5 Best Walking Tracks in Sydney (2024)

Unearth Sydney’s hidden gems, step by step, on these best walking tracks Sydney, curated for explorers seeking a soulful connection with the city’s outdoor treasures. Your next outdoor adventure begins here – embrace the beauty of Sydney’s finest walking trails.

Embark on a journey through Sydney’s natural wonders with our guide to the best walking tracks. Discover scenic beauty and breathtaking views as you explore Sydney’s top-rated trails. Each track promises an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts, from coastal promenades to lush bushland paths. Lace-up your shoes and immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes, uncovering the perfect blend of tranquillity and adventure.

Sydney is graced with abundant walks, offering splendid views of the ocean and a journey through its rich historical tapestry. The city boasts both coastal promenades that showcase the beauty of its shores and walks that provide insight into its evolving urban landscape. In this post, I compile a list of the top five one-day walks in Sydney, inviting you to explore the diverse facets of this vibrant city on foot.

PIN for later reference – Best Walking Tracks Sydney

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here.

About Sydney

Famed for its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney is the capital city of the New South Wales (NSW) state in Australia. Not only is it the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) capital, but it also is the largest city in Australia.

The city’s councils are renowned for their commitment to enhancing the well-being of residents, placing a significant emphasis on improving walks and trails. This dedication ensures that Sydney’s pathways are optimized for fitness enthusiasts, contributing to a healthier and more active community.

Public Transportation within Sydney

Sydney boasts a diverse array of transportation options within the city, encompassing:

• Trains.
• Ferries.
• Light rail.
• Buses.

Sydney’s primary railway hub is the Central train station. Stay informed about the latest public transport details by visiting the Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) website. Payment for public transport fares is conveniently accepted through credit/debit cards or the Opal transportation card. It’s important to note that cash payments are not permitted directly for public transport; however, cash can be utilized to recharge the Opal transportation card.

5 Best Walking Tracks Sydney

Coastal Walks

Bondi to Coogee Beach (6 kilometres, Easy)

The Bondi to Coogee Beach coastal walk stands out as one of Sydney’s most renowned coastal trails, often prominently on the must-do list for travellers exploring the city. This scenic route has earned its place among the best coastal walks in Sydney, captivating visitors with its breathtaking views. Commencing at the iconic Bondi Beach, the journey unfolds over a leisurely 6-kilometre stretch, concluding at the picturesque Coogee Beach.

• Starting Point: Bondi Beach.
• Nearest Train Station: Bondi Junction.
• Travelling between Bondi Junction and Bondi Beach is convenient, thanks to a bus service covering the 3-kilometre distance.
• Ending Point: Coogee Beach.
• Nearest Bus Stop: Coogee Beach.
• The entire coastal walk spans 6 kilometres, typically requiring around 2 hours. Easy grading accommodates various fitness levels, making it accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts.
• Path and Stops: Bondi Beach – Tamarama Beach – Bronte Beach – Clovelly Beach – Coogee Beach.

Detailed information is available in our comprehensive guide for a more in-depth exploration of the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. Embark on this coastal adventure to immerse yourself in the beauty of Sydney’s shoreline.

La Perouse to Maroubra (13 kilometres, Medium)

The enchanting La Perouse to Maroubra coastal walk is a breathtaking journey that meanders through picturesque trails, offering awe-inspiring ocean views. This scenic route also encompasses three golf courses, Henry’s Head and Cape Banks, adding a touch of diversity to the experience.

• Starting Point: La Perouse.
• Nearest Bus Stop: Anzac Parade Terminus.
• La Perouse, a charming suburb, is the ideal starting point for this captivating walk, featuring natural beauty and engaging activities.
• Ending Point: Maroubra.
• Nearest Bus Stop: Maroubra Beach.
• Completing the 13-kilometer stretch, the walk typically takes around 4 hours to traverse. With an accessibility grading ranging from easy to medium, it accommodates a broad spectrum of fitness levels.
• Path and Stops: La Perouse – Henry’s Head – Cape Banks – Maroubra.

For a comprehensive guide and detailed insights into the La Perouse to Maroubra coastal walk, delve into our dedicated resource. Embark on this unforgettable journey to immerse yourself in the splendour of Sydney’s coastal landscapes.

Manly to Mona Vale via Long Reef (16 kilometres, Medium)

The Manly to Mona Vale coastal walk presents a delightful journey adorned with inviting beaches and picturesque ocean views. This scenic route seamlessly blends coastal splendour with bushland exploration, catering to beach enthusiasts and avid bushwalkers alike.

• Starting Point: Manly.
• Nearest Ferry Station: Manly Beach.
• Embark on this coastal adventure from the vibrant hub of Manly, conveniently accessible via ferry services from Manly Beach.
• Ending Point: Mona Vale Beach.
• Nearest Bus Stop: Mona Vale.
• Concluding the 16-kilometre trail, the walk unfolds over an approximate duration of 6 hours. A moderate grading balances challenge and accessibility for a diverse range of walkers.
• Path and Stops: Manly – Freshwater Beach – Curl Curl Beach – Dee Why Beach – Collaroy Beach – Mona Vale Beach.

Explore our dedicated resource for a comprehensive guide and detailed insights into the Manly to Mona Vale via the Long Reef coastal walk. During this enriching journey, immerse yourself in the beauty of Sydney’s coastal and bushland landscapes.

You can also take Sydney Walking Tours to explore the city and its areas by listening to expert guides.

Historical Walks

Colony History Walk in the Rocks (4 kilometres, Easy)

Embark on a captivating journey through Sydney’s past with the Colony History Walk in the Rocks, commencing at Customs House and concluding at Dawes Point. This enriching walk unveils hidden gems and historical landmarks, providing a glimpse into the evolving narrative of Sydney as a city. My recent exploration of this walk led me to divide it into two parts, each offering a unique perspective on the city’s rich history.

• Part 1: Customs House to the Big Dig
• Starting Point: Customs House.
• Nearest Train Station: Circular Quay.
• Commencing at Customs House, this segment leads you through a 2.2-kilometer route to The Big Dig. The journey unfolds over 1 to 1.5 hours, featuring an easy-grade path with notable stops, including the Site of First Government House, Bridge Street, Grosvenor Place, Church Hill, and The Big Dig.
• Part 2: The Australian Heritage Hotel to Dawes Point
• Starting Point: The Australian Heritage Hotel.
• Nearest Train Station: Circular Quay.
• Embarking from The Australian Heritage Hotel, the second part traverses a 1.8-kilometer route to Dawes Point. Expect a leisurely exploration lasting 1 to 1.5 hours, with an easy-grade path and noteworthy stops such as Holy Trinity, Observatory, The Lord Nelson Brewery, Hero of Waterloo, The Paddock, and Dawes Point.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the Colony History Walk, including detailed information and insights, refer to our dedicated resource. Immerse yourself in the historical tapestry of Sydney as you navigate these two captivating segments of the Colony History Walk.

Harbour Foreshore Walk (4.5 kilometres, Easy)

The Harbour Foreshore walk offers a captivating journey through essential points in Sydney’s rich history, beginning at Customs House and concluding at the vibrant Darling Harbour. This flat, leisurely stroll unveils the city’s past as it gracefully winds along the harbour’s edge.

• Starting Point: Customs House.
• Nearest Train Station: Circular Quay.
• Embark on this historical exploration from Customs House, conveniently accessible from Circular Quay.
• Ending Point: Darling Harbour.
• Nearest Train Station: Town Hall.
• Concluding at Darling Harbour, a hub of activity in Sydney, this 4.5-kilometer walk takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, offering a leisurely experience suitable for all fitness levels.
• Grade: Easy.
• Path and Stops: Customs House – Bulletin Place – Science House – Susannah Place – The Big Dig – Observatory – The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel – Argyle Bar – Barangaroo – Darling Harbour.

For a detailed insight into the Harbour Foreshore Walk and a sneak peek into Sydney’s history, refer to our dedicated resource. After this enriching journey, explore the charm of Darling Harbour, one of Sydney’s bustling attractions.

Is Sydney Safe for Solo Female Hikers?

Sydney is a remarkably safe city, making it an ideal destination for solo female travellers. I have been a resident of this beautiful city for several years and can attest to the overall safety it offers. While my experience has been largely trouble-free, I still recommend caution, particularly during nighttime and in isolated suburban areas. It’s always wise to stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and prioritize personal safety for a secure and enjoyable experience in Sydney.

Closing Notes

Beyond the walks highlighted in this post, Sydney boasts many picturesque trails. The city unfolds its historical tapestry at every turn, and its coastline offers breathtaking ocean vistas. Some of these walks provide excellent opportunities to witness the majestic presence of humpback whales during their migratory season. Sydney’s charm extends far beyond what is mentioned here, inviting exploration into its diverse landscapes and enriching historical significance.

PIN for later reference – Best Walking Tracks Sydney