Photo Essay – Sydney’s Coastal Hikes
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.
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#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.
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#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.
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#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!
![](https://amherstglobaleducationblog.sites.amherst.edu/files/2024/03/10-a920fd1918ca1471-1024x768.jpg)
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