A great walk along the beach and rocky shoreline near Bateau Bay. The unnamed rocky beach below Crackneck Lookout is a beautiful spot and there are plenty of interesting shapes and textures in the rocks and rockshelf along the way. There is a bit of rockhopping but much less than when approaching 'Crackneck' beach from the south. Parts of the walk are very exposed to the ocean and should not be attempted at high tides or during high seas.
Download maps and tracknotes for Bateau Bay Beach to Crackneck Beach hiking track from wildwalks.com.
Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the
AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
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About the region
The charming coastal village of Bateau Bay on the NSW Central Coast is best known for its fishing and range of outdoor adventures, including swimming, snorkelling, bushwalking, hang gliding and whale watching. In this secluded spot between two headlands, find your patch of sun-kissed sand and roll out a towel.
Find a place to stay
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: East Gosford, Erina, Long Jetty, North Avoca, North Gosford, North Wyong, Shelly Beach, The Entrance, Toowoon Bay, Toukley, Wamberal, Wyoming, Wyongah
Let someone know
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Bateau Bay? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.