Killcare

National parks & coastal walks 

Killcare is surrounded by Bouddi National Park, a stunning area of rainforest, cliffs and beaches. Here you’ll find some fantastic walks including the 8km Bouddi Coastal Walk, which encompasses beaches, birdlife, rainforest and sweeping ocean views. You’ll also find Aboriginal cultural heritage sites, mountain biking tracks, picnic areas and campgrounds in the national park. 

Allen Strom lookout, Killcare - Credit: Susan Davis/DCCEEW

At low tide, lookout for the remains of the paddle steamer PS Maitland, which was shipwrecked in 1898 at the eastern end of Maitland Bay. To see the wreck, take the scenic route along Maitland Bay track. Nearby is Box Head track, which leads to a lookout with sweeping views of Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Gerrin Point lookout, near the northeastern end of Putty Beach, is a great vantage point to spot migrating whales. 

Man hiking through Bouddi Ridge Explorer, Bouddi National Park - Credit: John Spencer, DPE

Pristine beaches 

If you’re after postcard-perfect beaches, you’re in the right place, with Killcare and the neighbouring Hardy's Bay, Wagstaffe and Pretty Beach surrounded by national park and protected marine habitat. Killcare Beach offers 1.6km of sand, a kiosk and is patrolled during the warmer months. For a sheltered sandy beach with calm waters, head to Lobster Beach, which curves around tranquil Broken Bay, and is popular for swimming, snorkelling and fishing. You might even spot dolphins.  

Lobster Beach, Bouddi National Park - Credit: John Spencer/OEH

Delicious dining 

For chic casual dining, head to restaurant The Wild Flower Bar & Dining at the iconic Bells at Killcare. For something more casual, try the Killcare Beach Kiosk or grab breakfast and pastries at The Fat Goose, and seafood from Anchor on Hardys.  

The Wild Flower Bar and Dining, Killcare - Credit: Bells at Killcare Restaurant, Boutique and Spa

Where to stay 

There are some beautiful holiday rentals in and around Killcare as well as campsites in Bouddi National Park. For high-end stays, there is the luxury boutique hotel Bells at Killcare and private luxury lodge Pretty Beach House. 

Getting there 

Killcare is a 90 minute drive north from Sydney and around one hour 45 minutes south from Newcastle. You can also catch the scenic ferry from Palm Beach to Wagstaffe and take a taxi or walk along the coast.