Kayaking spots are a personal thing. There are a stunning array of places to kayak around near Sydney- from open lagoons teaming with wildlife in the Northern Beaches to hidden gems in the Royal National. Whatever your preferences, it’s hard to get bored. Unlike hiking, we regularly find ourselves going back to the same place over and over again, exploring further and different routes depending on the tides and water level. The flora and fauna change with the seasons too, just to keep it interesting!
If you’re new to the area, or new to kayaking, here are our favourite spots to get you started:
1. Sugarloaf Bay, Middle Harbour & Davidson Park
Great for little explores and longer paddles with lots of wildlife around
Route (two options you can put together): https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/australia/new-south-wales/roseville-sugarloaf-bay-and-bantry-bay-paddle-route
2. Pittwater
Beautiful blue waters and coastline to explore. Be sure to check the UV before you head out as there is little shelter on sunny days.
3. Cowan Creek & Jerusalem Bay
Some of the best of Ku-ring-gai is seen from the water. Stunning scenery that is well worth the drive. It can get busy with boats in certain areas during the summer holidays but there is heaps of water to discover you’ll still be able to find a quiet spot though.
Route: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/new-south-wales/cowan-creek-paddle-bobbin-head-to-kierans-creek
4. Woronora River
With options to hop out of the kayak for a swim or explore on the banks, this is a lovely paddle to take your time on and enjoy on a sunny morning. It’s another out and back route so you can go as short or long as you’d like but getting down to the needles is well worth it!
Route: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/new-south-wales/woronora-river-paddle-the-needles
5. Hacking River near Audley Village, Royal National Park
Mangroves, little waterfalls, and peaceful waters. It’s the Royal National showing off some of its finest. This is better for a longer paddle. You need 2 hours plus to do it justice, and even then you’ll want more. Be sure to check out Muddy Creek on your way up/ back.
Route: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/new-south-wales/hacking-river-via-grays-poin
If you’re new to kayaking, or the area, here are a few extra top tips for to keep you safe while kayaking:
- Always check the tides and weather
- Explore with a friend
- If it’s Summer, go early or later in the day to avoid the crowds (and the highest UV)
- Picnic lunches will let you go further
- Wear a hat, ideally with a legionnaire
- Drink regularly - we find that with water around us we sometimes forget to actually drink, and there is little more dangerous than sun stroke
We know this blog is about kayaking spots but it wouldn’t be a Plow blog without reminding you to be sun safe. Melanoma is a significant cause of cancer among Australians, and those who enjoy watersports are at extra risk so remember your sunscreen, cover your skin and put a hat on. If you can choose a shady route when the UV is high, all the better!
