Trail summary
Hike overview
Nestled within Bouddi National Park, the Maitland Bay Track is a favourite among Central Coast hikers. This short but demanding walk winds downhill, rewarding you with the secluded beauty of Maitland Bay and its hidden shipwreck.
The adventure begins at the Maitland Bay Information Centre. The track then takes you on a scenic descent past the Bullimah Spur track junction. Prepare to be surrounded by natural wonders – rock landings, gullies adorned with Hawkesbury sandstone, and the lush Bouddi Grand Deep rainforest.
Upon reaching Maitland Bay, you can choose your own adventure. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, become a beachcomber searching for unique shells, or simply relax with your toes in the sand. For history buffs, low tide reveals the remains of the PS Maitland, a ship tragically wrecked in 1898.
The trek downhill takes a leisurely 15-20 minutes. However, the return journey uphill can be a challenge for some. An alternative option is to extend your adventure with a 3km walk (flat terrain) to Putty Beach, where you can arrange for pick-up.
Tips
- This walk requires a moderate fitness level as it’s quite steep and includes some steps.
- You might like to stop for a swim at Maitland Bay, so bring your swimmers and towel. It's also a good idea to bring insect repellant to ward off mosquitoes.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 159 m
Min elevation: 22 m
Total climbing: 142 m
Total descent: -141 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Pearl Beach, Killcare, Wagstaffe, Hardys Bay, Pretty Beach
Nestled within Bouddi National Park’s Maitland Bay precinct, the Maitland Bay Track offers a scenic escape for Central Coast hikers. This short but rewarding walk kicks off at the conveniently located Maitland Bay Information Centre.
For those arriving from Gosford: Leaving Gosford behind, follow the Central Coast Highway towards Erina. Once you reach Erina, keep an eye out for Avoca Drive and turn right. Continue through Kincumber until you reach Empire Bay Drive. Make a right turn here and follow Empire Bay Drive until you see Cochrone Street on your left. Take a left onto Cochrone Street and then a quick right onto The Scenic Road. The Maitland Bay Information Centre awaits! You’ll find it opposite the intersection of Maitland Bay Drive and The Scenic Road.
No need to worry about parking hassles. The Maitland Bay Information Centre has a designated parking area, allowing you to begin your adventure right away.
Photo gallery
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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 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
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.
Located on the Central Coast near Gosford, north of Sydney, the beautiful Bouddi National Park offers spectacular diverse landscapes - from beaches and steep cliffs through to rainforest and heathland.
Make the most of the park’s coastal location and camp at Little Beach, Putty Beach or Tallow Beach campground. Go swimming, fishing or whale watching. Explore the cycling trails or take in sweeping views from the lookouts and coastal walks, including the well-known Bouddi Coastal walk.
Bouddi National Park is home to countless attractions, including one of Australia’s first marine protected areas, significant Aboriginal sites, wildlife and wildflowers, and even an old
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Let someone know
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
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.