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Bouddi Coastal Walk, Central Coast NSW

Bouddi Coastal Walk is one of the best coastal walks on the NSW Central Coast, linking Putty Beach with MacMasters Beach through Bouddi National Park. This 8.5 km one-way walk takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours and combines ocean lookouts, boardwalks, beaches, coastal heath, rainforest pockets and some of the most scenic headland views near Gosford.

The walk usually starts at Putty Beach picnic area, near Killcare, where parking is available and the track begins near the eastern end of the beach. From here, the route follows the coastline past sandstone platforms, coastal vegetation and sweeping ocean views before continuing towards Maitland Bay, Little Beach and MacMasters Beach.

One of the highlights of Bouddi Coastal Walk is the variety of scenery packed into a relatively short coastal route. Along the way you’ll pass boardwalk sections, clifftop lookouts, quiet beaches, shaded bushland and open views across the Bouddi National Park Marine Extension. In spring, the surrounding heathland can be full of wildflowers, while winter is a good time to look for migrating whales from exposed lookout points such as Gerrin Point.

Maitland Bay makes a beautiful rest stop roughly partway along the walk. The beach is tucked below forested slopes and is a great place to pause for lunch, photos or a swim when conditions are suitable. NSW National Parks notes that beaches in this park are not patrolled and can have strong rip currents, so check conditions carefully before entering the water.

Although Bouddi Coastal Walk is graded as Grade 3 and is clearly signposted, it still includes short steep hills, occasional steps and formed track with some obstacles. Sturdy walking shoes, drinking water, snacks, sun protection and suitable clothing are recommended, especially if walking the full route one way.

The full walk is one way, so plan your transport before setting off. You can walk the entire route from Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach, return the same way for a much longer day, or choose a shorter section. NSW National Parks suggests shorter options such as Putty Beach to Maitland Bay, Maitland Bay to Little Beach, and Little Beach to MacMasters Beach.

Park entry fees apply in the Putty Beach area, and pets are not permitted in Bouddi National Park. Mobile reception may also be limited, so download maps before you go and check current park alerts before travelling.
For walkers looking for a classic Central Coast day walk, Bouddi Coastal Walk is hard to beat. With beaches, boardwalks, birdlife, whale watching opportunities and panoramic ocean views, it is one of the most rewarding coastal walks near Sydney.

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