Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sydney with our guide to the best scenic walks in the city. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller, these walks offer a variety of experiences to suit all fitness levels. From the iconic Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk to the tranquil trails of the Royal National Park, Sydney’s scenic walks provide the perfect setting for an invigorating adventure. So, lace up your walking shoes and get ready to be mesmerized by the stunning coastal views, vibrant wildlife, and rich history on these top scenic walks in Sydney.
Best Scenic Walks Sydney at a Glance
Our list of best scenic walks in Sydney goes like this:
- The best coastal walk with stunning harbor views: Glebe Foreshore Walk
- The best walk for exploring historic sites and wildlife: Barangaroo Foreshore & Reserve
- The best walk for mesmerizing sandstone cliffs and beaches: Hermitage Foreshore Walk
- The best walk for a peaceful amble or a challenging hike: Manly to Spit Walk
- The most iconic and popular coastal walk: Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
- The best walk for exquisite harbor views and a secret garden: Cremorne Point Walk
- The best walk for stunning views of the coastline: Palm Beach Lighthouse
1. Glebe Foreshore Walk
The Glebe Foreshore Walk offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour and vibrant culture. This walk is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Sydney’s coastline while also enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city. As you stroll along the foreshore, you’ll be treated to picturesque views of the harbor, as well as glimpses of the city’s rich history and architecture.
Source: James Horan; Destination NSW
Source: James Horan; Destination NSW
Source: James Horan; Destination NSW
The walk is relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels, making it an ideal choice for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: Chapman Rd, Annandale NSW 2037, Australia
- Distance: Approximately 2.5km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best For: Families, leisurely strolls, and harbor views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/D49cDxVkCFYbAKyB6
2. Barangaroo Foreshore & Reserve
The Barangaroo Foreshore & Reserve walk takes you through historic sites and fascinating wildlife. This walk is perfect for those who want to explore Sydney’s rich history while also enjoying the natural beauty of the harbor. As you walk along the foreshore, you’ll pass by several historic sites, including the Cutaway, a cultural space built within the sandstone cliffs, and the Barangaroo Reserve, a beautiful park with native plants and walking paths.
The walk is relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels, making it an ideal choice for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: Hickson Rd, Barangaroo NSW 2000, Australia
- Distance: Approximately 2km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best For: Families, leisurely strolls, and historic sites
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yDQ4w9wksjoErsck9
3. Hermitage Foreshore Walk
The Hermitage Foreshore Walk offers mesmerizing sandstone cliffs and world-famous beaches. This walk is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Sydney’s coastline while also enjoying the stunning views of the harbor. As you stroll along the foreshore, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the sandstone cliffs, as well as glimpses of the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
The walk is relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels, making it an ideal choice for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: Hermitage Foreshore, Vaucluse, Sydney, NSW
- Distance: Approximately 1.8km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best For: Families, leisurely strolls, and stunning coastal views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ekHfWi9p7xgrpECS7
4. Manly to Spit Walk
The Manly to Spit Walk offers a peaceful amble or something a bit more intensive to get your blood pumping. This walk is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Sydney’s coastline while also enjoying a challenging hike. As you walk along the coast, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the harbor, as well as glimpses of the city’s rich history and architecture.
The walk is moderately difficult and suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: Reef Beach Track, Balgowlah Heights NSW 2093, Australia
- Distance: Approximately 10km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best For: Hikers, challenging walks, and stunning coastal views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pwAUVotJLmS7QCcc8
5. Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock
The Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock walk offers a unique experience of Sydney’s natural beauty. This walk is perfect for those who want to explore the stunning coastline of the Royal National Park while also enjoying the breathtaking views of the ocean. As you walk along the coast, you’ll pass by several beautiful beaches, as well as the iconic Wedding Cake Rock, a unique rock formation that resembles a tiered wedding cake.
The walk is moderately difficult and suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as opportunities for swimming and picnicking.
- Address: Coast Track, Royal Nat’l Park NSW 2232, Australia
- Distance: Approximately 6.4km return
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best For: Hikers, challenging walks, and stunning coastal views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/szMH5o8vttqeuFwh7
6. Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is one of the most iconic and popular attractions in Sydney, offering breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour. This walk is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Sydney’s coastline while also enjoying a challenging hike. As you walk along the coast, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the harbor, as well as glimpses of the city’s rich history and architecture.
Source: Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW
Source: James Horan; Destination NSW
Source: Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW
The walk is moderately difficult and suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: Coogee NSW 2031, Australia
- Distance: Approximately 6km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best For: Hikers, challenging walks, and stunning coastal views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PyLqBE3ZkZAtFDMC9
7. Palm Beach Lighthouse
The Palm Beach Lighthouse walk offers stunning views of the coastline. This walk is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Sydney’s coastline while also enjoying a challenging hike. As you walk along the coast, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the harbor, as well as glimpses of the city’s rich history and architecture.
The walk is moderately difficult and suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: 1199D Barrenjoey Rd, Palm Beach NSW 2108, Australia
- Distance: Approximately 2.5km return
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best For: Hikers, challenging walks, and stunning coastal views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iVTxwBpmY8EwntVD8
8. Cronulla Beach Walk
The Cronulla Beach Walk offers beautiful views of the ocean and small shelly beaches. This walk is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Sydney’s coastline while also enjoying a leisurely stroll. As you walk along the coast, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the harbor, as well as glimpses of the city’s rich history and architecture.
The walk is relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels, making it an ideal choice for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: The Esplanade, Cronulla NSW 2230, Australia
- Distance: Approximately 6km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best For: Families, leisurely strolls, and stunning coastal views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/M65BZ9gRrGKEeXX18
9. Wattamolla to Eagle Rock, Royal National Park
The Wattamolla to Eagle Rock walk in the Royal National Park offers incredible views and the chance to spot Humpback whales. This walk is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Sydney’s coastline while also enjoying a challenging hike. As you walk along the coast, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the harbor, as well as glimpses of the city’s rich history and architecture.
The walk is moderately difficult and suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: Wattamolla to Eagle Rock, Royal National Park, NSW
- Distance: Approximately 8km return
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best For: Hikers, challenging walks, and stunning coastal views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AjrEkfth2Vjnz2yH8
10. Cremorne Point Walk
The Cremorne Point Walk offers exquisite harbor views and a very special secret garden. This walk is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Sydney’s coastline while also enjoying a leisurely stroll. As you walk along the coast, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the harbor, as well as glimpses of the city’s rich history and architecture.
The walk is relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels, making it an ideal choice for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: Cremorne Point, Cremorne, Sydney, NSW
- Distance: Approximately 3km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best For: Families, leisurely strolls, and stunning harbor views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/21y9eBTGY7tXKJRD8
11. Cape Baily Lighthouse, Botany Bay National Park
The Cape Baily Lighthouse walk in the Botany Bay National Park offers a unique coastal experience. This walk is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Sydney’s coastline while also enjoying a challenging hike. As you walk along the coast, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the harbor, as well as glimpses of the city’s rich history and architecture.
The walk is moderately difficult and suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: Cape Baily Track, Kurnell NSW 2231, Australia
- Distance: Approximately 8km return
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best For: Hikers, challenging walks, and stunning coastal views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GyGSJV6a8w8dvWZL7
12. Malabar Headland Walk
The Malabar Headland Walk offers a great option when you want to avoid the crowds on the more popular trails. This walk is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Sydney’s coastline while also enjoying a challenging hike. As you walk along the coast, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the harbor, as well as glimpses of the city’s rich history and architecture.
The walk is moderately difficult and suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: Anzac Parade, Malabar NSW 2036, Australia
- Distance: Approximately 3.7km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best For: Hikers, challenging walks, and stunning coastal views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kMirziRoE5g7hZ7K9
13. Jibbon Beach Loop – Royal National Park
The Jibbon Beach Loop in the Royal National Park offers a beautiful track from start to finish. This walk is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Sydney’s coastline while also enjoying a challenging hike. As you walk along the coast, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the harbor, as well as glimpses of the city’s rich history and architecture.
The walk is moderately difficult and suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
- Address: Jibbon Beach Loop, Royal Nat’l Park NSW 2232, Australia
- Distance: Approximately 5km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best For: Hikers, challenging walks, and stunning coastal views
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9hpZn4MoqTdHRSag6
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty level of these walks?
The difficulty level of the walks in our list varies from easy to moderate. Some walks, like the Glebe Foreshore Walk and Barangaroo Foreshore & Reserve, are suitable for all fitness levels, while others, like the Manly to Spit Walk and Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock, are more challenging and require a reasonable level of fitness.
Are these walks suitable for families?
Yes, many of the walks in our list are suitable for families. Walks like the Glebe Foreshore Walk, Barangaroo Foreshore & Reserve, and Hermitage Foreshore Walk are relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels, making them ideal choices for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll.
How long do these walks take to complete?
The duration of the walks in our list varies depending on the distance and difficulty level. Some walks, like the Glebe Foreshore Walk and Barangaroo Foreshore & Reserve, can be completed in under an hour, while others, like the Manly to Spit Walk and Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock, may take several hours to complete.
Do I need any special equipment for these walks?
For most of the walks in our list, you won’t need any special equipment. However, it’s always a good idea to wear comfortable walking shoes, carry water, snacks, and a map, and check the weather conditions and trail status before you go.
Can I access these walks using public transport?
Many of the walks in our list can be accessed using public transport, such as buses, trains, or ferries. For example, the Glebe Foreshore Walk can be reached by bus, while the Barangaroo Foreshore & Reserve is accessible by train or ferry. It’s always a good idea to check the transport options and plan your journey in advance.
