Australia's Best Coastal Walks: A Journey for the Eco-Adventurer
So you’re touring Australia looking for all the best spots. Let’s be real, it’s ALL spectacular but if you’re looking for a bucket list or the ‘can’t be missed’ Instagram worthy shots - we got you!
Our coastline offers more than just stunning views; it's a call to adventure for those who seek connection with nature and a commitment to preserving it. At Unearth Style Co, we believe in exploring responsibly, treading lightly, and embracing the wild with sustainable gear. Here's our curated list of Australia's most captivating coastal walks - be sure to send us your pics as you tick them off.
1. Bondi to Coogee Walk, NSW
This iconic 6km trail in Sydney's eastern suburbs offers stunning ocean views, passing through beaches like Tamarama and Bronte. The path is well-maintained, making it accessible for walkers of all levels. Along the way, you'll encounter rock pools, parks, and cafes—perfect spots to rest and enjoy the scenery.
Local Insight: While the Bondi to Coogee Walk is popular, locals know that starting early in the morning helps avoid crowds and offers a more serene experience. Additionally, the nearby Waverley Cemetery provides a peaceful detour with stunning ocean views. (Because relaxing in a cemetery is only weird if you make it weird).
2. Cape to Cape Track, WA
Stretching 123km from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin in Western Australia's Margaret River region, this multi-day hike traverses diverse terrains, including coastal cliffs, forests, and beaches. The track offers opportunities to spot native wildlife (if you’re lucky, expect whales and dolphins galore) and explore limestone caves, with campsites and accommodations available along the route.
Local Insight: Margaret River locals often recommend joining the "Cape to Cape Track (Western Australia)" Facebook group. It's a treasure trove of firsthand experiences, tips on river crossings, and updates on track conditions.
This hike is nothing short of STUNNING!
3. Great Ocean Walk, VIC
This 104 km trail runs from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles along Victoria's southern coast. Hikers are treated to dramatic sea cliffs, secluded beaches, and lush forests. The walk can be completed in sections or as a full multi-day hike, with various campsites and lodges available. If you’re lucky you just might spot an adorable Australian Koala bear or an echidna.
Local Insight: Beyond the main trail, locals suggest visiting Marriners Lookout near Apollo Bay for panoramic views of the coastline. It's especially breathtaking at sunrise and less frequented by tourists.
4. Noosa National Park Coastal Walk, QLD
Ok this is considered a ‘trendy’ part of our country, but beautiful nonetheless. Starting from Noosa Heads, this 10.8km return walk meanders through eucalyptus forests and along clifftops, offering panoramic ocean views. Keep an eye out for dolphins and koalas as you pass by picturesque spots like Tea Tree Bay and Hell's Gates.
Local Insight: Locals cherish the Fairy Pools, natural tidal pools nestled among the rocks between Tea Tree Bay and Granite Bay. They're a bit off the main path, so keep an eye out for the unmarked trail leading down to them .
5. Wineglass Bay Lookout, TAS
Located in Freycinet National Park, this short yet steep hike rewards visitors with one of Tasmania's most photographed vistas—Wineglass Bay's crescent-shaped beach framed by granite peaks. The 1.5km trail to the lookout is well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels. Personally we feel like it would be rude not to end this day with some iconic Tassie Oysters and a sparkling white but you do you!
Local Insight: While the lookout offers iconic views, locals know that descending the 1,000 steps to the beach provides a more secluded experience. The effort is rewarded with pristine sands and fewer crowds.
6. Royal National Park Coast Track, NSW
Soz guys, you’re gonna require some fitness levels for this one, this ain’t your casual Sunday stroll. Just south of Sydney, this 26km trail from Bundeena to Otford showcases diverse landscapes, including rainforests, waterfalls, and coastal cliffs. The track can be tackled over two days, with camping available at designated sites. Highlights include Wedding Cake Rock (no you can’t eat it) and Eagle Rock.
Local Insight: Beyond the main track, locals recommend exploring the Jibbon Beach Loop near Bundeena. It features Aboriginal rock engravings and offers a quieter alternative to the busier sections.That’s code for ‘it can get touristy so to dodge them try this”.
7. Bay of Fires Walk, TAS
For the fancy pants amongst you, there are some pretty ritzy experiences up for grabs along this walk. But for the simple adventurer; this guided multi-day hike along Tasmania's northeast coast features pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and distinctive orange-hued granite boulders. The walk combines beach strolls with inland forest paths, offering a unique blend of coastal and bushland experiences.
This is the stuff paintings are made from!
Local Insight: While many opt for guided tours, locals often embark on self-guided walks, starting from the southern end to avoid crowds. This approach offers a more intimate experience with the region's vibrant orange-hued granite boulders and pristine beaches .
8. Wilsons Promontory Southern Circuit, VIC
Another one not for the faint hearted, this one is considered ‘challenging’ on the adventure scale.
Known as "The Prom," this 33km loop in Victoria's Wilsons Promontory National Park encompasses secluded beaches, dense forests, and granite mountains. Typically completed over two to three days, the circuit offers a true wilderness experience with designated campsites along the way.
Local Insight: Locals know that the Southern Circuit offers some of the most remote and pristine beaches in Victoria. Camping at locations like Little Waterloo Bay provides a serene experience, with opportunities to spot native wildlife like wombats and emus .
9. Cape Byron Walking Track, NSW
I mean what’s a lap around Oz without stopping at the INFAMOUS Byron Bay. This 3.7km loop in Byron Bay takes you through rainforest, beach, and clifftop paths, culminating at the Cape Byron Lighthouse—the easternmost point of mainland Australia. The trail offers stunning ocean views and is a great spot for whale watching during migration seasons.
Hot tip, if you’re ever going to have a go a surfing for the first time, this can be the place to do it! Byron Bay waves offer everything from beginner to experienced.
Local Insight: While everyone loves the lighthouse, locals suggest taking the loop track in a clockwise direction. This route offers a gradual ascent and reveals hidden spots like Palm Valley and Wategos Beach along the way.
10. South Coast Track, TAS
For our serious adventurers, this 85km remote trail in Tasmania's Southwest National Park offers a challenging yet rewarding and ‘true’ wilderness adventure. Traversing wild beaches, rugged mountains, and untouched rainforests, the track typically takes six to eight days to complete and requires thorough preparation.
Local Insight: Given its remote nature, locals emphasise the importance of thorough preparation. That means ‘no winging it’ on this one guys. Joining local bushwalking clubs or forums can provide invaluable insights into track conditions, river crossings, and weather patterns.
Gear Up with Unearth Style Co
Embarking on these coastal adventures calls for gear that's as resilient and eco-conscious as you are. Our Solar Ridge Boxy Tee and Solar Ridge Long Sleeve are crafted from recycled and organic materials, ensuring comfort without compromising the planet. Plus, with every purchase, $2 is donated to Sea Shepherd, supporting ocean conservation efforts.
Exploring Australia's coastal trails is more than a journey; it's a commitment to preserving the beauty that surrounds us. By choosing sustainable paths and gear, you're playing a part in protecting these natural wonders for generations to come.
Ready to lace up your boots and make a difference? Let's unearth the adventure together.