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Bushwalking track notes, photographs, maps and more for South Head Tour are found in each of the tabs below
South Head Tour
Time: 1 hr 45 mins Walking time
Please allow extra time to rest and to explore
0.8 km N of Watsons Bay
Length: 4.1 km Walk Length
As this is a Circuit style walk, the 4.1 km includes the walking distance from the start around the loop and back to the start again
Sydney Harbour National Park
Climb: 144 m Total Climbing
This walk has a total cumulative climb of 144 m, this is the total of the elevation gains made in each of the walks uphill sections
There is car access and parking near the start and end of this walk There is a bus stop within 2km of the start and end of this walk There is a ferry stop near the start of this walk
Style: Circuit
Track: Hard

On this walk, you will explore historically significant and majestic sections on the tip of Sydney Harbour's South Head. Explore the confronting sea cliffs at The Gap, visit the first landing place for Europeans in Australia and climb through some of Sydney Harbour's military defense systems. You will also enjoy great views from Hornby Lighthouse and there are a few chances to grab a drink or a bight to eat along the way. (open in app)


There are closures in Sydney Harbour National Park
Today's Fire rating
LOW MODERATE (No fire ban)
  Bushwalking track notes photographs, maps and camping spots for South Head Tour

Map of Walk

Location

                Sponsor of South Head Tour bushwalking tracknotes
Map of South Head Tour
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Map Controls - Show Contours | Hide Path | Hide Distances | Hide Names
Map Scale 1 km
Watsons Bay Wharf
The bottom of the Gap steps
The Gap
The Gap Bluff Centre Int
The Gap Bluff Lookout
Old carpark Int
Old car park Int
The Armoury
HMAS Watson entrance
Camp Cove car park
Camp Cove Beach
Cannon
Lady Bay Beach Int
Lady Bay Beach Int
Lady Bay Lookout
Circuit Intersection
Gun Emplacements
Hornby Lighthouse
Lightkeepers Cottage
Circuit intersection
Lady Bay Lookout
Lady Bay Beach Int
Cannon
Camp Cove Beach
Southern End of Camp Cove Beach
Green (Laings) Point Park
Green (Laings) Point
End of Pacific St
Int of Victoria and Pacific Sts
Int of Cove and Short Sts
Starting point for this hiking track: Watsons Bay Wharf

Base maps are used under licence and is © Department of lands   Panorama Avenue Bathurst 2795   www.lands.nsw.gov.au

Maps that cover the walk area (please always carry maps of the area)

Print a map and track notes here
 Sydney Heads 1:25 000 Map Series NSW-91302N 
 Sydney 1:100 000 Map Series 9130 

Photo Gallery

 
Watsons Bay Wharf
 
Watsons Bay Wharf +
 
Watsons Bay Wharf shop
 
Watsons Bay Wharf shop +
 
Roberson Park
 
Roberson Park +

 
Kids play area Roberson Park
 
Kids play area Roberson Park +
 
The Gap Steps
 
The Gap Steps +
 
The Gap
 
The Gap +

 
The Gap
 
The Gap +
 
The Gap
 
The Gap +
 
Path beside The Gap
 
Path beside The Gap +

 
Steps below The Gap Bluff
 
Steps below The Gap Bluff +
 
Wildflowers in Bloom
 
Wildflowers in Bloom +
 
Just below the Gap Bluff
 
Just below the Gap Bluff +

 
Looking across the Gap
 
Looking across the Gap +
 
City view from the Gap Bluff
 
City view from the Gap Bluff +
 
Looking to North Head from the Gap Bluff
 
Looking to North Head from the Gap Bluff +

 
The Gap Bluff
 
The Gap Bluff +
 
Path north of the Gap Bluff
 
Path north of the Gap Bluff +
 
Gun Emplacement Lookout
 
Gun Emplacement Lookout +

 
Path east of The Armoury
 
Path east of The Armoury +
 
East of the The Armoury
 
East of the The Armoury +
 
Path leading beside The Armoury
 
Path leading beside The Armoury +

 
The Armoury
 
The Armoury +
 
View from in front of The Armoury
 
View from in front of The Armoury +
 
Following the old road north of The Armoury
 
Following the old road north of The Armoury +

 
Near the HMAS Watson entrance
 
Near the HMAS Watson entrance +
 
Intersection at the HMAS Watson entrance
 
Intersection at the HMAS Watson entrance +
 
Cliff St
 
Cliff St +

 
Entrance at nothern end of Camp Cove Beach
 
Entrance at nothern end of Camp Cove Beach +
 
Camp Cove Beach
 
Camp Cove Beach +
 
Kiosk at Camp Cove
 
Kiosk at Camp Cove +

 
Steps at the Northern end of Camp Cove
 
Steps at the Northern end of Camp Cove +
 
The old Cobblestone Road
 
The old Cobblestone Road +
 
Gun Emplacment looking down on Camp Cove
 
Gun Emplacment looking down on Camp Cove +

 
Gun Emplacement near Camp Cove
 
Gun Emplacement near Camp Cove +
 
Path leading up the old road
 
Path leading up the old road +
 
Toilets
 
Toilets +

 
Looking down to Lady Bay
 
Looking down to Lady Bay +
 
Just below Lady Bay Lookout
 
Just below Lady Bay Lookout +
 
Lady Bay Lookout
 
Lady Bay Lookout +

 
Circuit intersection
 
Circuit intersection +
 
South Head Heritage Trail
 
South Head Heritage Trail +
 
crossing a driveway on South Head
 
crossing a driveway on South Head +

 
Gun Emplacement on the outside of South Head
 
Gun Emplacement on the outside of South Head +
 
Gun Emplacment and Hornby Lighthouse, looking into the harbour
 
Gun Emplacment and Hornby Lighthouse, looking into the harbour +
 
Hornby Lighthouse
 
Hornby Lighthouse +

 
Great water views from South Head
 
Great water views from South Head +
 
Hornby Lighthouse and a gun emplacement
 
Hornby Lighthouse and a gun emplacement +
 
The head Lightkeepers Cottage
 
The head Lightkeepers Cottage +

 
Lightkeepers Cottage
 
Lightkeepers Cottage +
 
Camp Cove
 
Camp Cove +
 
Steps at the southern end of Camp Cove
 
Steps at the southern end of Camp Cove +

 
Green Point Park
 
Green Point Park +
 
Green Point Park looking down to Camp Cove
 
Green Point Park looking down to Camp Cove +
 
Green (Laings) Point
 
Green (Laings) Point +

 
Monument at Greens (Laings) Point
 
Monument at Greens (Laings) Point +
 
Infromation sign at Greens (Laings) Point
 
Infromation sign at Greens (Laings) Point +
 
Rock pool on Green (Laings) Point
 
Rock pool on Green (Laings) Point +

 
Track leading around Green Point
 
Track leading around Green Point +
 
Steps on the southern side of Green (Laings) Point
 
Steps on the southern side of Green (Laings) Point +
 
Looking down Pacific St
 
Looking down Pacific St +

 
Int of Victoria and Pacific Sts
 
Int of Victoria and Pacific Sts +
 
Cove St
 
Cove St +
 
Boats at Watsons Cove
 
Boats at Watsons Cove +

Terrain

Cross sectional view of the South Head Tour bushwalking track

Cross Section of the South Head Tour bushwalking track



Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the South Head Tour bushwalking track

Summary of the gradients over the the lenght of the South Head Tour bushwalking track

Overview of this walks Grading - Based on the AS 2156.1 - 2001
These details are new. This new feature still requires more testing and refining. Please use the 'Walker Feedback' for report specific issues. Please e-mail Matt if you have any general comments. Hope you find it helpful.

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length 4.1km
Time 1 hr 45 mins
.


Grade 4/6

Track: Hard
AS 2156.1 Gradient Very steep (4/6)
Quality of track Clear and well formed track or trail (2/6)
Signs Clearly signposted (1/6)
Experience Required No experience required (1/6)
Weather Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6)
Infrastructure Generally useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) (1/6)
*This summary of grading information is new and still in testing

Some more detail of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining the grading looking at sections of the walk.
Gradient
2.7km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 1.1km is flat with no steps. Whilst another 220m has short steep hills and the remaining 90m is very steep.

Quality of track
Around 3.5km of this walk follows a smooth and hardened path, whilst the remaining 580m follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs
This whole walk, 4.1km is clearly signposted.

Experience Required
This whole walk, 4.1km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

Weather
This whole walk, 4.1km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure
This whole walk, 4.1km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Track Notes


Catch the ferry to Watsons Bay
Public transport (ferry) available to this Bushwalk You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for upto date running time info
Use these links to plan your Ferry (and train) trip to the end of this walk.

Plan your trip from --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|
Catch the bus to Watsons Bay Wharf
Public transport (bus) available to this Bushwalk You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for up to date running times.
Use these links to plan your Bus (and train) trip to the end of this walk.
(Links currently not working sorry)
Plan your trip from --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|
Drive to Watsons Bay Wharf
You can drive or ride to this start of this Bushwalk There is free parking available.
You can drive or ride to the start of this walk
Use these links to plan your trip to the start of this walk.
Plan your trip from --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|

Watsons Bay Alt = 2 m
Watsons Bay is a popular spot to enjoy the harbour, Robertson Park and some fish and chips. Doyles offers a formal dining restaurant[1] and the more relaxed fish and chip shop[2] on the ferry wharf[3]. Robertson Park is a large open grassy park with some natural shade[4], a rotunda[5], toilets[6][7], children's play equipment[8], garbage bins[9] and picnic tables[10]. More info

(0 km) Watsons Bay Wharf to The Gap
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 251 m Time = 5 mins
Climb = 17 m Descent = -2 m
From Watsons Bay Wharf[11], this walk heads diagonally across the turning circle at the end of Military Rd[12] and into 'Robertson Park'[13]. The walk follows the path diagonally across the open park and tends a little left (straight ahead) at the four-way intersection beside the rotunda[14]. Here the walk goes up the ramp[15] and crosses Military Rd using the crossing[16], coming to the base of the steps (that lead to The Gap)[17].
Continue straight: From the bottom of the Gap steps[18], this walk heads up the steps (or ramp[19]). About halfway up the steps, there is an emergency phone for contacting the police or Lifeline[20], then at the top there is a fenced section of footpath (lookout) and ocean views from The Gap[21].

The Gap Alt = 20 m
The Gap is one of Sydney's most famous ocean cliff lookouts. The view from the track beside the stretch of cliff is simply stunning[22]. The tall cliffs are enhanced by the rock platform and the pounding ocean far below[23]. Sadly, this site is not only known for the natural wonder, but also for the many deaths that occur here each year[24][25]. Security cameras[26] and an emergency phone[27] have been installed, to help assist people considering suicide. On the unlikely event that you see someone in distress, please call the police on 000 and lifeline on 131 114, or use the nearby emergency phone. More info

(0.25 km) The Gap to The Gap Bluff Lookout
Track: Hard - footpath
Length = 192 m Time = 5 mins
Climb = 23 m Descent = -1 m
Turn left: From The Gap[28], this walk heads up the hill along the path, keeping the fence and water views to your right. The path leads past the 'Sydney Harbour National Park - Gap Bluff' sign[29] and more great views of The Gap. The path comes to a three-way intersection in a small clearing, marked with a few signs including 'The Gap timeline'[30].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads up the path then steps[31], following the fence and keeping the water views to your right. The path leads past several information signs on local plant life[32][33][34][35] and some lovely wildflowers[36]. The walk continues up the many steps[37] to a rocky clearing[38] near the top. Here the walk tends left and takes the steps through the cleft in the rock to find another rocky clearing and lookout with great panoramic views at the top of Gap Bluff[39].

The Gap Bluff Lookout Alt = 40 m
The Gap Bluff Lookout sits high on the rocky hill overlooking the South Pacific Ocean. On the left is a view to North Head[40] and to your right, looking south down the coast, there are great views over The Gap[41]. There are also distant views over the harbour to the city[42]. This site is significant to the traditional owners, the Birrabirragal people, who once occupied the area - although not at this site, there are some rock engraving still remaining[43]. This is a great place to visit and well worth climbing the steps for the view.

(0.44 km) The Gap Bluff Lookout to Old car park Int
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 97 m Time = 2 mins
Climb = 6 m Descent = -1 m
Turn left: From the Gap Bluff Lookout, this walk follows the footpath away from the gap[44] and into the heath[45], keeping the ocean to your right. This path soon leads to a three-way intersection (at an old car park undergoing regeneration[46][47]) marked with a 'Banksia integrifolia - coast banksia' information sign[48].

(0.54 km) Old carpark Int to Gun Emplacement Lookout
Optional sidetrip: Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 55 m Time = 2 mins
Climb = 4 m Descent = -15 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads uphill along the sealed footpath, away from the face of the 'Banksia integrifolia - coast banksia' information sign[49]. Soon the path passes a lookout on your right[50] and comes to a old gun emplacement marked with a 'The gunnery range' sign[51] and a short track to a fenced lookout with another sign[52].
(Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn right to continue along this walk.)

Gun Emplacement Lookout Alt = 37 m
Once home to several gun emplacements, this is now a peaceful, fenced lookout[53]. There are information signs[54][55] explaining some history, and also some remaining sections of the fortifications[56][57] to explore.

(0.54 km) Old car park Int to The Armoury
Track: Moderate - footpath
Length = 224 m Time = 5 mins
Climb = 6 m Descent = -23 m
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads along the sealed footpath[58], directly away from the ocean (not in view) whilst keeping the 'Banksia integrifolia - coast banksia' information sign[59] initially on your left. The path leads into the heath and after ≈70m, passes a rock cutting[60] then turns left onto a yellow-painted concrete path[61]. After a while, this path leads down a series of steps, past the side of the 'The Armoury'[62] and a 'Gunning for Australia' sign[63] and comes to a large clearing and intersection with a road (driveway) in front of 'The Armoury'[64]. The intersection is marked with a 'Access to South Head Heritage Trail' sign[65] (pointing to the right).

The Armoury Alt = 32 m
The Armoury was a store building built in 1938[66], to keep defence supplier secure. Since then, it has undergone several changes and is now a popular function centre[67]. The building is at the back of a large grassy clearing that hosts some great harbour views[68], popular for wedding parties. There is also a public toilet block[69] and several other historic buildings in the area, including the larger Officer's Mess[70] to the south-east.

(0.76 km) The Armoury to HMAS Watson entrance
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 430 m Time = 8 mins
Climb = 6 m Descent = -21 m
Turn right: From the front of 'The Armoury'[71], this walk follows the 'Access to South Head Heritage Trail' sign arrow[72], passing the palm trees and water views[73] (to your left). This walk follows the driveway for ≈270m and passes around the locked gates to find a 'Sydney Harbour National Park' sign[74] and an intersection with a road in front of HMAS Watson security gates[75]. Here the walk crosses the road using the pedestrian crossing[76], then turns left and follows the 'Access to Camp Cove Beach and South Head Heritage Trail' sign[77] down the footpath. Just before the sandstone HMAS Watson gates, this walk follows the footpath to the right and down the steps to Cliff St and another 'Access to Camp Cove Beach and South Head Heritage Trail' sign[78].

(1.19 km) HMAS Watson entrance to Camp Cove Beach
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 239 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 3 m Descent = -10 m
Veer right: From the near the sandstone pillars at the HMAS Watson entrance[79], this walk follows the 'Access to Camp Cove Beach and South Head Heritage Trail' sign[80] downhill along Cliff Street. The road soon leads to the signposted 'Camp Cove car park'[81][82] at the intersection with Victoria St.
Continue straight: From the signposted 'Camp Cove Car Park[83], this walk follows the 'No Through Road' sign[84] to the end of 'Cliff St'. The footpath leads past a 'Camp Cove timeline' information sign[85] then, at the end of the road, turns left, coming to the front of the kiosk[86] at the northern end of Camp Cove Beach[87].

Camp Cove Alt = 5 m
Camp Cove is home to a lovely, yellow sand, north-east facing beach. The cove is on the protected side of South Head and is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing on the beach. At the northern end of the beach is a kiosk[88], toilet block[89] and an entrance to Sydney Harbour National Park[90].
The cove was an important location to the Cadigal (Gadigal) people who gathered fresh water, shellfish, launched their canoes and buried some of their people nearby[91].
This cove is also believed to be the first landing place for Europeans in 1788. The name Camp Cove was given during that landing and appears on the earliest maps of Sydney Harbour[92][93].

(1.43 km) Camp Cove Beach to Cannon
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 125 m Time = 3 mins
Climb = 7 m Descent = -3 m
Veer right: From the front of Camp Cove Beach kiosk[94], this walk crosses the beach (keeping the water to your left)[95] and climbs up the timber staircase[96]. From the intersection at the top of the stairs, this walk continues straight, along the timber boardwalk[97] that soon turns into a concrete path. The path soon comes to a wide, cobbled sandstone path[98] that leads up a disused cannon[99], gun emplacement and great harbour views[100].

Cannon Alt = 10 m
This cannon was placed here prior to 1890, along with the rest of this gun emplacement and rifle walls. The emplacement was designed to protect a military jetty and boat shed from the threat of an invasion[101]. The 'Cobblestone Road' beside the cannon was built during the late 1870s or early 1880s and extends from the jetty in Camp Cove up to Hornby Road above. The road was build to carry supplies and ordnance from Camp Cove to the various military installations on south head[102]. More info

(1.56 km) Cannon to Lady Bay Beach Int
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 291 m Time = 6 mins
Climb = 9 m Descent = -12 m
Continue straight: From the cannon, this walk heads up the path and steps and soon turns left to follow the old road[103]. The walk follows the old road, enjoying sweeping harbour views[104] (to your left). About 170m along this road (as it bends right), it passes a toilet block[105] then finds some garbage bins[106] at the end of the road. Here, the walk heads along the narrower footpath for ≈60m until coming to the signposted intersection above 'Lady Bay Beach'[107].

(1.85 km) Lady Bay Beach Int to Lady Bay Beach
Optional sidetrip: Track: Moderate - footpath
Length = 26 m Time = 1 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -3 m
Turn left : From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Lady Bay Beach' sign[108] down the steps as they wind to the sandy beach below[109].
(Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn left to continue along this walk.)

Lady Bay Beach Alt = 3 m
Lady Bay Beach is an official nudist beach found on the inside of South Head. Facing west, this beach is surrounded by a long cliff and a rocky shoreline[110][111]. There are great views across the water to Middle Head[112]. Officially declared a nude bathing beach by Neville Wran in 1976, nudity is only permitted on the beach and water[113]. The beach is also known as 'Lady Jane Beach'[114]. You are welcome to use the beach clothed or unclad. More info

(1.85 km) Lady Bay Beach Int to Lady Bay Lookout
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 88 m Time = 2 mins
Climb = 5 m Descent = -2 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads gently downhill along the main path, keeping the large fence to your right[115]. The path leads down a few steps[116] and after ≈80m, heads up a few steps[117] then some more steps through a cleft in the rock[118] to find the fenced timber lookout platform looking over Lady Bay[119].

Lady Bay Lookout Alt = 10 m
Some may find it strange having a lookout platform overlooking a nudist beach, but the harbour and city views are great[120]. This fenced and timber-decked lookout platform is found on the main walking track at the northern end of the bay. The lookout's main view is south-west along the beach and harbour towards North Sydney. There are a few trees growing up over the view, which adds further interest to the outlook.

(1.94 km) Lady Bay Lookout to Circuit intersection
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 64 m Time = 1 mins
Climb = 5 m Descent = 0 m
Continue straight: From Lady Bay Lookout, this walk heads up the steps and follows the timber boardwalk[121] a short distance until coming to a four-way intersection next to the large 'South Head Heritage Trail' sign[122].

(2 km) Circuit Intersection to Gun Emplacements
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 131 m Time = 3 mins
Climb = 6 m Descent = -3 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads uphill along the concrete path directly away from the water, initially keeping the large 'South Head Heritage Trail' sign[123] on your left. The path leads up through the heath, soon crossing an old road[124]. The path then bends left and passes a few old fortifications[125][126][127][128], coming to a large gun emplacement and a 'Fortifications 1854'[129] sign.

Gun Emplacements Alt = 18 m
Gun emplacements like these have been built up and down the coast, and around the shores of Sydney Harbour. The first emplacement, built in 1788, was designed as a signalling station to notify the arrival of a ship. Then in 1839, the undetected arrival of ships, from the fast developing USA, caused a great concern. This triggered the building of the well-known fortifications at Bradleys Head and Fort Denison, as well as these ones at South Head. Another enemy at the time, France, then joined a campaign against a newer enemy - the Russians - in 1853, which prompted the completion of these gun emplacements. Guns were installed in 1872. In WWII, it was a Japanese enemy who these guns were trying to keep out, then in 1944, when the threat of invasion was less of a concern, the emplacements where disarmed[130]. More info

(2.13 km) Gun Emplacements to Hornby Lighthouse
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 74 m Time = 2 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -7 m
Continue straight: From the Gun Emplacements and 'Fortifications 1854'[131] sign, this walk heads downhill along the path to the large red and white striped lighthouse[132] about ≈80m down the hill.

Hornby Lighthouse Alt = 12 m
Opened by Sir William Denison (then Governor of New South Wales) in 1858, this distinct red and white vertical striped lighthouse was originally powered by a high-tech kerosene lantern[133]. The lighthouse was built in response to two significant losses of life near South Head - firstly in 1857, the 'Dubar'[134] (on it last leg from England), when 121 of the 122 people on board lost their lives, and soon after, the 'Catherine Adamson'[135] when 21 lives were lost near North Head just two months later.
Since 1933, this lighthouse has been automated and is now powered with a 12 volt, 55 watt Quartz Halogen Lamp (similar to a down light in a kitchen)[136]. More info

(2.21 km) Hornby Lighthouse to Lightkeepers Cottage
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 91 m Time = 2 mins
Climb = 1 m Descent = -4 m
Continue straight: From Hornby Lighthouse, this walk heads downhill along the footpath past the concrete gun emplacement[137], keeping the water views to your right. The path bends left and leads over a small bridge[138], soon coming to the front of the Lightkeeper's Cottage marked with a 'Lightkeeper's Cottages 1858' sign [139] between the old house and a gun emplacement[140].

Lightkeepers Cottage Alt = 10 m
Two homes were built on South Head for the Hornby lighthouse keepers. The first cottage is the Head Lighthouse Keeper's Cottage in the clearing, with the assistant's house being closer to the lighthouse. This arrangement is unusual - normally, the head keeper's house would be closer. The head lightkeeper's house was completed about three years after the other house, around 1860[141]. The first head lighthouse keeper was the well-motivated James Johnston, who was aboard the Dubar (a sailing ship on route from England) that smashed against the rocks near The Gap in 1857. 121 souls were lost that evening and James Johnston was the only survivor[142]. More info

(2.3 km) Lightkeepers Cottage to Camp Cove Beach
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 735 m Time = 15 mins
Climb = 27 m Descent = -29 m
Continue straight: From the Lightkeeper's Cottage, this walk follows the footpath, keeping the water views to your right[143]. The path leads around the edge of the large clearing[144] and after ≈100m, the path leads into the heath[145]. Soon the path leads to a timber boardwalk and a four-way intersection marked with a large 'South Head Heritage Trail' sign[146] on your left.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads directly away from the face of the 'South Head Heritage Trail' sign[147] along the timber boardwalk[148] and down a series of steps. The timber boardwalk soon leads to a fenced lookout with a view over Lady Bay[149].
Continue straight: From Lady Bay Lookout, this walk heads down the steps[150] next to the lookout and follows the footpath alongside the large fence[151]. The path heads up a series of steps to the signposted intersection above 'Lady Bay Beach'[152].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads gently uphill along the footpath (keeping the water to the right) and after ≈60m, the path comes to the end of an old road. This walk continues along the old road, past the garage bins[153] and the large toilet block (on your left)[154]. The walk now follows the road as it leads around a sweeping left-hand bend, enjoying more harbour views until turning right onto a footpath, near a palm tree (just before the road meets a large fence). The walk heads down this path and some steps to find a disused cannon[155], gun emplacement and more great harbour views[156].
Continue straight: From the cannon, this walk heads down along the wide, cobbled sandstone path[157] (keeping the water views to your right). The walk then follows the footpath gently downhill to an intersection[158][159] (with a toilet block on the left). The walk heads straight, then down the steps and across the beach to the front of the Camp Cove Beach Kiosk[160].

(3.03 km) Camp Cove Beach to Southern End of Camp Cove Beach
Walk: Easy - beach
Length = 225 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 2 m Descent = -5 m
Veer right: From the northern end of Camp Cove Beach, in front of the kiosk[161], this walk heads along the sand[162] (or the footpath) to the far end of the beach, keeping the water to your right. At the far end of the beach, the walk comes to an intersection with a couple of other tracks[163][164].

(3.26 km) Southern End of Camp Cove Beach to Green (Laings) Point Park
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 52 m Time = 1 mins
Climb = 5 m Descent = -1 m
Turn right: From the southern end of Camp Cove Beach, this walk heads up the timber staircase[165], keeping the beach and water to your right. At the top of the stairs[166], this walk follows the footpath up the steps[167] through the open parkland to find a monument commemorating the landing of Governor Phillip in 1788[168] just below the toilet block.

Green Point Park Alt = 6 m
Also know as Laings Point, Green Point is a headland on the inside of South Head. The park (at the end of Pacific St) is inside the National Park[169] and is on sloped ground[170]. There is a toilet[171][172], great water views[173], an open grassy area, bench seats[174] and a monument[175]. The monument reminds visitors that Cove Beach (just below) was the first landing place for Governor Philip in 1788[176]. The park is a pleasant place to rest and is sometimes hired for weddings[177]. A cottage[178] at the top can also be hired from NPWS to make a weekend of your adventures[179].

(3.31 km) Green (Laings) Point Park to Green (Laings) Point
Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 87 m Time = 2 mins
Climb = 1 m Descent = -5 m
Veer right: From the monument commemorating the landing of Governor Phillip in 1788[180], in the middle of the park, this walk heads downhill diagonally across the grassy area, keeping the water ahead and to your right[181]. The walk then follows the steps down between the gap in the bushes[182] and across the grass to find a tall sandstone monument[183] and an information sign about the 'World War II Anti-Torpedo Boom'[184] at Green (Laings) Point, beside the water[185].

Green (Laings) Point Alt = 3 m
Green (Laings) Point is an open grassland reserve with extensive harbour views. Then western tip of the point is still home to many relics, reminding visitors that this area played a significant role in the 1480m anti-submarine net that spanned the harbour entrance, built in 1942. The other end of the net attached to Georges Head[186]. Midway through construction, in May 1942, was when the three Japanese midget submarines entered and attacked vessels in the harbour [187]. From this headland, there are still some preserved parts of the net's construction, including the winch house foundations[188], the anti-motor torpedo boat defensive battery entrance[189] and another battery[190]. There is also a information sign with more details about the history of the area[191]. More info

(3.4 km) Green (Laings) Point to End of Pacific St
Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 126 m Time = 3 mins
Climb = 9 m Descent = -1 m
Continue straight: From the 'World War II Anti-Torpedo Boom'[192] information sign, this walk heads along the grass away from the tall sandstone monument[193], keeping the water on your right. The walk follows the worn path between the bushes[194] then between the two bunkers[195][196], and then across the next grassy clearing towards the house[197]. Near the house, the walk turns left and heads up the hill then steps[198] to find the end of Pacific St[199][200].

(3.52 km) End of Pacific St to Int of Cove and Short Sts
Walk: Easy - road
Length = 358 m Time = 7 mins
Climb = 5 m Descent = -10 m
Turn right: From the end of Pacific St, this walk heads downhill along the road. The road soon bends right and comes to an intersection with Victoria St and the signposted 'Marine Biological Station Park'[201] (on your left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads downhill, the wrong way along Pacific Street past the 'no entry' signs[202]. The road soon leads past the signposted 'Victoria Wharf Reserve'[203][204] (on your right) and continues along the road, soon turning right into Cove St. The walk follows the footpath that soon leads down a ramp[205], coming to an intersection just below the intersection of Cove and Short Streets.

(3.88 km) Int of Cove and Short Sts to Watsons Bay Wharf
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 235 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 1 m Descent = -5 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the path and steps, towards the water[206]. Here the walk turns left and follows the footpath along the back of Watsons Bay Beach, between the boats and the houses[207]. Soon the walk passes 'Doyles Restaurant'[208] to find 'Watsons Bay Wharf'[209].

Catch the ferry to Watsons Bay
Public transport (ferry) available to this Bushwalk You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for upto date running time info
Use these links to plan your Ferry (and train) trip to the end of this walk.

Plan your trip from --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|
Catch the bus from Watsons Bay Wharf
Public transport (bus) available from this Bushwalk You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for up to date running times.
Use these links to plan your Bus (and train) trip from the end of this walk.
(Links currently not working sorry)
Plan your trip to --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|
Drive from Watsons Bay Wharf
You can drive or ride from this end of this Bushwalk There is free parking available.
You can drive or ride from the end of this walk
Use these links to plan your trip from the end of this walk.
Plan your trip to --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|

Getting there

Plan your trip to the start of the walk and back from the end of the walk

Public Transport links currently not working, sorry
Public Transport Timetables

To the start of the walk

From
Castle Hill
Chatswood
Dural
Epping
Gosford
Hornsby
Katoomba
Manly
Parramatta
Penrith
Strathfield
Sutherland
Sydney
From the end of the walk

To
Castle Hill
Chatswood
Dural
Epping
Gosford
Hornsby
Katoomba
Manly
Parramatta
Penrith
Strathfield
Sutherland
Sydney

Driving Directions
To the start of the walk

Drive from:
From the end of the walk

Drive to:


Near by



Nearest know Outdoor Stores near the start of this walk
Store Address Phone Distance (straight line)
Outdoor Equipment 60 Spring St , Bondi Junction (02) 9389 8122 6.3 km
Kellys Camping & Outdoors 826 Pittwater Rd , Dee Why (02) 9972 0061 9.7 km
Inski 46 York St , Sydney (02) 9233 3200 7.6 km
Mitchells Adventure 81 York St , Sydney (02) 9299 6321 7.6 km
Venus Repair Workshop Suite 36a 104 Bathurst St , Sydney (02) 9267 0706 7.7 km


A list of the nearest UHF CB repeaters I found to South Head Tour.
Channel Call sign
(more info)
Site Distance and dir from South Head Tour
Click to re-center search
5 SYD05 Sydney Adventist Hospital 185 Fox Valley Rd WAHROONGA
Emergency use only
21 km (to the NW)
1 SYD01 12/14 Ormonde Parade HURSTVILLE 22 km (to the SW)
6 VMB7 CB Repeater Site 16 Alan Rd BEROWRA HEIGHTS 29 km (to the NNW)
7 SYD07 7 Glamorgan St BLACKTOWN 35 km (to the W)
8 MDC08 Gencom Site Lot 6 Wakefield Close KARIONG 45 km (to the N)

Weather and Park info

Fire Danger
This walk passes Greater Sydney Region fire area which currently has a LOW MODERATE rating and No fire ban in place.
(Tomorrow the Fire Danger Rating is LOW MODERATE, No fire ban.) (Downloaded 7 years ago)
Please Note: Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather and Climate
Weather and Climate summary detailed weather and climate information here
°C (feels like °)
km/h from the
% humidity     (as at )
A graph displaying the average daily temperature range for the year

Sydney Harbour National Park Link to official closures and fire bans page
One of Sydney's most diverse parks, Sydney Harbour National Park is formed from 11 pockets of harbour islands and shoreline. Highlights include coastal walks and swimming, breath-taking viewpoints, tours of colonial buildings and Aboriginal cave art.
Region: Sydney & Surrounds
Park fees Camping Facilities
Current Park Closure information for Sydney Harbour National Park
Closure information last downloaded Sunday 27th of September 2015 07:00 AM
Closed areas: Park closure sunset to sunrise for pest management
Pest management activities are taking place between sunset and sunrise at the following selected sites within Sydney Harbour National Park. Please abide by all park signage. Closed areas are:​
  • Middle Head
  • North Head
  • Quarantine Station
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact Bobbin Head Information Centre (02) 9472 8949 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.

Closed areas: Shark Island upcoming closures
Shark Island in Sydney Harbour will be closed to public access due to essential wharf repairs on the following dates:
16 to 17 September 2015
24 to 27 September 2015.

Other incidents: Sydney Harbour National Park accommodation
Constables, Green Point and Steele Point Cottages are no longer available for accomodation bookings. New options are being considered for the conservation, management and use of these buildings.

Closed areas: Collins Flat Beach unavailable for venue hire
Collins Flat Beach is currently unavailable for venue hire due to the impact of high visitation on the critical habitat found at this location. Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact NPWS Mosman office on (02) 9960 6266 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.


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