Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay walk

Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay walk is an easy, scenic track through Sydney Harbour National Park, linking Taronga Zoo with Chowder Bay. The one-way route covers 4km and is suggested to take between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes, with a Grade 3 classification. It is a practical choice for visitors who want a substantial harbour walk without leaving Sydney, including people starting their day at Taronga Zoo or finishing near Chowder Bay’s beach and cafes.

The track follows the harbour headlands through bushland, with views towards the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Along the way, walkers can pause at Bradleys Head Booraghee Amphitheatre to watch boats on the water, explore military relics and other historic structures, and look for wildlife among the ancient trees and angophoras. Heritage-listed Athol Hall and the cafes at Chowder Bay provide places to stop for a drink or a break, although the walk itself remains the main attraction.

There is also a strong historical and educational side to the route. The Bushland secrets at Bradleys Head self-guided tour explores the area’s wildlife, military forts, naval tributes and historic buildings, adding context to the bush track and harbour scenery. For those wanting a longer outing, the route continues beyond Chowder Bay as part of the Harbour Bridge to The Spit Bridge walking track, and forms part of the 80km Bondi to Manly Walk. Bring drinking water, a hat and sunscreen. Vehicle entry fees apply at Bradleys Head and Chowder Bay, with payment available through pay machines or the Park’nPay app. Vehicle access to Bradleys Head is listed as available from 6am to 8pm daily, while Sydney Harbour National Park may close in poor weather or during fire danger.