Break out your crew socks (or no-shows if you’re that way inclined) – it’s time to go for your hot girl walk. With the sun rising earlier, the days getting warmer and the sunsets getting later, now is the perfect time to soak up some of the great outdoors.
So if you’re in Sydney for the weekend or are lucky to call it home, get down to the eastern and northern beaches to explore some of the very best coastal walks the city has to offer.
Sydney's best coastal walks
Bondi to Coogee
I mean can you say you’ve ever been to Sydney if you haven’t done this iconic walk? Probably one of the most popular coastal walks in Australia, the path stretches 6km from Bondi beach to Coogee. It takes roughly two hours to walk the length of the path, where you’ll be met with picture-perfect views.
Spit Bridge to Manly
This 10km walk sees you pass beaches, viewpoints and Aboriginal sites along bush tracks, sand and boardwalk. Beginning underneath Spit Bridge at Ellery’s Punt Reserve, you’ll make your way through Clontarf reserve, Castle Rock beach, the Grotto Point lighthouse and Fairlight beach. When you arrive at Manly wharf, a drink to celebrate is highly encouraged.
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Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay
For a stroll with immaculate views of Sydney Harbour, the Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay coastal walk is the one to choose. After spending a morning at Taronga Zoo, head down to the beach before making your way through a gentle bush track where you can see uninterrupted views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
Cape Baily Walking Track
For something a little lengthier, this 8km return track close to Cronulla will take you roughly three hours to complete. Take in the panoramic views of the open ocean as you make your way along sandstone cliffs of Kamay Botany Bay National Park. You’ll pass the Cape Baily lighthouse, wetlands and plenty of wildlife.
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Maroubra to Malabar
Connecting South Maroubra beach with Malabar beach, this walking track takes you along the Malabar Headland National Park. Follow the headland on a well-kept boardwalk and spot things like old defence posts used during World War 2, wildlife and if you’re there at the right time, humpback whales and dolphins in the distance.
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Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk
Take the 1km Barrenjoey track in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park through bushland before arriving at the lighthouse sitting at Barrenjoey Headland. It should take you roughly 30 minutes (some parts might be a little steep) to make it to the top with views over Palm Beach. Once you arrive, keep your eyes peeled for whales and other wildlife if you’re there at the right time of the year.
Hermitage Foreshore Walk
This easy 1.8km one-way walk begins in Nielsen Park and ends at Hermitage Foreshore Reserve (or the other way around). Along the way, spot Shark Island, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and walk by the grounds of the iconic Strickland House. You’ll need to leave your four-legged friends at home as no dogs allowed on the track.
Dee Why to Curl Curl
Also known as the Dee Why Headland walk, this 45-minute coastal path takes you from Dee Why beach to North Curl Curl Beach in Sydney’s northern beaches. Make your way across sandstone headlands, soaking in views of the coastline while keeping an eye out for native wildlife and flora.
What to bring on a walk
Pack a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks and earphones if you’re doing it solo. Depending on which coastal walk you choose, there should be water fountains along the path and rubbish bins but be sure to take any and all rubbish with you. Reapply your sunscreen, especially during the day when the UV is at its strongest.
Where to stay in Sydney
Staying in Sydney for the week? There are so many different areas you can choose from. For a great base to explore most areas, stay in the Sydney CBD where you’ll have access to plenty of public transport to get between the beaches. If you prefer to be closer to the water, the eastern suburbs of Bondi, Coogee, Clovelly and Vaucluse are great choices. You may also want to consider the northern beaches such as Manly, Avalon or Dee Why.
Feeling a bit boujee? We’ve compiled a list of the best luxe Sydney stays for you.
Other attractions in Sydney
There’s so many incredible attractions Sydney has to offer. For first timers, the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Taronga Zoo and the Royal Botanic Gardens are a must-visit. Explore the city’s excellent dining scene around the CBD or the inner-west suburbs of Newtown and Enmore. Sydney is home to plenty of museums like the Art Gallery NSW, historical places like The Rocks and the largest fish market in the southern hemisphere.
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