The Best Runs in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs

If you run in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, you’re spoilt for choice. On any given week you can mix flat loops, rolling coastline, short hills that sting more than expected, and harbour paths that make even an average run feel worthwhile.

Some routes are perfect when you just want to tick off the kilometres. Others are better when you’re happy to work a bit harder or stop occasionally to take in the view. Below are a few of the runs locals keep coming back to, depending on the day, the mood, and the legs.

Centennial Park Loop

Distance: ~3.6 km per loop
Surface: Sealed path
Difficulty: Easy
Start / finish: Anywhere around Centennial Park

Centennial Park is the default option for a lot of runners and once you’ve run it, it’s easy to see why. The loop is flat, wide, and predictable, which makes it great when you want to switch off and just run.

It works for almost anything: an easy jog, steady aerobic running, even faster sessions if you go early enough. The lack of shade can be noticeable in summer, so mornings and evenings tend to be the go.

Road running shoes are recommended here given the flat, sealed surface.

Good to know: There are toilets and water around the park, and you can start anywhere. It gets busy on weekends, but there’s usually room to move.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Run

Distance: ~6 km one way
Surface: Sealed path, stairs
Difficulty: Moderate
Start / finish: Bondi Beach / Coogee Beach

This one needs no introduction. It’s one of Sydney’s most iconic runs, linking a string of beaches with constant ups and downs along the way.

It’s not the place for a true easy run. The stairs and rolling terrain make sure of that, but it’s hard to beat if you’re after a steady effort with a bit of bite. The views do a lot of the heavy lifting.

Road running shoes with a bit more cushion are recommended for these longer coastal efforts.

Good to know: It’s popular for a reason. Early mornings are your friend if you want to avoid crowds.

Bondi to Bronte

Distance: ~2.5 km one way
Surface: Sealed path, stairs
Difficulty: Moderate
Start / finish: Bondi Beach / Bronte Beach

If the full Bondi to Coogee feels like too much, Bondi to Bronte is a solid shorter option. You still get the elevation and coastal feel, just without committing to the full distance.

It works well as an out-and-back, or as part of a longer run if you loop around Bronte Park.

Road running shoes with a bit more cushion and outsole grip are recommended for stability and protection.

Good to know: Those stairs hit harder than they look. Pace accordingly.

Rose Bay Foreshore Walk

Distance: ~4–5 km out and back
Surface: Sealed path
Difficulty: Easy
Start / finish: Lyne Park, Rose Bay

When the legs are tired and you just want something calm and flat, the Rose Bay foreshore is hard to beat. The path follows the harbour with barely any elevation, making it ideal for recovery runs or relaxed mileage.

It’s scenic without being distracting, and the lack of hills makes it easier to keep effort under control.

Road running shoes are ideal here, nothing fancy, just reliable daily trainers.

Good to know: It’s popular with walkers and families, so keep things easy and relaxed.

Rose Bay to Watsons Bay

Distance: ~7 km one way
Surface: Sealed path, boardwalk
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Start / finish: Rose Bay / Watsons Bay

This run builds on the foreshore path and stretches things out into a longer harbour-side route. It’s mostly flat, with a few gentle undulations that keep it interesting without feeling hard.

It’s a nice option for steady long runs, especially if you’re happy to catch public transport back.

Road running shoes with a bit more cushion and grip are recommended for these longer efforts.

Good to know: Water is limited once you move away from Rose Bay, so plan ahead.

Heartbreak Hill

Distance: ~1.5 km climb
Surface: Sealed road
Difficulty: Hard
Start / finish: New South Head Road (Rose Bay side)

Heartbreak Hill is short, steep, and over quickly, but it makes an impression. Most runners use it as a test piece or a repeat session rather than a standalone run.

It’s the kind of climb that never really gets easier, no matter how many times you’ve done it.

Lightweight tempo trainers are recommended for these harder efforts.

Good to know: Traffic can be heavy, so stay alert. Early mornings are best.

Rushcutters Bay Park Loop

Distance: ~1 km per loop
Surface: Sealed path
Difficulty: Easy
Start / finish: Rushcutters Bay Park

Rushcutters Bay is a simple, flat loop that’s ideal when you want something close to the city and easy to manage. It’s not exciting, but that’s kind of the point.

It works well for short runs, recovery jogs, or squeezing something in before or after work.

Any road running shoe will work well here.

Good to know: The loop is short, so longer runs can feel repetitive.

The Eastern Suburbs give you plenty of options without overcomplicating things. Flat loops when you need control, hills when you want strength, and coastline when you want a reminder of why you run in the first place.

Rotate these routes through your week and you’ll cover just about every type of run without ever needing to get in the car.

If you want help choosing the right shoes for any of these runs, the team at Pace Athletic Waverley is always happy to help, whether you’re chasing comfort, stability, or something a bit more fun.