6 Best Scenic Walks in Sydney with Ocean Views, Secret Beaches and Epic Photo Spots

If you’re searching for the best scenic walks in Sydney, you’re in for a treat. With ocean cliffs, hidden beaches, and iconic views around every turn, Sydney is one of the most walkable and photogenic cities in the world. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor wanting to explore the city on foot, these Sydney coastal walks and harbour trails offer the perfect mix of nature, views, and peaceful moments.

From the famous Bondi to Bronte walk to secret gems like the Hermitage Foreshore Track, here are six of the most beautiful and Instagram-worthy walks in Sydney.

This section of the famous Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is the most iconic for a reason. Starting at Bondi Beach and winding along sandstone cliffs to Bronte Beach, it offers uninterrupted ocean views, dramatic headlands, and some of the best photo spots in Sydney.

If you’re visiting in late October or early November, this track becomes even more magical during Sculpture by the Sea, Australia’s largest outdoor sculpture exhibition. Dozens of artworks are installed along the cliffs, transforming the walk into a free public art gallery with a backdrop of crashing waves and endless blue.

Highlights: Bondi Icebergs, Tamarama Beach, Bronte Baths, Sculpture by the Sea

Best for: First-timers, sunrise walks, and classic Sydney views

Distance: ~2.5km one way

For a slightly quieter but equally scenic route, continue from Bronte to Coogee. This stretch features ocean pools, peaceful parks, and tucked-away coves perfect for a mid-walk swim or picnic.

One of the most striking sights along this walk is Waverley Cemetery, perched dramatically above the cliffs. While it might be tempting to walk past, take a moment to appreciate its historical significance and beauty. The white marble headstones set against the ocean make it one of the most photographed cemeteries in the world—and a reminder of the lives that shaped this part of Sydney.

• Highlights: Clovelly Beach, Gordons Bay, Coogee Beach, Waverley Cemetery
• Best for: Local vibes, relaxing swim stops, weekday escapes
• Distance: ~3.5km one way

This harbour-side trail combines Sydney bush walks with luxury waterfront views. Start your journey with a scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo Wharf—an experience in itself with postcard views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

From there, follow the track through native bushland, past quiet coves and colonial landmarks, until you arrive at Balmoral Beach. With beachside cafés and calm waters waiting at the end, this walk is the perfect blend of nature, history, and relaxation.

• Highlights: Ferry ride to Taronga, Athol Bay, Chowder Bay, Balmoral cafés
• Best for: Harbour views, coffee stops, and leafy trails
• Distance: ~6km one way

A hidden gem just minutes from the CBD, this easy Sydney harbour walk delivers stunning skyline views, manicured gardens, and one of the best sunset spots in the city. The path loops around Cremorne Point, offering glimpses of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and peaceful pockets of greenery.

Don’t forget to pack your bathers—MacCallum Pool, a heritage-listed harbourside pool along the track, is one of the oldest public pools in Sydney. With its timber deck, skyline views, and calm water, it’s the perfect place to pause for a swim mid-walk.

• Highlights: MacCallum Pool, Robertsons Point Lighthouse, harbour sunsets
• Best for: Sunset walks, city views, short and easy trails
• Distance: ~3km return

This lesser-known harbour walk offers everything from quiet beaches and luxury waterfront homes to views of Shark Island and the city skyline. The Hermitage Foreshore Track is ideal for those who want a peaceful walk with plenty of photo opportunities—and even better if you’re keen to beach hop along the harbour.

With multiple small beaches along the trail, like Milk Beach and Queens Beach, it’s easy to take a dip, sunbathe, or just relax with a view. It’s also one of the few harbour walks where you can swim at several stops along the way.

• Highlights: Milk Beach, Shark Beach, Vaucluse Bay, harbour mansions
• Best for: Secret swim spots, quiet mornings, harbour photography
• Distance: ~1.8km one way

For a more rugged coastal adventure, head about an hour south of the city to the Royal National Park. Starting in the charming town of Bundeena, this walk takes you along dramatic cliffs, through native bushland, and out to the striking white sandstone formation known as Wedding Cake Rock.

This track is also one of the best whale watching walks near Sydney, especially between May and November. Keep an eye on the horizon—you might spot humpback whales breaching offshore as they migrate along the coast.

• Highlights: Ocean cliffs, native flora, Wedding Cake Rock, whale watching
• Best for: Day hikes, coastal adventurers, nature lovers
• Distance: ~7km return

Wear sturdy shoes – even short walks can have rocky or uneven sections.

Bring water and snacks – many of these trails don’t have shops along the way.

Check transport options – most are accessible by ferry, train, or bus.

Arrive early – especially on weekends or if you want photos without the crowds.

Respect the environment – stick to marked trails and take your rubbish with you.

You don’t have to do the full track – many of these walks can be enjoyed in shorter sections if you’re limited on time or energy.

If you’re wondering where to find the best walks in Sydney with ocean views, this list has you covered. Whether you’re craving a breezy coastal stroll or a full-day adventure, these scenic Sydney walks offer the perfect way to reconnect with nature, take incredible photos, and discover a different side of the city—at your own pace.

For locals, they’re a chance to slow down and appreciate what’s in your own backyard. For travellers, they’re a window into what makes Sydney so unforgettable.

Want to keep exploring? If you’re looking for the best ocean pools in Sydney for swimming, relaxing, or soaking up the views, read our full guide here.