Sydney Harbour National Park protects islands, headlands and stretches of shoreline around Sydney Harbour. Its separate areas combine coastal walks, bushland, beaches and historic sites, with views of the Harbour Bridge, the city and the harbour itself. Choose one section for a visit: walk from Bradleys Head towards Chowder Bay, follow the South Head Heritage Trail to Hornby Lighthouse, or explore North Head and the former Quarantine Station. Swimming and picnic spots add a slower option, while some coves can be reached only from the water.
A park in separate harbour-side sections
Sydney Harbour National Park protects parts of Port Jackson, including stretches of foreshore, headlands and islands. It was established in 1975, with areas added progressively. Rather than one continuous park, it is a collection of places around the harbour, including Bradleys Head, Middle Head, Dobroyd Head, North Head, South Head and Nielsen Park.
That spread gives you a choice of very different outings, but it helps to plan around one area at a time. Some sections suit a short coastal walk; others combine beaches, bush tracks and historic remains. The park also includes islands, and a number of secluded places are accessible only by water.
Walking routes and harbour views
Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay is a scenic, relatively gentle walk along bush tracks and paths, with bays along the way. At Bradleys Head, look out towards the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. The route ends at Chowder Bay, another place to pause by the water.
At South Head, the Heritage Trail starts near Camp Cove and follows an old cobbled route to Hornby Lighthouse. Along the way, you can see historic gun positions. The headland is also a place to watch for migrating whales from May to November.
For a longer outing, the Manly to North Head section can be followed as a circular route via Shelley Beach, Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve and Manly Beach, returning to Manly Wharf along The Corso. The North Head portion is about 9.5 kilometres; allow three to four hours to explore North Head Sanctuary and take in its views.
Beaches, bushland and places to pause
Nielsen Park, on the eastern side of the harbour, includes Shark Beach and access to the Hermitage Foreshore Walk. The shoreline route passes through bushland and links bays and beaches, including Queens Beach, Hermit Bay Beach and Milk Beach. Shark Beach has a shark net, and the grassy area at Nielsen Park is suited to a picnic.
The park’s tracks and coastal paths also pass through native bushland and offer opportunities to see birds and other wildlife. Some routes are easy to combine with a swim or a picnic, while others include uneven or steep sections. Check the route you have chosen and wear suitable footwear before setting out.
History at North Head
At North Head, the former Quarantine Station, now known as Q Station, tells part of the story of Australia’s early settlement. In the 1800s, immigrants who had fallen ill were housed there. The site is now used as a hotel and also hosts events and conferences.
Military fortifications are another part of the park’s history, particularly around the headlands. On walks such as the South Head Heritage Trail, the historic structures sit alongside coastal views and bushland. Treat these places with care as you explore.
Perguntas frequentes
How do you get to Sydney Harbour National Park?
Ferries connect Circular Quay with Manly, Taronga Zoo and Watsons Bay, giving access to North Head, Bradleys Head and South Head respectively.
Is entry to Sydney Harbour National Park free?
The park has no entry fee. Parking fees apply at some national park car parks.
How long should you allow for North Head?
Allow three to four hours to explore North Head Sanctuary and enjoy the views.
Can you swim in Sydney Harbour National Park?
Yes. The park includes swimming spots such as Shark Beach at Nielsen Park, as well as other beaches and coves.
