Back to previous page
Print factsheet

South Head Heritage trail

Sydney Harbour National Park

Open, check current alerts 

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about South Head Heritage trail.

Track grading

Grade 3

Learn more about the grading system

Features of this track

Distance

1km loop

Time

30min - 1hr

Quality of markings

Clearly sign posted

Experience required

No experience required

Gradient

Gentle hills

Steps

Many steps

Quality of path

Formed track

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    South Head Heritage trail is in the South Head precinct of Sydney Harbour National Park. To get there:

    • Drive along New South Head Road past Vaucluse to the end
    • Turn right into Robertson Road, then left into Military Road, which becomes Cliff Road.
    • Turn left onto Short Street then right into Cove Street and right onto Victoria Street
    • Continue to the end and leave the car at Camp Cove carpark
    • The walk begins near Camp Cove Kiosk.

    Alternatively, the Eastern Suburbs Ferry from Circular Quay, as well as buses 324, 325 and 380, stop a short walk from Camp Cove. Check out the Transport Info website for more information.

    Parking

    Parking is available at Camp Cove carpark, including several designated disabled spots.

    Facilities

    You'll find toilet facilities along the South Head Heritage trail near Lady Bay Beach (please note this is a nude bathing beach).

    Maps and downloads

    Safety messages

    There are rocky ledges and uneven pathways surrounding the harbour. Please keep an eye on children at all times. 

    Beach safety

    Beaches in this park are not patrolled, and can sometimes have strong rips and currents. These beach safety tips will help you and your family stay safe in the water.

    Bushwalking safety

    If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

    Mobile safety

    Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

    Permitted

    Fishing

    A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in all waters.

    Prohibited

    Drones

    Flying a drone for recreational purposes is prohibited in this area. Drones may affect public enjoyment, safety and privacy, interfere with park operations, or pose a threat to wildlife. See the Drones in Parks policy.

    This area may be a declared Drone Exclusion Zone, or may be subject to Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules for flying near airports, aerodromes and helicopter landing sites. See CASA's Drone Flyer Rules.

    Commercial filming and photography

    Commercial filming or photography is prohibited without prior consent. You must apply for permission and contact the local office.

    Pets

    Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

    Smoking

    NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

    South Head Heritage trail

    Operated by

    Park info

    • in Sydney Harbour National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region

    • Sydney Harbour National Park is open sunrise to sunset but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

    • Park entry fees:

      Bradleys Head: $8 per vehicle per day. North Head: $5 per vehicle per day. Tap and pay card or phone payments accepted at pay machines. Coin payment available at Fairfax carpark machines only. Chowder Bay: Monday-Friday: $3 per hour, to a maximum of $16 per day. Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays: $4 per hour, to a maximum of $20 per day. If you hold an NPWS All Parks or Multi Parks Pass, you can park free for up to four hours per day - additional time can be purchased. Car parks operated by Sydney Harbour Federation Trust or Mosman Council are not covered by your pass. Please check signs carefully. Park’nPay: You can also pay for your visit to any area via the Park’nPay app.

      Other fees:

      Landing fees or tour fees apply to visit Sydney Harbour islands. All public visitors to Shark, Clark or Rodd Island, need to pay a $7 per person landing fee. To arrange, please contact 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS). Annual NSW Parks Passes do not cover landing fees.

      Buy annual pass