Horse Head Rock

Highlights

Horse Head Rock – Bermagui’s 500-Million-Year-Old Coastal Wonder

Few places on Australia’s Sapphire Coast captivate the imagination quite like Horse Head Rock near Bermagui, NSW. Shaped by the relentless forces of wind, sea and time, this ancient rock formation dates back more than 500 million years, making it one of the oldest visible geological sites in New South Wales. Its unmistakable profile — the curved neck and proud head of a horse — has become one of the most photographed natural landmarks in southern NSW, drawing travellers, photographers and nature lovers from all over Australia.

About the Formation

Horse Head Rock was formed when volcanic and sedimentary layers were pushed up from the ocean floor during the Cambrian period. Over millennia, pounding surf and coastal erosion carved away the softer rock, leaving behind the horse-shaped arch that now juts dramatically into the Pacific Ocean. Today, it stands as a natural monument to the geological history of the Sapphire Coast, offering a rare glimpse into Australia’s ancient undersea past.

How to Get There

Located about 5 minutes north of Bermagui township, Horse Head Rock is accessible from Wallaga Lake Road via the Camel Rock carpark. From here, two options await:

Elevated Walking Track (1.5 km each way) – This well-maintained track follows the coastal headland, providing sweeping views across the ocean and the iconic horse-shaped formation from above.

Beach Access (Low Tide Only) – For adventurous visitors, it’s possible to walk around the headland via the beach, but only during calm conditions and low tide. The rocks can be slippery, and waves unpredictable — so check the tide chart and wear proper footwear.

Both routes reward travellers with panoramic coastal scenery, whale-watching opportunities in season (May–November), and some of the best sunrise photography spots on the NSW South Coast.

Why It’s a Must-See on Your Aussie Bucket List

Whether you’re chasing Australia’s most photogenic coastal icons or exploring NSW’s hidden gems, Horse Head Rock deserves a prime spot on your bucket list. The contrast of rugged cliffs, turquoise ocean, and ancient stone makes this site unforgettable — and its accessibility means anyone with moderate fitness can experience it.

Visit at sunrise or sunset for golden light that illuminates the rock’s contours, bringing its “horse head” silhouette vividly to life. It’s also an incredible spot to simply pause, breathe in the salt air, and appreciate nature’s artistry — exactly the kind of mindful travel moment that defines Aussie Bucket List.

Key Facts for Visitors

• Location: Camel Rock Beach / Wallaga Lake Road, Bermagui NSW 2546
• Distance: 5 mins drive from Bermagui / 1 hour south of Narooma / 5.5 hours from Sydney
• Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset; spring and autumn for mild weather
• Track Length: 1.5 km each way (Grade 2 walk)
• Accessibility: Suitable for moderate fitness; elevated lookout recommended for families
• Nearby Attractions: Camel Rock, Wallaga Lake, Blue Pool Bermagui, Scenic Drive to Narooma
• Facilities: Car park, toilets at Camel Rock, interpretive signage, photo lookout
• Safety Tips: Avoid beach route at high tide; bring water, hat and sun protection

Experience the Magic

Standing before Horse Head Rock feels like stepping back through time — the energy of the ocean, the cry of seabirds, and the sheer scale of nature’s work leave visitors awestruck. It’s not just a photo opportunity; it’s a reminder of how vast, powerful and ancient Australia’s landscapes truly are.

Add Horse Head Rock to your Aussie Bucket List today and share your experience with the ABL community. Snap your photo from the lookout, tag #AussieBucketList, and inspire others to explore the wild beauty of the Sapphire Coast.

Activities

• Walking
• Photography
• Sight-seeing

Facilities

• Walking trail - 1.5km
• Car park
• Toilets
• Lookout