Photo Essay – Sydney’s Coastal Hikes

March 5, 2024 Leave a comment

Located on Australia’s east coast, Sydney offers a range of coastal hikes with golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking views. In this post, I will list some of my favorite routes!

#1: Coogee to Bondi

Distance: 4 miles (one way)

Living on UNSW’s campus, I was just a 1.5-mile walk from Coogee Beach, providing easy access to the famous hike from Coogee Beach to Bondi Beach. I did this several times, including at sunrise once, which was special! I recommend stopping at Bondi Icebergs Swimming Pool for a refreshing swim at the end of the hike.

The hike starts at Coogee Beach – the closest beach to UNSW’s campus!

The hike ends at Bondi Beach – one of Australia’s most iconic beaches.

#2: Split Bridge to Manly

Distance: 6.4 miles (one way)

This route was so peaceful that it made me forget I was in a busy city, and I spotted a kangaroo hiding in the trees! I enjoyed a delicious chicken schnitzel roll at Manly Deli to cap off a wonderful hike.

Various water sports are popular in Sydney.

The weather was more overcast than usual when I hiked here.

Some of this land is protected from development.

#3: Rose Bay to Watsons Bay

Distance: 4.6 miles (one way)

If you’re looking for views of the Sydney Central Business District (CBD) skyline in the distance, and small, secluded beaches, you will love this walk. When I went on a Tuesday, some of the beaches were deserted. I would recommend getting the ferry from Circular Quay to Rose Bay at the start, and back from Watsons Bay at the end, for amazing views of the Sydney Harbour.

Spot the Harbour Bridge in the background!

#4: Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Distance: 1.4 miles (loop)

North of Sydney, this short trail goes up a headland. At the top, there is an extraordinary view of Palm Beach, and a prime whale-watching spot during the whale migration season, so bring your binoculars!