Sublime Point walking track is one of the iconic treks of the Illawarra escarpment, and a challenging walk through lush coastal rainforest to the plateau above with incredible scenic views. The steep climb is ideal for experienced bushwalkers and a great nature escape only an hour from Sydney, north of Wollongong.
Starting near Sublime Point, the track descends steeply from Sublime Point lookout down the escarpment cliffs, through dense forests dotted with tree ferns and palms. Stop for a breather for some great birdwatching, and look out for yellow-tailed black cockatoos or raptor birds such as falcons and kestrels.
A series of ladders and a giant staircase allow you to rock-hop your way down to Austinmer. Enjoy lunch at the picnic facilities or nearby cafe before heading back down. If the hike up is enough for you though, you can organise a pick-up at the bottom of the track, or catch a train home from Austinmer Station. Take a virtual tour of Sublime Point walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Please respect the residents of Foothills Road by keeping noise to a minimum when entering and leaving the track
Avoid parking across residential driveways on Foothills Road
There are no rubbish bins along the walk so please take your rubbish away with you
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.
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.
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Gallery
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area.
To Princes Highway, Bulli Tops. Sublime Point walking track is in the Bulli precinct of Illawarra Escarpment Conservation Area. To get there:From the top of the escarpment:Take Old Princes Highway, approximately 12km south from Helensburgh to Bulli Heights.Turn left into Sublime Point lookout, approximately 3km north of Bulli Pass.The track begins 50m south-east of Sublime Cafe From the bottom of the escarpment:Turn left from Lawrence Hargrave Drive onto Henley/Kirton Roads, Austinmer.Turn left onto Hill Street, then right onto Foothills Road.The track branches off the footpath that joins Foothills Road and Buttenshaw Drive, Austinmer. Park entry points Princes Highway, Bulli Tops See on map Parking Parking is available at Sublime Point lookout.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area in the South Coast region
Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger. However, it is recommended that bushwalking only be undertaken during daylight hours because of the presence of cliff edges and other hazards.
Find a place to stay
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: Albion Park, Austinmer, Bulli, Dapto, Helensburgh, Kiama, Shellharbour, Stanwell Park, Thirroul, Wollongong, Woonona
Let someone know
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Suggest an edit
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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.