Kuringgai Chase National Park

Just north of Sydney, Kuringgai Chase National Park is a stunning mix of rugged bushland, hidden beaches, and ancient Aboriginal rock art. This is a place where you can swap city noise for the sound of waves crashing against sandstone cliffs and birds calling through scribbly gums. It’s a firm favourite with locals for bushwalking, kayaking, and quiet picnics with knockout views.

Highlights & What to See

• Aboriginal rock engravings at Basin Track – One of the best sites in Sydney for ancient art, with carved figures of whales, kangaroos, and fish on sandstone platforms. The short walk to the engravings also takes you to West Head lookout, with its iconic view across Broken Bay to the Central Coast.
• West Head Lookout – The park’s star viewpoint. On a clear day you can see Barrenjoey Lighthouse, Palm Beach, and all the way to the Hawkesbury River. Perfect for sunrise or sunset.
• Resolute Beach – A secluded, white-sand beach accessible only by walking track or water. It’s a 2.5km return walk from West Head Road, and you’ll often have it almost to yourself. Great for a swim after a hike.
• Kuringgai Chase Aboriginal rock art sites – Beyond the Basin Track, there are over 800 recorded engraving sites scattered through the park. The Red Hands Cave walk is another must-do, featuring ochre hand stencils and a beautiful rainforest gully.
• Kayaking on Cowan Creek – Paddle through tranquil, tree-lined waterways, past sandstone cliffs and hidden inlets. You can launch from Appletree Bay or Cottage Point and spend hours exploring the creek’s quiet arms.
• Walking trails for all levels – From the easy 1km Sphinx Memorial loop (with a replica of the Great Sphinx!) to the challenging 12km Great North Walk section, there’s a track for every fitness level.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find a full day perfect – start early to do a morning walk (like Basin Track) then hit the beach or hire a kayak after lunch. If you’re short on time, a half-day focused on West Head lookout and the Basin engravings will still give you a solid taste. For keen hikers, two days allow you to explore the quieter northern end of the park and maybe combine with a stay at a nearby holiday house.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Palm Beach – Just south of the park, this iconic beach suburb is the end point of the Basin Track (catch a ferry back) and has great cafés and a lighthouse walk.
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park (Bobbin Head) – The southern section around Bobbin Head has a historic marina, picnic areas, and the start of several lovely walks.
• Hawkesbury River – The river’s lower reaches border the park. Take a river cruise or drive to Brooklyn for fish and chips by the water.
• Central Coast – A short drive north of the park, the Central Coast offers more beaches, the Australian Reptile Park, and the scenic Bouddi National Park.
• Terrey Hills & Duffys Forest – These small villages on the park’s western edge have nice cafés and are a good spot for lunch before or after your visit.

Please check official sources for current details.