I’ve noticed that bush walks on the weekend are becoming more of a thing. I love the idea of getting out, doing a bit of exercise (just a bit) and taking in the beautiful scenery and coastal views New South Wales has to offer. They can also be a great start to a vacation if you’re looking for things to do along the way.

So, luckily for you, there’s an abundance of bush walks and walking tracks in and around Sydney.

I’ve put together a list of the ones that have the most to offer you, without breaking your back (or shoes, spirit etc.). Don’t forget things like a hat, sunscreen, lots of water (bonus points for not using disposable plastic bottles) and please don’t litter or take the native foliage for yourself. Just enjoy the sweet views.

1. Spit to Manly

Length: 9km’s // Time: 3.5 - 4 hours // Difficulty: Medium / not for the underprepared

This walk is on almost every list I saw and is deceptively harder than it seems. Starting at Spit Bridge, you’ll walk under it and then head towards the looming trees along the waters edge. Most of the walk will take you by the water (and at one point through ankle-deep water depending on the tide), with a few sections of it meandering through the trees and up somewhat steep stairs. This is a well-known walk and you’ll probably encounter some people adamant on running the entire length of it. But the view does make up for it, whether you’re by the water or on top of a cliff.

2. Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Beach

Length: 7km’s // Time: 2.5 - 3.5 hours // Difficulty: Medium / bring a bottle of water & snack

Who can fault a walk that starts off with a view of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge?

This classic walk will have you weaving through beautiful bays, where you’ll see historical military heritage at Bradleys Head & Chowder Bay. Towards the end near Georges Head you might just see Hornby Lighthouse in Watsons Bay. Balmoral Beach itself is a good place to end up in, there’s a fish & chips shop that will satisfy your hunger cravings. If you’re up for a bit more of a walk, Mosman is just over the hill; west of Balmoral Beach. But be warned, the ‘hill’ that Awaba Street is on, is a monster. You might be better off finding Raglan Street and taking a somewhat longer but much less steeper stroll towards Mosman.

3. Henry Head walking track

Length: 7.4 km’s // Time: 3 hours // Difficulty: Medium / bring a bottle of water

This a great walking track if you want to see the botanical beauty in Sydney while exploring its natural history.

Walking through Botany Bay National Park, you’ll see remnants of both World Wars. The gun emplacements & lookout stations were once manned and helped defend Australia. You’ll also walk through a section that contains the rare & endangered native Banksia (named after Captain Cook’s botanist, Joesph Banks. A once prominent feature in the Sydney region.

4. Bundeena Drive to Marley Walk

Length: 8km’s return // Time: 3 hours // Difficulty: Medium / don’t forget your camera

A great walk for those that are hoping to see fresh water pools, lookout points, bushland & secluded beaches.

This track passes by a set of small waterfalls which flow into what’s known as Deer Pool. So-called because of the deer that used to frequent this spot. When you start getting closer to the end of the walk, you’ll have the choice between two beaches; Big Marley beach and Little Marley Beach. Both are worthwhile checking out.

5. Bondi to Coogee

Length: 6 km // Time: 2 hours // Difficulty: Easy / not just a pretty view

Another classic Sydney walk, taking you from Bondi Beach to Coogee Pavilion. Or, Coogee to Bondi if you’re a rebel.

It’s a fairly easy walk if you’re comfortable with some hills and stairs. Most of it will be spent walking along cliffs by the ocean and the views are some of the best Sydney has to offer. One of the good things about this walk is that you don’t necessarily need to do the entire thing. You can stop at Tamarama and enjoy a quieter atmosphere than Bondi, spy on some surfers at Bronte or simply enjoy Clovelly. This track could almost feel like a ‘choose your own adventure’ because you can head down closer to the water, stay dry and keep to the path or stop at every beach along the way. Be prepared for some crowds though, this walk can turn into a tourist magnet with plenty of selfie sticks and painfully slow walkers.

6. Winifred Falls Track

Length: 1 km (initially) & 4.4km’s (one way) // Time: 0.5 - 2.5 hours // Difficulty: Easy / do go chasing waterfalls

Although a short walk, at first, the waterfalls are worth seeing. If the weather permits, you can go for a swim or have a picnic.

The first few minutes of the walk is relatively easy before it leads you through steep sections that take some navigating. You’ll get the best photos if you walk further downstream. Also, if you’re so inclined, you can continue on a 4.4km trail that leads you through bushland and features a few small waterfalls.

7. Strickland House & Milk Beach

Length: 0.7 km // Time: 30 mins // Difficulty: Easy / feel free to bring your soy flat white

If you’re looking for a short, easy walk on the weekend, look no further than Milk Beach & Strickland House.

Starting at Strickland House in Vaucluse, you’ll end up at Milk Beach in no time. Where the iconic Sydney Harbour will no doubt make you sit down and take a moment to take it all in.

8. Karloo Walking Track

Length: 10 km (initially) & 4.4km’s (one way) // Time: 3 - 5 hours // Difficulty: Hard / Doing it for the ‘gram

You’ll find yourself walking through heathland, passing Karloo Pool which is a great swimming & picnic spot.Keep an eye out for the ‘whaleback’ rock outcrops, which are named after their resemblance to whales surfacing for air. You can enjoy a picnic lunch by Uloola Falls or in the nearby campground (booking recommended).

9. Three Sisters Walk

Length: 1 km // Time: 30 mins // Difficulty: Easy / Everybody say ‘Heyyy’

While the Blue Mountains (and accompanying Three Sisters) are a tourist trap, this super easy walk is perfect for people looking for some sensational views. Feel free to stop at one of the cafes or try some baked goods from the home-style bakeries in Kataoomba.