunning Innisfallen Castle, mangroves and a picnic area with a gas barbecue.<\/p>\n

Getting there:<\/strong> Start your trail at the end of Sugarloaf Crescent in Castlecrag. You can park your car on the street right before hitting the signpost marking the track\u2019s entrance.<\/p>\n

Distance:<\/strong> four-kilometre loop<\/p>\n

Level:<\/strong> Easy to medium<\/p>\n

Moderate hikes<\/h2>\n

Sphinx Memorial to Bobbin Head Loop, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park<\/h3>\n

A long but easy walk that winds through thick mangroves and bushes overflowing with red bloodwoods and apple gums. Start at the Sphinx Memorial<\/a>, a striking sandstone monument built in memory of the lives lost during the First World War.<\/p>\n

\"the

You’ll stop by a river surrounded by thick mangroves. (Image: Natasha Webb\/DPE)<\/p><\/div>\n

End at Bobbin Head where you\u2019ll find an abundance of picnic tables and barbeques. If you haven\u2019t packed a spread, it\u2019s all good.\u00a0Waterside Bistro\u00a0is just around the corner within Empire Marina and serves up a mouth-watering selection of burgers, seafood, and hearty salads.<\/p>\n

\"a

Rest mid-hike to appreciate the scenery. (Image: Natasha Webb\/DPE)<\/p><\/div>\n

Getting there:<\/strong>\u00a0Sphinx Memorial is another one of those places you\u2019ll need a car to get to, with plenty of parking available at the grounds. Follow Bobbin Head Road from the Pacific Highway at Turramurra.<\/p>\n

Distance:<\/strong>\u00a010-kilometre loop<\/p>\n

Level:<\/strong>\u00a0Easy<\/p>\n

Resolute Beach Circuit Walk, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park<\/h3>\n

Discover some of Sydney\u2019s most stunning less-lazed-upon beaches all in one day with the Resolute Beach Circuit Walk. Offering access to Resolute Beach, one of Sydney\u2019s best covert swimming spots, this sometimes-steep trek also covers West Head and Great Mackerel beaches. And once you\u2019re navigated the trail speckled with rich flora and fauna and plonk yourself on Resolute itself, you\u2019ll be treated further to views across Pittwater and Barrenjoey Headland.<\/p>\n

Getting there:<\/strong> The Circuit Walk consists of two trails; one starts from the Resolute Picnic Area at the end of West Head Road where you\u2019ll find a car park. The other starts at the West Head Lookout, which is closed and undergoing maintenance until November 2023 but is accessible from the Resolute Picnic Area<\/a> when it\u2019s back up and running.<\/p>\n

Distance:<\/strong> 6-kilometre loop<\/p>\n

Level:<\/strong> Medium to hard<\/p>\n

\"Man

Discover some of Sydney\u2019s most stunning less-lazed-upon beaches all in one day with the Resolute Beach Circuit Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)<\/p><\/div>\n

Riverside Walking Track, Lane Cove National Park<\/h3>\n

Pack a picnic lunch and immerse yourself in lush bushlands along the Riverside Walking Track<\/a>. Featuring multiple picturesque spots to spread out a feast, the peaceful trail runs along the Lane Cove River so exploring will be freckled with water views. Spend the rest of your journey soaking up an incredible roster of birdlife as well as the odd swamp wallaby. And pesky bush turkeys? You\u2019ll find them everywhere, providing plenty to keep littler ones entertained.<\/p>\n

\"trees

Pass through the foggy Riverside Walking Track. (Image: Kevin McGrath\/DPE)<\/p><\/div>\n

Getting there: <\/strong>Reach the trail from either Delhi Road in West Chatswood or Lane Cove Road in Macquarie Park. There\u2019s parking up for grabs along the entire stretch including the Koonjeree Picnic Area towards the southern end of the trail.<\/p>\n

Distance:<\/strong> 5 kilometres one-way<\/p>\n

Level:<\/strong> Easy to medium<\/p>\n

Hard hikes<\/h2>\n

Curra Moors Loop Track, Royal National Park<\/h3>\n

A longish but flat walk that promises remarkable coastal views and one of the most popular whale spotting sites in Sydney. Scribbly gums huddle at the edge of the Curra Moors Loop Track<\/a> which opens onto a blossoming heath and ocean-facing sandstone cliffs. During spring, the flora will give your nostrils a delightful sensory experience and you may be lucky enough to spot echidnas roaming amongst the shrubbery.<\/p>\n

Getting there:\u00a0<\/strong>Getting to the Royal National Park from the CBD via public transport can be time-consuming (with no direct links), so driving here is the way to go. Vehicle passes are $12 for the day. Parking can be at a premium here on the weekends so get here early.<\/p>\n

Distance:<\/strong>\u00a010-kilometre loop<\/p>\n

Level:<\/strong>\u00a0Medium<\/p>\n

Benowie Walking Track, Berowra Valley National Park<\/h3>\n

Pack up and disappear for a few days by hiking the Benowie Walking Track<\/a>, running between Pennant Hills and Berowra Waters. A mixture of smooth boardwalk and uneven dirt that winds steadily amid rural bushland, it\u2019s the perfect pick if you\u2019re planning to camp along the way.<\/p>\n

\"Water

Make a splash in the cold water cascades at Berowra Creek. (Image: Nick Cubbin\/DPE)<\/p><\/div>\n

Lined with Sydney blue gums and budding black wattles, Benowie is just one part of the Great North Walk, stretching from Sydney to Newcastle. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled \u2013 you may stumble across ancient Aboriginal rock carvings or the remnants of an old quarry.<\/p>\n

\"the

Walk past the boats and houses along Benowie Walking Track. (Image: Nick Cubbin\/DPE)<\/p><\/div>\n

Getting there:<\/strong>\u00a0Most tracks out of Sydney require a car, however this one\u2019s only one kilometre from either Hornsby or Pennant Hills train station.<\/p>\n

Distance:\u00a0<\/strong>25 kilometres one-way<\/p>\n

Level:<\/strong>\u00a0Hard<\/p>\n

Bondi to Manly Walk, Bondi to Manly<\/h3>\n

Sydney\u2019s longest coastal trail showcases two of the city\u2019s most outstanding locales, blending beautiful bushwalking with exceptional ocean-gazing. The Bondi to Manly Walk will take you anywhere from two to six days, depending on your unique pace. Our advice? Savour the stretch and go slow. You\u2019ll be spoilt with natural rockpools, dramatic sandstone cliffs, secluded swimming spots and beaches, world-famous headlands, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Taronga Zoo and a string of fascinating historical remains and fixtures. Best of all, no part of the walk is overtly strenuous, and it\u2019s clearly signposted from start to finish. The only reason it\u2019s rated hard is due to its colossal length. There\u2019s even an app<\/a> that offers step-by-step guidance.<\/p>\n

Getting there:<\/strong> Start from Bondi Beach and make your way south along the South Head of Sydney\u2019s Eastern suburbs. Buses travel to Bondi Beach from Bondi Junction regularly every day.<\/p>\n

Distance:<\/strong> 80 kilometres<\/p>\n

Level:<\/strong> Hard<\/p>\n

\"Couple

The Bondi to Manly Walk will take you anywhere from two to six days. (Image: Destination NSW)<\/p><\/div>\n

How to prepare for a Sydney bushwalk<\/h2>\n

Step 1: Research and plan<\/h3>\n

Google everything you can about the trail you\u2019re tackling. Get a feel of the route, particularly if it\u2019s a long one, and check the difficulty level even if you\u2019re an experienced bushwalker. Conditions change and sections may be undergoing maintenance so always gather as much information as possible prior to go-time so there are no surprises.<\/p>\n

Step 2: Check the weather<\/h3>\n

It\u2019s a no-brainer but should be reminded. Ensure your walk isn\u2019t rained out or overheated unexpectedly.<\/p>\n

\"Couple

Research and plan before you head on a coastal walk. (Image: Destination NSW)<\/p><\/div>\n

Step 3: Piece together the perfect outfit<\/h3>\n

No matter where your journey takes you, waterproof and windproof clothing is your best bet and layering tops makes it easy to cool down as the day heats up. Plus, opting for long, loose pants will keep insects and grazes at bay. Choose sturdy, protective shoes with soles that grip and don\u2019t forget a hat.<\/p>\n

Step 4: Pack like a pro<\/h3>\n

Here\u2019s the checklist: sunscreen, insect repellent, more than two litres of water per person, nutritious snacks, a torch, a simple first aid kit that includes Band-Aids, antiseptic and small scissors and your mobile phone and\/or a map. If you\u2019re camping, you\u2019ll need a tent and sleeping bag at a minimum.<\/p>\n

\"Friends

Make sure you’re prepared and pack everything you need. (Image: Destination NSW)<\/p><\/div>\n

Step 5: Download an app<\/h3>\n

The NSW National Parks app<\/a> contains up-to-date information on hundreds of Sydney\u2019s best walks. Plus, you can download your route before you go so even if you\u2019re out of range, your map will remain a click away.<\/p>\n

Step 6: Tell a friend<\/h3>\n

Finally, make sure somebody knows you\u2019re heading out and may be uncontactable due to trekking outside of phone satellite proximity. It may seem extreme, but accidents can happen and it\u2019s better to err on the side of caution if you\u2019re planning an epic adventure.<\/p>\n

\"Couple

Make sure somebody knows you\u2019re heading out on a walk. (Image: Destination NSW)<\/p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

There\u2019s plenty more to hiking Sydney than the Coogee to Bondi trail with breathtaking bush and coastal walks dotting the entire city. It\u2019s renowned for its iconic coastal trails but searching \u2018bush walks near me\u2019 from anywhere in Sydney will unearth magnificent water-gawking treks complemented by further natural wonders. From walks that encircle the very […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":101,"featured_media":379327,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"article.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_expiration-date-status":"","_expiration-date":0,"_expiration-date-type":"","_expiration-date-categories":[],"_expiration-date-options":[]},"categories":[840],"tags":[6466,4403,4393,5713,5514,4628,4838,5861],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nMagical Sydney Bush And Coastal Walks - Australian Traveller<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"There\u2019s plenty more to hiking Sydney than the Coogee to Bondi trail with breathtaking bush and coastal walks dotting the entire city.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.australiantraveller.com\/nsw\/sydney\/sydney-coastal-walks\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Magical Sydney Bush And Coastal Walks - 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