Bouddi Coastal Walking Track

Fast facts

• Coastal walk that rambles through bushland to pristine beaches along the northern shore of Broken Bay
• Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach, Central Coast just north of Sydney
• 8 km, moderate walking

Why walk it

Winding through Bouddi National Park, the Bouddi Coastal Walk takes in several beautiful beaches, separated by forests, hills and cliffs, that are only accessible on foot.

The trail, which incorporates bridges and boardwalks, has panoramic coastal views, gnarled red gums, rock shelves sculpted by crashing waves and even a shipwreck visible at low tide.

This is a walk that requires swimmers and a towel as well as walking shoes. However exercise caution – these beaches are not patrolled.

The track passes through a significant ecosystem at Bombi Moors, a dense heathland of banksias and other native plants. In the eastern part of the national park, Maitland Bay lies at the heart of a 300 hectare underwater reserve where all marine life is protected. The beach at Maitland Bay is sheltered by the rocky headlands that encircle it at both ends.

Along the way

• Take along a mask or goggles and say hello to the fishes at the Maitland Bay Marine Extension.
• Pack water and a picnic lunch – there are some great places to stop off and admire the scenery.
• Watch for whales – which are sometimes seen relatively close inshore along this coast during the migration season.

Don’t miss

• The views from Gerrin Point Lookout overlooking Maitland Bay
• The rusting remains of the PS Maitland, visible at low tide
• The beautiful displays of Crowea saligna on the rock outcrops from late summer to early winter
• The lush rainforest community known as Bouddi Grand Deep near Maitland Bay