Bobbin Head

Settled into the lush Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park just north of Sydney, Bobbin Head feels a world away from the city. This serene waterfront enclave on Cowan Creek is a haven for kayakers, bushwalkers and picnickers, with a timeless bush-and-water atmosphere that has drawn Sydneysiders since the 1930s. The calm, tannin-stained waters are framed by sandstone cliffs and towering eucalypts, while the historic stone boat shed and café add a touch of nostalgia. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, breathe in the eucalyptus and watch the waterbirds glide past.

Highlights & What to See

• Bobbin Head Loop walk – a gentle 3.6 km circuit through scribbly gums and angophoras, with lookouts over the creek and a chance to spot goannas and lyrebirds.
• Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from the boat shed and explore the quiet inlets and hidden beaches of Cowan Creek.
• Historic Bobbin Head picnic area – shaded tables, electric barbecues and a grassy slope down to the water; arrive early on weekends to snag a prime spot.
• Bobbin Head Café & Kiosk – grab a coffee, fish and chips or a cold drink and sit on the deck overlooking the boats.
• Aboriginal heritage – look for shell middens and rock engravings along the walking tracks, evidence of the Guringai people’s long connection to this land.

Suggested Time to Spend

Bobbin Head is an easy half-day escape from Sydney. Arrive mid-morning, do the loop walk (about 1 hour), then spend another hour or two kayaking or simply lounging by the water. If you want to extend, pack a picnic lunch and stay until mid-afternoon. Combine with other stops in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park for a full-day adventure.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – drive to West Head for breathtaking views over Broken Bay and the Barrenjoey Lighthouse.
• Brooklyn – a charming riverside village on the Hawkesbury River, with a historic pub and ferry rides.
• Berowra Waters – famous for its floating restaurant and scenic bushwalks along the Great North Walk.
• Mona Vale Beach – a northern beaches classic for a swim or surf after your bushland escape.

Please check official sources for current details.