Bouddi Ridge and Coastal Walk

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Time 2 Days
Circuit 27 km Circuit
Climb 1206 m
Grade 4 Hard track
Car
no_pets
This overnight walk takes in the majority of the magnificent Bouddi National Park. The walk starts from the pleasant Putty Beach camping area, with its very friendly Brush Turkeys. The walk heads along the ridge towards Little Beach, then along the beaches. This circuit walk visits many beaches and views from lookouts before returning to Putty Beach campsite. The second day explores the Box Head and Lobster Beach areas, with a shorter day allowing time to drive and drop in to Hardy's Bay.
Putty Beach Day use area BBQ Banksia The Scenic Rd Putty Beach in the foreground with Broken Bay in the background Pink markers on track Maitland Bay Area Stairs up to Maitland Bay Information Centre Eastern Gate Graham Drive Sandy service trail between Bombi Point Track and Third Point Tracks Rock pool near Maitland shipwreck Maitland Bay Creek Gerrin Point lookout to Maitland Bay Gerrin Point rocksheld looking to maitland Bay Casuarina Bullimah Beach Headland Cliff side Rock patterns Burnt headland before Putty Beach on Bouddi Walk Hawke Head Drive Track to Wagstaff Box Head lookout over Broken Bay to Barrenjoey Headland Driveway down to Lobster and Pretty Beach Int.

(0km) Putty Beach Camping Area → House fence corner Int.

distance 370 m time 15 mins climb 92m descent 0m Hard track
From the campsite, this walk heads away from the ocean, passing through the campsite on the uphill side of the road. The track leads up through the back of this campsite and into the bush. Winding up the hill, the track comes to a fenced house, then turns right and soon comes to an intersection with another track.

(0km) House fence corner Int. → Lookout

distance 20 m time climb 0m descent -4m Hard track
Turn sharp right: From the intersection, the walk heads away from the house and towards the sea. The track soon mounts a rocky landing, an informal, unfenced lookout. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Continue straight.

(0km) House fence corner Int. → Jacqueline Ave

distance 40 m time 1 mins climb 4m descent 0m Hard track
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk heads away from the ocean, passing a 'Bouddi National Park' sign[1] and some power poles near the road.

(0km) Jacqueline Ave → Jacqueline Ave Cul-de-sac

distance 260 m time 5 mins climb 7m descent -4m Very easy
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads along the bitumen road, following the 'Jacqueline Ave' street sign (leaving 'McDonald St' behind and Babs Rd to the left). The road passes a 'No Through Road' sign (on the right) and a line of houses (on the left), and soon comes to the cul-de-sac at the end of the road.

(1km) Jacqueline Ave Cul-de-sac → Int. of The Scenic Rd Service Trail and The Scenic Rd

distance 270 m time 7 mins climb 33m descent -1m Hard track
Continue straight: From the cul-de-sac, the walk heads through the bushes along the track, away from the ocean and the houses. The track opens up into a management trail, which heads up the hill and continues to an intersection with another management trail (on the left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk heads up the hill, away from the ocean, for a short time. The trail narrows to pass between boulders and continues as a track up the hill to The Scenic Road.

(1km) Int. of The Scenic Rd Service Trail and The Scenic Rd → Marie Byles Lookout

distance 380 m time 7 mins climb 13m descent 0m Easy track
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads along the road, with the ocean views to the right. After about 350m, the walk merges to the right into a car park, at the lookout.

(1km) Marie Byles Lookout → Int of Maitland Bay InfoCentre Trk and Bullimah LO Trk

distance 90 m time 2 mins climb 5m descent -1m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the car park, this walk follows the track past the information board(reported as removed), keeping the road through the trees and your left. The track winds through the bush for approximately 25m to an intersection with another track (on the right).

Marie Byles Lookout

Marie Byles Lookout
This lookout, also known as the Killcare Heights Lookout, is beside The Scenic Rd, Killcare Heights, about 400m south of the intersection with Maitland Bay Drive. There are beautiful views to the south, along the coast, and over parts of Broken Bay. The lookout is named after Marie Byles, the first proponent of a Bouddi National Park. According to her wikipedia page, Marie Byles is also "known as a committed conservationist, the first practicing female solicitor in New South Wales, mountaineer, explorer and avid bushwalker, feminist, author and an original member of the Buddhist Society in New South Wales." More info.

(1km) Int of Maitland Bay InfoCentre Trk and Bullimah LO Trk → Bullimah Outlook

distance 800 m time 22 mins climb 13m descent -64m Hard track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill along the track, away from the road and main trail. The track winds back on itself a few times, passing around some boulders, and continues to an intersection at the top of a spur.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows a bush track along the ridge towards the sea. The track follows the high ground, winding down the hill and through a saddle. The walk passes two short side tracks to rocky landings on the left, which act as excellent lookouts over Maitland Bay. The walk continues down the ridge to Bullimah Outlook, marked by a plaque in the rock.

(2km) Bullimah Outlook → Maitland Bay Information Centre

distance 1.2 km time 29 mins climb 74m descent -21m Moderate track
Turn around: From the Outlook, this walk follows the bush track away from the ocean, climbing gently, before dropping a little through a saddle. From the saddle, the walk climbs to the top of the ridge, to the intersection.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads along the hillside, with the slope leading up the hill on the left. The track then drops slightly down the hill as it winds through some boulders. The track then continues for a while to the sign marked intersection.
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk goes up the staircase, following the 'Parking Area' sign up the hill. The staircase continues for some time until it reaches the car park intersection. From here, the walk turns right, passing an information board, to the brick building next to the road - Maitland Bay Information Centre.

Maitland Bay Information Centre

Maitland Bay Information Centre
Maitland Bay Information Centre, was once the old Maitland Store and residence. The store was a influential piece of infrastructure as it acted as a meeting place for Trustees and a hub for early tourism. Today the store is still a hub for tourism but as an Information Centre open on weekends and public holidays. As well as information on the area there is also parking, a public phone and drinking water.

(3km) Maitland Bay Information Centre → Int. Stroms Fire Trail and Mt Bouddi Rd

distance 2.1 km time 41 mins climb 66m descent -69m Hard track
Turn sharp right: From Maitland Bay Information Centre, this walk heads along the footpath towards the public phone box. The walk then turns left down the management trail, to the gate marked with 'Bouddi National Park' signs.
Turn left: From the gate, this walk turns left, heading down the hill. The track then continues along the lightly undulating management trail, leading soon to an intersection with another management trail on the left.
Veer right: From the intersection, the walk heads up the hill, leaving the management trail and gate behind on the left. The walk winds and undulates for some time as it passes a rocky outcrop and a house (both above on the left). The walk climbs up a small hill, to pass a gate and continue onto the road.

(5km) Int. Stroms Fire Trail and Mt Bouddi Rd → Dingeldei Picnic Area

distance 620 m time 12 mins climb 18m descent -13m Easy track
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk leaves "Strom's Fire trail" gate behind on the right and follows the road down the hill. The walk continues for a short time down to a car park and picnic shelter. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Continue straight.

The Dingeldei Memorial Shelter

The Dingeldei Memorial Shelter
The Dingeldei Memorial Shelter was built in 1962, thanks to volunteers. A.W. (Bill) Dingeldei was a trustee of the park who did considerable work on it himself. Today the Dingeldei picnic area is a quiet, leafy spot, perched on the hill behind Mount Bouddi. The picnic area contains a picnic table, toilets, BBQ and rubbish facilities. It also has a new car park with ample spaces.

(5km) Int. Stroms Fire Trail and Mt Bouddi Rd → Grahame Dr car park

distance 2 km time 40 mins climb 36m descent -135m Easy track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk heads along the road to the 'T' intersection with 'The Scenic Road' about 50m away.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads towards the large fork in the road, then follows The Scenic Road (the sealed road) as it bends to the left. The walk continues along the roadside around the hill, crossing to the other side of the road where safe (so the road is now on your right). Ignoring side tracks, the road then leads to an intersection with a gated management trail and the 'MacMasters Ridge Fire Trail' sign.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the road down the hill, keeping the valley to the left. Before long, the bush gives way to houses and, ignoring some side streets, the road comes to the intersection with 'Grahame Drive' at the 'Bouddi National Park' signpost.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill past the 'Bouddi National Park' sign, following Grahame Drive (the road) past a few houses. The walk follows Grahame Drive to the car park at the end of the road, just before the locked gates.

(7km) Grahame Dr car park → Int. Bouddi Trail Access and Little Beach Trk

distance 280 m time 5 mins climb 1m descent -20m Moderate track
Turn left: From the car park, this walk follows the 'Little Beach' sign along the management trail, passing around a gate. The walk heads down the hill, crosses a creek, and climbs up the hill out of the gully. The walk then winds down to a signposted intersection, with a bush track to the right.

(8km) Int. Bouddi Trail Access and Little Beach Trk → Little Beach

distance 320 m time 6 mins climb 0m descent -26m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill, following the 'Little Beach 200m' sign. After approximately 300m, the walk comes to Little Beach campsite and continues to the point where the creek meets the beach. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Continue straight.

Little Beach

Little Beach
Little Beach, Bouddi National Park, is a small 100m-long stretch of sand and rocks, facing out to the Tasman Sea and South Pacific Ocean. The beach is backed by a gully and sided by steep rocky headlands. The beach has a south easterly aspect and has its own campsite.

(8km) Int. Bouddi Trail Access and Little Beach Trk → Int. Bouddi Trail and Third Point

distance 1 km time 25 mins climb 88m descent -8m Hard track
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill, following the 'Maitland Bay' sign. The track winds up the hill, tending left along a white sandy section of track, then continues through the scrub for approximately 300m to the signposted intersection in a large sandy clearing.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Bombi Point' arrow along the sandy track, going down the hill. The track winds down the hill for some time before climbing to the signposted intersection.

(9km) Int. Bouddi Trail and Third Point → Bombi South

distance 750 m time 14 mins climb 1m descent -53m Hard track
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Third Point' sign up the slight hill. The track is walled by dense banksia bushes on either side. The walk continues down the hill for some time to an intersection, with a smaller track to the left.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads south into the bush, keeping the ocean to the left. After approximately 30m, the track comes to an unfenced cliff edge. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn left.

(9km) Int. Bouddi Trail and Third Point → End of Caves Bay management trail

distance 700 m time 13 mins climb 2m descent -42m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the management trail down the hill, keeping the sea far on the left of the track. The trail continues down to a large sandy area marked by a 'Little Beach car park' sign.
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the management trail down the hill, in the opposite direction to the Little Beach car park. The trail winds down the spur for some time, then straightens out and continues for a while before ending in a larger clear area, signposted 'Bouddi Coastal Walk'.

(9km) End of Caves Bay management trail → Eastern corner of Maitland Beach

distance 1.6 km time 46 mins climb 103m descent -172m Hard track
Turn right: From the clearing, this walk follows the 'Maitland Bay' arrow along the bush track, going down the hill and keeping the ocean to the left. The walk then descends and climbs steeply, with numerous steps, crossing two creeks, before coming to a third creek crossing with a wooden bridge. From the bridge, the walk climbs to the top of the stairs then continues along the hillside to the signposted intersection.
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Maitland Bay' arrow along the bush track, going down the hill. After a while, the walk drops into a clearing, on the saddle between the headland and the spur, and turns right, going down some steep steps to the beach.

Maitland Beach

Maitland Beach
Maitland Beach, Bouddi National Park, is a 500m-long sandy beach sitting north west of Putty Beach. The beach's south-westerly aspect provides views over the South Pacific Ocean to Barrenjoey and Avalon headlands at the mouth of the Hawkesbury River. A creek breaks the centre of the beach, and the wreck of S.S. Maitland (after which the beach and bay are named) is found on the eastern rock point.

(11km) Eastern corner of Maitland Beach → S.S. Maitland Shipwreck

distance 310 m time 7 mins climb 14m descent -15m Hard track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the cliff line out towards the sea, beneath the rocky headland. The walk heads over rocks and boulders, to the rock flats at the point. Here lies the S.S.Maitland shipwreck. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer left.

S.S. Maitland Shipwreck

S.S. Maitland Shipwreck
The S.S. Maitland was a paddle steamer brought to Australia from Glasgow, Scotland, to transport people and cargo between the Hunter and the Hawkesbury Rivers. There was no rail line from Newcastle to Sydney in the 1800's. The Maitland was on its route out of the Barrenjoey Headlands when it was overwhelmed by the aptly-named 'Maitland Gale'. The storm which wrecked the Maitland also took numerous other ships on May 6, 1898. Of the 36 passengers aboard the Maitland, 24 lost their lives. Many of the survivors were commended for their heroism. Wreckage of the Maitland can still be seen today, with parts of the boiler and a section of the iron hull strewn across the rock flats of the point. The bay was previously known as Boat Harbour, then renamed Maitland Bay after the disaster in 1898. More info.

(11km) Eastern corner of Maitland Beach → Maitland Beach West End

distance 600 m time 10 mins climb 7m descent -6m Hard track
Turn right: From the eastern end of the beach, this walk heads along the beach, keeping the ocean to the left. The walk continues along the beach to an area where a creek has cut its way through the sand.
Continue straight: From the creek, this walk heads along the beach, keeping the ocean on the left. The walk leads to the base of some paved steps, which lead up the hill away from the beach.

(12km) Maitland Beach West End → Int. of Maitland Bay Trk and Bouddi Coastal Walk

distance 250 m time 6 mins climb 39m descent 0m Moderate track
Veer right: From the western end of Maitland Beach, the walk follows the paved track up the hill at the point marked by the sign. The track winds its way up the hill then straightens out before the signposted intersection.

(12km) Int. of Maitland Bay Trk and Bouddi Coastal Walk → Gerrin Point

distance 1.3 km time 31 mins climb 74m descent -68m Hard track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill, following the track marked by the 'Bouddi Coastal Walk' sign. The track goes over many rises with steps, and crosses fenced bridges over the valleys between. This continues for some time, until the track arrives in a clearing before a fenced lookout, Gerrin Point.

(13km) Gerrin Point → Int. of Bullimah Beach Trk and Bouddi Coastal Walk

distance 330 m time 7 mins climb 6m descent -36m Moderate track
Turn right: From Gerrin Point lookout, this walk follows the track down the hill, keeping the water below on the left. The track continues along steps and boardwalks, following the hillside to the sign posted intersection.

(14km) Int. of Bullimah Beach Trk and Bouddi Coastal Walk → Bullimah Beach

distance 140 m time 3 mins climb 2m descent -12m Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk heads down the boardwalk track following the 'Bullimah Beach' sign. The walk follows the boardwalk staircase down to the beach below. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer left.

Bullimah Beach

Bullimah Beach
Bullimah Beach, Bouddi National Park, is a small, yellow sand beach pressed into Gerrin Point headland and the surrounding cliffs. The beach is south-west facing, with views over the South Pacific Ocean to the Barrenjoey and Avalon headlands.

(14km) Int. of Bullimah Beach Trk and Bouddi Coastal Walk → Putty Beach Camping Area

distance 970 m time 19 mins climb 29m descent -47m Hard track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads along the edge of the headland following the railed pathway, with the ocean below on the left. As the track rounds the headland to Putty Beach, it passes a red rock area and continues down to a staircase onto the beach. The walk then heads approximately 150m along the beach, to where the creek has cut through the sand.
Continue straight: From the creek, this walk heads west along the beach, keeping the water on the left. After approximately 200m, the walk reaches a spot on the beach opposite a white-roofed building behind the dunes, just before another wide (dry) creek entry.
Turn right: From the beach, this walk heads away from the ocean towards the white-roofed building behind the beach. The track winds along the fenced sandy track to Putty Beach camping area.

Putty Beach Camping Area

Putty Beach Camping Area
Putty Beach camping area is a spacious, grassed area with easy access to the beach. The campsite is also home to many Brush Turkeys. Facilities include drinking water, flush toilets, open-air showers, rubbish bins, BBQ's (gas/electric). Wood fires not permitted. Campsites must be booked in peak periods, up to 3 months in advance. They can be booked by phoning (02) 4320 4203. A campsite costs $14/ adult (16+) and $7/child (5-15). Park Entry and parking: Parking and entry costs $7/ 24 hours. Single park entry passes can be picked up from Killcare Cellars and General Store - 56 Araluen Drive, Killcare. Alternatively they can be obtained from ticket dispensers in the Picnic and Camping Areas. General enquiries - call DECC Central Coast (02) 4320 4200 or 4329 4280.

End of day 1

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 1, happy camping.

(14km) Putty Beach Camping Area → Putty Beach car park

distance 1.2 km time 20 mins climb 16m descent -7m Moderate track
Turn around: From the camping area, this walk heads towards the BBQ area, taking the lower, fenced sandy track, which winds onto the beach.
Turn right: From a spot on the beach opposite a white-roofed building behind the dunes, this walk heads along the beach, keeping the ocean to the left. The walk continues past numerous beach access routes, on the right, until it comes to the lifeguard tower (near the car park).
Turn right: From the beach, this walk heads up the hill along a stony path, to the car park behind the beach.

(16km) Putty Beach car park → Hawke Head Drive NE

distance 770 m time 16 mins climb 41m descent -6m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the car park, this walk walks onto Beach Drive and turns right to head up and away from the beach, to the intersection with The Scenic Road. A short distance up the hill, this walk soon takes the first left onto Nukara Ave. The walk continues up Nukara Ave to the second road on the left, Hawke Head Drive.

(16km) Hawke Head Drive NE → Box Head Trail

distance 2 km time 44 mins climb 80m descent -45m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the start of Hawke Head Drive, this walk heads up the hill following the road and power lines. The walk winds up Hawke Head Drive, where the road becomes unsealed and has numerous speed bumps. The walk continues along the road to the intersection with a management trail, and gate on the right.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the management trail up the hill, leaving the gated management trail behind on the right. The trail undulates along the ridge line for some time, with views to the right of the track over the Rip Bridge and Woy Woy. The trail then starts to head downhill, arriving at a car park, to the right, signposted 'Tallow Beach 900m'.
Continue straight: From the car park, the walk follows the management trail past the 'Tallow Beach 900m' signpost. The walk soon passes around a gate and continues down the hill. The walk passes an unfenced cliff warning sign and (ignores) a track signpost ('Tallow Beach') before heading up the hill to the intersection, signposted 'Tallow' and 'Killcare'.
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Tallow' arrow along the management trail, going down the hill. The trail tends right for approximately 30m, to the signposted intersection for 'Box Head' and 'Tallow Beach'.

(18km) Box Head Trail → Box Head

distance 1.3 km time 25 mins climb 24m descent -79m Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Box Head' sign along the track. The walk follows the track for a short time, then crosses a rocky area before passing through a small clearing. The track narrows and meanders for some time, crossing numerous rock surfaces and rocky outcrops, then follows the top of the cliff line of Box Head out to a point that overlooks Barrenjoey, Lion Island, Broken Bay and out across the ocean.

(20km) Box Head → Box Head Trail

distance 1.3 km time 25 mins climb 79m descent -24m Moderate track
Turn around: From Box Head, the walk follows the track away from the sea and the opposite headland, generally following the cliff line up the ridge. The track drops into a saddle, then climbs up the ridge for some time, crossing many rocky outcrops. The track then widens as it enters a small clearing and continues for a short time to the signposted intersection.

(21km) Box Head Trail → Little Tallow Beach

distance 570 m time 16 mins climb 1m descent -74m Hard track
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill towards the ocean. The track tends left as it descends over numerous speed bumps. After a short time, the track heads down the hill to reach an intersection with a bush track on the right. If the track turns left (north) down the hill you have gone too far.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill along the track, away from the management trail and towards the ocean. The track comes down onto the rock platform above Little Tallow Beach and continues to the right, then follows the creek down onto the beach. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer right.

Little Tallow Beach

Little Tallow Beach
Little Tallow Beach, Bouddi National Park, is a small 50m stretch of sand, wedged into a rocky outcrop. The beach is backed by a steep gully and rocky headwalls on all sides, and faces south-west out to the Tasman Sea and South Pacific Ocean.

(21km) Little Tallow Beach → Tallow Beach Trail

distance 510 m time 10 mins climb 16m descent -14m Moderate track
Turn around: From Little Tallow Beach, this walk heads away from the ocean and towards the hill, following the creek bed. This soon comes upon two round boulders, at which this walk turns right, crossing the creek and then heading around the rocky northern headland of Little Tallow Beach. From the rocky platform at the point, this walk turns left up the bush track, leading across the hillside with the ocean on the right of the track. The track heads down the hill parallel to the sea for a little while before climbing slightly to the intersection.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill towards the beach. The walk winds down to an intersection with a small track, leading to the beach on the right. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn sharp right.

Tallow Beach

Tallow Beach
Tallow Beach, Bouddi National Park, is a large 400m-long beach with a south-westerly aspect. The beach is set between two rocky headlands and backed by a large campsite.

(21km) Tallow Beach Trail → Box Head Trail

distance 730 m time 18 mins climb 68m descent -2m Moderate track
Turn around: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill, away from the campsite and ocean. The track winds into a gully and then out to a bend in the track, where the bush track intersection can be found on the ocean side (left) of the service trail.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill away from the ocean. The track tends left as it separates the eucalypts on the left with the heath on the right. The track continues to rise over numerous speed bumps as it heads up to the signposted intersection. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn left.

(21km) Box Head Trail → Hawke Head Drive

distance 70 m time 2 mins climb 8m descent 0m Moderate track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the management trail up the hill away (following neither the 'Box Head' nor 'Tallow Beach' arrows). The walk continues away from these signposted trails, going down into a saddle and up the hill on the other side to the sign-marked intersection.

(21km) Hawke Head Drive → Lobster Beach

distance 1.6 km time 39 mins climb 67m descent -156m Moderate track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill, following the sign towards 'Lobster Beach' and 'Wagstaff'. The track climbs the knoll heading right, then swings left rounding the back of the knoll for approximately 100m to the signposted intersection.
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Lobster Bch. - Wagstaff' sign along the ridgeline. The track then winds to the left of a knoll, towards the sea, and leads along the fenceline. The track undulates down the hill to a sign 'Pretty Beach, Wagstaff'. The track turns left here, following the sign down the rocky surface for a short time, before coming to the intersection above some houses and two large green water tanks, on the right.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads steeply down the hill to the left, with the water tanks below to the right. The track passes a set of gates on the left, to continue away from the houses. The track heads past a house with a steep roof (on the left) to continue over a driveway. The walk then leads along the back fence of a house, to the corner at the sign marked intersection.
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk heads up the stairs following the sign to 'Lobster Beach'. The walk follows the many stairs up the hill, to the ridge line with a house on the left.
Continue straight: From the ridge, this walk heads down the hill towards the beach. The track heads steeply down to a lookout platform above the beach. The track then continues along the hillside to a set of boardwalked stairs which tend right, down to Lobster Beach.

Lobster beach

Lobster Beach, Bouddi National Park, is a 300m long, west-facing beach on Broken Bay. The beach, backed by a steep hill and edged by rocky shores, provides westerly views over Broken Bay to Pearl and Ocean beaches. The beach has toilet and garbage facilities just above the sand.

(23km) Lobster Beach → Hawke Head Drive

distance 1.6 km time 39 mins climb 156m descent -67m Moderate track
Turn around: From Lobster Beach, this walk heads away from Broken Bay up the boardwalked stairs. The track tends left up the hillside, to a lookout platform. The walk then heads up the steep stairs to the top of the ridgeline - near the top of the ridge is a bench. The track then continues up the intersection on the ridge, opposite a house.
Continue straight: From the ridgeline, this walk heads down, away from the beach by the steep staircase to the signposted intersection at the corner of two fence lines.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads along a fenceline (keeping the fence on the left). At the end of the fenceline, the walk passes over a driveway to continue up the hill. The track continues up the hill past a house (on the right) with a notably steep roof, to swing left. The track leads past a set of gates (on the right) as it rounds to the back of a few houses with two large green water tanks. The track heads right, steeply up the hill away from the houses and water tanks, to the intersection.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill away from the water tanks (below on the left) to a sign marked 'Pretty Bch Wagstaff'. The track turns right, heading up the hill, and continues to climb the undulating ridgeline. The track then follows a fence left, with views of Broken Bay on the right. The track winds towards the sea, around a knoll, to follow the ridgeline for some time a signposted intersection.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Tallow Bch. - Killcare' sign along the flat. The track quickly swings right with views of Box Head before heading down to a signposted intersection.

(24km) Hawke Head Drive → Hawke Head Drive NE

distance 1.9 km time 42 mins climb 37m descent -80m Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Killcare' arrow along the management trail. The walk passes (ignoring) a track signpost ('Tallow Beach') and passes an unfenced cliff warning sign before climbing a little. The walk passes around a gate and continues a short distance to a parking area, signposted 'Tallow Beach 900m'.
Continue straight: From the car park, the walk follows the management trail up the slight hill, leaving the car park and signpost behind, to the left. The trail undulates for some time, with views of the Rip Bridge and Woy Woy to the left. The trail begins to go downhill and arrives at an intersection with a gated service trail, to the left.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill, with views of the water to the left. The walk continues for some time down the hill, passing over many speed bumps, and continuing when the road becomes a sealed surface. The walk passes a few houses on both sides of the road and soon comes to the intersection with Nukara Ave.

(26km) Hawke Head Drive NE → Putty Beach car park

distance 770 m time 16 mins climb 6m descent -41m Moderate track
Continue straight: From Nukara Ave, this walk continues down the hill to turn right onto The Scenic Road. The walk immediately takes the first right onto Beach Drive, which it follows down to turn left into the second (larger) car park

Maps for the Bouddi Ridge and Coastal Walk walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Broken Bay1:25 000 Map Series91301N BROKEN BAYNSW-91301N
Sydney1:100 000 Map Series9130 SYDNEY9130

Cross sectional view of the Bouddi Ridge and Coastal Walk bushwalking track

Terrain profile for Bouddi Ridge and Coastal Walk

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Bouddi Ridge and Coastal Walk

Altitude analysis for Bouddi Ridge and Coastal Walk

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

Length27 km
Time2 Days
.




Grade 4/6



Hard track		AS 2156.1GradientVery steep (4/6)
Quality of trackRough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6)
SignsMinimal directional signs (4/6)
Experience RequiredNo experience required (1/6)
WeatherWeather generally has little impact on safety (1/6)
InfrastructureLimited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged) (4/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

16km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 9km has short steep hills. Whilst another 970m is very steep and the remaining 820m is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

18km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 4km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. Whilst another 3.3km follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 1.4km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.

Signs

17km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection and another 6km is clearly signposted. The remaining (4.6km) has minimal directional signs.

Experience Required

This whole walk, 27km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

This whole walk, 27km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

17km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced) and another 7km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats). The remaining (2.3km) has limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged).

Similar walks

A list of walks that share part of the track with the Bouddi Ridge and Coastal Walk walk.

Little Beach Trail

1.2 km Return, 1 Hr

Little Beach Trail

This walk from Grahame Drive car park to Little Beach follows the service trail straight through the tall forest, down the hill to the isolated beach. The beach is popular with surfers, and the campsite provides a nice place for a rest. A great spot to get your toes wet during a BBQ lunch (great BB

Total climbing: 47m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Marie Byles Lookout to Bullimah Lookout

1.8 km Return, 1 Hr

Marie Byles Lookout to Bullimah Lookout

The Bullimah Lookout Track follows the spur down the hill from Marie Byles Lookout and car park. The track zigzags a little on the way, passing around boulders. There are excellent views from Bullimah Lookout over Maitland Bay.

Total climbing: 83m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Maitland Bay Track

2.1 km Return, 1 Hr

Maitland Bay Track

From Maitland Bay Information Centre, this walk heads straight down the hill to Maitland Beach. On the way down, the track passes many rock landings which act as lookouts over Maitland Bay and the lush bush of the surrounding gullies. Maitland Bay Beach itself is a wonderful sandy beach which is pop

Total climbing: 153m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Bullimah Outlook

2.3 km Return, 1 hr 15 mins

Bullimah Outlook

Starting from the Maitland Bay Information Centre, this walk heads down and around the hill to follow the spur out to Bullimah Lookout. The track winds through the bush giving glimpses of Maitland Bay from several rocky landings. The views along the way, and from the lookout are fantastic.

Total climbing: 95m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Box Head Track

3.1 km Return, 2 hrs

Box Head Track

Starting on Hawke Head Drive, this walk explores the southernmost ridge in Bouddi NP. The walk provides excellent views over Woy Woy, Broken Bay, Hawkesbury River and the Tasman Sea. It takes in spectacular views over Lion Island and Pearl Beach from the many rocky outcrops along the Box Head ridg

Total climbing: 126m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Hawke Head Drive to Box Head

3.1 km Return, 1 hr 15 mins

Hawke Head Drive to Box Head

This walk, from Hawke Head Drive, is the most direct route to Box Head. The walk explores Box Head headland and the many rocky outcrops on the way. There is great variation in the vegetation and a great variety in the views across the ocean and up into the mouth of Broken Bay. The cul-de-sac at th

Total climbing: 126m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Bouddi Spur to Maitland Bay

3.9 km Return, 1 hr 45 mins

Bouddi Spur to Maitland Bay

This walk is great following lunch at Dingeldei Picnic area. The walk explores the rock flats of Maitland Bay, with many interesting shells and the shipwreck of the S.S. Maitland. The walk provides the option to spend time at Maitland Beach on the way to the wreck. The wreck is best seen at low tide

Total climbing: 271m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Maitland Bay Shipwreck Track

3.9 km Return, 1 hr 30 mins

Maitland Bay Shipwreck Track

From the Maitland Bay Information Centre, this walk heads straight down the hill to Maitland Beach and the shipwreck of the S.S. Maitland. On the way down, the track passes many rock landings providing great views of Maitland Bay and the bush of the surrounding gullies. Perched on the edge of the ro

Total climbing: 195m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Maitland Bay Information Centre to Putty Beach

4.5 km One way, 1 hr 45 mins

Maitland Bay Information Centre to Putty Beach

This walk is an excellent way to see some of Bouddi National Parks greatest views. The walk follows the Maitland Bay Track and the Bouddi Coastal walk to Putty Beach. The track shows off Maitland Bay from a number of different lookouts, while passing through different types of vegetation. There are

Total climbing: 126m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Little Beach to Mount Bouddi Track

5 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

Little Beach to Mount Bouddi Track

This walk curves around from Graham car park, taking in the secluded Little Beach and Caves Bay before finishing at Mt Bouddi's Dingeldei Picnic Area. The walk passes through many different types of vegetation. The service trail from above Little Beach to above Caves Bay is very sandy, in contrast t

Total climbing: 343m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Gerrin Point Circuit

5.2 km Circuit, 2 hrs 30 mins

Gerrin Point Circuit

A fantastic loop walk, showcasing the stunning coastal views and scenery of the Bouddi National Park. Optional sidetrips to a couple of beaches, and the opportunity to see the wreckage of the S.S. Maitland, add some variety to the walk.

Total climbing: 269m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Maitland Bay Info Centre - Mt Bouddi - Maitland Bay

6 km Circuit, 2 hrs 15 mins

Maitland Bay Info Centre - Mt Bouddi - Maitland Bay

This walk forms a loop, starting at the Maitland Bay Information Centre. The walk visits Maitland Bay, with an optional side trip to the S.S. Maitland Shipwreck, best seen at low tide. The changes in vegetation with altitude are evident and provide a lot to see along the track.

Total climbing: 287m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Bouddi Spur to Little Beach via Bombi Moor

6.5 km One way, 3 hrs

Bouddi Spur to Little Beach via Bombi Moor

This walk explores a large part of the Bouddi National Park coastline. Features of this walk include the walk out to Bombi Moors and down to Little Beach. The tracks connecting these spots explore some excellent rainforest areas and wonderful heath covered headlands. Interesting, beautiful and a gre

Total climbing: 297m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Putty Beach, Box Head, Lobster Beach to Pretty Beach

7.5 km One way, 3 hrs 30 mins

Putty Beach, Box Head, Lobster Beach to Pretty Beach

This walk is a great one way walk to do after spending some time at Putty Beach. The walk uses Hawke Head Drive to head along the ridge to Box Head. The headland has superb views over Broken Bay to Barrenjoey Headland and out to sea. Lobster Beach is another great beach in the area with views over t

Total climbing: 360m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Bouddi Coastal Walk

8.1 km One way, 5 hrs

Bouddi Coastal Walk

This is one of the longer walks in the Bouddi National Park and it is rich in scenery. The walk follows the coastline with many side trips to lookouts, beaches and even a shipwreck. This walk makes a wonderful one way trip from Graham Drive down to Putty Beach, with views around every corner.

Total climbing: 364m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Tallow Beach and Box Head

8.5 km Circuit, 4 hrs

Tallow Beach and Box Head

This walk explores some of Bouddi National Park's hidden beaches and the Box Head lookout. The views over the South Pacific Ocean and Broken Bay are magnificent, while the secluded beaches of Tallow and Little Tallow are great spots for lunch and to dip the toes in. The vegetation is mostly heath al

Total climbing: 323m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Little Beach Bombi Moor and Mt Bouddi Circuit Track

9.1 km Circuit, 4 hrs

Little Beach Bombi Moor and Mt Bouddi Circuit Track

This is a great circuit walk, leading walkers from the hills, down to the beach. The circuit takes in the vast changes in vegetation as it descends to Little Beach, then follows the coast, heading up to Dingeldei Picnic Area. The sandy service trails and views out to sea make this a magnificent walk

Total climbing: 439m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Other Nearby walks

A list of walks that start near the Bouddi Ridge and Coastal Walk walk.

Bouddi Lookout

1.8 km Return, 1 Hr

Bouddi Lookout

This is a great way to walk off a lunch if picnicking at Dingeldei Picnic Area. The Bouddi Lookout walk meanders through the bush, without any views of the ocean, until it reaches the rocky platform of Bouddi Lookout. After enjoying the view, you can head back up the hill to Dingeldei Picnic Area in

Total climbing: 112m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Mt Ettalong Lookout

1.4 km Return, 30 mins

Mt Ettalong Lookout

This lovely short walk takes you from the large water tank, along an old trail and track to two fantastic fenced lookout platforms. There are a few unfenced views along this shaded walk. A picnic table among the Sydney Red Gums, just before the two main lookouts, makes a wonderful spot for a snack

Total climbing: 34m

Grade 2
  • Car

Easy track

Pearl Beach to Warrah Lookout

5.1 km Return, 2 hrs

Pearl Beach to Warrah Lookout

This walk follows a wide trail then a track to the fantastic views from Warrah Lookout. From Pearl Beach, this walk follows the roads to the lower end of Pearl Beach / Patonga fire trail. Continuing up this trail, the walk passes some sandstone caves and further on, enjoys the fenced Warrah Lookou

Total climbing: 189m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Warrah Trig to Patonga

2.2 km One way, 1 Hr

Warrah Trig to Patonga

This walk starts at the top of the ridge and leads through a field of wildflowers (in spring and early summer), past some panoramic water views and down to Patonga Village for fish and chips. Starting on the Tony Doyle Track, this walk passes the old Warrah Trig and then visits Warrah Lookout, a gr

Total climbing: 39m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Ferry

Moderate track

Warrah Trig to Pearl Beach

2.8 km One way, 1 hr 15 mins

Warrah Trig to Pearl Beach

Starting on the Tony Doyle track, this walk passes the old Warrah Trig before enjoying the views from Warrah lookout. The walk follows the wide trail down the hill to Pearl Beach. There are many great wildflowers in spring and if you are quiet, you may spot a Lyrebird or two. If you are feeling en

Total climbing: 27m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Warrah Trig to Lookout

756 m Return, 20 mins

Warrah Trig to Lookout

This walk takes you from the old Warrah Trig Station down the ridge, along a well formed rock path to Warrah Lookout. From the lookout there are fantastic views spanning from the distant Barrenjoey headland, across the Hawkesbury river to Brisk Bay and Patonga. There are no facilities provided at t

Total climbing: 51m

Grade 2
  • Car

Easy track

Glasson's Trail

1.7 km One way, 1 Hr

Glasson's Trail

Glasson's Trail starts near the main entrance to Kincumber Mountain Reserve and follows a series of management trails and tracks up to the main picnic area. The walk offers a great way to explore the diverse vegetation and visiting some interesting rock formations. The walk is signposted and cross

Total climbing: 158m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Kincumber to Terrigal (via Glasson's Trl)

4.5 km One way, 2 hrs

Kincumber to Terrigal (via Glasson's Trl)

This walk explores the main highlights of Kincumber Mountain Regional Reserve. Starting on the Glasson's trail, the walk explores a variety of forests along the way to Honeman's Rock and picnic area. After a rest, you visit a large cave on Kanning Walk and continue to the views at Colin Watters Look

Total climbing: 220m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Patonga to Pearl Beach

4.3 km One way, 1 hr 45 mins

Patonga to Pearl Beach

This walk explores a section of Brisbane Water National Park between the villages of Patonga and Pearl Beach. From Patonga, this walk takes you up a track following the Great North Walk route, and then a wider trail brings you to a short (and very worthwhile) side trip to Warrah Lookout. From here

Total climbing: 189m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Ferry

Moderate track

Patonga to Somersby

41.5 km One way, 3 Days

Patonga to Somersby

This three day walk follows the Great North Walk from Patonga, through Brisbane Waters National Park, to the Somersby General Store. The two campsites can be found near the summit of Mt Wondabyne, and along the banks of the Mooney Mooney Creek. Water is available from Kariong Brook and often from tr

Total climbing: 1811m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Ferry

Hard track

Patonga to Staples Lookout

17 km One way, 6 hrs 30 mins

Patonga to Staples Lookout

This great walk explores much of the main ridge ridge running through Brisbane Water National Park. The walk visits a number of great lookouts and has two worthy side trips, one up to the top of Mt Wondabyne and another to the falls in Kariong Brook. The walk requires a bit of planning for transpo

Total climbing: 702m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Ferry

Hard track

Patonga to Wondabyne station via Mt Wondabyne

19.5 km One way, 7 hrs 30 mins

Patonga to Wondabyne station via Mt Wondabyne

This walk explores some grand views, pleasant cascades, varied bushland and remote areas of Brisbane Waters National Park. From Patonga you will walk up the ridge and take a short side trip to enjoy the wonderful views from Warrah Lookout, before following a series of dirt roads and management trail

Total climbing: 861m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train
  • Ferry

Hard track

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Bouddi Ridge and Coastal Walk walk starts and ends at the Putty Beach Camping Area (gps: -33.527470, 151.37162)

car Car. There is free parking available.<br /> (get details)

Weather Forecast

This walk starts in the Hunter weather district.

Current Alerts

Park Information

Bouddi National Park

Bouddi National Park is south east of Woy Woy and encompasses the Box Head headland. Bouddi NP has numerous secluded beaches and some great surf beaches too. The park also offers fantastic coastal walking with views out from the tall headlands over Broken Bay, Woy Woy and the South Pacific Ocean. Bouddi NP also boasts one of the first marine extensions in NSW, with a 300ha protection zone out of Maitland Bay for the marine life. The mosquitoes in Bouddi NP can be fierce so it might be an idea to pack insect repellent.

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