Coastal walking track

The Coastal walking track offers a scenic outing through Wallarah National Park, linking Caves Beach with the headland just south of Pinny Beach. The 5km return walk is known for broad views across the coastline and ocean, making it a worthwhile option for visitors based in Newcastle who want a nature-focused escape.

The track passes through a range of vegetation and habitats, with cabbage-tree palms growing as high as 25 metres. Depending on the season, walkers may see spring wildflowers, enjoy birdwatching or spot humpback and southern right whales passing offshore during winter. The route also leads to Pinny Beach, where the coarse, dark sand suits surfing and fishing, with another fishing spot, Shark Hole, further south.

Allow roughly 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes for the return walk. It is rated Grade 4, so it is better suited to experienced walkers than a casual, fully accessible stroll. The track is currently reported to be in poor condition, and the section between Cave Beach or Spoon Rocks Road and Pinny Beach crosses private land outside the NSW National Parks estate, where the track is not maintained. Walk carefully, check current alerts, and bring drinking water, a hat and sunscreen. Anyone fishing from a rock platform should wear a lifejacket.