Palm Beach, NSW
4.0 km (1.5 hrs )
★★★★☆

This hike explores Sydney's northern most beaches and the historic lighthouse that is perched high above them on Barrenjoey Head. For fans of the show, this is the location of the soap opera Home and Away, with the surf life saving club on Palm Beach doubling as the one for Summer Bay.

The walk begins at the bus stop on Beach Road, next to the entrance to Governor Phillip Park, and continues through the park to Station Beach on the eastern side of Pittwater. A short but steep climb to the top of Barrenjoey Head brings you to the lighthouse precinct with magnificent views both south towards Bangalley Head and Pittwater, and north to Broken Bay. At certain times of the year, this is a good location from which to spot whales as they migrate along the coast.

The lighthouse itself is quite unique, having been constructed from the local sandstone that has been left unpainted. The lighthouse dates back to 1881 and is heritage listed. Take the opportunity to explore around the lighthouse and of course enjoy the views before heading back down and onto Palm Beach for the walk back to the town. If you have the time and energy, you can continue south along the coast. See the Northern Beaches track if continuing south like I did.