The moderately challenging Flannel Flower Walking Track in Bouddi National Park winds through scenic bushland before reaching a secluded beach.
Lobster Beach, located in the coastal locality of Box Head on the Central Coast, is the perfect spot for a relaxing swim.
| Flannel Flower Walking Track to Lobster Beach | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 3.2 km (return) |
| Duration: | 1.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate (steep sections) |
| Dogs: | Not allowed |
Getting There
The Flannel Flower Walking Track starts at the end of Hawke Head Drive in Hardys Bay, within Bouddi National Park.
At the end of the road, there’s a spacious car park near the Bouddi National Park signpost. While the final stretch of Hawke Head Drive is unsealed, a 4WD isn’t strictly necessary.
This car park also provides access to the Tallow Beach Trail and the Box Head Walk, giving you the option to explore multiple tracks.
Find the entire walk in this interactive map.
Track Notes
This moderately challenging 3.2 km return hike includes a few steep sections, particularly on the descent to the beach, but is generally quite manageable.
That said, it’s still a proper bushwalk, so sturdy hiking shoes or sneakers are highly recommended.
1. The Bushwalk
From the car park, follow the fire trail past the Bouddi National Park signpost and walk around the closed gate further up the trail.
About 100 metres ahead, you’ll reach an intersection where you need to turn right to start the Flannel Flower Walking Track to Lobster Beach.
The first few minutes of the walk are on a mostly paved path with some steps, gradually ascending to another junction where you’ll need to turn left.
From here, the track transitions into a pleasant bushwalk along a narrower path with some steps and rocky surfaces to navigate.
The scenery along this stretch is fantastic, with a forest of thriving gum trees and views of Broken Bay to the left of the path.
After about 700 metres of walking through the bushland, you’ll reach an intersection with the Old Wagstaffe Trail where you need to turn left.
The next section passes partly through a private residential area with several driveway intersections. Keep in mind that vehicles have the right of way at these crossings.
About 400 metres further, you’ll see a sign for Lobster Beach. Turn left here to begin the short but steep descent to the beach.
2. Lobster Beach
Just before reaching the beach, you’ll come across a large wooden viewing platform that offers scenic views of Lobster Beach and Broken Bay, though they are somewhat obscured by tall trees.
Lobster Beach is a beautiful, secluded 300-metre stretch of sand facing Broken Bay, with Ocean Beach and Umina Beach visible across the water.
The beach often has calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Depending on the tide, it can feel a bit narrow, but there’s usually enough space to lay out a towel and relax.
When you’re ready to leave, simply retrace your steps back to the car park on Hawke Head Drive.
If you’re up for another walk, the trails to Box Head and Tallow Beach are both well worth exploring!
