Discover one of the Central Coast's most beautiful walks. The Coast walking track runs through a narrow strip of forest between Forresters and Bateau Bay Beaches.
Setting out from Bateau Bay Beach picnic area, you'll wander along clifftops, past blackbutts and spotted gums, and absorb spectacular coastal views as you go. The best time to walk is between May and August, when you can do some whale watching from Crackneck lookout along the way. If you're walking in spring, you'll be treated to wildflowers coming into bloom, including ground orchids and flannel flowers, and you're bound to spot birds all year round.
The return walk is about 6km, but if you'd like a shorter walk, try going one way, or you can break the walk up into shorter sections. No matter how you undertake it, you're sure to find it rewarding.
Take a virtual tour of The Coast walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
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.
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Leave a trip plan
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Wyrrabalong National Park.
To Cromarty Hill Road. The Coast walking track goes from Bateau Bay south to Forresters Beach. You can start the track at either end, or at one of the access points along the way, or including Crackneck lookout.To start the walk from Bateau Bay:Take The Entrance Road and turn east into Yakalla StreetTurn right onto Bateau Bay Road and then left into Reserve DriveThe track starts from Bateau Bay Beach picnic area on Reserve DriveTo start the walk from Forresters Beach:Take The Entrance Road and turn east into Crystal StreetTurn left into Kalakau Avenue, which becomes South Scenic RoadTurn right into North Scenic Road, which becomes Cromarty Hill RoadPark near the gate and follow the track up to the Wyrrabalong lookout, where the track begins Park entry points Cromarty Hill Road See on map Parking Parking is available at Bateau Bay Beach picnic area a short walk from the northern end of The Coast walking track Parking is available on North Scenic Drive, a short walk to Wyrrabalong lookout and the southern end of The Coast walking track
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.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Bateau Bay, Budgewoi, Canton Beach, Long Jetty, North Avoca Beach, North Entrance, North Wyong, Terrigal, The Entrance, Toowoon Bay, Wamberal
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Wyrrabalong National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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