Coastal Walks and Historic Hikes near Sydney’s Southern Bays
Kamay Botany Bay National Park lies in Sydney’s southern suburbs, stretching across the headlands of La Perouse and Kurnell. Located about 20 kilometres from the city centre, this park blends fascinating cultural history with coastal walks, scenic bushwalks, and easy access to marine life. It’s one of those places where the past and present sit side by side — you can trace significant events in Australian history while enjoying a relaxed day outdoors.
The park is split by the broad, sheltered waters of Botany Bay, with La Perouse to the north and Kurnell to the south. Both sides offer something different, but each area provides excellent opportunities for walking, hiking and exploring the natural environment. The park is managed in close partnership with Aboriginal communities, and you’ll find many signs and interpretive displays that highlight the ongoing cultural significance of this area.
The Kurnell side of the park is known as the place where, in 1770, the Gweagal people first encountered Captain Cook and the crew of the Endeavour. Today, this headland features walking tracks that pass significant heritage sites, including monuments, memorials and an interpretive visitor centre. The walking tracks here are well-maintained and offer a combination of bushland and coastal scenery, with views out over the bay and towards the city skyline. Cape Solander is one of the best known spots for whale watching between May and November, and there’s a viewing platform where you can often see humpbacks breaching just offshore.
On the northern side at La Perouse, the experience shifts slightly, with coastal tracks leading you past historic fortifications, heritage-listed buildings, and lookout points along the cliffs. La Perouse is also where the French expedition led by Comte de Lapérouse was last seen before disappearing at sea in 1788. Today, it’s a peaceful spot to enjoy short walks or spend the day picnicking and exploring the coastline. This side of the park is also popular with divers and snorkellers thanks to its sheltered coves, sea grass beds, and rocky reefs that are easy to access from the shore.
If you’re looking for a walk that combines interesting history with sea breezes and coastal bushland, Kamay Botany Bay National Park offers a variety of well-marked tracks suitable for most fitness levels. From short loops to more extended walks that hug the cliffs, there’s plenty to enjoy for solo walkers, families or anyone just looking for an excuse to get outside.
The calm beaches on both sides of the bay are ideal if you prefer your saltwater swimming without the surf. And whether you’re after a gentle bushwalk, a more structured hike, or just a picnic spot to take in the sea air, you’ll find the park easy to reach and rewarding to explore.
Want to find the best trails in Kamay Botany Bay National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.
