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The Most Scenic Coastal Walks in Sydney
This seaside city is a walker's paradise. Explore on foot with our edit of the best coastal walks in Sydney.
Sydney’s coastline is a treasure trove of delights, from secluded bays to sheer sandstone cliffs, and home to some of Australia’s most striking wildlife. On a sunny spring day, there’s no better way to soak up Sydney’s offerings than with a cruisey coastal walk. Whether you’re channelling a cafe-hopping wander, or an immersive nature experience, Sydney’s coastal walk repertoire is world-class.
Curl Curl to Freshwater
This two-kilometre track hugs the beach and rugged coastline between North Curl Curl Beach and Freshwater Beach, traversing nature reserves, beach boardwalks and rock pools.
Starting at North Curl Curl Beach, navigate the dog-friendly nature reserve adjacent to Carrington Street and past the South Curl Curl Lifesaving Club. From here, you can enjoy the views out to sea as you make your way across the elevated boardwalk and onto the breathtaking McKillop Park lookout. Gusto on the Beach at South Curl Curl is the perfect rest stop.
Time: 1-hour loop
Malabar Headland Circuit Walk
This 5.5km loop walk offers up some of Sydney’s most scenic vistas. Take in coastal bushland, towering sandstone cliffs, and intriguing historical relics. During winter, this walk provides some of Sydney’s best whale watching ops, whilst other native wildlife like Kookaburras, seals, waterdragons and wallabies can be spotted year-round.
Time: 90 minutes
The Coast Track
This epic multi-day walk is a rite of passage for many locals. It can be broken up into segments and tackled over time, or enjoyed in its 26km entirety. Hugging Sydney’s southern coastline, you’ll pass some of the Royal National Park’s biggest highlights, including Wedding Cake Rock and Wattamolla. Leave plenty of time to soak up the seemingly endless hidden waterholes and secluded beaches.
Time: 8 hours
Cronulla Esplanade
If you’re looking for a walk that combines coastal scenery with coffee and cafes, this is it. Begin at either Wanda Surf Life Saving Club or Bass and Flinders Point if you’d like to take in the entirety of the 4km stretch. As you wander along, you’ll pass rockpools, beaches, playgrounds and cafes as well as picnic areas and bays. A slight deviation will take you up to Cronulla high street, where boutique stores and sleek eateries can be found, whilst a visit to Shelly Park Shop, Barefoot on the Beach or elevated seafood spot Bobbys are on the way.
Time: one hour each way
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Spit to Manly
The walk from Spit Bridge to Manly serves up the best of Sydney Harbour in a neat 10km package. As you pass some of the city’s most iconic views, you’ll be trekking past ancient Aboriginal sites, a lighthouse, beach kiosks, small beaches and reserves. And when you get to your final destination, Manly’s bustling waterfront beckons with cold drinks and fresh seafood.
Time: Approx 4 hours
Bondi to Coogee
No Sydney coastal walk roundup is complete without mention of this buzzing stretch. Heaving with runners and walkers year-round, the quintessential coastal views and city-adjacent location allow locals and visitors to enjoy a convenient nature hit. The fact that it’s dog-friendly adds to its popularity. The full stretch will tick off some of the city’s favourite beaches, including Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly and Cogee, as well as the world-famous Bondi Icebergs pool.
Sitchu Tip: If you’re in town during spring, keep an eye on dates for the annual Sculpture By The Sea exhibition.
Time: 2-3 hours
If you loved this edit of the best coastal walks in Sydney and are keen to head out on a few more hikes, be sure to take a peep at our favourite Royal National Park walks and the best walks on the Central Coast.
