A perfect crescent of golden sand on the Central Coast, reachable only on foot through rainforest — with a 19th-century shipwreck at its southern end.
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Maitland Bay might be the most beautiful beach on the Central Coast, and the only way in is on foot. A steep 8-hundred-metre track drops through rainforest and coastal heath in Bouddi National Park to a flawless crescent of golden sand, backed by green ridgelines and fronted by clear, sheltered water.
The walk down
Start at the Maitland Bay Information Centre car park on The Scenic Road, Killcare Heights. The 800 m track descends about 120 vertical metres — easy going down, a solid workout back up. For a bigger day, arrive via the spectacular 8 km Bouddi Coastal Walk from Putty Beach, one of the finest coast tracks in NSW.
Wreck of the PS Maitland
At low tide near the southern rocks you can find boiler fragments of the paddle steamer Maitland, wrecked here in a 1898 gale that gave the bay its name. Snorkelling is excellent on calm days — the bay sits inside a marine protected area. More coastal hidden places and secret beaches await nearby.
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Watch
Photo Gallery
Facilities
None at the beach — car park and info shelter at the trackhead
Photography Tips
Climb the first rock shelf at the southern end for the classic full-crescent shot; morning light keeps the water turquoise.
Insider Tips
Carry everything in and out — no facilities below. The 800 m climb back out is steep, so save water for the return leg.
Getting There
Drive to the Maitland Bay Information Centre car park on The Scenic Road, Killcare Heights, then walk the steep 800 m track to the sand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get to Maitland Bay?
Park at the Maitland Bay Information Centre on The Scenic Road, Killcare Heights, and walk the 800 m track downhill — about 20 minutes down and 30 back up.
Can you see the Maitland shipwreck?
Yes. At low tide, boiler remains of the paddle steamer Maitland (wrecked 1898) are visible among the rocks at the beach's southern end.
Is Maitland Bay good for swimming?
Yes, it is relatively sheltered and the water is very clear, but it is unpatrolled — swim conservatively and watch for rips near the headlands.
Can you camp at Maitland Bay?
No, camping is not permitted at the beach. The nearest campground in Bouddi National Park is at Putty Beach, a short drive away.
