As with the hike before, this time we headed south again into the beautiful area just south of Royal National Park. This time I had chosen a hike from Thirroul to Stanwell Park on the map. From the train station Thirroul it went through jungle vegetation and finally steeply up to the plateau. Then it went most of the time on the plateau in the direction of Stanwall Park and there again down to the sea and finally with the rail replacement service back to Sydney. The hike took place in January 2023.
Few coastal hikes in New South Wales capture the drama of sea and escarpment quite like the walk from Thirroul to Stanwell Park. Just an hour south of Sydney, this trail combines golden beaches, rugged cliffs, lush bushland, and sweeping ocean views into one unforgettable journey. In this video, we take you along the hike from Thirroul to Stanwell Park, uncovering the highlights of this spectacular stretch of the Illawarra coastline.
The hike begins in Thirroul, a laid-back seaside town framed by the Illawarra escarpment to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east. Thirroul is famous for its surf beaches, coastal cafés, and historic connections to artists and writers. Setting out from here, the path quickly reveals the contrasts of this region: long sandy beaches on one side, green hills and forested cliffs rising steeply on the other.
Heading north, the trail follows a mix of beaches, headlands, and bush tracks. The coastline here feels expansive and untamed, with waves rolling in endlessly and seabirds soaring overhead. Small towns like Austinmer and Coalcliff appear along the way, each with their own charm. At Austinmer, wide beaches stretch out toward the horizon, while Coalcliff offers rocky headlands and ocean pools where locals swim year-round.
One of the highlights of this hike is the changing perspective of the Illawarra Escarpment, the dramatic sandstone cliffs that rise almost sheer above the coastline. Covered in dense bush and dotted with walking trails, the escarpment forms a constant backdrop, its presence adding grandeur to every viewpoint. From certain spots, you can even spot hang gliders drifting overhead, riding the coastal winds on their way to Stanwell Park.
As the walk continues, the coastline becomes more rugged, with cliffs giving way to spectacular ocean views. The approach to Stanwell Park is unforgettable – this beachside town sits in a sheltered valley between steep escarpments, with the ocean stretching wide in front of it. The views from above reveal golden sands framed by green hills, a picture-perfect end to the hike.
Stanwell Park itself is more than just a pretty beach. It’s a hub for outdoor adventure and relaxation. The beach is popular for surfing, picnicking, and kite flying, while the surrounding cliffs are famous launch points for hang gliding and paragliding. Just north of the town, the Sea Cliff Bridge arcs gracefully over the Pacific Ocean – one of New South Wales’ most iconic landmarks and a must-see stop before heading back.
What makes the hike from Thirroul to Stanwell Park so special is its variety. You’ll walk sandy beaches, explore rocky platforms, wind through pockets of bush, and enjoy some of the best coastal views in the state. Along the way, the mix of ocean breezes, bird calls, and the rhythm of crashing waves creates an atmosphere that’s both energizing and deeply calming.
Practical tips: The hike is around 15 kilometers, depending on your chosen route, and takes 4–5 hours at a steady pace. It’s best attempted in good weather, as some parts can be slippery after rain. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, and consider finishing with a swim at Stanwell Park Beach. Transport is easy, with train stations at both Thirroul and Stanwell Park connecting back to Sydney, making it ideal for a day trip.
The Thirroul to Stanwell Park hike is not just a walk – it’s a journey through one of Australia’s most striking coastal landscapes. From charming seaside towns to wild headlands and from sweeping beaches to soaring cliffs, it offers a little bit of everything. It’s the kind of hike that reminds you why the Illawarra is considered one of the most beautiful stretches of coast in New South Wales.
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