Hermitage Foreshore Track
Hermitage Foreshore Track
Description
The Hermitage Foreshore Track is a hidden gem of a harbour walk in Vaucluse -- 1.8 kilometres of bushland foreshore trail within Sydney Harbour National Park that passes five secluded harbour beaches, heritage sites, and some of the best city skyline views in Sydney. It's not the easiest walk with a pram, but for families with kids who can walk (or be carried), it's a stunning free outing that ends at the brilliant Nielsen Park with its shark-netted beach and cafe.
Why We Love It
Five harbour beaches along a short walk including the family-favourite Shark Beach at Nielsen Park with its shark net enclosure for safe swimming -- perfect for a post-walk dip.
Beautifully shaded bushland trail that feels worlds away from the city, even though you're only 7km from the CBD -- a welcome relief on warm days.
The Nielsen cafe at the finish serves coffee, lunch, and snacks daily from 8am with indoor and outdoor seating right by Shark Beach -- exactly what you need after a walk with kids.
Genuinely interesting for older kids with a 19th-century gun emplacement to explore at Steele Point, the heritage-listed Strickland House mansion, and Aboriginal cultural heritage throughout.
Free parking at both ends on Greycliffe Avenue (Nielsen Park) and Bayview Hill Road -- a rare find in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs.
Short enough to combine with a beach afternoon at Nielsen Park, making it a perfect half-day outing for families.
Good To Know
Tips
Not pram-friendly: Multiple stone steps, uneven surfaces, and narrow sections make this walk unsuitable for prams. Use a baby carrier for babies and young toddlers.
Walk west to east: Start at Bayview Hill Road and finish at Nielsen Park so you end at the best facilities -- cafe, toilets, shark-netted beach, and shaded picnic areas.
No dogs allowed: This is Sydney Harbour National Park -- dogs are prohibited (only certified assistance animals permitted).
Bring everything you need: No water fountains or bins along the track (only at Nielsen Park). Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and a rubbish bag.
Sturdy shoes required: Thongs and sandals won't cut it on the sandstone steps and uneven terrain. Proper walking shoes or sneakers are a must.
Arrive early for parking on weekends: Greycliffe Avenue at Nielsen Park fills quickly on sunny days. Weekday visits are much easier.
Beaches are unpatrolled: All beaches along the track have no lifeguards. Only Shark Beach at Nielsen Park has a shark net (summer months). Supervise children closely.
Parking Options
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Price (Per Person)
Free entry
Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday
- Open 24 hours