Australia is a dream destination for anyone who loves the outdoors, with its breathtaking coastline offering some of the best walks in the world.
From dramatic cliffs and iconic beaches to rich wildlife and cultural heritage, these trails promise unforgettable adventures. And now, you can immerse yourself even deeper into Australia’s best tracks with a new guide that showcases the greatest coastal walks from every state.
Curated by Brent McKean and published by Gelding Street Press, editor of Great Walks magazine, this guide reveals an incredible array of scenic trails, from iconic Sydney beaches to secluded wilderness getaways. Whether you’re lacing up for Victoria’s Shipwreck Coast or navigating Tasmania’s Bay of Fires, McKean captures the spirit of Australian bushwalking like no other. Complete with historical insights, must-see landmarks, and essential tips, this guide is the ultimate companion for anyone ready to explore Australia’s world-class coastal scenery on foot.
Here’s a deep-dive into some standout trails across Australia, including those featured in the guide.
The Great Ocean Walk, Victoria
Stretching 110 kilometres along Victoria’s rugged coast, the Great Ocean Walk delivers awe-inspiring natural beauty in bucketloads. Beginning in Apollo Bay and winding all the way to the iconic Twelve Apostles, this track showcases towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and dazzling ocean panoramas.
Brent McKean includes the Shipwreck Coast of this trail in his guide, a section rich in Australia’s maritime history. At Wreck Beach, particularly at low tide, you can spot rusted anchors of doomed ships scattered along the shoreline. Combine this with the sight of kangaroos and seabirds, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable trek.
Bondi to Coogee Walk, Sydney
For a trail that mixes urban conveniences with stunning natural beauty, the Bondi to Coogee Walk never fails. This 6-kilometre coastal path unfolds dramatic views of sandstone cliffs, sparkling waters, and the bustling vibe of Sydney’s beaches. Passing Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly, and finishing at Coogee Beach, it’s a local favourite with inspiring scenery around every bend.
Nature tip: Time your visit during the Sculpture by the Sea exhibition for an unforgettable art-meets-nature experience.
Cape to Cape Track, Western Australia
Stretching 123 kilometres, this Western Australian gem in the Margaret River region hugs wild beaches and limestone cliffs while offering spine-tingling views of the Indian Ocean. Featured prominently in McKean’s roundup, the Cape to Cape Track also boasts a stunning mix of biodiversity, like wildflowers in the spring, and cultural heritage connected to the Noongar people.
This trek is ideal for those seeking solitude and immersion in untouched wilderness. Whether you explore part or all of this epic trail, every step feels like an adventure through Australia’s unspoiled beauty.
More Coastal Gems from McKean’s Guide
McKean’s expertise goes beyond these iconic trails to include many hidden treasures. The guide highlights Tasmania’s Bay of Fires, with its striking orange boulders and secluded beaches, and Queensland’s Whitsundays, where tropical islands and crystal-clear waters create a walking paradise. There’s also South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula, a headland hopping coastal route with views that will take your breath away.
Inspiring Your Next Adventure
One of the guide’s standout features is its stunning photography, which brings these trails to life. Whether you’re flipping through images of remote rocky coves or dazzling coral sands, it’s impossible not to feel inspired. Each chapter offers a blend of practical advice, enchanting history, and a nudge to plan your next walking holiday.
McKean, an avid bushwalker and outdoor enthusiast from NSW’s South Coast, combines decades of experience with relatable storytelling. For adventurers, whether seasoned or just starting out, his guide is a goldmine of knowledge and inspiration.
Australia’s coastline is calling, and this guide will take you there. Whether you opt for the short-but-spectacular Bondi to Coogee, the demanding and rewarding Cape to Cape, or dream of walking the vibrant Bay of Fires, the only thing left to do is start planning. With trails rich in scenery, history, and wildlife, these coastal walks promise something for everyone. Get ready to explore, discover, and fall in love with Australia’s shores all over again.
Buy a copy from Gelding Street Press.
We are giving away one of three copies of Great Coastal Walks Australia by Brent McKean!
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