Explore more of Sydney’s natural beauty on a breathtaking waterfront walk!
There’s no denying that an afternoon stroll or leisurely walk is the perfect reason to get out of the house and the best way to explore your city. Whether it’s for exercise, something scenic or just to fill up your weekend plans!
Don’t be fooled by Sydney’s suburban look; it really is a walker’s and trekker’s haven out there. And, thankfully, there are plenty of walking trails in Sydney that are ready to be discovered. From bush walks to the waterfront or just something that embraces the scenery, if you’re needing a reason to get out into the sunshine, read through our list of the best walks in Sydney you must do in 2023!
Photographed by Cromo Digital. Image via Shutterstock.
Bay Run
Any fitness fanatic in Sydney’s Inner West has surely heard of the Bay Run. Considered as one of the best walks in Sydney, this famed walking track is especially popular in the warmer months. It’s a loop track around Rozelle Bay passing Sydney’s Fish Market, Blackwattle Bay Park, Jubilee Park, Rozelle Bay Marina and over the Anzac Bridge. This scenic waterfront walk is perfect for all levels of fitness, whether you’re gearing up for the next City2Surf or simply taking the kids out for a casual afternoon stroll.
Photographed by Dan Breckwoldt. Image via Shutterstock.
Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach
If you’ve lived in Sydney long enough, you’ve surely heard of the Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach coastal walk. We know it sounds silly, but a wet and windy day makes for a more uproarious waterfront trek. Regardless of when you opt to tackle this walking trail, ou’ll be treated to the crashing waves along Sydney’s jagged coastline, walking up and down steps and along boardwalks. If you’re visiting during the cooler months, pack a pair of binoculars to catch a glimpse of the pods of whales touring the coast. No wonder why it’s considered as one of the best scenic walks in Sydney!
Photographed by JackScott. Image via Shutterstock.
Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay
If you’re looking for a secret Sydney coastal walk, this is it. And, why not make that day out at Taronga Zoo a little more active by taking on the nearby Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay walk! This track showcases brilliant views of Sydney Harbour while offering a crisp atmosphere among the trees and bushes that line this part of the harbour. When you reach Chowder Bay, be sure to have a relaxing lounge on the beach and then refuel your energy at one of the nearby cafes. Guaranteed to take your breath away!
Photographed by fotoshala. Image via Shutterstock.
Cooks River
Although it’s not an officially named walk, we certainly think that it needs to be. The Cooks River runs from Chullora in Sydney’s west to Botany Bay, with the most scenic parts between Canterbury and Tempe. We recommend starting from Canterbury Station on the north side and weaving your way along toward Tempe Station. Better yet, there are bridges along the way if you feel like skipping over to the other side. When you reach Tempe Station, we recommend continuing towards the airport and stand near Nigel Love Bridge for a spectacular view of the incoming planes.
Photographed by iofoto. Image via Shutterstock.
Five Dock Bay Walk
It’s no surprise that the Five Dock Bay Walk has made our list as one of the best walks in Sydney. Found just a few kilometres west of the Bay Run, just south of Drummoyne, the Five Dock Bay Walk weaves around Parramatta River in a loop track passing Robson Park. Circling around past Rodd Park along Henley Marine Drive, walkers along Five Dock Bay will cross the Iron Cove Bridge, passing King George Park, Leichhardt Park and back to Robson. Perfect for all levels of fitness year-round!
Photographed by Dalal Nizam. Image via Unsplash.
Manly Beach to Spit Bridge
While you won’t get as much crashing waves as the Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach walk, you will get plenty of natural beauty and views. Easily described as a bush walk meets coastal walk, the Manly Beach to Spit Bridge walking track — also known as the Manly Scenic Walk — showcases vast views of the harbour and coastline, while also sharing a unique Aboriginal history. This Sydney walking trail also showcases stunning multi-million-dollar mansions that overlook this bushy habitat. Perfect year-round but preferably in summer, this walk is great for all levels of fitness.
Needing to cool down? Splash your way through The 10 Best Swimming Pools in Sydney of 2023. Or, munch your way through The 6 Best Fruit Picking Farms near Sydney.
We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land mentioned in our article, the people of the Eora Nation, and we recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.
