The Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay Walk is a short yet scenic walking trail on Sydney’s lower north shore, offering stunning views of Sydney Harbour.
This trail forms part of the longer Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Beach Walk, one of Sydney’s finest Harbour trails.
In this article, we’ll share the many highlights of this walk.
Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay | |
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Distance: | 2.7 km (one way) |
Duration: | 1 hour |
Grade: | Easy |
Dogs: | Not allowed |
Getting There
Paid parking is available at Bradleys Head (via Bradleys Head Road), though the area is small and fills up quickly, particularly on weekends.
A more convenient option might be catching a ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo and starting the Bradleys Head Walk from there; a short, easy trail around Athol Bay.
Bus travel is also a practical choice, with regular services from Wynyard to the Taronga Zoo and Bradleys Head area.
Alternatively, if you’d like to begin the walk from Chowder Bay, there’s ample paid parking on Chowder Bay Road, and bus stops are conveniently located nearby.
Map
Below is a map of the walk along the following landmarks and highlights:
- Bradleys Head
- Taylors Bay
- Chowder Head
- Clifton Gardens Reserve
- Chowder Bay
Track Notes
In the track notes below, the route begins at Bradleys Head and winds toward Chowder Bay, passing Taylors Bay, Chowder Head, and Clifton Gardens Reserve.
Overall, this walk is easy to follow and well-signposted. It’s a relatively gentle trail, mostly flat but with some uneven sections and a few steps.
1. Bradleys Head
Before beginning the hike to Chowder Bay, it’s well worth taking some time to explore Bradleys Head, a unique spot within Sydney Harbour National Park.
Named after Royal Navy officer William Bradley, who arrived with the First Fleet, Bradleys Head is rich with historical significance.

One of the main highlights here is the tall mast standing prominently on the headland, overlooking Sydney Harbour.
Originally the foremast of HMAS Sydney, a light cruiser dismantled on Cockatoo Island in 1929, it was installed at Bradleys Head in 1934. Today, it serves as a solemn monument to Australian ships and sailors lost in war.
Another highlight is the Bradleys Head Amphitheatre, a favourite fishing and picnic spot within Sydney Harbour National Park. It’s also a popular wedding venue, and with its stunning city and Harbour views, it’s easy to see why.
2. Taylors Bay
Once you’ve finished exploring the fascinating Bradleys Head area, it’s time to set off on the walking track to Chowder Bay. Look for the signpost on Bradleys Head Road to find the start of the trail.
From there, the path quickly transforms into a true bushwalk, surrounded by native trees like eucalyptus and ferns, along with plenty of wildlife, including birds and lizards. You’ll even come across a small waterfall along the way.

After a few hundred metres, you’ll spot a sign pointing left to Athol Hall, a popular venue for weddings and other formal events.
This heritage building, over 150 years old, is surrounded by grassy areas and picnic grounds. It’s well worth a look before continuing on to Taylors Bay.
3. Chowder Head
As you continue, the track curves around Taylors Bay, offering beautiful views of this picturesque bay, often dotted with a few anchored boats. There’s also a short sidetrack that leads down to the bay.

From Taylors Bay, the trail winds towards Clifton Gardens and Chowder Bay, passing through the scenic bushland of the Chowder Head peninsula.
Chowder Head itself features several great vantage points where you can take in lovely views of the Harbour, South Head, Shark Island, and back towards Bradleys Head.
4. Clifton Gardens Reserve
The trail then leads to Clifton Gardens Reserve, a popular family picnic spot since the 19th century.

Today, this area features a beautiful beach with a netted swimming enclosure, a fenced playground, change rooms, and excellent BBQ and picnic facilities.

It’s also a favourite spot for dog owners, offering plenty of space for dogs to run around in the park, on the beach, and even in the water.
5. Chowder Bay
The track follows the small promenade along Clifton Gardens Beach before arriving at Chowder Bay, a perfect spot to unwind with a coffee or a meal at one of the cafes.

For a premium dining experience, you might try Ripples Chowder Bay, known for its excellent food and stunning views. Another great choice is L’Héritage, a French restaurant offering delicious cuisine in a charming setting.
If you’re after a more casual breakfast or lunch, Two Penny Coffee or Drift Cafe are worth checking out.
More Hiking
The Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay walking trail is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Sydney Harbour. The thriving wildlife and natural bushland in this part of Sydney add to the charm of the walk.
As mentioned, this trail forms part of a longer route that begins at Taronga Zoo and continues from Chowder Bay to Balmoral Beach.
For those seeking a longer adventure, you can start at Sirius Cove Reserve and follow the trail past Little Sirius Point and Whiting Beach to the Taronga Zoo ferry wharf.
At the other end, from Balmoral Beach, you can extend your hike to Chinamans Beach, and even continue to the Spit Bridge via some suburban streets.