Pillar Point

Cross the Tidal River footbridge and follow the track through a close tunnel of tea-tree. The scrub opens as you reach the headland, where the granite slopes down toward the sea. There’s no built viewing platform: you’re standing on exposed rock with the water below and the coastline spread out around you. The final ground is uneven, and the rocks can be slippery. Some scrambling is involved, and the cliffs are unprotected, so take your time and stay well back from the edges.

Allow about 1.5 hours for the Grade 3 return walk. The out-and-back is roughly 3.6 to 4 kilometres, depending on how the distance is measured. The start is at the Tidal River footbridge. Tidal River’s visitor centre has walking-track information, and the nearby general store carries basic supermarket items and takeaway food and drinks; those services are at Tidal River, not out on the headland. Dogs aren’t allowed in the park. Parking around Tidal River can be difficult on busy summer days, so make this an early walk if you’re visiting then.