Resolute Beach is a stunning, secluded strip of sand in the West Head section of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, located opposite Barrenjoey Headland and overlooking Pittwater.
With its breathtaking views and emerald-green water, a visit to Resolute Beach feels like stepping into a small tropical paradise.
The Resolute Loop Track, formed by two connected bushwalking trails, leads to this spectacular beach.
| Resolute Loop Track | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 6 km (circuit) |
| Duration: | 3 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate (steep sections) |
| Dogs: | Not allowed |
Getting There
Resolute Beach lies just south of the West Head Lookout in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, which is situated at the end of West Head Road.
Parking is available at both the lookout and the Resolute Picnic Area, and the map below highlights the locations of these two parking spots along with Resolute Beach:
- P1: West Head Lookout car park (see location on map)
- P2: Resolute Picnic Area car park (see location on map)
The picnic area and the lookout are connected by a short walking trail known as the Red Hands Track (more on that later).
Please note that entry to the national park requires a $12 fee, payable at the booth at the start of West Head Road or at one of the pay stations within the park.
Resolute Loop Track
There are two walking tracks to Resolute Beach: one begins at the Resolute Picnic Area, and the other starts at the West Head Lookout.
Together, these tracks form the 6 km Resolute Loop Track, also known as the Resolute Beach Circuit Walk.
If you’re short on time or prefer a shorter walk, we recommend the 1 km return track from the West Head Lookout. However, if you’re up for a longer bushwalk with the bonus of a refreshing swim, tackling the full loop is well worth it.
In the next section, we’ll guide you through the circuit walk, starting at the West Head Lookout and covering seven key highlights and landmarks along the way:
- West Head Lookout
- West Head Beach
- Resolute Beach
- Aboriginal Occupation Site
- Aboriginal Engravings
- Resolute Picnic Area
- Red Hands Track
1. West Head Lookout
West Head is more than just a scenic lookout; it also holds a fascinating military history.
During World War II, it served as a full-scale military site, playing a key role in protecting Sydney and New South Wales from potential foreign invasions.
In the 1960s, the site was transformed into a tourist destination, featuring a large sandstone viewing area and several informative display boards.
From the lookout, follow the trail towards West Head Beach, which leads you into the bush.
2. West Head Beach
The first section of the circuit walk, leading to West Head Beach, is relatively easy.
However, it’s still a true bushwalk, so be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water.
A steep staircase takes you down to the beach.
West Head Beach is slightly smaller than Resolute Beach, features large rocks scattered across the sand, and offers excellent swimming conditions.
3. Resolute Beach
The section of the track between West Head Beach and Resolute Beach can be a bit challenging, with some steep sections, uneven surfaces, and a creek crossing to navigate.
As you follow the main track, you’ll soon catch your first glimpses of Resolute Beach. Like West Head Beach, reaching Resolute Beach requires descending a steep set of stairs.
Resolute Beach is a 60-metre stretch of pristine sand, free of rocks, with mostly calm waters. The views of Pittwater and the Barrenjoey Headland are stunning as well.
Walking isn’t the only way to access this beach; it’s also a popular landing spot for private boats, with many visitors arriving from Palm Beach for a peaceful afternoon in the sun.
From Resolute Beach, retrace your steps up the stairs and turn left to continue on the main track.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a detour to a third beach, Great Mackerel Beach, located 600 metres further south.
That track leads directly onto the beach, so there’s no need to tackle any stairs, unlike the previous two beaches.
4. Aboriginal Occupation Site
To continue the circuit walk, look for the trail heading uphill through the bush.
This intersection is located close to the stairs leading to the beach, but it can be easy to miss.
As you ascend, the track passes a significant rock formation that served as a shelter for the local Aboriginal people before white settlement.
An information board in front of the rock formation explains more about this Aboriginal occupation site.
5. Aboriginal Engravings
The main track eventually leads to an intersection with a fire trail.
At this point, turn right onto the fire trail to continue the circuit walk back towards the Resolute Picnic Area and West Head Lookout.
Before reaching the picnic area, the track passes an intriguing site featuring well-preserved Aboriginal engravings that date back thousands of years.
Take a moment to explore the area and see how many of the engravings you can spot, using the information board as your guide.
6. Resolute Picnic Area
The Resolute Picnic Area is a well-equipped picnic spot set amidst scenic bushland.
It features several tables, barbecues, and a toilet block, making it an ideal place to relax and recharge.
From the picnic area, locate the start of the Red Hands Track, which will guide you back to the West Head Lookout.
7. Red Hands Track
The Red Hands Track gets its name from a large rock overhang along the way, featuring Aboriginal artwork in the shape of two hands.
This rock formation once served as a cave and shelter for Aboriginal people.
The track then follows a well-maintained path through the bush, running parallel to the road, before eventually leading back to the West Head Lookout.
Check out our guide to the best walks in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park for more great hiking options in this beautiful area north of Sydney.
