Bondi to Manly Walk

A quintessential Sydney experience – no list of the city’s best walks is complete without this coastal trail. Here, you’ll see Sydney’s most iconic attractions starting at the world-famous Bondi Beach in the Eastern Suburbs before passing through a spectacular number of sandy stretches – 47 beaches in total. Take in the city’s unmissable postcard-worthy landmarks, such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, and the city’s rich Aboriginal heritage, like rock engravings at Grotto Point. Need a break? Recharge at Manly’s breezy, beachy dining spots: grab a tahini latte from Noon, pina colada dessert from Cibaria or glass of pinot from the 1800s-style bar inspired by the suburb's 'father'. And if you time your visit right, you’ll witness the majestic migration of whales as they swim off the Sydney coast. 

Tip: You can approach this 80km track in various ways: an ambitious four-day coastal trek, or a slower-paced week with tourist-friendly stops at Taronga Zoo Wharf and North Head Sanctuary. 

Distance: 80km one-way, between four to seven days. Stay the night in Manly, Bondi or any stops along the way. 

Difficulty: Medium/hard – due to distance. When broken into shorter walks, it’s appropriate for most age groups and people of moderate fitness levels. There are steep sections involving stairs on occasion. This walk isn’t suited for wheelchair users or people with prams or dogs.
 

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Bondi to Manly Walk, Manly

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is another way to see Sydney’s most iconic attractions, starting at the famous Bondi Beach, passing the ever-Instagrammable Bondi Icebergs swimming club, and following the paved path to Coogee's shores. There are many clifftops, natural rock pools and gorgeous beaches along the way. Grab a post-dip drink at Coogee Wine Room or enjoy the coastal view from a hotel-room balcony.

Tip: Stop off at Gordons Bay along the way. It’s usually quieter than the main beaches and has an underwater nature trail perfect for snorkelling: join a tour if you’d like to spot (and snap) starfish and other sea creatures with experienced guides. 

Distance: 6km, about two to three hours. 

Difficulty: Medium – mainly paved pathway with occasional steep stairs.
 

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Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, Bondi

Spit Bridge to Manly Walk

For an extended Northern Beaches walk with spectacular Sydney Harbour views, start here. This harbourside trail passes through Sydney Harbour National Park, subtropical bushland and stunning beaches, bays and inlets. Take in historical sites such as the Grotto Point Lighthouse and admire Aboriginal rock engravings of fish, kangaroo and boomerangs. Start at Spit Bridge and end in Manly, where you can learn to surf or enjoy after-dark tours at Q Station complex – a historic, former-quarantine-station-turned hotel that has its own beach.

Tip: Bring a swimming costume in case you want to swim at one of the secret beaches along the way. Don’t forget to pack water, snacks, a hat and sunscreen.  

Distance: 10km one way, around four hours.  

Difficulty: Medium – suitable for most fitness levels, but the walk is long with steep with uneven steps along the way, so it’s not one for young kids.

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Dobroyd Head, Balgowlah Heights

Glebe Foreshore Walk

The Glebe Foreshore Walk begins at Bicentennial Park and ends at the Sydney Fish Market, with 27 hectares of beautiful Inner West parkland and reserves to enjoy along the way. The spacious walking path runs alongside Rozelle Bay and Blackwattle Bay (making for fantastic views), and the Sydney CBD, Sydney Harbour and Anzac Bridge. It’s wheelchair accessible and a particularly great morning walk when it’s cool and Sydney’s joggers and dog walkers are out. 

Tip: Post-walk, reward yourself with fish and chips at the Southern Hemisphere’s largest seafood market (and if you’re extra curious, you can book a Sydney Fish Market tour, cooking class or behind-the-scenes experience). 

Distance: 2.3km one way, 30 minutes to one hour.  

Difficulty: Easy – a flat walk for all fitness levels. 

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Blackwattle Bay Park, Glebe - Credit: James Horan

Barangaroo Foreshore & Reserve

Barangaroo Reserve is a stunning, multi-level park in the city’s centre, with over 75,000 native plants and trees within its lush gardens. It provides views of Darling Harbour, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Luna Park and Goat Island, as well as quiet, shady spots to sit, enjoy a picnic or hang out with a dog. The main path starts at the Hickson Road entrance, before finishing at the Towns Place roundabout, but there are several routes for wandering along the way – head up to Stargazer Lawn for a great viewpoint. Take the chance to explore this Sydney precinct’s many attractions, such as Mikala Dwyer’s colourful Monuments For Fishes floating sculptures, and enjoy a sugar hit at the restaurants and shops nearby (like Turkish desserts and apple-cinnamon tea at Anason or a scoop of something special at Rivareno Gelato).

Tip: Barangaroo is named after a powerful Cammeraygal woman: you can learn more about Sydney Harbour’s First Nations heritage through an Aboriginal cultural tour. 

Distance: 2km one way, one to two hours depending on your route. 

Difficulty: Easy – mostly flat and suitable for all fitness levels and accessibility needs.

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Barangaroo Reserve, Barangaroo

Hermitage Foreshore Walk

For a well-shaded coastal trail that’s packed with family-friendly beaches and historical sites, start at Nielsen Park and finish up at Bayview Hill Road in Rose Bay. The Hermitage Foreshore Walk includes five beaches where you can have a swim, picnic and take a pit stop (Milk Beach is great for a quick break). Enjoy views of stunning mansions (like the famous historic Strickland House), beautiful Shark Island and the magnificent Sydney sunset.

Tip: Grab a stand-up paddleboard or kayak from Rose Bay Aquatic Hire if you’d like to explore the waters further. Prefer a tableside appreciation of the foreshore? Book a sunny spot at Sydney dining institution Catalina (cocktail and lobster spaghetti optional). 

Distance: Around 1.8km one way, about 30 minutes to one hour. 

Difficulty: Easy – mostly boardwalk, although there are many stairs. 

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Hermitage Foreshore Track, Vaucluse

Cape Baily Walking Track

Encounter clifftops, epic rock formations and coastal vistas, thanks to the Cape Baily Walking Track. Start at Cape Solander in the Kurnell area of Kamay Botany National Park, and enjoy spectacular views of the ocean from dramatic sandstone cliffs, before reaching Cape Baily Lighthouse. Afterwards, head to Cronulla to refuel at Meadow (where you can hear the bar’s 2000-strong vinyl collection), take a swim at the famous beach or join a boat tour (there’s one for every inclination, whether you’re a whale-watcher, keen fisher, or prefer to party). 

Tip: There’s no shade cover, so on hot summer days you’ll feel the full force of the sun. Bring plenty of drinking water as there is nowhere to fill up along the way.  

Distance: Depending on how much time you’ve got, either do the shorter 4km one-way walk finishing at Potter Point, or the 8km return walk which takes about three hours.  

Difficulty: Easy/medium – this peaceful walk is great for most visitors, especially those who love the great outdoors.  

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Kamay Botany Bay National Park, Kurnell

Cascades Trail

Cascades Trail is for nature lovers who want wilderness without the crowds. Start from Acron Oval in St Ives and traverse dense bushland through Garigal National Park. You’ll pass an abundance of native Australian trees and flowers en route to a beautiful set of small waterfalls and rockpools. Look out for the park’s wildlife, such as burrowing frogs, Rosenberg’s goannas and kookaburras. There are also plenty of sites with Aboriginal cave art and rock engravings to marvel at. 

Tip: Check the calendar to see what's on at nearby St Ives Showground, which hosts flower fairs, ‘autobrunch’ outings for car enthusiasts, clothes swaps, workshops and other events for the community. 

Distance: 3.2km return, one hour.  

Difficulty: Medium – although not very long, this route can be hilly and involves bushwalking along a fire trail. 

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Stepping Stone Crossing to Cascades Trail, St Ives - Credit: Shaun Sursok

Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay Walk

Lace up your runners for the Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay Walk in the North Shore, which has a stunning perspective of the city and Sydney Opera House (just watch out for the Bradleys Head wharf closure). Start at the Taronga Zoo wharf and head to Chowder Bay. You’ll walk through an old angophora forest filled with wildlife and ancient trees and then eventually get to Clifton Gardens Reserve and Chowder Bay (book a lunch at Ripples for a well-deserved break). You’ll also encounter extraordinary views of the harbour and Sydney Opera House, as well as South Head, Rose Bay, Shark Island and Bradleys Head. 

Tip: There’s not much parking at Bradleys Head, so start from the Taronga Zoo end if you’re driving. For a memorable workout recovery, reserve the zoo’s Roar and Snore experience for an African-style buffet dinner, drinks and dessert in your safari tent and a wake-up call that may include contributions from the many animals on site. 

Distance: 4km one way, about two to three hours.  

Difficulty: Easy/medium – clear pathways with many steps along the way.

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Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay Walk, Mosman

South Head Heritage Trail

Pick this Eastern Suburbs walk if you’re curious about Sydney’s rich history and want to soak up ocean views along South Head Heritage Trail. From Watsons Bay’s ferry terminal, you’ll follow a sidewalk along the beach until you pass through beautiful Camp Cove. From there, take the cobblestone pathways to historic Hornby Lighthouse. You’ll also stumble across a lightkeeper’s cottage, old military cannons and sandstone gun emplacements. From the lighthouse, you can gaze at Sydney Harbour, Middle Head, North Head and some whales if you’re lucky. 

Tip: Reverse the trail and end in Watsons Bay, so you can dine at Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel or Doyles (open since 1885, it’s our oldest seafood restaurant). Keen to keep moving? Try the Federation Cliff Walk, a stunning 5km, coastline-hugging stretch from Watsons Bay to Raleigh Reserve in Dover Heights.

Distance: 2km, just over one hour.  

Difficulty: Easy/medium – mainly paved walkway, some gentle hills and a few sections with stairs. 

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Hornby Lighthouse, Watsons Bay - Credit: Kevin McGrath | DPIE

Fairfax Walk

Short, relaxed and suitable for everyone, this Northern Beaches walk starts at the aptly named North Head Scenic Drive and circles the top of North Head. You’ll get stunning ocean vistas and a glimpse of the CBD skyline along Fairfax Walk. The Yiningma and Burragula lookouts provide the kinds of views seen on Sydney postcards. This is another one for the late June-July and August-October whale watching and is great if you’re travelling with children. Just steer clear of areas closed for fire damage or geological instability.

Tip: Finished the walk but not ready to call it a day? The track connects to the Manly Scenic Walkway where you can continue walking to your heart’s content. Or get spooked by a nearby ghost tour. 

Distance: 1km loop, about 30 minutes to one hour.  

Difficulty: Easy – paved pathway, gentle walk and wheelchair accessible. 

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Sydney Harbour National Park, Manly - Credit: John Spencer | DCCEEW

Western Escarpment Walking Track

Explore the Eastern Suburbs’ lush bushlands by following the Western Escarpment Track. Start at Pioneers Park in Malabar, where you’ll make your way to 360-degree views over Malabar Headland National Park, Maroubra Beach and Botany Bay. There are lookouts and seating opportunities for appreciating the views. You’ll also encounter beautiful Sydney wildlife, such as red wattlebirds, New Holland honeyeaters and blue fairy-wrens. Look up and you might catch a glimpse of sea eagles or kestrels circling above.

Tip: Extend your beachside experience by learning how to catch a wave at Maroubra. 

Distance: 1km one way, about 20 to 30 minutes.  

Difficulty: Easy/medium – short well-formed track, short steep hills and occasional steps. It’s not ideal for parents with prams or wheelchair users, since the track is a bit rough. 

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Malabar Headland National Park, Malabar - Credit: John Spencer | DCCEEW

Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk

The Northern Beaches views along the Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk are epic – it’s hard to believe you’re only an hour away from Sydney’s CBD. Built in 1881, Barrenjoey Lighthouse is set 91m above sea level and takes in views of Broken Bay, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and the Central Coast. Start at the carpark on Station Beach and either ascend via Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk or the harder Smugglers Track (or tackle one track on the way up, the other on the way down). Recognise the historic lighthouse from Home and Away? You’ll enjoy stepping through the TV show’s other filming locations in Palm Beach. 

Tip: Palm Beach Headland is the Southern Hemisphere’s first Urban Night Sky Place: appreciate it with an after-hours stargazing experience. 

Distance: 1km one way, about 30 minutes each direction, on the Barrenjoey Track.  

Difficulty: Moderate – Barrenjoey Track is relatively easy. Smugglers Track offers a steeper and shorter trek up to the lighthouse. 

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Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk, Palm Beach

Further afield

Aboriginal Heritage Walk

This North Shore walk through Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is arguably the best in Sydney for getting outdoors and learning more about the Aboriginal culture of the land’s Traditional Owners. Start from the Resolute Picnic Area at West Head Road, close to the edge of the peninsula. Follow the Aboriginal Heritage Walk past the sacred Red Hands Cave to the breathtaking West Head lookout and then the secluded Resolute Beach for a uniquely Sydney walking experience. Along the way, you'll see traditional Aboriginal engravings and artworks as well as some colonial history. For an extensive national park experience led by a First Nations guide, make a booking with Natcha Cultural Tours.

Tip: Fascinated by this culturally rich route but intimidated by the harder sections? Try a shorter itinerary spanning the Resolute Picnic Area and Red Hands Cave. 

Distance: 4.4km loop, three hours.  

Difficulty: Moderate – this rough track features many obstacles, a steep gradient and many steps. It’s best for people with at least a moderate level of fitness or bushwalking experience. Bring sun protection, swimmers, food and plenty of water. 

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Resolute Beach, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Berowra Valley National Park

Despite literally bordering suburban areas of Sydney’s North Shore, Berowra Valley National Park is a vast bushland valley with more than 70km of fire trails and walking tracks. Venture from Berowra train station and its natural charms are quickly revealed. Barnetts lookout is a serene spot with a cute creek view (kids will appreciate its small playground too) and, like Naa Badu lookout and Crosslands Reserve, it’s good for BYO picnics. The Place of Winds Interpretive Trail is a beginner-friendly walk that spans forest, mangroves and valley outlooks, while Lyrebird Gully Circuit involves more effort and care (but might bring waterfall sightings after rain – and sightings of the stunning species the track is named after). The creek is good for fishing and boating – but swimmers should watch out for council alerts and pollution levels after heavy rainfall. The park covers a 25km stretch of the multi-day Great North walk from Sydney to Newcastle. 

Tip: Feel like treating yourself afterwards? Book a lavish waterfront meal at Berowra Waters Inn and make your way there via multiple transport options (car, boat, seaplane). 

Distance: 9km one way, four to six hours   

Difficulty: Medium/hard. This is a long walk, with steep steps, rough unformed tracks and paths can get slippery due to the many creek crossings. Some bushwalking experience is recommended. Pack sun protection, refreshments, a first-aid kit and topographic map.

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Barnetts Lookout, Berowra Heights - Credit: John Yurasek | DPIE

Grand Cliff Top Walk (Blue Mountains National Park)


Explore the UNESCO World-Heritage-listed Blue Mountains with the Grand Cliff Top Walk, a one- to two-day trek. The spectacular 100m cascades from Wentworth Falls offer a sensational start. The Wentworth Falls picnic area, with its iconic, clifftop views and access to scenic tracks, is another good introduction to the area. From there, it feels like non-stop glorious lookouts. Leura is a convenient midway point for a hiking break – shop, eat and rest in this charming town before making your way to view the Three Sisters and experience a thrilling forest plunge via the planet’s steepest passenger train at Scenic World in Katoomba.

Tip: Check National Parks alerts for updates on track closures. And check in somewhere nice afterwards for a well-deserved rest. 

Distance: 19km, one to two days. 

Difficulty: Easy/medium – there are steep sections, many steps and some bushwalking experience is required, but this walk can accommodate people of most fitness levels and ages.  

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Grand Cliff Top Walk, Wentworth Falls - Credit: Remy Brand | DCCEEW

Western Sydney Parklands

Described as “Sydney’s biggest backyard”, Western Sydney Parklands offers more than 70km of trails tracks and other outdoor attractions. There are 11 trails to choose from, ranging from the easy Bungarribee Trail, which combines wildlife and nature (witness native wildflowers and wallabies) with family-friendly playgrounds and picnic areas, to the more physically demanding Spotted Gums trail, with its promises of more wildlife as you wind through shrubland. These walks are for everyone: there are off-leash areas for dog owners, award-winning play areas for kids, pathways bordered by towering flowers for nature lovers, walks showcasing Aboriginal art and culture, historic features and much more (the Binyang Matta walk, named after the Dharug name for Place of Birds, is good for spotting azure kingfishers, black-shouldered kites and other feathered friends).

Tip: For another family-friendly Western Sydney trail with access to playgrounds and picnic spots, try Penrith’s Great River Walk. 

Distance: The Western Sydney Parklands trails range in length and time, from 25 minutes to over four hours. 

Difficulty: There are beginner-friendly walks to more physically challenging and extensive hikes.

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Western Sydney Parklands, Abbotsbury - Credit: Western Sydney Parklands