5 of The Best Seaside Walks in Sydney

Fact: Sydney is best-seen on foot. This walk-friendly city is full of stunning seaside tracks of all lengths; from short strolls to longer hikes. Here are 5 of the best.

Bondi to Coogee foreshore walk

Get an early start to experience this must-do walk at its best. Including some of Sydney’s most standout natural and urban sights, this incredible 6km track takes you past drop-dead gorgeous beaches, jaw-dropping views, top-notch boutique shops, and loads of eating and drinking options. During summer months, plan your day, so you can fit in a refreshing swim at beautiful Coogee Beach to rest your weary legs. And if you’re doing this walk in spring, keep your eyes open for the Sculptures by the Sea exhibition. Have kids in tow? Be mindful – there are some steps and a steep segment. Whatever you do, wear a hat, put on sunscreen and bring some H2O.

Rose Bay Walk to Watsons Bay

Located in the Sydney Harbour National Park, this scenic walk is a coastal gem. See secluded beaches, lush green parks, gorgeous bays and sweeping views of the harbour and city skyline. Beginning at Rose Bay ferry wharf, stroll to the north of Rose Bay Beach, then take the steps at Dumaresq Reserve to New South Head Road. Here, take a left onto Tivoli Avenue and left again onto Bayview Hill Road. This part of the route follows the Hermitage Foreshore Walk. Look out for the hidden Queens Beach, as well as tiny Tingara Beach and secluded Milk Beach. See Strickland House, a heritage-listed property, built in the 1850s, then keep walking to Nielson Park for a quick coffee, a shady picnic or a swim. Visit Vaucluse House and take a selfie on the Parsley Bay suspension bridge. When you make it to Watsons Bay, take in the epic views at The Gap.

Federation Cliff foreshore walk

This 5km walk follows the clifftop, so you’re guaranteed panoramic views over the big blue Pacific. Start your walk at Raleigh Reserve in Dover Heights, and enjoy the vantage point as the walkway takes you past parklands. Keep an eye out for the dramatic sandstone cliffs that stand proud at either side of the entrance to Sydney Harbour. This walk puts you on top of the world as you peer out over the endless ocean.

Spit to Manly foreshore walk

It doesn’t get better than this walking track. Otherwise known as the Manly Scenic Walkway, this walk is longer than most. 10km long, the trail will take you 3.5 hours if you walk with purpose or up to 5 hours if you stop to swim and soak up the beauty. Suitable for most fitness levels, it has some steep stair sections, but your effort is rewarded with unforgettable views and natural treasures. Hugging the coast, see 360-degree harbour and bush views as you pass sub-tropical heath and beach environments. Don’t miss the Aboriginal rock engravings and get a glimpse of harbourside mansions to see how the other half live. Start at The Spit Bridge so you finish at Manly Beach where you can celebrate with great food and a swim.

Wharf Hopping

For a walk with a difference, why not DIY your route. There’s no better way to see the best of the harbour, than using the iconic green and yellow ferry to facilitate your walk. Starting at King Street Wharf, Darling Harbour, then catch the ferry to Barangaroo where you can hop off and walk all around; the northern tip has an open green space, with brilliant views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Hop back on the ferry and continue on foot to Circular Quay where the Royal Botanic Gardens and a harbourside stroll await

Not a walker?

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