Accessible coastal walks are few and far between so we were keen to check out the reopened North Head Fairfax Walk, located in Sydney Harbour National Park, last weekend. It was busy with whale watching enthusiasts but our on-the-go guy was far too busy checking out the new lookouts and pathways to sit still long enough for us to spot a whale.
North Head Fairfax Walk – wheelchair accessible coastal walk
The newly reopened North Head Fairfax Walk is definitely worth the trip for the stunning views of Sydney’s coast and the city. It’s so refreshing to find a coastal walk that’s wheelchair accessible. The easy gradient of the pathway and seating along the way should make the Fairfax walk manageable even for those with a mobility restriction.
Hubby was pushing Braeden in his manual wheelchair and he suggests for the most gentle walk/wheel that visitors leave the car park nearest to the Fairfax walk and head to Burragula Lookout and back through the Fairfax walk.
Fencing has been designed so it doesn’t obscure views as you walk or wheel.
Pathways are sealed and aside from a few inclines the walk is mostly level.
Two new lookouts – named Burragula and Yiningma provide seating and a good vantage point to admire the ocean views.
A unisex stand-alone accessible bathroom is located in a toilet block at the rear of the Bella Vista café.
Please note – there is a $5 daily entry fee applicable and payable in the car park. We were told this applies to everyone – even to those parking in the two accessible parking spaces in the car park near the Fairfax Walk.
TIP – NSW National Parks and Wildlife offer a concession pass which I applied for online. We received a pass based on Braeden being a pension card holder but the website is unclear as to whether this means the $5 daily pass is waived. I phoned the NSW National Parks and Wildlife number and was advised we would receive free entry for four hours at North Head but the telephone operator seemed a little unsure herself. So, while I encourage you to apply for the concession pass if you are eligible, I suggest reading the terms and conditions on the website. I applied for a non-specific vehicle pass so it can be used no matter who takes Braeden to a NSW National Park. You need to display the concession pass on your car’s dashboard and the person who is the pension cardholder must be with you visiting the park.
If you’re looking to make more of a day of your visit to the North Head Fairfax walk, consider lunch at Bella Vista cafe. We’ve dined there on many occasions and love both the view from the cafe and the food. The cafe is wheelchair accessible.
Another lovely wheelchair accessible coastal walk is located nearby at Manly Beach. Take the pathway along the coast to Shelly Beach on this gorgeous pathway.
And if you are keen to stay in the area we’ve reviewed Novotel Manly Pacific Hotel’s accessible accommodation and Q Station at Manly.
