Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the Maitland Bay Track, a challenging 3.8km return hike located in the picturesque Bouddi National Park, Central Coast. This Grade 4 trail takes you through a lush rainforest, past Hawkesbury sandstone formations, and down to the secluded Maitland Bay. Be captivated by the stunning views, the hidden shipwreck revealed at low tide, and the option to extend your adventure to Putty Beach. Remember, the return uphill can be demanding, so come prepared for a rewarding challenge!

Length:

3.8km

Duration:

2 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 159m

Min elevation: 22m

Total Ascent: 142m

Start: Maitland Bay Information Centre

End: Maitland Bay Information Centre

Bouddi National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Killcare Heights

From state capital: 92.7km

Latitude: -33.52041562094189

Longitude: 151.3827154181004

Overview

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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.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Maitland Bay Track (3.8km)

Total distance: 3804 m
Max elevation: 159 m
Min elevation: 22 m
Total climbing: 142 m
Total descent: -141 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Bouddi National Park.

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.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Copacabana, East Gosford, Ettalong Beach, Gosford, Hardys Bay, Killcare, North Avoca, Patonga, Pearl Beach, Pretty Beach, Umina Beach, Wagstaffe, Woy Woy

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

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Bouddi National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews
Maitland Bay Track (3.8km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Maitland Bay Track (3.8km)