The 7 Best Coastal Walks in Sydney: Stunning Views, Beaches, and Hidden Gems

Sydney isn’t just about beaches and brunch—though we love those too. One of the best ways to soak up the city’s natural beauty is on foot. With dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, harbour views, and golden beaches, Sydney’s coastal walks are a dream for anyone who loves a scenic stroll.

Sydney Opera House

Here are 7 of the best coastal and harbourside walks in Sydney, from iconic routes to quiet local gems.

1. Rose Bay Wharf to Shark Beach (Hermitage Foreshore Walk)

Distance: ~1.8 km (one-way)

Time: 30–45 minutes

Start: Rose Bay Wharf | End: Nielsen Park / Shark Beach

This short but breathtaking walk is a local favourite, and one of Sydney’s hidden treasures. The Hermitage Foreshore Track takes you along a quiet, harbourside path past secluded beaches, wooden boardwalks, and historic mansions. Along the way, you’ll catch postcard-worthy views of Sydney Harbour, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge in the distance. End with a swim at Shark Beach and a coffee from the café in Nielsen Park.

2. Spit Bridge to Manly Walk

Distance: 10 km (one-way)

Time: 3–4 hours

Start: Spit Bridge | End: Manly Beach

Arguably the best long coastal walk in Sydney, this one winds through Sydney Harbour National Park, taking you past bushland, rocky cliffs, Aboriginal rock carvings, and small beaches like Clontarf and Castle Rock. Expect stunning views, plenty of photo spots, and peaceful pockets of nature.

End in Manly, where you can reward yourself with a cold drink and a dip in the ocean — then hop on the ferry back to Circular Quay to soak in one last scenic ride across the harbour. The perfect end to a perfect Sydney day.

3. Royal Botanic Garden to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair

Distance: ~2 km return

Time: 30 minutes

Start: Royal Botanic Garden entrance | End: Mrs Macquarie’s Chair

Short and sweet, this walk in the heart of Sydney is perfect for travellers with limited time. Wander through lush gardens along the water’s edge, surrounded by panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge. The lookout at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair is especially beautiful at sunset—don’t forget your camera.

4. Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Distance: 6 km (one-way)

Time: 2–3 hours

Start: Bondi Beach | End: Coogee Beach This is Sydney’s most iconic coastal walk, and for good reason. You’ll pass Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly, and Gordon’s Bay along the way—each one worth a swim or photo stop. With dramatic cliffs, ocean pools, cafés, and Instagram-worthy views at every turn, it’s the perfect mix of urban energy and natural beauty.

5. Watsons Bay to Hornby Lighthouse

Distance: ~2 km return

Time: 45 minutes

Start: Watsons Bay Wharf | End: Hornby Lighthouse

Take the ferry to Watsons Bay and enjoy this historic and peaceful walk out to the candy-striped Hornby Lighthouse. Along the way, you’ll pass Camp Cove Beach and Lady Bay Beach (note: it’s clothing-optional). At the tip, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the heads of Sydney Harbour.

6. Coogee to Maroubra Walk

Distance: ~5 km (one-way)

Time: 1.5–2 hours

Start: Coogee Beach | End: Maroubra Beach

Less crowded than its Bondi cousin, this walk takes you through clifftop reserves, rock formations, and lesser-known beaches like Lurline Bay and Mahon Pool. It's a quieter alternative that still delivers on ocean views and local charm.

7. Cremorne Point Walk

Distance: ~3 km return

Time: 1 hour

Start & End: Cremorne Point Wharf

This short, harbourside loop walk is ideal for a relaxed afternoon. You’ll wander past manicured gardens, the Robertson Point Lighthouse, and enjoy some of the best views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge from the north side. There’s even a hidden harbourside rock pool for a quick swim.