Hike to hidden beaches on the Sapphire Coast

6 sapphire coast walks to explore this summer

Hike to the wild waters of the Sapphire Coast! Dive into the crystal-clear waters of our stunning beaches and rivers, surrounded by nature. Some of our favourite beaches are hidden deep within our coastal forests, whilst others are a shorter wander from the cafes and eateries of our towns and villages. There’s something joyful about walking to the beach, and our pristine waters are even more refreshing once you’ve worked up a sweat to get there!

Pack your swimmers, water and a picnic, and explore some of our favourite swimming holes this summer.

Kianinny Bay to Boulder Bay - 3.5km return

Take a dip in the secluded waters of Boulder Bay in Bournda National Park, just south of Tathra. After parking at Kianinny Bay, head south along the Kangarutha track. The path undulates through tea tree forest along the rugged coastline before arriving at the sparkling blue waters of Boulder Bay. This tiny cove is covered in smooth pebbles so water sandals can be handy when swimming here. 

Although the walk to Boulder Bay isn’t too long, there are stairs and steep sections of trail so don't skimp on drinking water and supplies. For those who would like to explore more of Bournda’s coastline, you can continue along the entire 9km Kangarutha track to Wallagoot Gap and utilise a car shuffle at either end. 

We recommend keeping your swimmers on for the walk back to Kianinny Bay, because diving off the boat ramp into the deep aqua waters of the bay is one of our ultimate summer pastimes!

Boyds Tower to Mowarry Beach - 19.5km return

For those up for a challenge, this out-and-back section of the Light to Light walk is breathtaking and leads to possibly one of the most stunning beaches on the Sapphire Coast. Mowarry Beach is a pristine crescent-shaped beach in Beowa National Park, framed by striking red rocks and open grassland. Its remote location, crystal-clear water and wilderness surroundings make this spot a jewel of the Sapphire Coast. 

The walking trail from Boyds Tower to Mowarry Beach has recently been upgraded and the coastal scenery and walking experience is breathtaking. The trail will take you through coastal forests and past beautiful Red Sands Bay and Leather Jacket Bay, with several impressive vantage points.

Another option for walking to Mowarry Beach is the shorter northbound trail from Saltwater Creek, which is approximately 8.5km return. 

Middle Beach to Bithry Inlet - 4km return

This beautiful walk leads between two secluded beaches in Mimosa Rocks National Park along a winding forest trail. Starting at Middle Beach camping area, (not to be confused with Merimbula’s Middle Beach), head north at the signposted track head towards Bithry Inlet (Penders Beach). 

After approximately 360m you’ll reach Stinking Bay, a picturesque cove named after the waft of kelp that collects upon the rocky shoreline. The track follows the edge of the rugged coastline through coastal forest, opening up to a stunning spotted gum canopy as you near to Bithry Inlet. 

At Bithry Inlet, you’ll find a charming bench seat primed for morning tea, as well as historical remnants of an old private property including remains of a windmill tower, a geodesic dome and ‘the barn’. 

Wander down to the sandy shores of Bithry Inlet and dive into its crystal-clear depths, fed by the pristine waters of Wapengo Lagoon. Keep your eyes out for dolphins and seals, as well as pied oystercatchers and sea eagles. 

Haycock Point to Barmouth Beach - 6km return

Starting at Haycock Point in Beowa National Park, this walking trail leads along a spectacular headland and under a forest canopy before arriving at the turquoise waters of Barmouth Beach. Wildlife abounds along this trail so keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, wallabies and goannas.

The colour of Barmouth Beach will take your breath away as you glimpse it through the trees. Situated on the southern edge of Pambula River Mouth, the beach is protected from the swell, making it one of our favourite  spots for a saltwater dip. The lofty gums that fringe the estuary mouth make for an idyllic setting and most days you can spot sea eagles circling above the canopy. 

Bundian Way Story Trail - 3.5km return

Explore three beautiful beaches on the edge of Twofold Bay along a cultural walking trail in Eden. The Bundian Way Story Trail begins at Cocora Beach, just a short drive from the centre of Eden. 

From the calm waters of Cocora Beach, the trail leads through native bushland to a specially-built Bunang Ring (ceremonial performance place), gently up Cocora Point and to Budginbro Lookout. From here, follow the Story Trail past Sealers Lookout and along the sand at Bungo Beach, onwards to Brierly Lookout overlooking Rixons Beach, finishing at Quarantine Bay.

Cocora Beach and Bungo Beach are the best spots for swimming, so make sure you bring along your beach kit, and preferably a picnic lunch too!

Bermagui Coastal Walk - 18km one-way

The ultimate Sapphire Coast beach challenge, traverse Bermagui’s stunning coastline from Cuttagee Beach to Wallaga Lake with countless swimming opportunities and magnificent coastal scenery. The walk winds along coastal bushland, sandy beaches, nature reserves and Bermagui village.

Stop and take in the breathtaking views at the lookouts at Murunna Point, Bermagui Point, Dickinson Point Headland and the Blue Pool. Dive into the pristine waters of Barragga Bay, Jaggers Beach and Bruce Steer Pool. Marvel at Camel Rock and Horse Head Rock, believed to be around 450 million years old, and the rock formations of the steep cliff face. All this and more - with the majestic Gulaga Mountain as a backdrop.

Bermagui Coastal Walk can be walked in either direction. For a shorter walk, begin at Bermagui and walk your choice of the northern or southern section. Bermagui township is located approximately halfway along the walk, making it the perfect rest stop.