Sydney is a city that dazzles with its natural beauty, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking coastlines. One of the best ways to explore this vibrant metropolis is on foot, where every trail offers a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings.
Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor eager to experience the essence of Sydney, there’s a walk for everyone.
From scenic coastal routes to tranquil bushland escapes, here are 15 of the best walks in Sydney to inspire your next outdoor adventure.
CONTENTS
- 1 15 Best Walks In Sydney
- 1.1 1. Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
- 1.2 2. Spit Bridge to Manly Walk
- 1.3 3. Royal National Park Coast Track
- 1.4 4. Hermitage Foreshore Track
- 1.5 5. Blue Mountains National Park – Wentworth Falls Track
- 1.6 6. Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay Walk
- 1.7 7. Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk
- 1.8 8. Lane Cove Riverside Walk
- 1.9 9. Barangaroo Reserve Walk
- 1.10 10. Coastal Walk, Malabar to Maroubra
- 1.11 11. North Head Sanctuary Walk
- 1.12 12. Royal Botanic Garden Walk
- 1.13 13. Garie Beach to Wattamolla Track
- 1.14 14. Clovelly to Maroubra Walk
- 1.15 15. Cape Solander to Cape Baily Lighthouse
15 Best Walks In Sydney
1. Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
- Location: Eastern Suburbs, starting at Bondi Beach.
- Highlights: Iconic beaches like Bronte and Tamarama, rugged sandstone cliffs, rock pools, and the annual Sculptures by the Sea exhibition (if visiting in spring).
- Best for: Soaking up Sydney’s beach culture and spectacular coastal views.
The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is arguably Sydney’s most famous walking trail, offering six kilometers of uninterrupted ocean vistas.
Along the way, you’ll pass stunning beaches perfect for a swim or a coffee break. The well-maintained path and frequent viewpoints make this an unmissable experience for visitors.
2. Spit Bridge to Manly Walk
- Location: Northern Beaches, starting at Spit Bridge.
- Highlights: Hidden coves, scenic bushland, and panoramic views of Sydney Harbour.
- Best for: A mix of adventure, nature, and harbor views.
This 10-kilometer trail takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of Sydney Harbour. The walk’s diversity—from secluded beaches to dense bushland—makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss a stop at Clontarf Beach for a mid-walk swim.
3. Royal National Park Coast Track
- Location: Royal National Park, south of Sydney.
- Highlights: Dramatic cliffs, Wattamolla Lagoon, Wedding Cake Rock, and the Instagram-famous Figure Eight Pools.
- Best for: Adventurous hikers seeking a day or overnight trek.
Stretching 26 kilometers, this challenging walk in the Royal National Park is a haven for nature lovers. Plan ahead to explore key highlights like the white sandstone of Wedding Cake Rock and the refreshing swimming spots at Wattamolla.
4. Hermitage Foreshore Track
- Location: Rose Bay, Eastern Suburbs.
- Highlights: Shark Island, views of the Harbour Bridge, and a chance to explore Nielsen Park.
- Best for: A leisurely stroll with unbeatable harbor views.
This easy 1.5-kilometer walk is a hidden gem in Sydney. Perfect for families or those short on time, it’s a relaxed way to enjoy the beauty of Sydney Harbour while surrounded by lush greenery.

Image: NationalParks
5. Blue Mountains National Park – Wentworth Falls Track
- Location: Blue Mountains, two hours west of Sydney.
- Highlights: Cascading waterfalls, rainforest trails, and jaw-dropping valley views.
- Best for: Day-trippers and waterfall enthusiasts.
For those willing to venture out of the city, this stunning walk in the Blue Mountains is a must. The steep steps and narrow paths are well worth it when you reach the dramatic views of Wentworth Falls plunging into the verdant valley below.

Image: NationalParks
6. Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay Walk
- Location: Mosman, Sydney Harbour National Park.
- Highlights: Historical military sites, bushland trails, and views of Taronga Zoo.
- Best for: Families and history buffs.
This 4-kilometer trail is packed with history and natural beauty. Along the way, you’ll find remnants of Sydney’s military past and uninterrupted views of the harbor. Finish the walk with a meal or coffee at Chowder Bay.

Image: NationalParks
7. Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk
- Location: Palm Beach, Northern Beaches.
- Highlights: Pittwater views, the iconic lighthouse, and whale-watching opportunities during migration season.
- Best for: Short but rewarding hikes with panoramic views.
This relatively short walk offers an incredible payoff. The climb to the top of Barrenjoey Headland is steep, but the views of Pittwater and the Pacific Ocean are worth every step. Don’t forget your camera!
8. Lane Cove Riverside Walk
- Location: Lane Cove National Park, Northern Sydney.
- Highlights: Native wildlife, tranquil riverside trails, and picnic areas.
- Best for: Peaceful nature escapes close to the city.
This 10-kilometer loop is a hidden oasis just a short drive from the CBD. With its gentle paths and serene environment, it’s a great option for a relaxing weekend outing.

Image: WalkMyWorld
9. Barangaroo Reserve Walk
- Location: Barangaroo, Sydney CBD.
- Highlights: Indigenous landscaping, artistic installations, and Darling Harbour views.
- Best for: Urban exploration and accessible walking.
This contemporary waterfront park is a showcase of Indigenous history and sustainable design. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the views of the harbor while learning about the area’s cultural significance.

Image: Sydney
10. Coastal Walk, Malabar to Maroubra
- Location: Eastern Suburbs, south of Coogee.
- Highlights: Dramatic coastal cliffs, ocean vistas, and a quieter alternative to Bondi-Coogee.
- Best for: Quiet, scenic walks.
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape, this walk is for you. Less crowded but equally stunning, the Malabar to Maroubra trail is perfect for those seeking a quieter coastal experience.

Image: National Parks
11. North Head Sanctuary Walk
- Location: Manly, Northern Sydney.
- Highlights: Sydney Harbour views, military fortifications, and wildlife.
- Best for: History buffs and nature lovers.
North Head Sanctuary offers a mix of history and natural beauty. Explore its military relics and enjoy the spectacular views of Sydney Harbour from the various lookouts.
12. Royal Botanic Garden Walk
- Location: Sydney CBD, near the Opera House.
- Highlights: The Opera House, Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, and beautifully manicured gardens.
- Best for: Casual strolls and easy access from the city.
This walk is perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Meander through the gardens and take in the stunning harbor views, culminating at the iconic Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair for a picture-perfect moment.

Image: BotanicalGardens
13. Garie Beach to Wattamolla Track
- Location: Royal National Park, south of Sydney.
- Highlights: Secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs, and serene lagoons.
- Best for: Photographers and fitness enthusiasts.
This lesser-known trail offers some of the best coastal scenery in the Royal National Park. Make sure to pack your camera and take your time enjoying the pristine surroundings.
14. Clovelly to Maroubra Walk
- Location: Eastern Suburbs, extending from the Bondi-Coogee Walk.
- Highlights: Ocean pools, headlands, and peaceful beaches like Gordons Bay.
- Best for: Beach lovers seeking a quieter path.
This extension of the Bondi-Coogee trail offers a more laid-back vibe with fewer crowds. Stop at Clovelly for snorkeling or at Gordons Bay for a dip in its crystal-clear waters.
15. Cape Solander to Cape Baily Lighthouse
- Location: Kurnell Peninsula, Kamay Botany Bay National Park.
- Highlights: Whale-watching spots, sandstone formations, and rugged coastal scenery.
- Best for: Remote coastal hikes and wildlife observation.
Located in a historically significant area, this walk provides a sense of remoteness despite being close to Sydney. The rugged beauty of the coastline makes it a memorable experience.
Image: WalkMyWorld
Sydney’s diverse landscape ensures there’s a walk for everyone, whether you prefer coastal trails, tranquil bushland, or urban strolls.
These 15 walks showcase the best of what Sydney has to offer, blending natural beauty with cultural and historical significance.
So lace up your walking shoes, grab your water bottle, and embark on an adventure that will leave you mesmerized by Sydney’s charm.
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