The 8km Bouddi coastal walk runs from Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach. Boasting beaches, boardwalks and birdlife, it's known as one of the most beautiful central coast walks. This relatively easy hike is characterised by sweeping views, shady rainforest and inviting picnic spots.
There's a photo opportunity around every corner on Bouddi coastal walk. You might see wildflowers or migrating whales from Gerrin Point lookout, along with the Bouddi National Park Marine Extension and the PS Maitland shipwreck at the eastern end of Maitland Bay. Stay overnight before you set off at Putty Beach campground or stop along the way at Little Beach campground.
Prefer a shorter walk? Break the walk into shorter sections:
Take a virtual tour of Bouddi coastal walk captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Getting there
To Little Beach carpark. Bouddi coastal walk begins at Putty Beach picnic area, in the Putty Beach precinct of Bouddi National Park.To get there:Turn into Wards Hill Road at Empire BayTurn right into The Scenic Road at Killcare HeightsTurn left into Putty Beach Road and continue past the campground to the picnic areaThe walk commences approx 300m away at the eastern end of Putty Beach Park entry points Little Beach carpark See on map McMasters Beach See on map Putty Beach day use carpark See on map Parking Parking is available at Putty Beach picnic area.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
About the region
Bouddi National Park is located near Gosford on the New South Wales Central Coast. You'll find several great walks, as well as opportunities for camping, swimming and fishing. Bouddi National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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Looking for things to do in Bouddi National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe