Our Story
Ocean Trail Co. was born from a shared passion for Australia's breathtaking coastline and a deep commitment to preserving its natural beauty. Founded in 2018 by marine biologist Sarah Mitchell and wilderness guide Marcus Thompson, our company emerged from countless weekend adventures along the NSW coast, where we witnessed both the stunning biodiversity of our coastal ecosystems and the growing need for responsible tourism.
What started as informal hiking trips with friends quickly evolved into something much larger. We noticed that traditional tour operators often overlooked the delicate balance between adventure tourism and environmental conservation. Many groups were too large, guides lacked specialized knowledge, and the focus was on quick photo opportunities rather than genuine connection with nature.
Our breakthrough moment came during a sunrise hike along the Royal National Park in 2017. As we watched a pod of migrating humpback whales from the clifftops, surrounded by blooming coastal heath, we realized we could offer something truly special - intimate, educational experiences that would inspire visitors to become advocates for coastal conservation.
Today, Ocean Trail Co. has guided over 5,000 adventurers from 23 countries, contributed to three major coastal research projects, and planted more than 2,000 native seedlings in partnership with local conservation groups. Our small team of certified guides continues to grow, but our core values remain unchanged: small groups, big impact, and unforgettable experiences.
