Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Just a 30-minute drive north of Sydney, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a stunning wilderness of sandstone cliffs, pristine waterways, and ancient Aboriginal rock art. This park offers a perfect escape into nature with its dramatic Hawkesbury River scenery and rich Indigenous heritage. Whether you're hiking to scenic lookouts, paddling through secluded coves, or discovering ochre paintings, Ku-ring-gai Chase delivers an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Highlights & What to See

• West Head Lookout – Gaze across the Hawkesbury River to Barrenjoey Headland and the distant Central Coast. The panoramic views are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
• Aboriginal Rock Art at Basin Track – Walk to the Red Hands Cave to see ancient hand stencils and engravings, some over 1,000 years old. A powerful connection to the area's first peoples.
• Bobbin Head – A historic picnic area with a marina, boardwalks through mangroves, and the Ku-ring-gai Chase Visitor Centre. Perfect for a relaxed day by the water.
• Kayaking on the Hawkesbury River – Rent a kayak from Cottage Point or Bobbin Head to explore hidden beaches and quiet inlets. Keep an eye out for sea eagles and goannas.
• Resolute Beach – A secluded, sandy beach accessible via a short bushwalk from West Head. Ideal for a peaceful swim or picnic away from the crowds.
• Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk – While just outside the park, this short climb in Ku-ring-gai's neighbour, Palm Beach, rewards with 360-degree views of the coastline and park.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can comfortably explore the park's highlights in a full day. Start early at West Head Lookout, then hike to Resolute Beach or the Red Hands Cave. After lunch at Bobbin Head, spend the afternoon kayaking or on a scenic drive. If you're short on time, a half-day focused on West Head and the Aboriginal rock art is still rewarding. For a deeper experience, consider an overnight bushwalk or camping at The Basin campground.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Palm Beach – Just south of the park, this iconic beach is perfect for a swim, lunch at the Boathouse, or the Barrenjoey Lighthouse walk.
• Brooklyn – A charming waterfront village on the Hawkesbury River, known for its fish and chips and river cruises.
• Central Coast – Head north to explore the beautiful beaches and national parks of the Central Coast, such as Bouddi National Park.
• Hunter Valley – Combine your nature escape with wine tasting in the renowned Hunter Valley wine region, about 1.5 hours north.
• Terrey Hills – A gateway town with cafés and the Ku-ring-gai Chase Visitor Centre, ideal for picking up maps and advice.

Please check official sources for current details.