When visiting Sydney, there are many different walks to choose from. You can start your day with a stroll down the beautiful Bondi to Coogee or go for a scenic walk on the Western Escarpment Track. Other walks on the list include Cockatoo Island, the Manly Scenic Walkway and the Bradley’s Head Walk.
Cockatoo Island
Cockatoo Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sydney Harbour. It is a former convict precinct that has been converted to a thriving arts and cultural district.
The convicts that lived here endured hard labour and harsh living conditions. They built docks and barracks for ships and silos.
In the nineteenth century, the island was also used for Aboriginal fishing and as a girls’ reform school. Today, visitors can enjoy the heritage buildings, landscape, wildlife and panoramic views.
One of the largest islands in Sydney Harbour, Cockatoo Island has a rich history and a unique and evocative landscape. The site offers a range of activities and overnight accommodation options.
You can take a ferry to Cockatoo Island from Circular Quay. There are two ferry services. Taking the F8 ferry is a short, 15-minute journey that is scenic. Alternatively, the Woolwich/Balmain ferry is a convenient option, stopping at Greenwich, Birchgrove and Woolwich.
For a more in-depth look into the island’s past, you can join an audio tour for $5. Visitors will learn about the shipyard’s history, and the many buildings on the island.
If you would prefer to explore the island on your own, you can download a map from the visitor centre. This is a great way to get an overview of the island, and to find your way around.
Bondi to Coogee
If you’re looking for the best walks in Sydney, you can’t go wrong with the Bondi to Coogee walk. This 6km walk features stunning beaches and beautiful coastal scenery. There are several different points of interest along the route. You can find out more about the walk by visiting this site.
The route is easy to follow. Essentially, you start at Coogee Beach and travel along the beach. Follow the sea on your right and you will be able to see the spectacular views. There are toilets and resting areas along the way. A great place to stop for a drink is the RSL next to Icebergs. It has cheaper drinks and a great view.
You can also take a detour to the Bondi to Coogee Walkway viewpoint for more breathtaking views. Located just past the Icebergs pool, this is an easy walk to do.
One of the most popular attractions on the Bondi to Coogee Walk is the Icebergs swimming pool. This is an iconic spot in Sydney. Known for its fancy bar, this ocean bath is one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city.
There are also many other swimming pools and rock pools along the route. Bronte Beach and Clovelly Beach are two of the more family friendly options.
Manly Scenic Walkway
One of Sydney’s most beautiful coastal walks is the Manly Scenic Walkway. This one-way walk from North Head to the Spit Bridge will take you through a variety of different scenery. You will see plenty of stunning bays and inner harbour beaches along the way.
If you’re looking to explore some of the lesser known sights in Sydney’s northern suburbs, then the Manly Scenic Walkway should be on your list of walks. Not only does it offer sweeping views of the Sydney Harbour, but it also includes a series of secluded, hidden beaches that are a great escape from the city.
Aside from the coastal trail, the Manly Scenic Walkway is also home to a variety of other hiking trails. Some of these include the Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk and the Wellings Reserve.
Another option is to complete the Manly to Shelly walk. This route starts at Shelly Beach, takes you through some bushland and to some of the best beaches in the area. It is a very popular walking route that’s perfect for a family day out.
Alternatively, you can walk from Palm Beach to Manly. This is a two-day walk. The route passes through Sydney Harbour National Park. Along the way, you’ll also pass by Forty Baskets Reserve, Grotto Point, and Reef Beach.
Western Escarpment Track
The Western Escarpment Walking Track is a bushwalking track that connects the Malabar and Maroubra beaches. It offers a scenic journey through unspoiled bushland and vantage points of Botany Bay. A wide range of wildlife is also spotted along the way. This is a great walk for anyone who loves nature.
The Western Escarpment track is located in Malaba Headland National Park. You can access the trail through the Arthur Byrne Reserve.
For the more adventurous, you can head up to the top of the cliffs at Sublime Point. At the top of the cliffs, you can enjoy stunning views of the coastline. There are vertical ladders that you can climb to reach the top.
Another great hiking trail is the Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Beach Walk. It’s a five-hour walk that takes you through bushland, bays, and secluded beaches. On the way, you’ll pass several sites of historical significance.
The walk isn’t very difficult. Those who have a good level of fitness can complete it in less than half an hour. During the rifle range operations, however, the walking trail is off-limits.
If you’re looking for a less challenging walk, you should try the Wodi Wodi Walking Track. This trail is also an eight-kilometre track that crosses over the Yandhai Nepean Crossing.
Balls Head Reserve
Sydney has a wide selection of walks to choose from, from easy neighbourhood strolls to challenging multi-day hikes. These scenic excursions are perfect for a little break during the day or a full day adventure.
For walkers looking to explore a bit more of the great outdoors, the Botany Bay Track is a great option. This walk takes you through secluded beaches and coastal bushland, with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.
The Sydney Harbour National Park is another great walking destination. There are plenty of historical sites to see along the way, as well as stellar harbour views. You’ll get to enjoy the tranquility of nature while learning about the history of Sydney.
Another great walk is the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. This walk begins at Resolute picnic area, near West Head Lookout. It passes several Aboriginal rock engravings that depict fish and boomerangs.
The Glebe Foreshore walk is a pleasant afternoon excursion. This popular path offers great views of Rozelle Bay and Blackwater Bay. Afterwards, you can relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
If you’re looking for an easier option, take a short walk to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse. This lighthouse provides fantastic views of Sydney Harbour, and the walk to the lighthouse is a short one.
Bradley’s Head Walk
Bradley’s Head Walk is one of the best walks in Sydney, situated on the lower North Shore. This popular bushwalk boasts an amphitheatre, military relics and a view of the Sydney Harbour. It is a walk for all fitness levels.
Bradley’s Head is easy to access and can be enjoyed year round. The walk is relatively short and can be done from a car or private vehicle. There are a number of scenic spots to stop and enjoy the views.
Bradley’s Head to Chowder Bay is a spectacular coastal walk that takes in the harbour’s headlands. Located within the Sydney Harbour National Park, this walk is perfect for all fitness levels. Stunning views of Sydney, the Eastern Suburbs, Pittwater and the sea can be seen along the way.
Alternatively, you can also take a ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly Beach, where you can start a ten-kilometre coastal walk. A ferry departs every 30 minutes. If you do not have your own vehicle, you can also catch the bus or light rail.
From the lookout point at West Head, you can get a beautiful view of Pittwater, the Sydney Harbour and the East Coast. You can also go for a swim at Barrenjoey Basin, a secluded sandy cove. Afterwards, you can grab a meal at Doyles fish and chips in Watson’s Bay.
Circular Quay Walk
If you’re looking for the best walks in Sydney, you’re in luck. Walks range from short neighbourhood strolls to multi day treks through the Blue Mountains. Whether you’re an experienced walker or just looking for a walk to take your dog along, you’ll find a walking path to suit you.
A popular beachfront destination, Manly Beach offers many walks for visitors. Including a section of the Manly Scenic Walkway, it is a great spot to enjoy stunning views of the ocean, harbour and surrounding headlands. The beach is also home to Australia’s oldest pub.
For a longer walk, try the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. This route consists of five Sydney beaches, including Bronte Baths and Clovelly Beach. It is easily accessible and perfect for a family day out.
The Sydney Harbour National Park is a great place to go if you’re looking for a walk that’s dog friendly. It’s a great walk for people of all fitness levels and includes many quiet spots to sit and admire the view.
One of the most popular walks in the Sydney region, the Brick Ring Walk is 18.5 metres high and 550 metres long. It is a must-see.
