This heavily trafficked walk is located on Military Road (across from Robertson Park) in Watsons Bay.

The walk is a paved and is part of the much longer Coastal Walk, so can be adapted to be as short or long as your legs desire. 

From the road, it is a short set of stairs (or accessible ramp) to the main lookout. This area is flat and accessible, making it great for families and those in wheelchairs. The lookout offers incredible views of the dramatic cliffs and down onto a small bay below with tessellated rock shelves.

At the southern end of the main lookout is Dunbar’s Anchor, a relic from the sunken ship of the same name that wrecked against the cliffs less than 500 metres south in 1857. Sadly, there was only one survivor of the 122 people on board, with local residents later recovering the anchor.

Those wanting to stretch their legs further have a range of options. Heading north leads up a series of steps through the bush to additional lookouts, providing more views of the rugged coastline, as well as across the harbour to North Head.

Heading south takes you along the cliff top also provides more great coastal views, as well as back west back across the harbour to the city skyline and Harbour Bridge.

Further south, you will pass a number of old military fortifications, the South Head Signal Tower, the site of the Dunbar wreck (although no wreck is visible) and the Macquarie Lighthouse, which serves as a good location to turn-around and return.

Be sure not to miss the Don Ritchie Grove, a tranquil garden in memory of the “Angel of the Gap” – a man who saved countless lives over 50 years and came to be a major mental health advocate.

The garden is a sombre reminder that this unmistakably beautiful location has a dark history. Numerous self-harm minimisation measures are now featured along the walk, including cameras, emergency fences and alarmed fences.

Given its elevated location, the walk is a fantastic spot for whale watching during the season (June-October).

You will find public toilets and plenty of picnic tables and BBQs at Robertson Park, near the start of the walk, as well as numerous cafes nearby.

This walk can be paired with the nearby South Head Heritage Trail, which offers more incredible views of the harbour and city skyline, as well as military history and the Hornby Lighthouse, as well as the Hermitage Foreshore Track in Rose Bay. 

If the views across to North Head piqued your interest, venture there for the Fairfax Walk or nearby Bradleys Head Track.

Track: The trail involves a concrete path. The main lookout area is relatively flat and very accessible, while the tracks north and south involve sets of stairs. The track, in either direction is well-signed and easy to follow. 

Difficulty: The main lookout area is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it an easy stroll and suitable for all fitness levels, families with prams and wheelchair accessible. The track to the north and south of the main lookout, while involving steps, is easy and suitable for all fitness levels.

Direction: This is an out-and-back track that returns the way you came.