Cape Baily Walking Track is an 9km, grade 2 hike located in Kamay Botany Bay National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 3 hours to complete.
Hike overview
The Cape Baily walking track in Kamay Botany Bay National Park offers stunning panoramic views from the park's sandstone cliffs. Located near Cronulla, this track is a prime location for spotting whales, dolphins, and native birds.
The walk starts at Cape Solander in Kurnell. Park your car near the whale viewing platform and choose your route based on available time. The shorter option is a 4km one-way walk to Potter Point, while the longer option is an 8km return journey taking roughly 3 hours.
As you walk, you'll be treated to breathtaking ocean views from the cliff tops. Look out for the dramatic sandstone formations and see if you can spot whales migrating between May and October or dolphins playing offshore. On land, you'll pass by Cape Baily lighthouse and encounter diverse vegetation including heathland and freshwater wetlands. Depending on the season, you might even see native orchid species. Keep your eyes peeled for sea birds and local reptiles as well.
This peaceful walk is suitable for most visitors, especially nature lovers. Remember to bring plenty of water as there are no fountains along the track. The ideal season for this hike is between May and October, when the weather is milder and coincides with whale watching season. Be aware that there's no shade, so prepare for the sun's heat on hot summer days.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 45 m
Min elevation: 8 m
Total climbing: 268 m
Total descent: -267 m
Tips
- You can visit any time of year as there are no weather restrictions.
- Relatively flat with a few steps over elevated boardwalk and sections of natural sandstone.
- Occasional step up/down on sections of natural sandstone and boardwalks.
- Bring drinking water, sturdy shoes, suitable clothing, hat, sunscreen, snacks
- Park entry fees apply
- No wheelchair access
- There are no water fountains or shaded areas along the track.
- The nearest toilet is at Commemoration flat and there’s an external toilet at Kurnell Visitor Centre, 2km north and a 3min drive from Cape Solander carpark.
Trail location
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Getting there
Getting to Cape Baily Walking Track: The Cape Baily walking track starts at the south end of Cape Solander carpark in Kurnell, Kamay Botany Bay National Park. Here's how to get there by car:
- Follow Captain Cook Drive towards Kurnell.
- At the T-intersection, turn left and take the next right onto Cape Solander Drive.
- Continue past the visitor center and follow the road until the end, where you'll find the Cape Solander carpark.
Important Information for Drivers: The roads leading to the carpark are all sealed, making them accessible for regular vehicles (2WD).
Parking is available at Cape Solander lookout, including several accessible parking spaces.
Be aware: This area can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during whale watching season. To secure a parking spot, arrive early. If you're not planning the full 8km return walk, you can arrange to be dropped off and picked up later at Potter Point carpark.
Public Transport Option: Public transport is also an option for reaching the Kurnell area. However, specific details regarding routes and schedules are not included in this information.
Gallery
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About the region
Kamay Botany Bay National Park is located at La Perouse and Kurnell in Sydney. Discover its rich Aboriginal culture, explore Captain Cooks landing place, spot native plants on a bushwalk or look for whales at Cape Solander.
Filled with significant sites, coastal landscapes and heritage-listed attractions, Kamay Botany Bay National Park is an easy day out in Sydney's south. Separated by the marine-rich waters of historic Botany Bay, the park’s northern and southern headlands feature a unique combination of natural and cultural heritage.
Explore the southern area around Kurnell where in 1770, local Aboriginal people encountered the crew of the Endeavour. The northern area at La Perouse is just as fascinating, where French explorer Comte de Laperouse was last sighted in 1788.
This park is also blessed with several sheltered coves and beaches, if you like swimming in salt water without fighting the surf. Its diverse waters offer plenty of beautiful snorkelling and scuba diving spots suitable for all levels of experience. You'll find rocky reefs at the entrance of Botany Bay, and underwater sea grass meadows inside the bay itself.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
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Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.