Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Bonna Point Reserve
★4.6(124 reviews)FreeNature
🕑 2 to 4 hours👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger children who can handle moderate walking will enjoy the wildlife spotting and open spaces for running, while older kids and teens appreciate the historical sites, photography opportunities, and longer trail options. Strollers can manage some paths but uneven terrain may be challenging.🧡 Saved by 21 families
About
Bonna Point Reserve offers families a spectacular coastal adventure with easy walking trails along dramatic headlands, fascinating historical military sites to explore, and excellent opportunities to spot dolphins, whales (during migration season), and seabirds. The scenic lookouts provide breathtaking views of Botany Bay and the Tasman Sea, making it perfect for nature-loving families who want an educational outdoor experience without the cost.
Highlights
- ✓Whale and dolphin watching from scenic coastal lookouts
- ✓Historic WWII gun emplacements and bunkers to explore
- ✓Panoramic ocean views across Botany Bay and the Tasman Sea
- ✓Diverse coastal birdlife and native Australian plants
- ✓Well-marked walking trails suitable for families
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring binoculars for dolphin and whale watching, especially during winter months (June to November) when humpback whales migrate along the coast.
- 2.Pack sun protection essentials as there is limited shade along the headland trails. Sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are must-haves.
- 3.Visit the WWII gun emplacements and bunkers which fascinate kids and provide educational talking points about Australia's military history.
- 4.Parking is available at the Cape Solander Drive car park. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot, especially during whale watching season.
- 5.Download offline maps before visiting as mobile reception can be patchy in some areas of the reserve.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better wildlife viewing opportunities. Winter months (June to November) are ideal for whale watching. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, and spring (September to November) offers pleasant weather with wildflowers blooming.
What to Know
Entry is completely free with no booking required. There are no cafes or shops within the reserve, so pack snacks, water, and any supplies you need. Basic facilities are available but limited.
Seasonal Notes
June to November is peak whale watching season when humpback whales migrate along the coast. Summer can be very hot with limited shade, so early morning visits are recommended. Spring brings wildflowers and milder temperatures. The reserve is open year-round, 24 hours daily.
Nearby Eats
Head to Kurnell village (5 minutes drive) for fish and chips at local takeaway shops, or drive 15 minutes to Cronulla where you'll find family-friendly cafes and restaurants along the beachfront esplanade with playgrounds nearby.
More Activities Near Sutherland Shire (Sutherland)
Playground
Gannons Park
Free❤️6
Gannons Park is a modern, well-equipped playground in Sutherland Shire that delivers excellent value for families seeking outdoor fun without the price tag. The combination of diverse play equipment, shaded areas for respite from the Australian sun, and a splash pad that operates during warmer months makes this a neighborhood gem worth traveling to for visiting families.
Adventure
Royal National Park Coastal Walk
★4.9❤️9
The Royal National Park Coastal Walk offers families breathtaking cliff-top views, pristine beaches, and opportunities to spot native Australian wildlife including wallabies, colorful parrots, and migrating whales (in season). This stunning coastal track in the world's second-oldest national park provides multiple entry and exit points, allowing families to customize their hike length from easy 1-hour sections to full-day adventures along dramatic sandstone cliffs and through lush bushland.
Park
Woolooware Bay Shared Pathway
★4.7Free❤️14
Woolooware Bay Shared Pathway offers families a perfect combination of waterfront fun and outdoor recreation along the calm shores of Sutherland Shire. With well-maintained playgrounds, spacious grassy areas for games, and a scenic walking path hugging the bay, this free park provides hours of entertainment while parents enjoy stunning water views and convenient BBQ facilities for family picnics.
Library
Sutherland Library
★4.5Free❤️33
Sutherland Library is a welcoming community hub offering fantastic free programs for children, from interactive story times to craft activities. With modern facilities, a well-stocked children's section, and air-conditioned comfort perfect for Sydney's hot days, it's an ideal spot for families to relax, read, and participate in educational activities together.