The name "Bilgola" is derived from an Aboriginal term Belgoula meaning "swirling waters", or perhaps "a pretty beach with steep slopes, studded with cabbage palms".

There were plans during the 1960s to build a bridge bypass of the twisting road ('Bilgola Bends') between the north and south headlands of Bilgola.

The bridge was not built but a small amount of landfill was added to remove a sharp bend in the southern end of the road in preparation for construction.

The bend still remains, with the landfill now providing a small grassy area, with an excellent view of Newport Beach.

[4] The main road connecting the northern part of the Barrenjoey Peninsula to the rest of Sydney, Barrenjoey Road, runs through Hewitt Park along the cliff line between Bilgola headland and Bilgola South headland.