Bouddi National Park: Coastal Splendor and Ancient History

4.7 (2076)

Discover Bouddi National Park: Coastal walks, secluded beaches, rich history, and diverse wildlife on the Central Coast of New South Wales.

Home
Australia
Mid West
Bouddi National Park

Bouddi National Park, on the Central Coast of NSW, offers a stunning mix of coastal landscapes, from dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches to lush rainforests and diverse wildlife. Explore Aboriginal sites, hike scenic trails, and discover the wreck of the S.S. Maitland for an unforgettable experience.

A brief summary to Bouddi National Park

Maitland Bay Track, Bouddi, New South Wales, 2251, AU
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Check the NSW National Parks website for alerts regarding track closures or hazards before planning your visit.
Bring coins or use the Park'nPay app to pay the vehicle entry fee at Putty Beach.
Book campsites in advance, especially during peak season, as they fill up quickly.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as some tracks can be steep and uneven.
Pack essentials like water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Marie Byles Lookout

Breathtaking Vistas at Marie Byles Lookout

Bullimah Outlook

Discover the Breathtaking Views at Bullimah Outlook

Gerrin Point Lookout

Gerrin Point Lookout: A Breathtaking Coastal Escape

Getting There

Driving

From Sydney, take the M1 Motorway north towards the Central Coast. Exit onto the Central Coast Highway and follow signs towards Gosford. Turn right onto Avoca Drive and continue through Kincumber. Turn right at Empire Bay Drive, then left into Cochrone Street, and finally right onto The Scenic Road. The Maitland Bay Information Centre, near the Maitland Bay Track, will be on the left. Parking is free at the information center. Note that a park entry fee of $8 per vehicle per day applies in the Putty Beach area.
Public Transport

From Sydney Central Station, take the train to Woy Woy Station. From Woy Woy Station, catch the 59 bus towards Empire Bay. Alight at Empire Bay Rd Opp 249 and walk approximately 20 minutes along The Scenic Road to the Maitland Bay Information Centre. Opal cards are accepted on trains and buses. A single train fare from Central Station to Woy Woy costs approximately $8 - $13. The bus fare from Woy Woy Station to Empire Bay is approximately $2.24 - $3.93.
Ferry and Bus

From Palm Beach, take the ferry to Wagstaffe Wharf. From Wagstaffe Wharf, walk to Wagstaffe Hall on Wagstaffe Avenue and take the 59 bus to Empire Bay Rd Opp 249. Then walk approximately 20 minutes along The Scenic Road to the Maitland Bay Information Centre. Ferry fares from Palm Beach to Wagstaffe are approximately $13 - $18. The bus fare is approximately $2.24 - $3.93.

Discover more about Bouddi National Park

Bouddi National Park, located on the Central Coast of New South Wales, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park's name, derived from the local Aboriginal word meaning "heart," reflects its importance to the area's identity. Originally established as Bouddi Natural Park in 1936, it evolved into a state park and finally a national park in 1974, preserving its diverse coastal landforms and environments. The park encompasses approximately 1,532 hectares, stretching along 18.5 kilometers of coastline from Wagstaffe to MacMasters Beach. Its varied landscapes include offshore reefs, coastal cliffs, rock platforms, sandy beaches, and pockets of temperate rainforest like Fletchers Glen. This rich tapestry of habitats supports a wide array of flora and fauna, including over 150 bird species, 26 mammal species, and numerous reptiles and amphibians. Keep an eye out for endangered species like the little tern, sooty owl, and masked owl. Bouddi National Park holds cultural significance, with evidence of the Guringgai people's occupation visible in rock engravings, axe grinding grooves, and rock shelters. The park also boasts historical landmarks such as the wreck of the S.S. Maitland, a paddle steamer that sank off Bouddi Point in 1898. Its remains are still visible on the rock platform at Maitland Bay, offering a glimpse into the region's maritime past. Visitors can explore the park's beauty through a network of walking tracks, including the renowned Bouddi Coastal Walk, an 8.5km trail that winds along the coastline, offering breathtaking ocean views and access to secluded beaches. Shorter trails like the Maitland Bay Track lead to hidden gems like Maitland Bay, a tranquil beach accessible only by foot. Camping is available at several campgrounds, including Putty Beach, Little Beach, and Tallow Beach, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the park's natural surroundings. Whether you're seeking a challenging hike, a relaxing beach getaway, or a glimpse into the region's history and culture, Bouddi National Park offers something for everyone. Its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich heritage make it a must-visit destination on the Central Coast.

Explore the best of what Bouddi National Park has to offer

Discover the stunning coastal views at Gerrin Point Lookout in Bouddi National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Discover the stunning vistas and tranquil nature of Marie Byles Lookout in Killcare Heights, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.