Putty Beach - Image 1
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Putty Beach

4.7
·134 reviews·, Australia

A picturesque beach and gateway to the stunning Bouddi Coastal Walk, offering calm waters and scenic beauty on the Central Coast.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better for photos

CrowdLow
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Putty Beach - Image 1

Putty Beach

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better for photos

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque beach and gateway to the stunning Bouddi Coastal Walk, offering calm waters and scenic beauty on the Central Coast.

4.7
(134 reviews)

"Love this beach! It’s at the entrance to the amazing coastal walk, has flat rock pools to explore, gorgeous clear water to swim in."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park Smart for the Walk

Park at the end of the road for closer Bouddi Coastal Walk access. Watch for the sandy gap near the entrance!

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The Bouddi Coastal Walk involves stairs, boardwalks, and uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are a must!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bouddi Coastal Walk

Bouddi Coastal Walk

Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach

An 8km scenic trail with boardwalks, lookouts, and stunning coastal vistas. Perfect for bushwalking and nature lovers.

Maitland Bay

Maitland Bay

Part of the Bouddi Coastal Walk

A beautiful bay offering calm waters for swimming and flat rock pools for exploration. Ideal for families and a peaceful beach experience.

Putty Beach

Putty Beach

Southern end of Bouddi National Park

Expansive sandy beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming and a great starting point for coastal walks. Offers views of Broken Bay.

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Planning Your Visit

Bouddi Coastal Walk Access

The 8km Bouddi Coastal Walk starts at Putty Beach and ends at MacMasters Beach. You can tackle the full trail or shorter sections like Putty Beach to Maitland Bay. It's a guided track with stunning views, suitable for families.

Parking and Beach Access

Parking at Putty Beach costs $8 for the day. Drive towards the end of the road for closer access to the Bouddi Coastal Walk entrance. Be mindful of a sandy gap near the entrance that may require a makeshift bridge of branches, especially at high tide.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Low tide
Why
Easier beach access
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Pleasant weather for walks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Looking for a stunning coastal walk on the Central Coast? We found the perfect one! The 8km Bouddi coastal walk runs from Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach, you can also do the walk in sections if you prefer a shorter walk. The track is completely guided, offering stunning coastal views & is also children friendly.
naturalattractionsnsw
461 likes • 18.2K views

🚗 Park Smart for the Walk

Park at the end of the road for closer Bouddi Coastal Walk access. Watch for the sandy gap near the entrance! Reddit

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The Bouddi Coastal Walk involves stairs, boardwalks, and uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are a must! Instagram

Bouddi Coastal Walk📍 Bouddi National Park (Starts at Putty Beach). Prettiest walk ever. . #nsw #bushwalks #nationalpark #australia
lily_bowman
3.6K likes • 88.6K views
📍𝘉𝘰𝘶𝘥𝘥𝘪 𝘤𝘰𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘒𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘎𝘰𝘴𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘉𝘰𝘶𝘥𝘥𝘪 𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘬 👟☀️ 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘪𝘴 8𝘬𝘮 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘗𝘶𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘔𝘢𝘤𝘮𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢 𝘧𝘦𝘸 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱 𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯⛱️ 𝘐𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘎𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘦 3 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘥, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘯𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘤𝘦𝘢𝘯 𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘤𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘧 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘲𝘶𝘦 🪨 ...
explorewithre
337 likes • 10.5K views

☀️ Bring Sun Protection

There's limited shade on the beach and along parts of the walk. Pack sunscreen, hats, and consider a beach shelter. Reddit

💧 Rinse Off Sand

Freshwater showers are available to wash off sand after your beach or walk. Reddit

This has to be one of the best coastal walks on the Central Coast? 🌿☀️ 
The Bouddi Coastal Walk is an epic 8km trail from Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach through the stunning Bouddi National Park. Just 1.5 hours from Sydney, this track offers boardwalks, lookouts, golden beaches, and even the chance to spot whales 🐋. Whether you do the full walk or a shorter section like Putty Beach to Maitland...
jemma_explores
300 likes • 12.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park Smart for the Walk

Park at the end of the road for closer Bouddi Coastal Walk access. Watch for the sandy gap near the entrance! Reddit

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The Bouddi Coastal Walk involves stairs, boardwalks, and uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are a must! Instagram

☀️ Bring Sun Protection

There's limited shade on the beach and along parts of the walk. Pack sunscreen, hats, and consider a beach shelter. Reddit

💧 Rinse Off Sand

Freshwater showers are available to wash off sand after your beach or walk. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Areas

Putty Beach is dog-friendly at certain ends, but check local signage. Be aware of other dog owners. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(134 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Putty Beach is lauded for its beautiful, calm waters ideal for swimming and its role as the starting point for the stunning Bouddi Coastal Walk. Visitors appreciate the soft sand and family-friendly atmosphere, though some note the need for preparedness regarding parking fees and potential beach access challenges at high tide.

"Love this beach! It’s at the entrance to the amazing coastal walk, has flat rock pools to explore, gorgeous clear water to swim in with little to no waves and is connected to Killcare Beach! Dogs aren’t allowed up the Putty Beach end if any family members are scared of dogs. Interestingly - I have found the sand to be soft, even near the water. No hard sand at all."

Katrina

"There are a lot of tree branches on the beach where people used to setup tents. Parking is $8 all day. Drive towards the end of the road to park so that it is nearer to the entrance of Bouddi Coastal walk. There’s a gap in the sand in between the parking lot and the entrance of the walk where people have stacked tree branches to make bridges across the gap. Easier to walk over in the sand when the tide is low but we need to rely on the tree branches as the tide was high and we didn’t want to take off our shoes."

Sess L

"Well maintained site. BBQ area and bathrooms cleaned every morning by the ranges. Numbered sites all with fake grass. Beach is near by, but the surf is pretty rough except for a small section at the far end which can get a bit cramped and there is no shade, so definitely need to take a shelter and a heap of 50+"

KJA

What People Like

Calm, clear swimming waters
Beautiful coastal walk
Soft, pleasant sand

What People Dislike

Parking fees
Beach access at high tide

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Putty Beach is located in Bouddi National Park, about 95 km north of Sydney. Driving is the most convenient option, taking approximately 1.5 hours. Public transport options are limited, but some bus routes may service the general area, though direct access to the beach might require further local transport or a significant walk. InstagramReddit+1

While direct public transport to Putty Beach is challenging, it's part of the Central Coast region which has some bus services. Visitors without a car might need to combine bus travel with taxis or ride-sharing services for the final leg. Reddit

The Bouddi Coastal Walk officially starts at Putty Beach. Driving to Putty Beach and parking there is the most common and recommended way to begin the walk. Instagram+1

Yes, there is paid parking available at Putty Beach, costing $8 for the day. It's advisable to drive towards the end of the road for closer proximity to the Bouddi Coastal Walk entrance. Reddit

Putty Beach is connected to Killcare Beach, and is also the starting point for the Bouddi Coastal Walk which leads to MacMasters Beach. Access can be gained from these points as well. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Putty Beach itself is generally free. However, there is a daily parking fee of $8 if you are driving to the beach. Reddit

The Bouddi Coastal Walk is within Bouddi National Park, and while park entry is free, the parking fee at Putty Beach applies. The walk itself does not have a separate ticket cost. Instagram+1

Putty Beach is an open public beach and national park area, so it is accessible at all times. However, facilities like restrooms may have specific operating hours. Instagram

While there isn't specific 'Putty Beach accommodation' listed, there are various options in nearby areas like Killcare and MacMasters Beach, including holiday rentals and small hotels. Instagram

Visiting during weekdays and in the morning can offer a less crowded experience. Low tide can make beach access easier. Autumn provides pleasant weather for the coastal walk. Instagram+1

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Putty Beach is ideal for swimming in its calm waters, relaxing on the sand, and is the starting point for the scenic Bouddi Coastal Walk. You can also explore rock pools at Maitland Bay. InstagramReddit+1

The Bouddi Coastal Walk is generally considered a relatively easy to moderate hike. It features boardwalks, stairs, and some uneven terrain, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Instagram+2

Yes, BBQ areas and bathrooms are available and reportedly well-maintained, cleaned daily. However, some reviews mention no toilets directly around the Putty Beach parking area, so check signage upon arrival. Reddit

Yes, Putty Beach has calm waters suitable for swimming with children. The Bouddi Coastal Walk can be done in sections, and bringing a beach trolley is recommended for young kids due to the sand. InstagramReddit

You can expect to see diverse birdlife along the Bouddi Coastal Walk. During migration seasons, there's also a chance to spot whales from the lookouts. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Putty Beach offers expansive views from the point overlooking Broken Bay, Lion Island, and the Northern Beaches. The Bouddi Coastal Walk itself provides numerous scenic overlooks and diverse landscapes for photography. InstagramReddit+1

The eastern seaboard location makes Putty Beach excellent for sunrise. Sunset views can also be spectacular, especially from the elevated points along the Bouddi Coastal Walk. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting and photographing wildlife like whales. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing water and sky. Instagram+1

Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. Commercial photography or drone usage may require permits, so it's best to check with Bouddi National Park authorities if planning professional shoots. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the best light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but can work for capturing the vibrant blues of the water and sky. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Putty Beach is a fantastic choice for families. The calm, clear waters are perfect for young swimmers, and the beach itself offers soft sand for playing. The Bouddi Coastal Walk can be enjoyed in shorter, manageable sections, making it accessible for little legs. It's recommended to bring a beach trolley to help transport gear and tired children across the sand. While there are BBQ facilities, direct toilets near the parking might be limited, so plan accordingly. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

🐶 Dog Owners

Putty Beach welcomes dogs in designated areas, making it a great spot for a day out with your furry friend. It's important to respect leash laws and ensure your dog is well-behaved around other visitors. Remember to always clean up after your pet to keep the beach enjoyable for everyone. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Bouddi Coastal Walk Experience

The Bouddi Coastal Walk is a highlight for many visitors to Putty Beach, offering an immersive experience in Bouddi National Park. This 8km trail stretches from Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach, showcasing the diverse beauty of the Central Coast's coastline. The walk features well-maintained boardwalks, elevated lookouts, and sections that wind through lush coastal forests. It's described as a guided track, making it easy to follow and suitable for a range of fitness levels. TikTokInstagram+1

Travelers often praise the stunning coastal views and the variety of landscapes encountered, from golden beaches to rocky outcrops. The walk can be broken down into shorter segments, such as the 3km stretch from Putty Beach to Maitland Bay, offering flexibility for those who prefer a less strenuous outing. This makes it an excellent option for families, as noted by several visitors. Instagram+1

Remember to wear appropriate footwear as the path includes stairs and uneven surfaces. The walk is a fantastic way to connect with nature, offering opportunities to observe birdlife and, during migration seasons, potentially spot whales. Instagram+1

Putty Beach: More Than Just a Starting Point

While often recognized as the gateway to the Bouddi Coastal Walk, Putty Beach itself is a destination worth savoring. This expansive stretch of sand is known for its calm, clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, especially for families. Unlike some more exposed beaches, Putty Beach offers gentler waves, contributing to its reputation as a safe and enjoyable swimming location. Reddit

The sand at Putty Beach is noted for being soft, even close to the water's edge, providing a comfortable surface for relaxation. The beach is also dog-friendly at certain sections, adding to its appeal for visitors with pets. However, it's important to be mindful of other beachgoers and to clean up after your pets. Reddit

For photographers, Putty Beach offers expansive views from its vantage points, looking out towards Broken Bay, Lion Island, and the Northern Beaches. The interplay of sand, sea, and sky, especially during the golden hours, creates picturesque scenes. Reddit

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