The hike from La Perouse to Cape Banks is always worth repeating. There are always quite a lot of people on the beach in summer and with the moderate hiking trail spectacular and worldwide unique views are guaranteed. Here I was again after a few years at the end of 2022.
Few places in Sydney blend history, wild beauty, and dramatic ocean views quite like the walk from La Perouse to Cape Banks. Set within the Kamay Botany Bay National Park, this coastal trail takes you past sandy beaches, rugged headlands, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs — all just a short distance from the city. In this video, we explore the La Perouse to Cape Banks walk, uncovering its unique mix of culture, history, and natural wonder.
Our journey begins at La Perouse, a suburb rich with heritage. Named after the French explorer Comte de Lapérouse, this area is filled with reminders of early European exploration and settlement. The historic Macquarie Watchtower and Bare Island Fort set the tone, connecting today’s walk with centuries of maritime history. Bare Island, linked to the mainland by a wooden bridge, looks especially atmospheric against the backdrop of Botany Bay.
From here, the trail heads east toward Cape Banks, hugging the coastline and offering spectacular views almost immediately. The walk passes through pockets of coastal heathland, alive with native wildflowers in spring, and open rock platforms that stretch out like natural terraces above the sea. Waves crash against the sandstone cliffs below, sending up spray and filling the air with the salty scent of the Pacific.
The walk is full of contrasts. At times, you’re strolling across windswept headlands with endless ocean views; at others, you dip into sheltered coves and sandy beaches. Congwong Beach and Little Congwong Beach are two of the highlights, their calm, clear waters perfect for swimming or just pausing to enjoy the serenity. Beyond them, the trail grows wilder and more rugged as you move deeper into the national park.
Along the way, you may come across remnants of Sydney’s military past. Old gun emplacements, bunkers, and even a golf course add layers of intrigue to the walk, showing how this landscape has been used and shaped over time. The juxtaposition of history and wilderness is part of what makes this trail so unique.
Finally, the track leads to Cape Banks, a dramatic headland jutting out into the Pacific Ocean. The views here are breathtaking — vast, uninterrupted horizons, rocky cliffs dropping into turquoise waters, and seabirds gliding on the wind. From Cape Banks, you can often spot migrating whales during the winter months, as well as pods of dolphins playing in the waves below. On stormy days, the power of the ocean here is unforgettable, with waves exploding against the rocks in a spectacular display of nature’s force.
The return walk retraces the route, but the views feel fresh in reverse. With the afternoon light shifting and the city skyline faintly visible in the distance, it’s a reminder of how close — yet how far — you are from Sydney’s urban life.
Practical tips: The walk from La Perouse to Cape Banks is around 7 kilometers return and takes about 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace. The trail is generally easy but includes some uneven rocky sections and exposed cliff edges, so sturdy footwear is recommended. There is little shade along the way, so bring water, sun protection, and snacks. Facilities, cafés, and transport are available in La Perouse, making it a convenient starting and ending point.
The La Perouse to Cape Banks walk is more than just a coastal stroll — it’s a journey through history, culture, and some of Sydney’s most striking natural scenery. Whether you come for the ocean views, the chance to spot wildlife, or simply to escape the city for a few hours, this walk is an experience that stays with you. It’s a reminder of Sydney’s incredible diversity: world-class beaches, dramatic cliffs, and deep cultural heritage, all within reach of a single day’s adventure.
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