This NSW coastal walk traverses ancient volcanic terrain, rugged headlands and hidden beaches

Lace up your hiking boots for the incredible Tomaree Coastal Walk.

Warm weather calls for long days by the water, and the Tomaree Coastal Walk gives hikers the chance to soak up the best of what Australia’s East Coast has to offer.

Across 27 kilometres, this idyllic walk reveals a landscape of volcanic headlands, pristine beaches and coastal heathland, against a spectacular oceanic backdrop. Here’s everything you need to know before you get moving this summer.

Where is the Tomaree Coastal Walk?

three people standing on the Tomaree Coastal Walk summit — Spectacular views at the summit of the Tomaree Coastal Walk. (Image: DParsons DPE)

The Tomaree Coastal Walk is situated within Tomaree National Park in Port Stephens, New South Wales. This is Worimi Country, the traditional land of the Worimi Aboriginal people. It’s approximately 220 kilometres from Sydney’s CBD and an approximate two-hour and 45-minute drive.

The coastal national park spans 2318 hectares and is teeming with coastal vegetation and wildlife, including some of Australia’s most iconic species like the koala.

How long is the Tomaree Coastal Walk?

the Slot Canyon lookout, Tomaree Coastal Walk — Slot Canyon lookout boasts unbeatable cliffside views. (Image: DParsons DPE)

The entire self-guided Grade 4 walk from Tomaree Head Summit to Birubi Point stretches 27 kilometres. It takes approximately two to three days to complete, but hikers can join or leave the walk at multiple points. Those not wanting to commit to the full stint should consider one of the shorter routes:

Tomaree Head Summit walk: A Grade 5, 2.2-kilometre return walk that rewards hikers with spectacular views across Port Stephens and the surrounding coastline.
Boat Harbour to Fishermans Bay: An easy to moderate six-kilometre (one-way) walk with coastal forest, secluded beaches and coastal headlands.
One Mile to Birubi Point: A nine-kilometre (one-way) easy to moderate walk with sandy beaches and coastal headlands.
Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay walking track: A Grade 3, five-kilometre one-way walk that takes hikers to the picturesque Fingal Bay – a perfect spot for a swim and a relaxing lunch.

What are the highlights along the Tomaree Coastal Walk?

exploring the Birubi Point Aboriginal Place, Tomaree Coastal Walk — Learn about the Worimi People at the Birubi Point Aboriginal Place. (Image: DParsons DPE)

Hikers are spoilt with 10 beautiful beaches along the Tomaree Coastal Walk, including Fingal Bay, One Mile Beach, Boat Harbour, Fishermans Bay and Birubi Point.

The Tomaree Head Summit is a standout location, as it offers panoramic views of Port Stephens and Stockton Beach, while the Slot Canyon lookout boasts unbeatable cliffside views.

There are plenty of flora and fauna spotting opportunities on the trail. Keep your eyes peeled for Bottlenose dolphins, pelicans, comorants, blue-tongued lizards, coastal wildflowers and banksia.

If you’re exploring the trail between April and November, the elevated headlands provide excellent vantage points to spot Humpback Whales as they make their migration up the East Coast of Australia.

The Birubi Point Aboriginal Place – located near Anna Bay – is a significant site in which to learn about the Worimi People and their connection to the land. Here, you can see Worimi artist, Gerard Black’s artwork titled Matjarr nguka biinba.

The Stockton Sand Dunes make for a spectacular finish to the walk.

Is there accommodation along the way?

Official camping along the track is limited. The Samurai Beach campground is only accessible if you have a 4WD, so it’s recommended to stay at nearby accommodations such as Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach .

Details

walking along a coastal forest at Boat Harbour, Tomaree Coastal Walk — Walk through a secluded coastal forest from Boat Harbour to Fishermans Bay. (Image: DParsons DPE)

Distance: 27 kilometres

Parking: Parking can be found at Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay, One Mile Beach, Boat Harbour, Fishermans Bay, Birubi Point and Anna Bay.

What to pack: Sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, sufficient water and snacks, swimmers and a towel. Drinking water can be found at Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay, Barry Park, One Mile Beach, Boat Harbour, Fishermans Bay and Birubi Point.

Grade: 4

Entry fee: None

Accessibility: This walk is not wheelchair friendly

For updates on the Tomaree Coastal Walk, visit the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website

Discover the best things to do in Port Stephens.

Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

1. Southern Beaches

The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

family eating lunch in sawtell — Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail. — Explore the green heart of Coffs.

3. Dorrigo National Park

Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout. — Wander the Skywalk.

4. Northern Beaches

For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views. — Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

5. Jetty precinct

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour — Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

6. Grafton

Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton — Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

7. Nambucca

Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads — Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.