Maitland Bay Track
Central Coast & Hunter - NSW
Bouddi National Park
Typical section of track
Typical section of track
The information centre
Typical section of track
Click to see full image.
A popular walk on the Central Coast, this short but steep track takes you to the idyllic Maitland Bay and its shipwreck.
This moderately trafficked walk starts from the Maitland Bay Information Centre on The Scenic Road in Killcare Heights.
Starting from the information centre, the track winds steeply down the hill through beautiful forest, past rock formations and across wooden bridges that span small gullies.
On the way down, there is a side-track to Bullimah Spur (3.2kms return with more elevation) for those wanting a longer walk. At the junction with the Bouddi Coastal Walk, be sure to continue straight, following signs to Maitland Bay.
Maitland Bay is a 600-metre sweeping curved beach that backs directly onto lush bushland. The protected cove means that it is usually calm, however the beach is unpatrolled, and you should swim with caution.
At low tide, you may catch a glimpse of the S.S. Maitland Shipwreck on the eastern side of the beach – a paddle steamer from Scotland that was wrecked in a storm in 1898, taking the lives of 26 of the 36 passengers. Parts of the boiler and iron hull are strewn across the rock flats below the headland.
This walk requires a moderate level of fitness given that it is quite steep and includes a number of steps.
Be sure to bring swimwear if having a dip, with insect repellent also a good idea.
Those looking for a longer walk can either complete this as part of the first section of the spectacular Bouddi Coastal Walk, or can add on the side-track to Bullimah Spur.
A visit to nearby Marie Byles Lookout, Stroms Lookout, Staples Lookout, and the Bulgandry Aboirginal Art Site are also great additions.
Track: The track involves graded paths, wooden bridges, and a number of steps. The track is well-signed and easy to follow.
Difficulty: The walk is short, but steep, so requires a moderate level of fitness. That said, most people can complete the walk with adequate time for breaks on the return leg.
Be aware that Maitland Bay is unpatrolled, so swim with caution. Young children should be supervised at all times.
Direction: This is an out-and-back track that returns the way it came.
getting there
The walk starts from the Maitland Bay Information Centre on The Scenic Road in Killcare Heights, 9 hours drive south of Brisbane, or 1.5 hours drive north of Sydney.
Parking is relatively ample at the information centre, but the location can become very busy during peak times.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
Be sure to check the New South Wales Parks and Wildlife Service website for updates regarding track closures.
Note that there are park fees associated with entering many national parks in New South Wales. Check the New South Wales Parks and Wildlife Service website for more information.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.